Who Optimizes SG&A Costs Better? Pentair plc or Curtiss-Wright Corporation

Optimizing SG&A: A Tale of Two Corporations

In the competitive landscape of corporate finance, managing Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses is crucial for profitability. Over the past decade, Curtiss-Wright Corporation and Pentair plc have demonstrated contrasting strategies in optimizing these costs. From 2014 to 2023, Curtiss-Wright maintained a relatively stable SG&A expense, averaging around 430 million annually, with a modest increase of approximately 16% over the period. In contrast, Pentair plc's SG&A expenses saw a significant reduction, dropping by over 54% from 2014 to 2019, before stabilizing around 680 million in recent years. This strategic shift highlights Pentair's aggressive cost-cutting measures, potentially enhancing its competitive edge. As businesses navigate economic uncertainties, the ability to efficiently manage SG&A expenses remains a key differentiator in achieving sustainable growth.