Selling, General, and Administrative Costs: Emerson Electric Co. vs Curtiss-Wright Corporation

A Tale of Two Giants: Emerson Electric Co. vs Curtiss-Wright Corporation

In the ever-evolving landscape of industrial innovation, Emerson Electric Co. and Curtiss-Wright Corporation have been pivotal players. Over the past decade, from 2014 to 2023, these companies have navigated the complexities of the market with varying strategies in managing their Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses. Emerson Electric Co. consistently outpaced Curtiss-Wright, with SG&A expenses peaking at approximately $5.7 billion in 2014, a stark contrast to Curtiss-Wright's $426 million. However, by 2023, Emerson's expenses had decreased by about 27%, while Curtiss-Wright saw a 16% increase, reaching nearly $497 million. This shift highlights Emerson's strategic cost management and Curtiss-Wright's investment in growth. Notably, data for 2024 is incomplete, leaving room for speculation on future trends. As these industrial titans continue to adapt, their financial strategies offer valuable insights into the broader economic landscape.