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Caterpillar (CAT)


Market Price (7/16/2026): $886.01 | Market Cap: $410.6 BilInvestor Relations Sector: Industrials | Industry: Construction Machinery & Heavy Transportation Equipment

Caterpillar (CAT)


Market Price (7/16/2026): $886.01
Market Cap: $410.6 Bil
Sector: Industrials
Industry: Construction Machinery & Heavy Transportation Equipment

Investment Highlights Why It Matters Detailed financial logic regarding cash flow yields vs trend-riding momentum.

0

Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 17%, FCF/Rev LTMFree Cash Flow / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 11%, CFO LTM is 12 Bil, FCF LTM is 7.9 Bil

Stock buyback support
Stock Buyback 3Y Total is 23 Bil

Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 38%

Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Automation & Robotics, Future of Freight, Sustainable Infrastructure, Hydrogen Economy, Show more.

Expensive valuation multiples
P/EBITPrice/EBIT or Price/(Operating Income) ratio is 33x, P/CFOPrice/(Cash Flow from Operations). CFO is cash before capital expenditures. is 34x

Stock price has recently run up significantly
12M Rtn12 month market price return is 128%

Valuation getting more expensive
P/S 6M Chg %Price/Sales change over 6 months. Declining P/S indicates valuation has become less expensive. is 52%

Key risks
CAT key risks include [1] a high vulnerability to cyclical downturns and shifts in U.S. Show more.

0 Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 17%, FCF/Rev LTMFree Cash Flow / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 11%, CFO LTM is 12 Bil, FCF LTM is 7.9 Bil
1 Stock buyback support
Stock Buyback 3Y Total is 23 Bil
2 Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 38%
3 Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include Automation & Robotics, Future of Freight, Sustainable Infrastructure, Hydrogen Economy, Show more.
4 Expensive valuation multiples
P/EBITPrice/EBIT or Price/(Operating Income) ratio is 33x, P/CFOPrice/(Cash Flow from Operations). CFO is cash before capital expenditures. is 34x
5 Stock price has recently run up significantly
12M Rtn12 month market price return is 128%
6 Valuation getting more expensive
P/S 6M Chg %Price/Sales change over 6 months. Declining P/S indicates valuation has become less expensive. is 52%
7 Key risks
CAT key risks include [1] a high vulnerability to cyclical downturns and shifts in U.S. Show more.

CAT in ETFs

Weight = CAT's share of each fund

SPY0.66%
VOO0.63%
IVV0.67%
VTI0.56%
ITOT0.59%
DIA10.7%
IWB0.61%
RSP0.21%
+34 more covered ETFs

Valuation & Metrics

Price Chart

Why The Stock Moved

Qualitative Assessment

AI Analysis | Feedback

Updated on 7/7/2026

Caterpillar (CAT) stock has gained about 30% since 3/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Strong Fiscal Q1 2026 Performance and Upbeat Full-Year Guidance. Caterpillar reported robust financial results for fiscal Q1 2026 on April 30, 2026, exceeding market expectations. The company announced earnings per share (EPS) of $5.54, significantly beating the consensus estimate of $4.62 by 19.91%. Additionally, revenue grew by 22.2% year-over-year to $17.41 billion, surpassing analyst estimates of $16.53 billion. Following this strong performance, Caterpillar raised its full-year 2026 outlook, projecting low-double-digit sales and revenue growth.

2. Record Backlog and Sustained Demand Driven by Infrastructure and AI Buildout. The company reported a record backlog of $63 billion at the end of fiscal Q1 2026, marking a 79% increase compared to fiscal Q1 2025 and indicating strong future revenue visibility. This demand is broad-based, with all three primary segments contributing to growth. A significant driver is the increasing capital expenditure in AI infrastructure, benefiting Caterpillar's Power & Energy segment through demand for large reciprocating engines and turbines, with lead times extending into 2029.

Show more
Updated on 7/7/2026

Caterpillar (CAT) stock has gained about 30% since 3/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Strong Fiscal Q1 2026 Performance and Upbeat Full-Year Guidance. Caterpillar reported robust financial results for fiscal Q1 2026 on April 30, 2026, exceeding market expectations. The company announced earnings per share (EPS) of $5.54, significantly beating the consensus estimate of $4.62 by 19.91%. Additionally, revenue grew by 22.2% year-over-year to $17.41 billion, surpassing analyst estimates of $16.53 billion. Following this strong performance, Caterpillar raised its full-year 2026 outlook, projecting low-double-digit sales and revenue growth.

2. Record Backlog and Sustained Demand Driven by Infrastructure and AI Buildout. The company reported a record backlog of $63 billion at the end of fiscal Q1 2026, marking a 79% increase compared to fiscal Q1 2025 and indicating strong future revenue visibility. This demand is broad-based, with all three primary segments contributing to growth. A significant driver is the increasing capital expenditure in AI infrastructure, benefiting Caterpillar's Power & Energy segment through demand for large reciprocating engines and turbines, with lead times extending into 2029.

3. Positive Analyst Revisions and Increased Price Targets. Post fiscal Q1 2026 earnings, multiple investment analysts revised their ratings and price targets for Caterpillar upwards. For instance, on July 2, 2026, Truist Securities raised its price target to $1,218 from $1,043, maintaining a "Buy" rating. Wells Fargo also increased its price target to $1,155 from $1,050 on June 23, 2026, while Citigroup boosted its objective from $905.00 to $1,020.00 in May 2026. The overall consensus rating for Caterpillar remains a "Moderate Buy," with an average price target of $1,002.88.

4. Enhanced Shareholder Returns and Favorable Tariff Revisions. Caterpillar demonstrated confidence in its financial position by increasing its quarterly dividend by 8% to $1.63 per share, payable on August 19, 2026. Furthermore, the company experienced a more favorable impact from tariffs in fiscal Q1 2026, with related costs amounting to approximately $600 million, which was below the prior estimate of $800 million. The full-year 2026 tariff cost estimate was also revised down from $2.6 billion to $2.2–$2.4 billion, reducing a significant headwind.

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Stock Movement Drivers

Fundamental Drivers

The 29.3% change in CAT stock from 3/31/2026 to 7/15/2026 was primarily driven by a 21.1% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)33120267152026Change
Stock Price ($)707.11914.3029.3%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)67,58970,7554.7%
Net Income Margin (%)13.1%13.3%1.4%
P/E Multiple37.144.921.1%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)4664630.6%
Cumulative Contribution29.3%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

3/31/2026 to 7/15/2026
ReturnCorrelation
CAT29.3% 
Market (SPY)16.1%56.5%
Sector (XLI)11.3%83.8%

Fundamental Drivers

The 60.3% change in CAT stock from 12/31/2025 to 7/15/2026 was primarily driven by a 55.9% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)123120257152026Change
Stock Price ($)570.45914.3060.3%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)64,67170,7559.4%
Net Income Margin (%)14.3%13.3%-7.1%
P/E Multiple28.844.955.9%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)4694631.1%
Cumulative Contribution60.3%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

12/31/2025 to 7/15/2026
ReturnCorrelation
CAT60.3% 
Market (SPY)11.0%59.7%
Sector (XLI)16.4%83.1%

Fundamental Drivers

The 138.1% change in CAT stock from 6/30/2025 to 7/15/2026 was primarily driven by a 144.8% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)63020257152026Change
Stock Price ($)384.05914.30138.1%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)63,25970,75511.8%
Net Income Margin (%)15.7%13.3%-15.2%
P/E Multiple18.444.9144.8%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)4754632.5%
Cumulative Contribution138.1%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

6/30/2025 to 7/15/2026
ReturnCorrelation
CAT138.1% 
Market (SPY)23.2%56.1%
Sector (XLI)23.3%75.8%

Fundamental Drivers

The 288.8% change in CAT stock from 6/30/2023 to 7/15/2026 was primarily driven by a 163.2% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)63020237152026Change
Stock Price ($)235.17914.30288.8%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)61,70070,75514.7%
Net Income Margin (%)11.5%13.3%15.6%
P/E Multiple17.144.9163.2%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)51646311.4%
Cumulative Contribution288.8%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

6/30/2023 to 7/15/2026
ReturnCorrelation
CAT288.8% 
Market (SPY)76.3%60.4%
Sector (XLI)74.8%75.3%

Return vs. Risk

Price Returns Compared

 202120222023202420252026Total [1]
Returns
CAT Return16%19%26%25%60%64%466%
Peers Return19%7%22%8%24%23%155%
S&P 500 Return27%-19%24%23%16%10%101%

Monthly Win Rates [3]
CAT Win Rate58%50%50%67%50%57% 
Peers Win Rate62%43%48%53%65%60% 
S&P 500 Win Rate75%42%67%75%67%57% 

Max Drawdowns [4]
CAT Max Drawdown-22%-30%-22%-16%-33%-14% 
Peers Max Drawdown-23%-31%-23%-22%-28%-21% 
S&P 500 Max Drawdown-5%-25%-10%-8%-19%-9% 


[1] Cumulative total returns since the beginning of 2021
[2] Peers: DE, PCAR, CMI, TEX, OSK. See CAT Returns vs. Peers.
[3] Win Rate = % of calendar months in which monthly returns were positive
[4] Max drawdown represents maximum peak-to-trough decline within a year
[5] 2026 data is for the year up to 7/15/2026 (YTD)

How Low Can It Go

EventCATS&P 500
2025 US Tariff Shock
  % Loss-22.4%-18.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven28.9%23.1%
  Time to Breakeven35 days79 days
Summer-Fall 2023 Five Percent Yield Shock
  % Loss-13.3%-9.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven15.3%10.5%
  Time to Breakeven41 days24 days
2023 SVB Regional Banking Crisis
  % Loss-16.6%-6.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven20.0%7.1%
  Time to Breakeven15 days31 days
2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening
  % Loss-20.2%-24.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven25.3%32.4%
  Time to Breakeven30 days427 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-32.9%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven49.0%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven77 days140 days
Q4 2018 Fed Policy Error / Growth Scare
  % Loss-28.5%-19.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven39.9%23.8%
  Time to Breakeven686 days105 days

Compare to DE, PCAR, CMI, TEX, OSK

In The Past

Caterpillar's stock fell -22.4% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 28.9% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

EventCATS&P 500
2025 US Tariff Shock
  % Loss-22.4%-18.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven28.9%23.1%
  Time to Breakeven35 days79 days
2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening
  % Loss-20.2%-24.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven25.3%32.4%
  Time to Breakeven30 days427 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-32.9%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven49.0%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven77 days140 days
Q4 2018 Fed Policy Error / Growth Scare
  % Loss-28.5%-19.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven39.9%23.8%
  Time to Breakeven686 days105 days
2015-2016 China Devaluation / Global Growth Scare
  % Loss-24.5%-12.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven32.5%13.9%
  Time to Breakeven67 days62 days
2014-2016 Oil Price Collapse
  % Loss-43.8%-6.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven78.0%7.3%
  Time to Breakeven456 days15 days
2011 US Debt Ceiling Crisis & European Contagion
  % Loss-32.9%-17.9%
  % Gain to Breakeven49.0%21.8%
  Time to Breakeven107 days123 days
2010 Eurozone Sovereign Debt Crisis / Flash Crash
  % Loss-22.1%-15.4%
  % Gain to Breakeven28.3%18.2%
  Time to Breakeven59 days125 days
2008-2009 Global Financial Crisis
  % Loss-68.8%-53.4%
  % Gain to Breakeven220.3%114.4%
  Time to Breakeven417 days1085 days

Compare to DE, PCAR, CMI, TEX, OSK

In The Past

Caterpillar's stock fell -22.4% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 28.9% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

About Caterpillar (CAT)

Caterpillar Inc. (CAT) is a global leader in manufacturing and selling heavy machinery, engines, and industrial gas turbines. The company primarily operates across vital sectors such as construction, mining, and energy, providing the foundational equipment and power solutions necessary for large-scale infrastructure development, resource extraction, and power generation worldwide.

The company's core product offerings are diverse, spanning multiple segments. Its Construction Industries division provides a wide range of equipment including excavators, loaders, motor graders, and track-type tractors used in building roads, infrastructure, and general construction. The Resource Industries segment focuses on machinery for mining and quarrying, such as electric rope shovels, large mining trucks, and rotary drills, alongside advanced fleet management and autonomous solutions. Furthermore, the Energy & Transportation segment supplies critical power generation solutions, including reciprocating engines, generator sets, industrial gas turbines, and diesel-electric locomotives for marine, oil and gas, and electric power sectors.

Caterpillar serves a broad international customer base, including construction companies, mining operators, and enterprises in the oil and gas, marine, and power generation industries. Beyond equipment sales, the company also provides essential financial products, such as operating and finance leases, installment sale contracts, and wholesale financing, to support its customers in acquiring and utilizing its machinery and services. Additionally, it offers aftermarket parts like filters and undercarriage components, ensuring ongoing support and operational efficiency for its global clientele.

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1. John Deere for industrial construction and mining equipment.

2. The General Motors of bulldozers and excavators.

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  • Construction Equipment: Manufactures and sells a wide range of machinery for construction, including excavators, loaders, and dozers.
  • Mining Equipment: Provides specialized heavy machinery for mining operations, such as shovels, drills, and large mining trucks, along with support solutions.
  • Engines, Turbines, and Power Systems: Offers reciprocating engines, industrial gas turbines, generator sets, and integrated systems for various industrial and power generation applications.
  • Locomotives and Rail Services: Provides diesel-electric locomotives, rail components, and related services for the global railway industry.
  • Financial Services: Offers operating and finance leases, installment sale contracts, working capital loans, and insurance products to customers.
  • Aftermarket Parts and Components: Manufactures and sells essential parts and consumables like filters, fluids, undercarriage, and ground engaging tools for its machinery.

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Caterpillar Inc. (CAT) primarily sells to other companies rather than individuals. Its major customers fall into the following categories:

  • Construction Companies: These include companies involved in large-scale infrastructure projects, residential and commercial construction, road building, and site preparation, which utilize Caterpillar's wide range of construction equipment like excavators, loaders, dozers, and pavers.
  • Mining Companies: Enterprises engaged in surface and underground mining operations for various minerals and resources are major customers, relying on Caterpillar's extensive line of mining trucks, shovels, drills, and other heavy equipment designed for resource extraction.
  • Energy and Transportation Companies: This category encompasses businesses in sectors such as electric power generation, oil and gas exploration and production, marine transportation, and rail industries, which purchase Caterpillar's engines, generator sets, industrial gas turbines, and locomotives.

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Here is the management team for Caterpillar Inc.:

Joseph E. Creed, Chief Executive Officer

Joseph E. Creed became Chief Executive Officer of Caterpillar Inc. on May 1, 2025, and will assume the role of Chairman of the Board of Directors effective April 1, 2026. He joined Caterpillar in 1997 and has held various positions of increasing responsibility, including Chief Financial Officer for Caterpillar's Energy & Transportation segment in 2013, Senior Vice President of Caterpillar Finance Services in 2017, and interim Chief Financial Officer in 2018. He was promoted to Group President of Energy & Transportation in 2021 and named Chief Operating Officer in 2023. Mr. Creed graduated from Western Illinois University with a bachelor's degree in accounting.

Andrew Bonfield, Chief Financial Officer

Andrew Bonfield was appointed Chief Financial Officer of Caterpillar Inc. in September 2018. He brings more than three decades of financial expertise to the role. Prior to joining Caterpillar, Mr. Bonfield served as Group CFO and board member of National Grid plc, CFO at Cadbury plc, and Executive Vice President and CFO at Bristol Myers Squibb. He also held roles as finance director of BG Group plc and CFO of Smithkline Beecham plc. Mr. Bonfield is a chartered accountant and holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Natal in Durban, South Africa. He also serves as a non-executive director and chairman of the audit committee at Reckitt Benckiser Group plc. Mr. Bonfield was the first CFO appointed from outside Caterpillar.

George A. Moubayed, Chief Sustainability and Strategy Officer and Senior Vice President

George Moubayed is the Chief Sustainability and Strategy Officer and a Senior Vice President of Caterpillar Inc., responsible for the Enterprise Strategy Division. He oversees the execution of Caterpillar's strategy for long-term profitable growth. Mr. Moubayed joined Caterpillar in 1997 and has held several leadership positions, including Vice President and General Manager for load and haul products in Resource Industries, and Vice President of Aftermarket Solutions in Resource Industries. He has a bachelor's degree in engineering from McGill University in Montreal, Canada.

David (Dave) T. Walton, President and Chief Executive Officer of Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation and Senior Vice President

David T. Walton is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation (Cat Financial) and a Senior Vice President of Caterpillar Inc. He is responsible for the Financial Products Division, which includes Cat Financial and Cat Financial Insurance Services. Mr. Walton joined Cat Financial in 1989 and has held various credit, portfolio management, and sales positions in the United States. His international experience includes serving as managing director of Northern Europe and vice president for Asia-Pacific operations. He also formed and led Cat Financial's global mining finance organization. Mr. Walton holds a bachelor's degree in accounting from Indiana University and a master's degree in business administration from Keller Graduate School.

Ogi Redzic, Chief Digital Officer and Senior Vice President

Ogi Redzic is the Chief Digital Officer and a Senior Vice President of Caterpillar Inc., responsible for Cat Digital. He manages key components of the company's digital and marketing portfolios, including global marketing & brand, connectivity, enterprise data, analytics and AI, and eCommerce. Before joining Caterpillar in 2018, Mr. Redzic was the Alliance Senior Vice President of Connected Vehicles and Mobility Services at Renault-Nissan Alliance. He has more than 20 years of experience in leadership positions in corporate and start-up environments, including roles at Mitsubishi, Nokia HERE, NAVTEQ, PCTEL, Inc., cyberPIXIE, and Motorola. Mr. Redzic holds a bachelor's degree in computer science from Northeastern Illinois University, a master's degree in computer science from the Illinois Institute of Technology, and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

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Here are the key risks to Caterpillar Inc.'s business:

  1. Trade Policy and Tariffs: Caterpillar faces significant financial headwinds due to persistent trade policies and tariffs, leading to substantial costs and compressing operating margins. For instance, the company adjusted its tariff guidance to an estimated impact of between $1.60 billion and $1.75 billion for the full 2025 fiscal year. These costs are projected to remain substantial, with an estimated incremental cost of $2.6 billion in 2026, directly impacting operating margins and segment profits.
  2. Cyclical Demand and Macroeconomic Vulnerability: Caterpillar's core business, heavily reliant on the construction and mining sectors, is exposed to the cyclical nature of these industries. Revenue and profitability are susceptible to economic downturns, fluctuations in commodity prices, project funding, and overall macroeconomic conditions. This vulnerability can lead to rapid declines in equipment purchases and sales volumes, exacerbated by risks of dealer inventory destocking.
  3. Intensifying Competitive Pressure: The company faces aggressive competition, particularly in the North American construction market. Competitors, especially from China, have the advantage of lower labor costs and better access to raw materials and components, which can lead to market share loss and negatively impact Caterpillar's pricing power and profitability. Deere & Company and Komatsu are actively strengthening their presence in key markets, indicating escalating competitive challenges.

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There are two clear emerging threats for Caterpillar:

  • Rapid Electrification of Heavy Equipment: A significant industry shift towards battery-electric and hydrogen-powered machinery, particularly in construction and mining. While Caterpillar is investing in these technologies, the swift pace of adoption, driven by environmental regulations, sustainability goals, and operating cost benefits, could disrupt its dominant position in diesel-powered equipment. Agile new entrants or existing competitors fully committing to electric fleets could gain market share rapidly, challenging Caterpillar's traditional product lines and potentially cannibalizing its legacy engine and equipment sales faster than its new electric offerings can compensate.
  • Decarbonization and Shift Away from Fossil Fuels in Energy & Transportation: The global push for cleaner energy solutions, including renewable power generation (solar, wind) and advanced energy storage, poses a direct threat to Caterpillar's Energy & Transportation segment. This segment heavily relies on manufacturing and selling diesel and natural gas engines and generator sets. As industries, marine, and power generation sectors increasingly transition to alternative fuels (e.g., hydrogen) or completely bypass internal combustion engines in favor of electric grids powered by renewables, the demand for Caterpillar's traditional fossil fuel-based power solutions could decline significantly.

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Caterpillar (CAT) operates in several significant global markets for its main products and services.

Construction Equipment

The global construction equipment market size was valued at approximately USD 242.17 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 471.25 billion by 2033, demonstrating a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.7% from 2026 to 2033. Asia Pacific is noted as the dominant region in this market, holding a substantial share of the global revenue in 2025.

Mining Equipment

The global mining equipment market size was estimated at USD 95.97 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to grow to USD 150.11 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 5.75% over the forecast period. Asia-Pacific leads the global mining equipment market, driven by significant mining activities, rapid industrialization, and large-scale infrastructure development projects in countries like China, India, and Australia.

Diesel and Natural Gas Engines

The global diesel engine market size reached USD 243.8 billion in 2025 and is expected to grow to USD 318.7 billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 3.02% during the period of 2026-2034. For diesel engines specifically used for power generation, the global market size was valued at USD 49.9 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 93.1 billion by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 8.2% from 2026 to 2033. Asia Pacific held the largest share of the diesel engine for power generation market in 2025.

Industrial Gas Turbines

The global industrial gas turbine market size was USD 9.55 billion in 2025 and is expected to increase from USD 9.85 billion in 2026 to USD 12.16 billion by 2034, at a CAGR of 2.67%. Another estimate places the global industrial gas turbine market at USD 7.3 billion in 2024, projected to grow to USD 12.2 billion in 2034 with a CAGR of 5.1% from 2025 to 2034. Asia-Pacific accounted for 45.60% of the global revenue in 2025.

Locomotives and Rail-related Products

The global locomotive market size was valued at USD 14.42 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow to USD 31.25 billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.43% from 2026 to 2034. Asia Pacific dominated the global locomotive market with a share of 52.63% in 2025.

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Caterpillar Inc. (CAT) is expected to drive future revenue growth over the next 2-3 years through several key factors:

  1. Strong Backlog and Volume Growth: Caterpillar holds a record backlog of $51 billion, a significant portion of which is anticipated to be delivered within the next 12 months, providing substantial momentum and expected volume growth across all primary business segments.
  2. Increased Demand for Power Generation: The Energy & Transportation segment is poised for robust growth, particularly from rising energy demands for data centers and hyperscalers supporting cloud computing and generative AI. The company has secured large orders for generator sets for data center prime power, with deliveries scheduled through 2027.
  3. Growth in Services Revenue: Caterpillar is strategically accelerating its services revenue, targeting an annual figure of $28 billion by 2026. This growth is driven by repower programs, equipment upgrades, and long-term maintenance contracts, capitalizing on the company's extensive global dealer network and connected assets.
  4. Positive Price Realization: Caterpillar projects positive price realization, with approximately 2% favorable price adjustments contributing to sales growth across all three primary segments in 2026.
  5. Infrastructure Investment and Reshoring: The Construction Industries segment is expected to benefit from infrastructure tailwinds, including government funding (such as IIGJA funding), accelerated investment in data center construction, and reshoring initiatives in U.S. manufacturing, all of which are driving demand for construction equipment.

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Share Repurchases

  • In June 2024, Caterpillar's Board of Directors increased its share repurchase authorization by $20 billion, bringing the total current authorization to approximately $21.8 billion. This authorization was initially launched in 2022 and has no expiration date.
  • Caterpillar returned over $10 billion to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends in 2024.
  • In 2025, the company deployed $7.9 billion of cash for share repurchases and dividends.

Share Issuance

  • The number of outstanding shares has consistently declined over the past few years, indicating net share repurchases rather than issuances.
  • Caterpillar's shares outstanding were 467.98 million at the end of 2025, a 3.49% decline from 2024.
  • Shares outstanding were 477.932 million in 2024, a 4.71% decrease from 2023.

Outbound Investments

  • In October 2025, Caterpillar acquired RPMGlobal Holdings Limited, a provider of mine design, planning, and scheduling software, for $728 million.
  • The company acquired Tangent Energy Solutions, Inc. in May 2022, focusing on energy usage monitoring solutions for commercial and industrial sectors.
  • Caterpillar also acquired CarbonPoint Solutions in September 2021, a company specializing in carbon capture technology.

Capital Expenditures

  • Capital expenditures increased consistently from 2021 to 2025, peaking at $4.286 billion in 2025.
  • For 2026, projected capital expenditures are expected to be around $3.5 billion, primarily for capacity expansion.
  • Caterpillar is making significant investments in advanced technologies such as autonomy, alternative fuels, connectivity, digital, and electrification to meet customer demands. Notably, in October 2025, a $725 million capital expansion was announced for its Lafayette, Indiana engine facility to boost engine production, particularly for data centers.

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Peer Comparisons

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Financials

CATDEPCARCMITEXOSKMedian
NameCaterpil.Deere PACCAR Cummins Terex Oshkosh  
Mkt Price914.30589.48123.15666.1365.52145.54367.51
Mkt Cap423.7159.264.992.16.39.178.5
Rev LTM70,75546,31327,78033,8945,92610,42730,837
Op Inc LTM11,6578,0702,7513,8513248523,301
FCF LTM7,9013,7683,0992,6713228212,885
FCF 3Y Avg8,6874,3463,0381,7452663152,391
CFO LTM12,3207,9334,4773,9334301,0174,205
CFO 3Y Avg12,3198,8234,5112,9633955643,737

Growth & Margins

CATDEPCARCMITEXOSKMedian
NameCaterpil.Deere PACCAR Cummins Terex Oshkosh  
Rev Chg LTM11.8%4.2%-14.2%0.1%17.0%-0.7%2.1%
Rev Chg 3Y Avg5.0%-6.8%-2.6%4.2%8.7%6.8%4.6%
Rev Chg Q22.2%4.5%-8.9%2.7%41.1%0.2%3.6%
QoQ Delta Rev Chg LTM4.7%1.2%-2.3%0.7%9.3%0.0%1.0%
Op Inc Chg LTM-3.9%-14.1%-36.8%8.1%-25.9%-12.9%-13.5%
Op Inc Chg 3Y Avg8.7%-11.8%-9.4%48.5%-9.0%29.7%-0.2%
Op Mgn LTM16.5%17.4%9.9%11.4%5.5%8.2%10.6%
Op Mgn 3Y Avg18.7%21.0%13.4%8.5%8.8%9.1%11.2%
QoQ Delta Op Mgn LTM-0.0%-0.6%-0.5%-0.1%-3.3%-0.9%-0.5%
CFO/Rev LTM17.4%17.1%16.1%11.6%7.3%9.8%13.9%
CFO/Rev 3Y Avg18.4%18.0%14.3%8.7%7.3%5.4%11.5%
FCF/Rev LTM11.2%8.1%11.2%7.9%5.4%7.9%8.0%
FCF/Rev 3Y Avg13.0%8.8%9.6%5.1%4.9%3.0%7.0%

Valuation

CATDEPCARCMITEXOSKMedian
NameCaterpil.Deere PACCAR Cummins Terex Oshkosh  
Mkt Cap423.7159.264.992.16.39.178.5
P/S6.03.42.32.71.10.92.5
P/Op Inc36.319.723.623.919.410.721.7
P/EBIT33.417.423.622.419.610.621.0
P/E44.933.326.234.556.715.833.9
P/CFO34.420.114.523.414.69.017.4
Total Yield2.9%4.1%6.0%4.1%2.6%7.8%4.1%
Dividend Yield0.7%1.1%2.2%1.2%0.8%1.5%1.1%
FCF Yield 3Y Avg4.4%3.4%5.1%3.2%6.7%3.9%4.1%
D/E0.10.40.20.10.40.10.2
Net D/E0.10.30.10.10.40.10.1

Returns

CATDEPCARCMITEXOSKMedian
NameCaterpil.Deere PACCAR Cummins Terex Oshkosh  
1M Rtn-2.1%2.7%2.0%-2.0%0.4%6.5%1.2%
3M Rtn18.9%2.5%0.0%11.1%12.0%4.3%7.7%
6M Rtn43.7%15.7%4.1%18.6%8.5%-2.7%12.1%
12M Rtn128.4%18.6%32.7%97.9%33.0%21.1%32.9%
3Y Rtn274.2%48.2%60.6%181.7%9.8%70.9%65.7%
1M Excs Rtn-1.5%0.4%2.0%-0.9%0.8%5.9%0.6%
3M Excs Rtn6.7%-9.5%-10.2%-0.1%-5.6%-11.9%-7.6%
6M Excs Rtn37.3%12.3%-4.0%10.7%-0.4%-10.5%5.2%
12M Excs Rtn107.0%-3.2%10.9%78.1%9.5%-2.1%10.2%
3Y Excs Rtn212.7%-20.8%-9.2%109.0%-56.2%1.7%-3.7%

Comparison Analyses

Financials

Segment Financials

Revenue by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
Power & Energy32,20128,85428,00119,33716,670
Construction Industries25,06025,45527,41825,12721,994
Resource Industries12,47412,38913,58312,0139,502
Financial Products Segment4,2204,0533,7853,2533,073
All Other Segment327425449145145
Corporate Items and Eliminations-6,693-6,367-6,176-448-413
Total67,58964,80967,06059,42750,971


Operating Income by Segment
$ Mil20042003200220012000
Construction & Mining Products1,150538431526639
All Other655350323248233
Financing & Insurance Services460339268334253
North America Marketing434177645479
Power Products408-8734195487
EAME Marketing380177135164195
Latin America Marketing18062725943
Asia/ Pacific Marketing1331151131839
Total3,8001,6711,4401,5981,968


Assets by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
Financial Products Segment41,47636,92535,68534,26934,860
Liabilities included in segment assets15,33011,97311,78112,51910,777
Power & Energy11,38711,77210,5559,4559,253
Cash and cash equivalents9,3336,1656,1066,0428,428
Resource Industries6,0875,5485,7425,7755,962
Construction Industries5,4425,5465,3845,1684,547
Property, plant and equipment - net and other assets4,6894,8086,5484,2344,056
Goodwill and intangible assets4,6694,4784,4524,2484,859
Deferred income taxes2,7493,1942,6682,0981,735
All Other Segment1,5161,9371,8901,8281,678
Other-471-1,022-166-630-706
Inventory methodology differences-3,622-3,560-3,169-3,063-2,656
Total98,58587,76487,47681,94382,793


Price Behavior

Price Behavior
Market Price$914.30 
Market Cap ($ Bil)423.7 
First Trading Date01/02/1962 
Distance from 52W High-14.1% 
   50 Days200 Days
DMA Price$929.44$714.45
DMA Trendupup
Distance from DMA-1.6%28.0%
 3M1YR
Volatility47.4%37.9%
Downside Capture233.47147.77
Upside Capture233.97210.47
Correlation (SPY)54.4%56.5%
CAT Betas & Captures as of 6/30/2026

 1M2M3M6M1Y3Y
Beta2.112.011.961.861.681.26
Up Beta0.561.241.972.081.591.16
Down Beta2.771.861.991.741.621.21
Up Capture419%302%277%334%403%425%
Bmk +ve Days11244067140429
Stock +ve Days15244073146413
Down Capture118%188%152%120%118%104%
Bmk -ve Days10172358112321
Stock -ve Days6172352106338

[1] Upside and downside betas calculated using positive and negative benchmark daily returns respectively
Based On 1-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with CAT
CAT128.5%37.8%2.25-
Sector ETF (XLI)20.6%16.7%0.9576.0%
Equity (SPY)21.9%12.6%1.3056.0%
Gold (GLD)21.0%27.9%0.6725.8%
Commodities (DBC)29.1%18.9%1.22-9.2%
Real Estate (VNQ)12.6%13.9%0.6113.6%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)-46.2%42.9%-1.3226.1%

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Based On 5-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with CAT
CAT36.1%31.3%1.02-
Sector ETF (XLI)13.4%17.6%0.6074.3%
Equity (SPY)13.2%17.1%0.5957.5%
Gold (GLD)17.2%18.4%0.7615.1%
Commodities (DBC)9.0%19.5%0.3524.9%
Real Estate (VNQ)2.7%18.9%0.0438.2%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)13.8%53.5%0.4423.7%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 10-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with CAT
CAT31.5%31.2%0.94-
Sector ETF (XLI)14.4%20.0%0.6376.4%
Equity (SPY)15.6%17.9%0.7463.0%
Gold (GLD)11.1%16.1%0.566.8%
Commodities (DBC)6.7%18.0%0.2931.8%
Real Estate (VNQ)5.0%20.7%0.2042.5%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)57.9%66.2%0.9815.8%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How

Short Interest

Short Interest: As Of Date6302026
Short Interest: Shares Quantity9.1 Mil
Short Interest: % Change Since 61520267.2%
Average Daily Volume4.9 Mil
Days-to-Cover Short Interest1.9 days
Basic Shares Quantity463.4 Mil
Short % of Basic Shares2.0%

Earnings Returns History

Updated 6/3/2026
Expand for More
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
4/30/20269.9%14.4%8.1%
1/29/20263.4%7.5%15.5%
10/29/202511.6%4.4%9.4%
8/5/20250.1%-5.8%-4.3%
4/30/20250.6%4.4%14.4%
1/30/2025-4.6%-8.7%-12.5%
10/30/2024-2.1%-1.1%4.2%
8/6/20243.0%6.1%6.3%
...
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive101316
# Negative14118
Median Positive3.7%4.4%6.1%
Median Negative-3.0%-3.9%-4.2%
Max Positive11.6%14.4%19.7%
Max Negative-7.0%-8.9%-12.5%
Collapse to Preview
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
4/30/20269.9%14.4%8.1%
1/29/20263.4%7.5%15.5%
10/29/202511.6%4.4%9.4%
8/5/20250.1%-5.8%-4.3%
4/30/20250.6%4.4%14.4%
1/30/2025-4.6%-8.7%-12.5%
10/30/2024-2.1%-1.1%4.2%
8/6/20243.0%6.1%6.3%
4/25/2024-7.0%-8.9%-3.5%
2/5/20242.0%0.7%5.9%
10/31/2023-6.7%-1.6%3.0%
8/1/20238.9%6.2%5.6%
4/27/2023-0.9%-0.3%-2.9%
1/31/2023-3.5%-3.9%-4.9%
10/27/20227.7%8.9%19.7%
8/2/2022-5.8%-4.6%-4.1%
4/28/2022-0.7%4.0%-0.5%
1/28/2022-5.2%-5.5%-11.6%
10/28/20214.1%3.8%1.3%
7/30/2021-2.7%-2.5%0.1%
4/29/2021-2.1%2.4%3.9%
1/29/2021-0.8%4.0%19.2%
10/27/2020-3.2%0.0%8.4%
7/31/2020-2.8%-1.7%5.0%
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive101316
# Negative14118
Median Positive3.7%4.4%6.1%
Median Negative-3.0%-3.9%-4.2%
Max Positive11.6%14.4%19.7%
Max Negative-7.0%-8.9%-12.5%

SEC Filings

Expand for More
Report DateFiling DateFiling
03/31/202605/06/202610-Q
12/31/202502/13/202610-K
09/30/202511/03/202510-Q
06/30/202508/06/202510-Q
03/31/202505/07/202510-Q
12/31/202402/14/202510-K
09/30/202411/06/202410-Q
06/30/202408/07/202410-Q
03/31/202405/01/202410-Q
12/31/202302/16/202410-K
09/30/202311/01/202310-Q
06/30/202308/02/202310-Q
03/31/202305/03/202310-Q
12/31/202202/15/202310-K
09/30/202211/02/202210-Q
06/30/202208/03/202210-Q
Collapse to Preview
Report DateFiling DateFiling
03/31/202605/06/202610-Q
12/31/202502/13/202610-K
09/30/202511/03/202510-Q
06/30/202508/06/202510-Q
03/31/202505/07/202510-Q
12/31/202402/14/202510-K
09/30/202411/06/202410-Q
06/30/202408/07/202410-Q
03/31/202405/01/202410-Q
12/31/202302/16/202410-K
09/30/202311/01/202310-Q
06/30/202308/02/202310-Q
03/31/202305/03/202310-Q
12/31/202202/15/202310-K
09/30/202211/02/202210-Q
06/30/202208/03/202210-Q
03/31/202205/04/202210-Q
12/31/202102/16/202210-K
09/30/202111/03/202110-Q
06/30/202108/04/202110-Q
03/31/202105/05/202110-Q
12/31/202002/17/202110-K
09/30/202011/04/202010-Q
06/30/202008/05/202010-Q
03/31/202005/06/202010-Q
12/31/201902/19/202010-K
09/30/201910/31/201910-Q
06/30/201908/01/201910-Q

Insider Activity

Updated 7/1/2026
Expand for More
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Johnson, Denise CGroup PresidentDirectSell5152026907.9112,60511,444,17045,236,474Form
2Johnson, Denise CGroup PresidentDirectSell5142026909.796,1965,637,08145,330,466Form
3Schaupp, William EChief Accounting OfficerDirectSell5142026906.00360326,160480,180Form
4Fassino, Anthony DGroup PresidentDirectSell5122026916.8016,28314,928,26642,210,423Form
5De, Lange BobGroup PresidentDirectSell5072026922.9224,22222,354,97879,397,919Form
Collapse to Preview
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Johnson, Denise CGroup PresidentDirectSell5152026907.9112,60511,444,17045,236,474Form
2Johnson, Denise CGroup PresidentDirectSell5142026909.796,1965,637,08145,330,466Form
3Schaupp, William EChief Accounting OfficerDirectSell5142026906.00360326,160480,180Form
4Fassino, Anthony DGroup PresidentDirectSell5122026916.8016,28314,928,26642,210,423Form
5De, Lange BobGroup PresidentDirectSell5072026922.9224,22222,354,97879,397,919Form
6Fassino, Anthony DGroup PresidentDirectSell5072026926.259,1528,477,06742,645,612Form
7Bonfield, Andrew R JCFO EmeritusDirectSell5072026918.7115,67414,399,86148,631,914Form
8Kaiser, JasonGroup PresidentDirectSell5052026883.035,6424,982,0558,471,790Form
9MacLennan, DavidDirectBuy5052026876.84250219,2107,195,349Form
10Creed, Joseph EChief Executive OfficerDirectSell3062026718.932,5001,797,31725,222,107Form
11Shurman, Rodney MichaelGroup PresidentDirectSell2242026759.612,2781,730,3921,096,117Form
12Shurman, Rodney MichaelGroup PresidentDirectSell2182026763.391,7641,346,6201,099,282Form
13Schaupp, William EChief Accounting OfficerDirectSell2182026764.20972742,802629,701Form
14Fassino, Anthony DGroup PresidentDirectSell2172026776.907,8916,130,51836,236,947Form
15Kaiser, JasonGroup PresidentDirectSell2132026776.701,6901,312,6236,726,999Form
16De, Lange BobGroup PresidentDirectSell2132026767.0812,5079,593,87065,199,499Form
17De, Lange BobGroup PresidentDirectSell2092026720.1122,65616,314,81257,574,955Form
18Fassino, Anthony DGroup PresidentDirectSell2092026722.156,0334,356,73129,717,195Form
19De, Lange BobGroup PresidentDirectSell2052026704.9716,07011,328,81156,364,183Form
20Fassino, Anthony DGroup PresidentDirectSell2032026680.4510,6717,261,08228,001,198Form
21De, Lange BobGroup PresidentDirectSell2032026682.9915,97710,912,13154,607,099Form
22Bonfield, Andrew R JChief Financial OfficerDirectSell1052026575.0610,0005,750,58926,142,178Form
23Bonfield, Andrew R JChief Financial OfficerDirectSell12022025571.4410,0005,714,44831,692,328Form
24Kaiser, JasonGroup PresidentDirectSell11132025563.6010,7076,034,4904,874,597Form
25Fassino, Anthony DGroup PresidentDirectSell11122025570.188,1844,666,35323,669,312Form
26De, Lange BobGroup PresidentDirectSell11072025562.3614,6388,231,82645,106,333Form
27MacLennan, DavidDirectBuy11062025568.86300170,6584,520,730Form
28Schaupp, William EChief Accounting OfficerDirectSell11062025572.221,200686,664757,047Form
29Umpleby, Iii Donald JExecutive ChairmanDirectSell10142025505.2917,1668,673,808226,457,335Form
30Umpleby, Iii Donald JExecutive ChairmanDirectSell9232025462.6517,1667,941,850215,289,088Form
31Umpleby, Iii Donald JExecutive ChairmanDirectSell9032025412.8717,1687,088,152199,211,839Form
32Schwab, Susan CDirectSell8192025410.002,324952,8402,835,970Form
33Kaiser, JasonGroup PresidentDirectSell8132025417.702,161902,6503,605,586Form

Investor Activity (13F)

Updated Jul 16, 2026
13F holdings as of Mar 31, 2026 (Q1 2026)

Active managers (13F portfolio over $250M, at least 3 holdings) with a position over $5M that is either over 10% of their portfolio or held in a concentrated book of 50 or fewer total positions. Index/ETF, sovereign, bank, community-bank and charitable/donor-advised filers are excluded.

Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Gates Foundation Trust$4.5 Bil14.2%22Hold13F
Westchester Capital Management, Inc.$41.7 Mil8.4%45Hold13F
Regents Gate Capital LLP$17.7 Mil3.8%36New13F
Minneapolis Portfolio Management Group, LLC$35.2 Mil3.7%33TRIM -28.1%13F
Oribel Capital Management, LP$21.3 Mil3.2%41New13F
DKRT Investments Corp.$10.6 Mil2.7%48Hold13F
Cumberland Advisors Inc$6.7 Mil2.6%48Hold13F
Blackhill Capital Inc$42.2 Mil2.2%49Hold13F
Albar Capital Partners LLP$10.7 Mil1.7%36TRIM -71.1%13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Oribel Capital Management, LP$21.3 Mil3.2%41New13F
Regents Gate Capital LLP$17.7 Mil3.8%36New13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQAs OfFiling
Electron Capital Partners, LLC$42.8 Mil2.0%40ExitedDec 31, 202513F
Generali Powszechne Towarzystwo Emerytalne$14.4 Mil2.5%30ExitedDec 31, 202513F
Albar Capital Partners LLP$10.7 Mil1.7%36TRIM -71.1%Mar 31, 202613F
Minneapolis Portfolio Management Group, LLC$35.2 Mil3.7%33TRIM -28.1%Mar 31, 202613F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Gates Foundation Trust$4.5 Bil14.2%22Hold13F
Blackhill Capital Inc$42.2 Mil2.2%49Hold13F
Westchester Capital Management, Inc.$41.7 Mil8.4%45Hold13F
Minneapolis Portfolio Management Group, LLC$35.2 Mil3.7%33TRIM -28.1%13F
Oribel Capital Management, LP$21.3 Mil3.2%41New13F
Regents Gate Capital LLP$17.7 Mil3.8%36New13F
Albar Capital Partners LLP$10.7 Mil1.7%36TRIM -71.1%13F
DKRT Investments Corp.$10.6 Mil2.7%48Hold13F
Cumberland Advisors Inc$6.7 Mil2.6%48Hold13F

CAT Trade Sentinel


Stock Conviction

High Conviction

CONVICTION RATIONALE

Caterpillar is capturing a structural, multi-year demand wave for power generation driven by the data center build-out. This is confirmed by a record $62.7 billion backlog and a plan to nearly triple engine capacity. Management has raised its full-year 2026 revenue growth outlook to low-double-digits, demonstrating high confidence in the durability of this new growth profile.

STOCK ARCHETYPE
Capital Goods & Industrial Manufacturing

(Number of Units Sold × Average Selling Price) + Services & Parts Revenue + Financing Revenue The mix shift towards the higher-margin Power & Energy segment, coupled with price realization, versus the headwind of manufacturing costs and tariffs.

Looking for high-conviction positions with a better risk/reward profile? See what's currently in the Trefis High Quality Portfolio.
INVESTMENT THESIS
Is the data center build-out a structural super-cycle for CAT?

Evidence points to a multi-year growth inflection, transforming the company's earnings power beyond its traditional cyclical profile.

Mechanism: The Power & Energy segment is capturing massive, long-lead-time orders, driving a record $62.7 billion backlog and a funded plan to nearly triple large engine capacity to meet future demand.
Supporting Evidence:
  • Order backlog grew 79% year-over-year to a record $62.7 billion in Q1 2026.
  • Full-year 2026 revenue growth guidance was raised to 'low double digits'.
  • Company is increasing large reciprocating engine capacity to nearly 3x 2024 levels.
  • Recent agreements include orders for up to 2.1 gigawatts of power generation.
  • Of the total backlog, $24.8 billion is not expected to be filled in the next year.
PRIMARY RISK
Tariff Headwinds Cap Profitability

Persistent cost pressures could offset top-line strength. Trailing operating margin fell 2.7 percentage points to 16.5%, and the company forecasts a $2.2 billion to $2.4 billion tariff impact for 2026.

Mechanism: A failure to fully offset tariff costs with pricing power, leading to a full-year operating margin miss despite strong sales.
Supporting Evidence:
  • Trailing-twelve-month operating margin is 16.5%, down from 19.2% a year earlier.
  • Management forecasts tariff costs to be around $2.2 billion to $2.4 billion in 2026.
  • Unfavorable manufacturing costs in 2025 largely reflected higher tariff costs.
  • Shareholder payouts of $9.4 billion exceeded free cash flow of $7.9 billion.
Key KPI Watchlist
KPI Status Rationale
Order BacklogA record $62.7 billion at the end of Q1 2026. - AcceleratingThe backlog is experiencing massive growth, reaching a record level. The year-over-year growth rate is accelerating, driven by what management describes as an 'all-time record' for quarterly orders, particularly from the Power & Energy segment to support data center build-outs.
Sales to Users (Retail Sales)Growth across all three primary segments in Q1 2026: Power & Energy +32%, Construction Industries +7%, and Resource Industries +6%. - StableEnd-user demand remains robust and broad-based. Power & Energy growth is exceptionally strong, driven by data centers. Construction Industries growth is healthy, and Resource Industries has rebounded from a weak prior quarter.
Sales to Users GrowthGrew in all three primary segments (Q1 2026)Measures retail sales from dealers to end customers, providing a direct indicator of end-market demand and business momentum, distinct from wholesale shipments to dealers.
Core Investment Debate

Data Center Super-Cycle vs. Tariff-Driven Margin Squeeze

BULL VIEW

Bulls focus on the record $62.7 billion backlog and raised 2026 guidance, seeing a structural demand shift that will power earnings for years, overwhelming any cost pressures.

CORE TENSION

Can record backlog growth of 79% YoY drive profits higher despite a forecasted $2.2B-$2.4B tariff headwind that is compressing current margins?


PREVAILING SENTIMENT
BULLISH

The latest evidence favors the bulls. Management raised 2026 revenue guidance after Q1 and beat its own tariff cost estimate, suggesting the headwind is manageable.

BEAR VIEW

Bears see operating margins down 2.7 percentage points and a $2.2 billion to $2.4 billion tariff headwind, arguing that cost pressures will cap any benefit from higher sales.

Next 6 months: Risks and Catalysts
Timeline Event & Metric To Watch
8/20/2026
Peer Demand Signal Weakens
Watch: Deere's commentary on construction equipment demand and order rates, particularly in North America.
August 2026
Credit Facility Expiration
Watch: A 364-day credit facility of $3.500 billion is scheduled to expire.
10/19/2026
PACCAR Earnings Report
Watch: Peer PACCAR (PCAR) is scheduled to report earnings.
10/27/2026
Tariff Impact Exceeds Guidance
Watch: Reported Q2/Q3 tariff costs versus guidance, and management's updated full-year forecast for both tariffs and operating margin.
10/27/2026
Construction Market Deceleration
Watch: Construction Industries sales growth, sales to users trends, and any change in the full-year outlook for the segment.
10/27/2026
Company Earnings Report
Watch: Caterpillar is scheduled to report its next quarterly earnings.
10/28/2026
Terex Earnings Report
Watch: Peer Terex (TEX) is scheduled to report earnings.
Key Events in Last 6 Months
Date Event Stock Impact
2026-07-07
Skycatch Technology Acquisition
Details: Caterpillar acquired Skycatch, Inc., a provider of spatial data capture and analysis solutions for the mining industry, to enhance its data-driven technology portfolio.
-2.3%
$969.92 -> $948.08
2026-06-10
Quarterly Dividend Increased
Details: The Board of Directors voted to raise the quarterly dividend by eight percent to one dollar and sixty-three cents ($1.63) per share.
-1.9%
$914.70 -> $897.63
2026-04-30
Q1 2026 Results Reported
Details: First-quarter sales and revenues increased 22% to $17.4 billion, with adjusted profit per share of $5.54. The company deployed $5.7 billion for share repurchases and dividends.
+9.8%
$810.05 -> $889.67
2026-04-29
PROWR Power Generation Agreement
Details: The PROPWR business unit entered a strategic framework agreement with Caterpillar to purchase up to 2.1 gigawatts of incremental power generation capacity by 2031.
+8.8%
$817.87 -> $890.11
2026-01-29
Q4 and Full-Year 2025 Results
Details: The company reported record full-year 2025 sales and revenues of $67.6 billion and adjusted profit per share of $19.06. Full-year operating cash flow was $11.7 billion.
+2.2%
$642.06 -> $656.11
2026-01-28
AIP Corp Strategic Alliance
Details: Caterpillar announced a strategic alliance with American Intelligence & Power Corporation to deploy 2 gigawatts of dedicated power for a large-scale AI infrastructure campus.
+4.1%
$637.70 -> $663.98
Risk Management
Position Sizing

2% - 4%

REDUCED POSITION

Sizing is volatility-based: CAT trades at roughly 47% annualized options-implied volatility versus about 13% for the S&P 500 (3.6x the market), around the 99th percentile of its own trailing year. A 2% - 4% position keeps a single-name swing of that size within a diversified portfolio's risk budget.

Diversification Alternatives
DE - Deere & Company
Pure-Play Machinery Cyclical

Deere offers more focused exposure to agricultural and construction cycles. Its trailing-twelve-month operating margin of 17.4% is currently higher than Caterpillar's 16.5%.

Core Thesis: A bet on continued strength in North American construction and agriculture, supported by a strengthening order book.
CMI - Cummins Inc.
Focused Powertrain Specialist

Cummins is a more direct competitor in engines and power generation. It provides a focused play on global power systems with a smaller capital expenditure budget of $1.3 billion.

Core Thesis: A play on global power systems and engine demand, including the transition to new power technologies.
How Is The Market Pricing CAT?

Caterpillar is a primary arms dealer for the global build-out of physical infrastructure, from roads and mines to the critical power systems underpinning the digital economy.

Beyond its well-known cyclical exposure to construction and mining, Caterpillar's Power & Energy segment has become its primary growth and profit engine. This is driven by a structural demand surge from data centers requiring massive, reliable power solutions for cloud computing and AI. This has resulted in a record-breaking backlog and a multi-year capacity expansion, transforming the company's growth profile from purely cyclical to having a strong secular tailwind.

What will confirm the thesis

Continued announcements of large, multi-gigawatt orders for power generation, especially for data centers, and sustained backlog growth.

What will damage the thesis

A significant global recession that curtails infrastructure and mining capital expenditures, or a technological shift in data center power architecture away from reciprocating engines and turbines.

Noise: Real but irrelevant to thesis

Short-term fluctuations in individual commodity prices or regional construction data, which may not reflect the broader strength in the power generation and infrastructure backlog.

Repricing Catalyst

The market's increasing recognition of the scale and duration of the data center power demand cycle, which is driving a multi-year, high-margin growth trajectory backed by a record backlog and significant capacity expansion.

What CAT Makes & Who Pays
TTM figures based on the twelve months through fiscal Q1 2026
Construction Industries
$27.0B TTM (38% of Total)
What It Is

Sells a portfolio of machinery including asphalt pavers, excavators, wheel loaders, and track-type tractors to customers in infrastructure and building construction applications, as well as rental, quarry, and mining industries.

Who Pays & How

Construction and infrastructure companies pay for machinery that helps them build projects. Customers in developed economies often prioritize productivity and low lifetime owning/operating costs, while those in developing economies may prioritize purchase price.

Unit sales of machines, related parts, and work tools.
Competition
Global competitors include Deere, Komatsu, Volvo Construction Equipment, and Sany Heavy Industry Co., Ltd.
Competitors have varying product lines and degrees of regional focus.
A large independent global dealer network, differentiated product offerings for developing economies (e.g., SEM brand), and technology-enabled solutions.
Resource Industries
$12.6B TTM (18% of Total)
What It Is

Sells large machinery such as mining trucks, electric rope shovels, and large wheel loaders to customers in mining, heavy construction, and quarry and aggregates.

Who Pays & How

Mining and heavy construction companies pay for high-productivity, reliable equipment that provides the lowest total cost of ownership. The segment also sells technology products for fleet management and autonomous machine capabilities.

Unit sales of machines, components, and technology products and services.
Competition
Global competitors include Komatsu Ltd., Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd., Epiroc AB, and Sandvik AB.
Competitors include a few large global players and numerous smaller companies with limited product ranges or regional focus.
Ability to control the integration and design of key machine components and innovative technologies, such as autonomous solutions, represents a competitive advantage.
Power & Energy
$33.4B TTM (47% of Total)
What It Is

Sells reciprocating engines, generator sets, turbines, and locomotives to customers in oil and gas, power generation, marine, rail, and industrial applications.

Who Pays & How

Companies in energy, transportation, and data center industries pay for reliable power solutions. Data center customers, in particular, are driving demand for both backup and prime power to support build-outs related to cloud computing and AI.

Unit sales of engines, turbines, and integrated systems, along with related parts and services.
Competition
Principal global competitors include Cummins Inc., Rolls-Royce Power Systems AG, and Siemens Energy AG.
Competitors range from a few large global players to smaller companies with limited product ranges, as well as packagers who source engines from various suppliers.
A broad portfolio of reciprocating engines and turbines, a global service network, and the ability to provide complete power solutions for complex applications like data centers.
Financial Products Segment
$4.3B TTM (6% of Total)
What It Is

Provides retail and wholesale financing and insurance products to customers and dealers for Caterpillar equipment.

Who Pays & How

Customers and dealers use financing to purchase and lease Caterpillar equipment. The segment generates financing income and supports the sale of Caterpillar products.

Interest income from loans and leases, and premiums from insurance products.
Competition
Competitors include commercial banks and finance/leasing companies like Wells Fargo Equipment Finance, as well as financial subsidiaries of other manufacturers like John Deere Capital Corporation.
Competitors, especially those owned by manufacturers, often use below-market interest rate programs to support machine sales.
A significant competitive advantage comes from financial merchandising programs offered in conjunction with Caterpillar and its dealers, which are designed to support product sales.
CAT Evolution: Price Return by Era
2021-2025 · The Rise of Power & Energy
+246%
Over the past five years, the Power & Energy segment has nearly doubled its revenue, growing from $16,670 million to $32,201 million in 2025. This has established it as Caterpillar's largest and most profitable segment, shifting the company's center of gravity from traditional machinery towards energy and power solutions.
2025-2026 · Data Center Driven Expansion
+164%
Driven by surging demand from data centers for both backup and prime power, Caterpillar's backlog has reached record levels. In response, the company has announced plans to nearly triple its large reciprocating engine capacity, signaling a major strategic investment to capture a multi-year growth opportunity.
Market Appears To Be Cautiously Supportive
Price structure is neutral. The price is in a holding pattern with no clear directional commitment from the moving average stack. Relative to SPY: Strong 63D outperformance but 'relative strength' momentum is fading, indicating that money rotation may be maturing. Volume and momentum are supportive. OBV (on-balance volume) and up/down volume character favor buyers. Earnings history is mildly supportive. The reaction or drift are positive but not both at full conviction.
① Structure
0
Structural pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by trend regime, SMA cross events, proximity to 52W high, and relative strength vs SPY.
② Volume / Momentum
+2
Volume/Momentum pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by institutional footprint score, OBV divergence, and momentum character.
③ Catalyst
+1
Catalyst pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by earnings day reaction, 20D post-earnings drift, and post-earnings volume character.
Combined Score
3 / 12
1 Price Structure & Trend Potential Bottoming · -
2 Momentum Pausing
3 Relative Strength vs. SPY Neutral Relative Strength
4 Institutional Footprint & Volume Neutral / Mixed
5 Volatility Normal
6 Key Price Levels Range · Vol Falling
7 Earnings Reaction History Diminishing Reward
8 How the Verdict Is Derived Three Pillars

Industry Resources

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Core Cache Last Updated: 7/15/2026