Southwest Airlines Co. and Elbit Systems Ltd.: SG&A Spending Patterns Compared

SG&A Spending Patterns: A Tale of Two Companies

In the world of corporate finance, understanding a company's spending habits can reveal much about its strategic priorities. This analysis compares the Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses of Southwest Airlines Co. and Elbit Systems Ltd. from 2014 to 2023. Over this period, Southwest Airlines has consistently outspent Elbit Systems, with its SG&A expenses peaking at nearly $4 billion in 2023, a staggering 90% increase from 2014. In contrast, Elbit Systems' SG&A expenses grew by approximately 95%, reaching $696 million in 2023. This divergence highlights Southwest's aggressive expansion and operational scale, while Elbit Systems maintains a steady growth trajectory. The data underscores the distinct strategic paths these companies have taken, reflecting their respective industry dynamics and market positions. As we delve deeper into these patterns, we gain insights into how each company navigates its competitive landscape.