Who Optimizes SG&A Costs Better? Applied Materials, Inc. or Sony Group Corporation

Optimizing SG&A Costs: A Tale of Two Giants

In the competitive world of technology and electronics, managing Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses is crucial for profitability. Over the past decade, Applied Materials, Inc. and Sony Group Corporation have showcased contrasting strategies in optimizing these costs. From 2014 to 2024, Applied Materials has seen a steady increase in SG&A expenses, rising from approximately $890 million to nearly $1.8 billion. This represents a growth of about 102%, reflecting their aggressive expansion and investment in operational efficiency.

Conversely, Sony Group Corporation, with its vast global operations, has maintained a more stable SG&A expense profile. Starting at around $1.73 trillion in 2014, their expenses have grown by about 25% to $2.16 trillion in 2024. This indicates a more conservative approach, focusing on maintaining operational stability while navigating the challenges of a dynamic market. The data highlights the diverse strategies these industry leaders employ to balance growth and cost management.