Eaton reported second-quarter organic sales growth of 14% year over year, driven by 18% organic growth in both the electrical Americas and electrical global segments. Management raised its full-year guidance.
Eaton’s recent portfolio changes should create value for shareholders and transform its returns on invested capital from around 10% to the mid- to upper teens.
Bears
Eaton has a worse return profile than peers and deserves to trade at a discount. It lacks a true serviceable base of equipment, which hampers its ability to generate superior returns.
Founded in 1911 by Joseph Eaton, the eponymous company began by selling truck axles in New Jersey. Eaton has since become an industrial powerhouse largely through acquisitions in various end markets. Eaton’s portfolio can broadly be divided into two parts: its electrical and industrial businesses. Its electrical portfolio (representing around 70% of company revenue) sells components within data centers, utilities, and commercial and residential buildings, while its industrial business (30% of revenue) sells components within commercial and passenger vehicles and aircraft. Eaton receives favorable tax treatment as a domiciliary of Ireland, but it generates over half of its revenue within the US.