AXTA

The market expects Axalta Coating Systems (AXTA) to deliver a year-over-year increase in earnings on higher revenues when it reports results for the quarter ended September 2026. This widely-known consensus outlook is important in assessing the company's earnings picture, but a powerful factor that might influence its near-term stock price is how the actual results compare to these estimates. The earnings report, which is expected to be released on October 29, might help the stock move higher if these key numbers are better than expectations. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower. While the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's discussion of business conditions on the earnings call, it's worth handicapping the probability of a positive EPS surprise. This high-performance coating system maker is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.71 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +6%. Revenues are expected to be $1.33 billion, up 3.6% from the year-ago quarter. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 0.75% lower over the last 30 days to the current level. This is essentially a reflection of how the covering analysts have collectively reassessed their initial estimates over this period. Investors should keep in mind that an aggregate change may not always reflect the direction of estimate revisions by each of the covering analysts. Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise Estimate revisions ahead of a company's earnings release offer clues to the business conditions for the period whose results are coming out. Our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) -- has this insight at its core. The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a more recent version of the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier. Thus, a positive or negative Earnings ESP reading theoretically indicates the likely deviation of the actual earnings from the consensus estimate. However, the model's predictive power is significant for positive ESP readings only. A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). Our research shows that stocks with this combination produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time, and a solid Zacks Rank actually increases the predictive power of Earnings ESP. Please note that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss. Our research shows that it is difficult to predict an earnings beat with any degree of confidence for stocks with negative Earnings ESP readings and/or Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) or 5 (Strong Sell). For Axalta Coating Systems, the Most Accurate Estimate is higher than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that analysts have recently become bullish on the company's earnings prospects. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of +0.30%. On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #3. So, this combination indicates that Axalta Coating Systems will most likely beat the consensus EPS estimate. While calculating estimates for a company's future earnings, analysts often consider to what extent it has been able to match past consensus estimates. So, it's worth taking a look at the surprise history for gauging its influence on the upcoming number. For the last reported quarter, it was expected that Axalta Coating Systems would post earnings of $0.65 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.72, delivering a surprise of +10.77%. Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates three times. An earnings beat or miss may not be the sole basis for a stock moving higher or lower. Many stocks end up losing ground despite an earnings beat due to other factors that disappoint investors. Similarly, unforeseen catalysts help a number of stocks gain despite an earnings miss. That said, betting on stocks that are expected to beat earnings expectations does increase the odds of success. This is why it's worth checking a company's Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank ahead of its quarterly release. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported. Axalta Coating Systems appears a compelling earnings-beat candidate. However, investors should pay attention to other factors too for betting on this stock or staying away from it ahead of its earnings release. Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. (AXTA) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com). Zacks Investment Research

Axalta Coating Systems (AXTA) is approaching a key catalyst, with third quarter 2026 results and an investor call scheduled for October 29. This event will place recent performance and expectations under closer investor scrutiny. Over the past year, Axalta Coating Systems has delivered a 20.17% total shareholder return. However, the 90-day share price move of 0.91% and a recent 1-day decline of 1.04% suggest that momentum has cooled slightly as investors wait on the upcoming results. Scan how Axalta Coating Systems compares to other potential breakouts in coatings, materials and industrials by reviewing the hand picked 32 high quality undervalued stocks. Axalta Coating Systems has delivered a solid 1 year run, yet the past month has been softer as the price hovers near recent levels. Does that set up a better entry now, or argue for patience until after earnings? On the numbers, the most followed narrative pegs Axalta Coating Systems at a fair value of $39.33 versus a last close of $33.18. This frames the current price as a discount that leans heavily on cost control, margins and the planned AkzoNobel tie up. The planned all stock merger of equals with AkzoNobel, with shareholder approvals already secured and a targeted US$600m of annual run rate cost synergies where most are expected within three years of closing, could materially influence Axalta Coating Systems'' future net margins, free cash flow and earnings power as integration progresses. See why 3 investors see Axalta Coating Systems as 16% undervalued. Result: Fair Value of $39.33 (UNDERVALUED) Still, higher raw material costs and weaker demand in construction-linked industrial coatings could quickly challenge the current Axalta Coating Systems undervaluation story. Find out about the key risks to this Axalta Coating Systems narrative. On simple P/E arithmetic, Axalta Coating Systems looks less clear cut than the DCF story suggests. The stock trades on 20.3x earnings, only slightly above a fair ratio of 20x, yet below the US Chemicals sector at 21.3x and peers at 29.1x. That gap hints at some valuation support, but also raises a basic question for investors: Is the discount a genuine opportunity or a warning that the market is less convinced by the upbeat cash flow assumptions? For a closer look at how this earnings based view stacks up against peers and the fair ratio the market could move toward over time, See what the numbers say about this price — find out in our valuation breakdown. Mixed messages in the Axalta Coating Systems story. Use that tension as a prompt to move quickly, check the numbers yourself, and weigh the 2 key rewards and 1 important warning sign. Do not stop with Axalta Coating Systems. Broaden your watchlist now, or you risk missing stocks that better match your return goals and risk comfort. - Target income first and scan a curated pool of companies offering steady payouts through the 7 dividend fortresses. - Prioritise resilience by sorting through a list of solid balance sheet and fundamentals (25 results) that can help you focus on financial strength when conditions get tougher. - Hunt for future leaders early and review a focused group of 20 high quality undiscovered gems before the wider market pays attention. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Companies discussed in this article include AXTA. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email [email protected]

Have you been searching for a stock that might be well-positioned to maintain its earnings-beat streak in its upcoming report? It is worth considering Axalta Coating Systems (AXTA), which belongs to the Zacks Chemical - Specialty industry. When looking at the last two reports, this high-performance coating system maker has recorded a strong streak of surpassing earnings estimates. The company has topped estimates by 11.38%, on average, in the last two quarters. For the most recent quarter, Axalta Coating Systems was expected to post earnings of $0.65 per share, but it reported $0.72 per share instead, representing a surprise of 10.77%. For the previous quarter, the consensus estimate was $0.5 per share, while it actually produced $0.56 per share, a surprise of 12.00%. Thanks in part to this history, there has been a favorable change in earnings estimates for Axalta Coating Systems lately. In fact, the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) for the stock is positive, which is a great indicator of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with its solid Zacks Rank. Our research shows that stocks with the combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) or better produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time. In other words, if you have 10 stocks with this combination, the number of stocks that beat the consensus estimate could be as high as seven. The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a version of the Zacks Consensus whose definition is related to change. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier. Axalta Coating Systems currently has an Earnings ESP of +0.51%, which suggests that analysts have recently become bullish on the company's earnings prospects. This positive Earnings ESP when combined with the stock's Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) indicates that another beat is possibly around the corner. We expect the company's next earnings report to be released on October 29, 2026. Investors should note, however, that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss, but a negative value does reduce the predictive power of this metric. Many companies end up beating the consensus EPS estimate, though this is not the only reason why their shares gain. Additionally, some stocks may remain stable even if they end up missing the consensus estimate. Because of this, it's really important to check a company's Earnings ESP ahead of its quarterly release to increase the odds of success. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. (AXTA) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com). Zacks Investment Research

RPM International (RPM) is set to report its earnings on Tuesday, October 6, 2026. The company has a market value of about $12.6 billion. Over the last twelve months, it generated $7.9 billion in revenue and $966 million in operating profit, with net income of $661 million. The reaction will turn on how the results and guidance land against expectations. Before the release, it helps to know how the stock has behaved after previous reports, and whether an early move has tended to carry on. See the earnings reaction history of all stocks RPM International's Historical Odds Of A Positive Post-Earnings Return Some observations on one-day (1D) post-earnings returns, measured from the last close before each release: - There are 20 earnings releases in the last five years, with 13 positive and 7 negative one-day (1D) returns. Positive 1D returns were seen 65% of the time. - Over the last three years, that share falls to 64% across 11 releases. - The median of the 13 positive 1D returns is 5.8%, and the median of the 7 negative ones is -3.7%. - The largest one-day reactions were 12.4% and -13.1%. The table below shows the 1D, 5-day (5D), and 21-day (21D) returns after each release, followed by summary statistics. Earnings Date | 1D | 5D | 21D 7/22/2026 | 5.8% | 10.1% | 10.0% 4/8/2026 | 12.4% | 12.4% | 6.4% 1/8/2026 | 1.7% | 6.1% | 12.1% 10/1/2025 | -0.6% | -4.4% | -7.6% 7/24/2025 | 8.6% | 5.1% | 10.1% 4/8/2025 | -9.1% | -0.8% | 3.0% 1/7/2025 | 1.1% | 2.9% | 3.0% 10/2/2024 | 6.3% | 8.0% | 7.1% 7/25/2024 | 6.8% | 9.5% | 3.1% 4/4/2024 | -5.8% | -6.6% | -8.2% 1/4/2024 | -3.0% | -0.1% | -0.2% 10/4/2023 | 6.3% | 6.1% | 0.7% 7/26/2023 | 11.2% | 13.0% | 6.6% 4/6/2023 | -3.7% | -2.7% | -3.2% 1/5/2023 | -13.1% | -9.3% | -6.3% 10/5/2022 | 3.3% | 3.5% | 3.1% 7/25/2022 | -0.7% | 5.0% | 7.7% 4/6/2022 | 4.9% | 3.2% | 2.6% 1/5/2022 | 0.3% | -4.0% | -9.2% 10/6/2021 | 2.6% | 0.9% | 12.2% Statistic | 1D | 5D | 21D # Positive | 13 | 13 | 14 # Negative | 7 | 7 | 6 Median Positive | 5.8% | 6.1% | 6.5% Median Negative | -3.7% | -4.0% | -7.0% Max Positive | 12.4% | 13.0% | 12.2% Max Negative | -13.1% | -9.3% | -9.2% Does The First Move Carry On? Another approach is to wait for the initial reaction and ask whether it tends to continue. The table below shows the correlation between the 1D return and the return over the following 5 and 21 trading days, and between the 5D return and the following 21 trading days. A value near 1 means the first move has tended to continue; near -1, to reverse; near 0, no consistent pattern. The strongest relationship over five years is between the 1D and the following 21 days, at -0.43 across 20 releases: the early move has tended to partly reverse. That is a tendency, not a rule, and it can break on any given report. History | 1D vs next 5D | 1D vs next 21D | 5D vs next 21D 5 Years | -0.40 | -0.43 | -0.19 3 Years | -0.50 | -0.43 | -0.37 Do Peers That Report First Offer A Clue? H.B. Fuller (FUL) usually reports a few weeks before RPM International and has already reported this season. The table covers the 9 reports where Fuller reported within 30 days of RPM. The correlation is 0.11; the closer to 1, the more the peer's reaction has foreshadowed RPM International's, and a negative value means it has tended to point the other way. RPM Earnings Date | RPM 1D | FUL 1D 4/8/2026 | 12.4% | 0.5% 10/1/2025 | -0.6% | -3.9% 4/8/2025 | -9.1% | 6.1% 10/2/2024 | 6.3% | 0.1% 4/4/2024 | -5.8% | -3.4% 10/4/2023 | 6.3% | 6.0% 4/6/2023 | -3.7% | -2.0% 10/5/2022 | 3.3% | 3.0% 4/6/2022 | 4.9% | 0.7% Correlation | - | 0.11 Trading around earnings is a bet on a single event. If you want upside with a smoother ride than an individual stock such as RPM can offer, consider the Trefis High Quality (HQ) Portfolio: about 30 stocks selected for consistent cash generation, strong margins, and resilient balance sheets, with a track record of outperforming a benchmark that combines the S&P 500, the S&P MidCap 400, and the Russell 2000.

In late July 2026, Axalta Coating Systems reported second-quarter 2026 results showing sales of US$1,346 million, up from US$1,305 million a year earlier, while net income declined to US$89 million from US$109 million and diluted EPS from continuing operations eased to US$0.41 from US$0.50. Over the first half of 2026, Axalta’s sales inched up to US$2,600 million from US$2,567 million, but net income fell to US$179 million from US$208 million and the company signaled only low single-digit year-over-year net sales growth for both the third quarter and full year, highlighting pressure on profitability despite modest top-line progress. Against this backdrop of rising sales but softer earnings and low single-digit growth guidance, we’ll examine how Axalta’s outlook intersects with its existing investment narrative. Rare earth metals are the new gold rush. Find out which 29 stocks are leading the charge. To own Axalta, you have to believe its coatings portfolio can turn modest sales gains into healthier profits over time, even with cyclical pressure in refinish and industrial end markets. The latest results, with slightly higher sales but weaker earnings and low single digit growth guidance, keep the near term focus squarely on margin resilience; they do not fundamentally alter the core opportunity, but they do sharpen the biggest risk right now that cost initiatives may not fully offset soft volumes and pricing pressure. The most relevant company update here is Axalta’s reiterated outlook for low single digit net sales growth for both the third quarter and full year 2026. That guidance aligns with the Q2 pattern of inching sales higher while net income and EPS soften, and it matters because it tests the bullish catalyst that operational improvements and product innovation can do the heavy lifting on earnings with only modest top line growth. Yet against that backdrop of modest growth and margin strain, one risk investors should be aware of is that prolonged weakness in Performance Coatings volumes and unfavorable price mix could... Read the full narrative on Axalta Coating Systems (it's free!) Axalta Coating Systems' narrative projects $5.5 billion revenue and $616.2 million earnings by 2029. This requires 2.8% yearly revenue growth and about a $247 million earnings increase from $369.0 million today. Uncover how Axalta Coating Systems' forecasts yield a $35.71 fair value, in line with its current price. Compared with the baseline view that modest sales growth can support profit improvement, the lowest analysts were already more cautious, assuming only about 2% annual revenue growth and earnings of roughly US$555 million by 2029, so this softer Q2 and low single digit guidance may push their concerns about sluggish volumes and cost driven margins even further, and you should weigh these different expectations for Axalta’s future before deciding what makes sense for you. Explore 4 other fair value estimates on Axalta Coating Systems - why the stock might be worth over 2x more than the current price! Disagree with existing narratives? Extraordinary investment returns rarely come from following the herd, so go with your instincts. A great starting point for your Axalta Coating Systems research is our analysis highlighting 2 key rewards and 1 important warning sign that could impact your investment decision. Our free Axalta Coating Systems research report provides a comprehensive fundamental analysis summarized in a single visual - the Snowflake - making it easy to evaluate Axalta Coating Systems' overall financial health at a glance. These stocks are moving-our analysis flagged them today. Act fast before the price catches up: Uncover the next big thing with 21 elite penny stocks that balance risk and reward. We've uncovered the 9 dividend fortresses yielding 5%+ that don't just survive market storms, but thrive in them. Explore 26 top quantum computing companies leading the revolution in next-gen technology and shaping the future with breakthroughs in quantum algorithms, superconducting qubits, and cutting-edge research. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Companies discussed in this article include AXTA. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email [email protected]

Find winning stocks in any market cycle. Join 7 million investors using Simply Wall St's investing ideas for FREE. Axalta Coating Systems (AXTA) reported second quarter 2026 earnings on July 28, with modest sales growth alongside lower net income and earnings per share. Management also issued guidance for low single digit net sales growth ahead. See our latest analysis for Axalta Coating Systems. Over the past year Axalta Coating Systems has delivered a 28.72% total shareholder return, while the 90 day share price return of 29.14% suggests momentum has been building into and around the recent earnings and guidance update. If Axalta’s recent move has you thinking about where else growth stories might emerge, this could be a good moment to scan 18 top founder-led companies Axalta Coating Systems now pairs a long history and broad global footprint with a share price that has moved sharply in a short window. The business looks solid. The next step is to see whether the valuation does too. Based on the most followed valuation narrative, Axalta Coating Systems is priced above its fair value estimate of $35.71, with the last close at $35.81. That view rests heavily on how future revenue, margins and earnings might trend from here. Read the complete narrative. Wondering how that fair value number is built? The narrative leans on a specific earnings path, modest revenue growth and a future profit multiple that needs careful scrutiny. Result: Fair Value of $35.71 (OVERVALUED) Have a read of the narrative in full and understand what's behind the forecasts. However, Axalta Coating Systems still faces pressure if Performance Coatings volumes remain weak and if mix shifts toward lower priced body shops weigh on margins. Find out about the key risks to this Axalta Coating Systems narrative. While analyst targets suggest Axalta Coating Systems is about 30% overvalued at $35.81 compared with a fair value of $35.71, the SWS DCF model points in the opposite direction. It estimates future cash flows at $88.11 per share, which is very far above today’s price. That gap hints at either a generous cash flow outlook or a cautious market that is not buying into the long range story yet. Which side do you think is closer to how Axalta Coating Systems will actually perform? Look into how the SWS DCF model arrives at its fair value. With Axalta Coating Systems attracting mixed views on value, this may be a useful time to act quickly and compare the data with your own expectations. To see how the positives and negatives stack up side by side, start by reviewing the 2 key rewards and 1 important warning sign If Axalta Coating Systems has sharpened your focus on opportunities, do not stop here. The market will move with or without you, so give yourself more options. Spot potential mispricings early by scanning 55 high quality undervalued stocks and comparing those stocks with your expectations for earnings quality and balance sheet strength. Strengthen the defensive side of your portfolio by reviewing 81 resilient stocks with low risk scores that align with your tolerance for volatility and capital preservation. Get ahead of the crowd by checking the screener containing 19 high quality undiscovered gems that combine solid fundamentals with limited current market attention. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Companies discussed in this article include AXTA. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email [email protected]

Linde plc LIN reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of $4.50 per share, up 10% from $4.09 per share a year ago. The bottom line topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $4.49 per share by 0.22%. Sales increased 9% to $9.29 billion from $8.49 billion in the prior-year quarter, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $8.96 billion by 3.68%. The strong quarterly results were driven by higher pricing, volume growth, favorable currency movements and acquisition. Electronics was the strongest end market. Linde PLC price-consensus-eps-surprise-chart | Linde PLC Quote Underlying sales advanced 4% from the prior-year quarter, reflecting 2% higher pricing and 2% volume growth. Currency translation added 2% to reported sales, acquisitions contributed 1%, cost pass-through added 1% and Engineering provided another 1%. Volume gains were led by electronics, manufacturing and chemicals and energy. Electronics sales grew 18%, the strongest increase among Linde’s major end markets. Manufacturing advanced 5%, metals and mining rose 4%, food and beverage increased 3%, and healthcare, chemicals and energy each gained 2%. Americas sales increased 7% to $4.08 billion. Underlying sales grew 4%, supported equally by 2% higher pricing and 2% volume growth. Electronics and manufacturing, led by commercial aerospace, were the primary volume drivers. Operating profit rose 5% to $1.27 billion. The operating margin declined 50 basis points to 31.2% as price increases and productivity initiatives were partly offset by cost inflation in the U.S. homecare business. Excluding that business, the region’s margin improved 20 basis points. APAC sales increased 13% to $1.87 billion, representing the strongest growth among Linde’s main geographic segments. Underlying sales rose 8% as volumes increased 6% and pricing improved 2%. Project start-ups, equipment sales and demand from electronics and chemicals and energy supported volume growth. Operating profit increased 8% to $531 million. However, the margin fell 120 basis points to 28.4%. Excluding cost pass-through effects, the decline was 70 basis points, reflecting the lower-margin sale of equipment and helium-related dislocation costs. EMEA sales advanced 7% to $2.30 billion. Favorable currency translation contributed 3%, while pricing and cost pass-through each added 2%. Acquisitions contributed another 1%. Underlying sales increased 1% as 2% higher pricing more than offset a 1% volume decline. The weakness was mainly tied to manufacturing. Operating profit rose 6% to $823 million, while the margin decreased 40 basis points to 35.7%. Excluding cost pass-through, the margin improved 10 basis points on pricing and productivity actions. Linde Engineering sales increased 13% to $625 million, while operating profit rose 11% to $100 million. The operating margin was 16%, compared with 16.3% a year earlier, reflecting project timing and the mix of intercompany and third-party plant sales. Quarterly order intake increased to $871 million from $311 million. The sale-of-plant backlog stood at $3 billion. Global Other sales increased 30% to $408 million, led by advanced materials demand from electronics and commercial aerospace. The business posted operating profit of $18 million against a $13 million loss a year earlier. Adjusted operating profit rose 7% year over year to $2.74 billion. The adjusted operating margin declined 60 basis points to 29.5% as higher pricing and productivity benefits were offset by cost inflation. Adjusted net income increased 8% to $2.09 billion. At the end of the second quarter, the company’s high-quality project backlog amounted to $11.1 billion. Operating cash flow improved 3% to $2.27 billion. Capital expenditures increased 14% to $1.44 billion, including a 27% rise in project spending to $780 million. As a result, free cash flow declined to $833 million from $954 million. Linde returned $1.59 billion to shareholders through dividends and net share repurchases. Linde ended June 2026 with cash and cash equivalents of $4.90 billion. Total debt was $28.01 billion, comprising $4.86 billion in short-term debt, $2.47 billion in current long-term debt and $20.68 billion in long-term debt. For the third quarter, Linde expects adjusted earnings of $4.45-$4.55 per share, representing growth of 6% to 8% from the prior-year period. The midpoint assumes no improvement in economic conditions and no year-over-year currency impact. Full-year 2026 adjusted earnings are projected in the range of $17.70-$17.90 per share, indicating growth of 8-9%. Management expects currency to provide a 1% tailwind. Capital expenditures are forecast between $5.5 billion and $6 billion to fund maintenance and projects supporting the company’s $8.1 billion contractual sale-of-gas backlog. Linde currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Some better-ranked stocks from the basic materials sector are Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. AXTA, Minerals Technologies Inc. MTX and Sensient Technologies Corporation SXT. SXT sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), while AXTA and MTX carry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) each, at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks Rank #1 stocks here Axalta reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of 72 cents per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 65 cents per share. As of June 30, 2026, AXTA had Long-term debt of $2.6 billion, and cash and cash equivalents of $636 million. Minerals Technologies reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of $1.60 per share, which missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.64 per share. As of July 5, 2026, MTX had total debt of $964.9 million, and cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of $346.2 million. Sensient Technologies reported second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of $1.20 per share, which beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.00 per share. As of June 30, 2026, SXT had long-term debt of $763.5 million, and cash and cash equivalents of $31 million. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Linde PLC (LIN) : Free Stock Analysis Report Sensient Technologies Corporation (SXT) : Free Stock Analysis Report Minerals Technologies Inc. (MTX) : Free Stock Analysis Report Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. (AXTA) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com). Zacks Investment Research

For the quarter ended June 2026, Axalta Coating Systems (AXTA) reported revenue of $1.35 billion, up 3.1% over the same period last year. EPS came in at $0.72, compared to $0.64 in the year-ago quarter. The reported revenue represents a surprise of +2.22% over the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.32 billion. With the consensus EPS estimate being $0.65, the EPS surprise was +10.77%. While investors closely watch year-over-year changes in headline numbers -- revenue and earnings -- and how they compare to Wall Street expectations to determine their next course of action, some key metrics always provide a better insight into a company's underlying performance. Since these metrics play a crucial role in driving the top- and bottom-line numbers, comparing them with the year-ago numbers and what analysts estimated about them helps investors better project a stock's price performance. Here is how Axalta Coating Systems performed in the just reported quarter in terms of the metrics most widely monitored and projected by Wall Street analysts: Sales- Performance Coatings- Refinish: $545 million compared to the $520.97 million average estimate based on three analysts. The reported number represents a change of +6% year over year. Sales- Performance Coatings- Industrial: $327 million compared to the $320.95 million average estimate based on three analysts. The reported number represents a change of +1.6% year over year. Sales- Mobility Coatings- Total: $474 million compared to the $469.97 million average estimate based on three analysts. The reported number represents a change of +1.1% year over year. Sales- Mobility Coatings- Commercial vehicle: $114 million compared to the $106.13 million average estimate based on three analysts. The reported number represents a change of +6.5% year over year. Sales- Performance Coatings- Total: $872 million compared to the $841.92 million average estimate based on three analysts. The reported number represents a change of +4.3% year over year. Sales- Mobility Coatings- Light vehicle: $360 million versus the three-analyst average estimate of $363.84 million. The reported number represents a year-over-year change of -0.6%. Adjusted EBIT- Mobility Coatings: $87 million compared to the $90.02 million average estimate based on three analysts. Adjusted EBIT- Performance Coatings: $218 million versus $197.4 million estimated by three analysts on average. View all Key Company Metrics for Axalta Coating Systems here>>> Shares of Axalta Coating Systems have returned -0.8% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +1.7% change. The stock currently has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), indicating that it could outperform the broader market in the near term. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. (AXTA) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research (zacks.com). Zacks Investment Research

PHILADELPHIA, July 28, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. (NYSE:AXTA) (“Axalta”), a leading global coatings company, announced its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2026. Second Quarter 2026 Highlights: Net sales of $1.35 billion, an increase of 3% year over year Refinish net sales increase of 6% year over year Net income of $89 million and net income margin of 6.6% Record quarter for Adjusted EBITDA of $305 million with an Adjusted EBITDA margin of 22.7% Diluted EPS of $0.41 Record quarter for Adjusted Diluted EPS of $0.72, an increase of 13% year over year Cash provided by operating activities of $152 million, up 7% year over year Free cash flow of $107 million, up 6% year over year Total net leverage of 2.2x, the lowest in Axalta’s history “We delivered an excellent second quarter with record Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Diluted EPS, expanded margins and strong free cash flow generation demonstrating the earnings power of our business model” said Chris Villavarayan, Chief Executive Officer and President of Axalta. "Our team continues to drive operational excellence that underpins our consistent financial performance, and we carry solid momentum into the second half of the year.” Second Quarter 2026 Consolidated Financial Results Second quarter 2026 net sales increased $41 million to $1.35 billion driven by favorable foreign currency translation, contributions from acquisitions, and positive price mix. Net income decreased by $21 million year over year to $89 million resulting in a net income margin of 6.6%. The decrease was primarily driven by an incremental $31 million in merger and acquisition related costs. Adjusted net income, which excludes merger and acquisition related expenses, increased 10% year over year to $153 million driven by reduced operating expenses and lower interest expense. Adjusted EBITDA increased 5% year over year to $305 million, a quarterly record resulting in an Adjusted EBITDA margin of 22.7%, up 30 basis points from the prior year period. Diluted EPS declined to $0.41 from $0.50 in the prior year period due to higher merger and acquisition costs. Adjusted Diluted EPS was $0.72, a record quarter and an increase of 13% from last year driven primarily by strong conversion on higher sales and lower interest expense. Cash provided by operating activities was $152 million, an increase of 7% year over year primarily driven by improved working capital and lower interest payments. Free cash flow was $107 million, an increase of $6 million year over year, inclusive of the headwind from merger-related costs. Discussion of Segment Results Performance Coatings’ second quarter net sales were $872 million, up 4% year over year as favorable currency translation, contributions from acquisitions and positive price mix more than offset slightly lower volumes. Organic net sales increased year over year, supported by strong growth in Europe and Asia and favorable price mix partially offset by lower volumes in North America. Refinish net sales increased 6% year over year to $545 million, primarily driven by contributions from acquisitions, favorable price mix and foreign currency translation. Industrial net sales increased by 2% year over year to $327 million with positive volume growth in Europe and Asia and positive price mix more than offsetting lower volumes in North America. Performance Coatings Adjusted EBITDA increased 10% year over year to $218 million compared with $200 million in the prior year period. The increase was driven by favorable price mix and lower variable and operating expenses. Adjusted EBITDA margin improved 130 basis points year over year to 25.1%. Mobility Coatings achieved record quarterly net sales of $474 million, up 1% year over year. Light Vehicle net sales declined slightly reflecting lower organic sales, partially offset by favorable foreign currency. Commercial Vehicle net sales increased 7% year over year, driven by volume growth in all four regions and favorable foreign currency. Mobility Coatings delivered Adjusted EBITDA of $87 million with an Adjusted EBITDA margin of 18.4%. Stronger volumes in Commercial Vehicle were more than offset by favorable one-time items recorded in the second quarter of 2025 that did not repeat. “We look forward to Axalta's Special General Meeting on August 5 to approve the compelling merger of equals with AkzoNobel. This strategic combination creates a premier global coatings company and provides significant value creation opportunities for Axalta shareholders” said Chris Villavarayan, Chief Executive Officer and President of Axalta. Third Quarter and Full Year 2026 Outlook Axalta does not provide a reconciliation for non-GAAP estimates for Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Diluted EPS, Free Cash Flow or tax rate, as adjusted, on a forward-looking basis because the information necessary to calculate a meaningful or accurate estimation of reconciling items is not available without unreasonable effort. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for more information. Conference Call Information As previously announced, Axalta will hold a conference call to discuss its second quarter 2026 financial results on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. ET. A live webcast of the conference call will be available online at www.axalta.com/investorcall. A replay of the webcast will be posted shortly after the call and will remain accessible through July 28, 2027. The dial-in phone number for the conference call is 1-833-419-0865 and the conference ID is AXALTA. For those unable to participate, a replay will be available through August 4, 2026. The replay dial-in number is +1-844-512-2921. The replay passcode is 11162143. Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements This release may contain certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding Axalta and its subsidiaries including, but not limited to, our outlook and/or guidance, which includes net sales growth, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Diluted EPS, Free Cash Flow, depreciation and amortization, tax rate, as adjusted, diluted shares outstanding, interest expense and capital expenditures and statements regarding the proposed merger of equals (the “Proposed Merger”) with Akzo Nobel N.V. (“AkzoNobel”) (including our ability to consummate the Proposed Merger and realize the anticipated benefits thereof). Axalta has identified some of these forward-looking statements with words such as “outlook,” “proposed,” “anticipated,” “earnings power,” “momentum,” “opportunities,” and “projections,” and the negative of these words or other comparable or similar terminology. All of these statements are based on management’s expectations as well as estimates and assumptions prepared by management that, although they believe to be reasonable, are inherently uncertain. These statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, economic, competitive, governmental (including related to any new or existing tariffs imposed by the U.S. and any retaliatory actions from other countries), geopolitical (including the current conflict in the Middle East and related effects on commodity prices) and technological factors outside of Axalta’s control, as well as risks related to the execution of, and assumptions underlying, our tariff mitigation strategies, our capital allocation strategy and future share repurchases, our previously-announced global transformation initiative, our previously-announced three-year 2024-2026 strategy and the Proposed Merger (including our ability to consummate the Proposed Merger and realize the anticipated benefits thereof) that may cause its business, industry, strategy, financing activities or actual results to differ materially. More information on potential factors that could affect Axalta’s financial results is available in “Forward-Looking Statements,” “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” within Axalta’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and in other documents that we have filed with, or furnished to, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). More information on these risks, as well as other risks associated with the Proposed Merger, are also discussed in the definitive proxy statement/prospectus relating to the Proposed Merger, which was filed with the SEC on June 24, 2026. Axalta undertakes no obligation to update or revise any of the forward-looking statements contained herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Non-GAAP Financial Measures This release includes financial information that is not presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”), including Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, Adjusted Diluted EPS, adjusted net income, Free Cash Flow, total net leverage ratio (or “total net leverage”), tax rate, as adjusted, and Adjusted EBIT. Management uses Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, Adjusted Diluted EPS, adjusted net income, tax rate, as adjusted, and Adjusted EBIT in the analysis of our financial and operating performance because they assist in the evaluation of underlying trends in our business. Management uses Free Cash Flow and total net leverage ratio in the analysis of (1) our liquidity, (2) our ability to incur and service our debt and (3) strategic capital allocation decisions. Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Diluted EPS, adjusted net income and Adjusted EBIT consist of EBITDA, Diluted EPS, net income attributable to common shareholders and EBIT, respectively, adjusted for (i) certain non-cash items included within net income, (ii) certain items Axalta does not believe are indicative of ongoing operating performance or (iii) certain nonrecurring, unusual or infrequent items that have not otherwise occurred within the last two years or we believe are not reasonably likely to recur within the next two years. Free Cash Flow consists of cash provided by (used for) operating activities less purchase of property, plant and equipment plus interest proceeds on swaps designated as net investment hedges. Total net leverage ratio consists of net debt divided by Adjusted EBITDA, with net debt defined as total debt less cash and cash equivalents. We believe that making the foregoing adjustments provides investors meaningful information to understand our operating results and ability to analyze financial and business trends on a period-to-period basis. The non-GAAP financial measures used by Axalta may differ from similarly titled measures reported by other companies. Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, Adjusted Diluted EPS, adjusted net income, Free Cash Flow, total net leverage ratio, tax rate, as adjusted, and Adjusted EBIT should not be considered as alternatives to net sales, net income (loss), income (loss) from operations or any other financial measures derived in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP financial measures have important limitations as analytical tools and should be considered in conjunction with, and not as substitutes for, our results as reported under GAAP. This release includes a reconciliation of certain non-GAAP financial measures with the most directly comparable financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. Axalta does not provide a reconciliation for Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Diluted EPS, tax rate, as adjusted, or Free Cash Flow on a forward-looking basis because the information necessary to calculate a meaningful or accurate estimation of reconciling items is not available without unreasonable effort. For example, such reconciling items include the impact of foreign currency exchange gains or losses, gains or losses that are unusual or nonrecurring in nature, as well as discrete taxable events. These items are uncertain, depend on various factors and may have a substantial and unpredictable impact on our GAAP results. Organic Net Sales Organic net sales and related growth and decline measures are calculated by excluding (i) the impact of the change in average exchange rates between the current and comparable period by currency denomination exposure of the comparable period amount and (ii) net sales of businesses acquired within the last twelve months. We believe presenting organic net sales and related growth and decline measures assists investors with evaluating our sales performance without the impact of foreign exchange rates and recent acquisitions and divestitures of size, and management also routinely evaluates our sales in this manner. Segment Financial Measures The primary measure of segment operating performance is Adjusted EBITDA, which is a key metric that is used by management to evaluate business performance in comparison to budgets, forecasts and prior year financial results and that management believes reflects Axalta’s core operating performance. As we do not measure segment operating performance based on net income, a reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure with the most directly comparable financial measure calculated in accordance with GAAP is not available. Defined Terms All capitalized terms contained within this release that are not otherwise defined herein have been previously defined in our filings with the SEC. Rounding Certain amounts may not foot or crossfoot due to rounding. Additionally, certain percentages may not recalculate due to rounding. General Restrictions This communication is not for release, publication, or distribution, in whole or in part, in or into, directly or indirectly, any jurisdiction in which such release, publication, or distribution would be unlawful. This communication is not a prospectus and the information in this communication is not intended to be complete. This communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be and shall not constitute a solicitation of any vote or approval, or an offer to buy or sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, any securities, or an invitation or recommendation to subscribe for, acquire or buy securities of Axalta or AkzoNobel or any other financial products or securities, in any place or jurisdiction, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation or sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). Any decision to purchase, subscribe for, otherwise acquire, sell or otherwise dispose of any securities must be made only on the basis of the information contained in and incorporated by reference into the prospectus with respect to the shares to be allotted by AkzoNobel in the Proposed Merger, which was published on June 24, 2026 and supplemented on July 22, 2026. The distribution of this communication may, in some countries, be restricted by law or regulation. Accordingly, persons who come into possession of this document should inform themselves of and observe these restrictions. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, Axalta and AkzoNobel disclaim any responsibility or liability for the violation of any such restrictions by any person. Neither Axalta, nor AkzoNobel, nor any of their advisors assume any responsibility for any violation by any person of any of these restrictions. Shareholders of Axalta and AkzoNobel, respectively, with any doubt as to their position should consult an appropriate professional advisor without delay. This communication is addressed to and directed only at, persons who are outside the United Kingdom or, in the United Kingdom, at persons who are: (i) persons having professional experience in matters relating to investments falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Order”), (ii) persons falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order, or (iii) persons to whom it may otherwise lawfully be communicated pursuant to the Order (all such persons together being referred to as, “Relevant Persons”). This communication is directed only at Relevant Persons. Other persons should not act or rely on this communication or any of its contents. Any investment or investment activity to which this communication relates is available only to Relevant Persons and will be engaged in only with such persons. Solicitations resulting from this communication will only be responded to if the person concerned is a Relevant Person. Additional Information and Where to Find It In connection with the Proposed Merger between Axalta and AkzoNobel, AkzoNobel filed with the SEC a registration statement on Form F-4 on May 27, 2026, as amended on June 18, 2026, which included a proxy statement of Axalta that also constitutes a prospectus with respect to the shares to be offered by AkzoNobel in the Proposed Merger. The registration statement was declared effective by the SEC on June 23, 2026. In connection with the proposed transaction, on June 24, 2026, Axalta filed with the SEC a definitive proxy statement and, on or about June 24, 2026, Axalta commenced mailing the definitive proxy statement to its holders of record as of June 11, 2026. Each of Axalta and AkzoNobel will also file other relevant documents in connection with the Proposed Merger. This communication is not a substitute for any registration statement, proxy statement/prospectus or other documents Axalta and/or AkzoNobel may file with the SEC or any other competent regulator in connection with the Proposed Merger. This communication does not contain all the information that should be considered concerning the Proposed Merger and is not intended to form the basis of any investment decision or any other decision in respect of the Proposed Merger. BEFORE MAKING ANY VOTING OR INVESTMENT DECISIONS, INVESTORS, STOCKHOLDERS AND SHAREHOLDERS OF AXALTA AND AKZONOBEL ARE URGED TO READ CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS, AS APPLICABLE, AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS THAT ARE FILED OR WILL BE FILED WITH THE SEC, AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THESE DOCUMENTS, IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE, AS THEY CONTAIN OR WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT AXALTA, AKZONOBEL, THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION AND RELATED MATTERS. The registration statement and proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant documents filed by Axalta and AkzoNobel with the SEC are available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. In addition, investors and shareholders will be able to obtain free copies of the proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed with the SEC from Axalta’s investor relations webpage at https://ir.axalta.com/sec-filings/all-sec-filings or from AkzoNobel’s investor relations webpage at https://www.akzonobel.com/en/investors/all-sec-filings. The contents of this communication should not be construed as financial, legal, business, investment, tax or other professional advice. Each recipient should consult with its own professional advisors for any such matter and advice Participants in the Solicitation This communication is not a solicitation of proxies in connection with the Proposed Merger. However, under SEC rules, Axalta, AkzoNobel and certain of their respective directors and executive officers and other members of their respective management and employees may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies in connection with the Proposed Merger. Information regarding the persons who may, under the rules of the SEC, be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies in connection with the Proposed Merger, including a description of their direct or indirect interests in the Proposed Merger, by security holdings or otherwise, is set forth in the definitive proxy statement/prospectus relating to the Proposed Merger, which was filed with the SEC on June 24, 2026. Information about AkzoNobel’s supervisory board members and members of the board of management is set forth in AkzoNobel’s latest annual report, as filed with the AFM, the Dutch trade register and on its website at https://www.akzonobel.com/en/investors/results-center, and as updated from time to time via filings made by AkzoNobel with the AFM. Additional information regarding the interests of persons who may, under the rules of the SEC, be deemed participants in the solicitation of Axalta security holders in connection with the Proposed Merger, which may, in some cases, be different than those of Axalta’s shareholders generally, including a description of their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be set forth in the proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant materials when they are filed with the SEC. These documents can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above. About Axalta Coating Systems Axalta is a global leader in the coatings industry, providing customers with innovative, colorful, beautiful and sustainable coatings solutions. From light vehicles, commercial vehicles and refinish applications to electric motors, building facades and other industrial applications, our coatings are designed to prevent corrosion, increase productivity and enhance durability. With more than 150 years of experience in the coatings industry, the global team at Axalta continues to find ways to serve our more than 100,000 customers in over 140 countries better every day with the finest coatings, application systems and technology. For more information visit axalta.com and follow us @axalta on X. The following table reconciles net income to EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and segment Adjusted EBITDA for the periods presented (in millions): The following table reconciles net income to adjusted net income for the periods presented (in millions, except per share data): The following table reconciles cash provided by operating activities to free cash flow for the periods presented (in millions): The following table reconciles income from operations to adjusted EBIT for the periods presented (in millions):