NORTH ANDOVER, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Watts Water Technologies, Inc. Announces Third Quarter 2025 Earnings Release and Earnings Conference Call. ...

Core Viewpoint - Growth stocks are appealing due to their potential for above-average financial growth, but identifying those with genuine growth prospects can be challenging [1] Group 1: Company Overview - Watts Water (WTS) is currently highlighted as a recommended growth stock, possessing a favorable Growth Score and a top Zacks Rank [2] - The company specializes in manufacturing valves for plumbing, heating, and water needs [3] Group 2: Earnings Growth - Historical EPS growth rate for Watts Water stands at 21.2%, with projected EPS growth of 11.3% this year, significantly outperforming the industry average of -1.1% [5] Group 3: Asset Utilization - Watts Water has an asset utilization ratio (sales-to-total-assets ratio) of 0.92, indicating it generates $0.92 in sales for every dollar in assets, compared to the industry average of 0.78 [6] Group 4: Sales Growth - The company's sales are expected to grow by 3.9% this year, surpassing the industry average growth of 1.8% [7] Group 5: Earnings Estimate Revisions - Current-year earnings estimates for Watts Water have been revised upward, with the Zacks Consensus Estimate increasing by 0.8% over the past month [9] Group 6: Investment Positioning - Watts Water has achieved a Growth Score of B and a Zacks Rank of 2 due to positive earnings estimate revisions, positioning it well for potential outperformance [11]

Core Insights - The Zacks Instruments – Control industry is poised for growth driven by a focus on energy-efficient production processes and the integration of advanced software systems, alongside a rising demand for modern technology to replace outdated industrial controls with automated solutions [1][4]. Industry Overview - The industry includes manufacturers of precision and specialty motion-control components and systems, providing sophisticated flow measurement, control, and communication solutions for various gases and liquids used in commercial and residential applications [3]. - Key products include those for fuel, combustion, fluid actuation, electronic applications, and energy control, with some companies also offering HVAC products and water reuse solutions [3]. Growth Drivers - Increased adoption of industrial automation and higher investments in new technologies are expected to drive growth, particularly in North America, supported by rising infrastructural investments in energy and power sectors, and favorable government policies [4]. - The pharmaceutical industry's process automation market is also expanding due to cost factors and evolving regulations, indicating a mature buyer base willing to partner with process control industry players [4]. Challenges - Elevated customer inventory levels, high capital expenditures for infrastructure upgrades, and inflationary pressures are potential hindrances to the process automation and instrumentation market [2]. - Material cost inflation and rising transportation costs, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and economic sanctions, are negatively impacting industry margins, with companies struggling to pass on costs to customers due to competitive pressures [5]. Technological Trends - The industry's growth is significantly influenced by the emphasis on digitized technologies, such as the Industrial Internet of Things, which enhances manufacturing processes and compliance with regulations [6]. - The demand for process automation and instrumentation products is expected to grow, driven by the need for improved product quality and emission reductions [6]. Market Performance - The Zacks Instruments – Control industry currently holds a Zacks Industry Rank of 12, placing it in the top 5% of over 250 Zacks industries, indicating positive near-term prospects [7][8]. - However, the industry has underperformed compared to the S&P 500 and the broader Zacks Computer and Technology sector over the past year, with a gain of only 3.3% compared to 18.8% and 28.7% for the S&P 500 and sector, respectively [9]. Valuation Metrics - The industry has a trailing 12-month EV/EBITDA ratio of 14.1X, which is lower than the S&P 500's 18.59X and the sector's 19.48X, suggesting potential undervaluation [12]. Notable Companies - **Watts Water Technologies, Inc. (WTS)**: Focuses on water safety and flow control products, benefiting from cost-reduction actions and a strong balance sheet, with a long-term earnings growth expectation of 8.5% and a stock gain of 39% over the past year [15]. - **Badger Meter, Inc. (BMI)**: Provides flow measurement and control solutions, emphasizing digital solutions and operationalizing real-time data, with a long-term earnings growth expectation of 12% [18][19]. - **Thermon Group Holdings, Inc. (THR)**: Offers engineered industrial process heating solutions, expanding its market reach through strategic acquisitions, with a consistent earnings surprise of 5.4% [22].

Group 1 - Watts Water Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:WTS) is recognized as a strong investment opportunity, with Jim Cramer recommending to "own it" rather than trade it [1] - The company specializes in fluid and energy management systems and products for buildings, including flow control, HVAC, drainage, water reuse, and water quality solutions [1] - For Q2, Watts Water reported non-GAAP earnings of $3.09, exceeding estimates by $0.46, and revenue of $643.7 million, surpassing estimates by $30 million [1] - The company has raised its full-year outlook, projecting reported sales growth of 2% to 5% and organic sales growth from flat to 3% [1] - Expected operating margin is between 17.2% to 17.8%, with adjusted operating margin forecasted between 18.2% and 18.8%, accounting for estimated tariff impacts as of August 6, 2025 [1]

On CNBC's “Mad Money Lightning Round,” Jim Cramer recommended staying long on Watts Water Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: WTS).Lending support to his choice, Watts Water, on Aug. 6, reported quarterly earnings of $3.09 per share. It beat the analyst consensus estimate of $2.63 per share. “I think [Watts Water] is exactly the type of thing you don’t want to trade it,” Cramer said. “You want to own it. It’s just a great American manufacturer.” The North Andover, Massachusetts-based company reported quarterly sales ...

Core Viewpoint - Momentum investing focuses on following a stock's recent price trends, aiming to buy high and sell higher, with the expectation that established trends will continue [1][2]. Company Overview: Watts Water (WTS) - Watts Water currently holds a Momentum Style Score of A, indicating strong momentum potential [3]. - The company has a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy), which historically outperforms the market when combined with a Style Score of A or B [4]. Price Performance - Over the past week, WTS shares increased by 0.4%, while the Zacks Instruments - Control industry declined by 1.26% [6]. - In a longer timeframe, WTS shares rose by 5.41% over the past month, outperforming the industry's 3.28% [6]. - Over the last quarter, WTS shares increased by 15.63%, and over the past year, they gained 38.23%, compared to the S&P 500's increases of 11.2% and 19.34%, respectively [7]. Trading Volume - The average 20-day trading volume for WTS is 155,343 shares, which serves as a bullish indicator when combined with rising stock prices [8]. Earnings Outlook - In the past two months, four earnings estimates for WTS have been revised upwards, with no downward revisions, leading to an increase in the consensus estimate from $9.47 to $9.86 [10]. - For the next fiscal year, four estimates have also moved upwards without any downward revisions [10]. Conclusion - Considering the strong performance metrics and positive earnings outlook, WTS is positioned as a 1 (Strong Buy) stock with a Momentum Score of A, making it a compelling investment option [12].

Market Overview - U.S. stock markets have experienced a significant bull run since the start of 2023, with major indexes like the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq Composite nearing all-time highs [1] - The S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite have achieved multiple all-time highs in 2025, while the S&P 400 mid-cap index is up 4.9% year to date, just 4.6% away from its 52-week high [2][9] Mid-Cap Stocks - Investment in mid-cap stocks is recognized as a strong portfolio diversification strategy, combining attributes of both small and large-cap stocks [3] - Mid-cap stocks are less vulnerable to losses during economic downturns due to lower international exposure, and they can outperform small caps in a thriving economy due to established management and market presence [4] Recommended Mid-Cap Stocks - Five mid-cap stocks with favorable Zacks Rank for the remainder of 2025 are Dillard's Inc. (DDS), Sterling Infrastructure Inc. (STRL), StoneX Group Inc. (SNEX), Armstrong World Industries Inc. (AWI), and Watts Water Technologies Inc. (WTS), all rated Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy) [5][9] Company Insights Dillard's Inc. (DDS) - Dillard's is enhancing growth through strategic initiatives in both brick-and-mortar and e-commerce, focusing on customer acquisition and retention [8] - The company has a strong financial position with solid liquidity and minimal rent obligations, alongside shareholder-friendly practices like dividends and buybacks [10] - Expected revenue and earnings growth rates for DDS are -0.4% and -15.8%, respectively, for the current year, with a 1.8% improvement in the earnings consensus estimate over the last 30 days [11] Sterling Infrastructure Inc. (STRL) - Sterling Infrastructure provides e-infrastructure, transportation, and building solutions, operating through three segments: E-Infrastructure Solutions, Transportation Solutions, and Building Solutions [12][13][14] - The expected revenue and earnings growth rates for STRL are 6.5% and 56.9%, respectively, for the current year, with a 5.3% improvement in the earnings consensus estimate over the last seven days [15] StoneX Group Inc. (SNEX) - StoneX Group operates a global financial services network, offering execution, post-trade settlement, clearing, and custody services through various segments [16] - The expected revenue and earnings growth rates for SNEX are 4.9% and 21.7%, respectively, for the next year, with a 21.7% improvement in the earnings consensus estimate over the last 60 days [17] Armstrong World Industries Inc. (AWI) - Armstrong World Industries is a leading producer of ceiling systems for construction and renovation, operating in three segments: Mineral Fiber, Architectural Specialties, and Unallocated Corporate [18][19][20] - The expected revenue and earnings growth rates for AWI are 12.2% and 15.1%, respectively, for the current year, with a 0.7% improvement in the earnings consensus estimate over the last 30 days [21] Watts Water Technologies Inc. (WTS) - Watts Water Technologies designs and manufactures water safety and flow control products, reporting under three geographic segments: The Americas, Europe, and APMEA [22] - The expected revenue and earnings growth rates for WTS are 3.9% and 11.3%, respectively, for the current year, with a 0.8% improvement in the earnings consensus estimate over the last seven days [24]

Core Insights - Watts Water Technologies, Inc. (WTS) shares have increased by 40.8% over the past year, significantly outperforming its industry and broader market indices [1][7][22] - The company has achieved record sales, operating income, and earnings per share (EPS) in the second quarter, driven by organic sales growth of 6% due to favorable pricing and increased demand [4][22] Company Performance - WTS's stock closed at $276.9 as of August 29, 2025, trading below its 52-week high of $285.9 [2] - The company has outperformed peers such as Sensata Technologies, Badger Meter, and Thermon, which saw declines of 15.6%, 11.6%, and 15.6% respectively [2][7] - The adjusted operating margin expanded to 21.6%, supported by a strong balance sheet [4] Strategic Acquisitions - WTS has made several strategic acquisitions, including EasyWater, I-CON, Bradley, and Josam, to enhance its product portfolio and drive synergies [10][11] - The EasyWater acquisition is expected to contribute approximately $5 million in sales for 2025 and be EPS-neutral after purchase accounting [10] - The integration of these acquisitions is progressing ahead of expectations, enhancing the company's sales networks and cross-selling opportunities [11] Financial Health - The company reported operating cash flow of $361.1 million and free cash flow of $331.7 million in 2024, with $125 million in operating cash and $105.1 million in free cash flow generated in the first half of 2025 [12] - WTS has $137 million available under its buyback program, indicating strong cash flow management [12] Growth Drivers - The Nexa Intelligent Water Management platform is gaining traction as a key growth driver, providing insights for monitoring and efficiency in commercial buildings [13] - The company has raised its full-year sales growth outlook to between 2% and 5%, with organic sales expected to be flat to increase by 3% [14][16] Market Challenges - WTS faces ongoing softness in Europe, with expected sales declines of 6-9% in the third quarter and 5-9% for 2025 [17] - The company anticipates approximately $40 million in tariff impacts for 2025, which may create margin pressure [18] - Intense competition and potential tariff changes pose risks to market share and pricing strategies [19] Valuation - WTS shares are trading at a premium with a price/earnings ratio of 26.98 compared to the industry average of 18.66 [20][21]

Core Viewpoint - Momentum investing focuses on following a stock's recent price trends, aiming to buy high and sell higher, with the expectation that established trends will continue [1][2]. Company Analysis: Watts Water (WTS) - Watts Water currently holds a Momentum Style Score of A, indicating strong momentum characteristics [3]. - The company has a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy), suggesting a favorable outlook based on historical performance metrics [4]. - Over the past week, WTS shares increased by 1.24%, while the Zacks Instruments - Control industry rose by 2.52% [6]. - In a longer timeframe, WTS shares have appreciated by 11.86% over the past quarter and 49.62% over the last year, outperforming the S&P 500's gains of 10.57% and 21.94%, respectively [7]. - The average 20-day trading volume for WTS is 252,344 shares, which serves as a bullish indicator when combined with rising stock prices [8]. Earnings Outlook - In the last two months, four earnings estimates for WTS have been revised upwards, with no downward revisions, leading to an increase in the consensus estimate from $9.28 to $9.78 [10]. - For the next fiscal year, four estimates have also moved higher without any decreases, indicating positive sentiment regarding future earnings [10]. Conclusion - Considering the strong momentum indicators and positive earnings outlook, Watts Water is positioned as a 1 (Strong Buy) stock with a Momentum Score of A, making it a compelling investment option [12].

Core Insights - The performance of Watts Water's international operations is crucial for understanding its financial resilience and growth potential [1][2][3] Revenue Performance - The total revenue for Watts Water in the quarter ending June 2025 was $643.7 million, reflecting a 7.8% increase [4] - Europe generated $111 million in revenue, accounting for 17.2% of total revenue, which was a 2.78% surprise compared to the projected $108 million [5] - APMEA contributed $34.2 million, representing 5.3% of total revenue, slightly below the consensus estimate of $34.5 million, marking a -0.87% surprise [6] Future Projections - Analysts project total revenue of $577.38 million for the current fiscal quarter, indicating a 6.2% increase from the previous year, with Europe and APMEA expected to contribute 18.3% ($105.5 million) and 6.2% ($36 million) respectively [7] - For the full year, total revenue is projected to reach $2.35 billion, a 4.3% increase from last year, with Europe contributing 18.5% ($434.5 million) and APMEA 5.8% ($136 million) [8] Market Context - The reliance on international markets presents both opportunities and challenges for Watts Water, making it essential to track international revenue trends for future projections [9][10] - The company's stock has appreciated by 5.7% over the past four weeks, outperforming the Zacks S&P 500 composite, which increased by 2% [14]