Caterpillar (CAT)


Market Price (7/23/2026): $890.38 | Market Cap: $412.6 BilInvestor Relations Sector: Industrials | Industry: Construction Machinery & Heavy Transportation Equipment

Caterpillar (CAT)


Market Price (7/23/2026): $890.38
Market Cap: $412.6 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.

Stock price has recently run up significantly
12M Rtn12 month market price return is 115%

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 Stock price has recently run up significantly
12M Rtn12 month market price return is 115%
5 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

SPY0.62%
VOO0.76%
IVV0.62%
VTI0.68%
ITOT0.55%
DIA9.9%
IWB0.57%
RSP0.20%
+35 more covered ETFs

Valuation & Metrics

Price Chart

Why The Stock Moved

Qualitative Assessment

AI Analysis | Feedback

Updated on 7/16/2026

Caterpillar (CAT) stock has gained about 25% since 3/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Strong Fiscal Q1 2026 Financial Performance and Upgraded Outlook. Caterpillar reported robust results for its fiscal Q1 2026, which ended on March 31, 2026, exceeding analyst expectations. On April 30, 2026, the company announced an adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $5.54, surpassing consensus estimates of $4.65 by $0.89. Additionally, sales and revenues increased by 22% year-over-year to $17.4 billion, exceeding the $16.53 billion consensus estimate. Following this strong performance, management raised its full-year guidance to low double-digit percentage growth, a notable increase from the previous 5-7% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) range.

2. Record Backlog Driven by Infrastructure and AI-Powered Demand. Caterpillar benefited from a record $63 billion backlog reported in fiscal Q1 2026, representing a substantial 79% increase year-over-year. This robust backlog provides significant multi-year revenue visibility. A key driver of this demand is a broader "infrastructure supercycle" and, more specifically, surging AI-driven power infrastructure needs for data centers. The Power & Energy segment's sales increased approximately 20% to $7.0 billion in fiscal Q1 2026 due to strong demand for data center power products.

Show more
Updated on 7/16/2026

Caterpillar (CAT) stock has gained about 25% since 3/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Strong Fiscal Q1 2026 Financial Performance and Upgraded Outlook. Caterpillar reported robust results for its fiscal Q1 2026, which ended on March 31, 2026, exceeding analyst expectations. On April 30, 2026, the company announced an adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $5.54, surpassing consensus estimates of $4.65 by $0.89. Additionally, sales and revenues increased by 22% year-over-year to $17.4 billion, exceeding the $16.53 billion consensus estimate. Following this strong performance, management raised its full-year guidance to low double-digit percentage growth, a notable increase from the previous 5-7% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) range.

2. Record Backlog Driven by Infrastructure and AI-Powered Demand. Caterpillar benefited from a record $63 billion backlog reported in fiscal Q1 2026, representing a substantial 79% increase year-over-year. This robust backlog provides significant multi-year revenue visibility. A key driver of this demand is a broader "infrastructure supercycle" and, more specifically, surging AI-driven power infrastructure needs for data centers. The Power & Energy segment's sales increased approximately 20% to $7.0 billion in fiscal Q1 2026 due to strong demand for data center power products.

3. Consistent Shareholder Returns and Positive Analyst Revisions. The company demonstrated its commitment to shareholder value by deploying $5.7 billion in cash during fiscal Q1 2026, with $5.0 billion allocated to share repurchases and $0.7 billion to dividends. Furthermore, in June, Caterpillar's board increased the quarterly dividend by 8% to $1.63 per share. This financial discipline and returning capital to shareholders, coupled with the strong earnings report, led to multiple analysts raising their price targets. For instance, JPMorgan lifted its target to $1,165, and Wells Fargo to $1,050. The consensus analyst rating remains a "Moderate Buy" with an average price target ranging from $980.57 to $1,020.45.

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Stock Movement Drivers

Fundamental Drivers

The 26.0% change in CAT stock from 3/31/2026 to 7/22/2026 was primarily driven by a 18.0% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)33120267222026Change
Stock Price ($)705.80889.3126.0%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)67,58970,7554.7%
Net Income Margin (%)13.1%13.3%1.4%
P/E Multiple37.043.718.0%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)4664630.6%
Cumulative Contribution26.0%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

3/31/2026 to 7/22/2026
ReturnCorrelation
CAT26.0% 
Market (SPY)14.9%57.0%
Sector (XLI)10.6%82.4%

Fundamental Drivers

The 56.2% change in CAT stock from 12/31/2025 to 7/22/2026 was primarily driven by a 51.9% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)123120257222026Change
Stock Price ($)569.39889.3156.2%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)64,67170,7559.4%
Net Income Margin (%)14.3%13.3%-7.1%
P/E Multiple28.843.751.9%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)4694631.1%
Cumulative Contribution56.2%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

12/31/2025 to 7/22/2026
ReturnCorrelation
CAT56.2% 
Market (SPY)9.9%59.8%
Sector (XLI)15.6%82.2%

Fundamental Drivers

The 132.0% change in CAT stock from 6/30/2025 to 7/22/2026 was primarily driven by a 138.6% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)63020257222026Change
Stock Price ($)383.34889.31132.0%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)63,25970,75511.8%
Net Income Margin (%)15.7%13.3%-15.2%
P/E Multiple18.343.7138.6%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)4754632.5%
Cumulative Contribution132.0%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

6/30/2025 to 7/22/2026
ReturnCorrelation
CAT132.0% 
Market (SPY)22.0%56.2%
Sector (XLI)22.5%75.2%

Fundamental Drivers

The 278.9% change in CAT stock from 6/30/2023 to 7/22/2026 was primarily driven by a 156.5% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)63020237222026Change
Stock Price ($)234.73889.31278.9%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)61,70070,75514.7%
Net Income Margin (%)11.5%13.3%15.6%
P/E Multiple17.043.7156.5%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)51646311.4%
Cumulative Contribution278.9%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

6/30/2023 to 7/22/2026
ReturnCorrelation
CAT278.9% 
Market (SPY)74.6%60.4%
Sector (XLI)73.6%75.0%

Return vs. Risk

Price Returns Compared

 202120222023202420252026Total [1]
Returns
CAT Return16%19%26%25%60%56%441%
Peers Return19%7%22%8%24%22%154%
S&P 500 Return27%-19%24%23%16%10%100%

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%-19% 
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 7/22/2026 (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

Peers to compare with:

Financials

CATDEPCARCMITEXOSKMedian
NameCaterpil.Deere PACCAR Cummins Terex Oshkosh  
Mkt Price889.31607.33131.11660.7567.07148.65377.99
Mkt Cap412.1164.069.191.46.49.380.2
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 Cap412.1164.069.191.46.49.380.2
P/S5.83.52.52.71.10.92.6
P/Op Inc35.420.325.123.719.911.022.0
P/EBIT32.417.925.122.220.110.821.2
P/E43.734.327.934.258.116.234.2
P/CFO33.520.715.423.215.09.218.1
Total Yield3.0%4.0%5.7%4.1%2.5%7.6%4.0%
Dividend Yield0.7%1.1%2.1%1.2%0.8%1.4%1.1%
FCF Yield 3Y Avg4.0%3.4%5.5%3.1%6.2%3.4%3.7%
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-12.8%1.7%9.1%-8.9%-2.7%4.5%-0.5%
3M Rtn10.1%5.0%5.0%3.7%10.2%0.6%5.0%
6M Rtn38.3%15.3%7.0%14.3%11.5%-3.2%12.9%
12M Rtn115.1%21.6%36.4%87.9%35.2%19.8%35.8%
3Y Rtn260.0%44.9%66.6%172.3%13.4%71.3%68.9%
1M Excs Rtn-13.2%1.4%8.8%-9.2%-3.1%4.1%-0.8%
3M Excs Rtn5.2%-2.5%-1.9%-2.4%4.3%-6.7%-2.2%
6M Excs Rtn31.6%9.7%0.1%7.2%4.0%-9.7%5.6%
12M Excs Rtn99.9%5.0%25.8%75.9%21.4%4.2%23.6%
3Y Excs Rtn196.3%-15.3%1.4%110.4%-54.1%8.9%5.2%

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$889.31 
Market Cap ($ Bil)412.1 
First Trading Date01/02/1962 
Distance from 52W High-16.3% 
   50 Days200 Days
DMA Price$925.86$723.29
DMA Trendupup
Distance from DMA-3.9%23.0%
 3M1YR
Volatility48.4%38.2%
Downside Capture257.91150.57
Upside Capture245.68209.44
Correlation (SPY)56.2%56.2%
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
CAT119.5%38.1%2.13-
Sector ETF (XLI)20.0%16.6%0.9275.4%
Equity (SPY)20.0%12.6%1.1656.1%
Gold (GLD)21.2%28.1%0.6726.9%
Commodities (DBC)33.0%19.1%1.36-8.1%
Real Estate (VNQ)13.9%14.0%0.7011.5%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)-43.6%42.9%-1.2125.9%

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Based On 5-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with CAT
CAT35.7%31.4%1.01-
Sector ETF (XLI)13.4%17.6%0.6074.1%
Equity (SPY)12.8%17.1%0.5857.4%
Gold (GLD)17.3%18.4%0.7615.6%
Commodities (DBC)9.3%19.5%0.3725.1%
Real Estate (VNQ)2.7%18.9%0.0437.6%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)15.2%53.5%0.4623.6%

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
CAT30.2%31.2%0.91-
Sector ETF (XLI)13.8%20.0%0.6176.2%
Equity (SPY)15.1%17.9%0.7263.0%
Gold (GLD)11.5%16.1%0.587.1%
Commodities (DBC)7.1%17.9%0.3131.8%
Real Estate (VNQ)5.0%20.7%0.2042.3%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)58.5%66.2%0.9915.8%

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 23, 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

Conviction is high, anchored by a record $63 billion order backlog that provides exceptional multi-year revenue visibility. The company is successfully capturing a durable, secular growth trend as a critical power supplier to the global data center buildout. This is confirmed by multi-gigawatt orders and a funded plan to nearly triple key engine capacity.

STOCK ARCHETYPE
Backlog-Driven Manufacturing

(Volume of Equipment & Services Sold) x (Average Realized Price) Operating leverage from higher production volumes and favorable price/cost spread, particularly in the capacity-constrained Power & Energy segment.

Looking for high-conviction positions with a better risk/reward profile? See what's currently in the Trefis High Quality Portfolio.
INVESTMENT THESIS
Is CAT becoming a primary enabler of the AI buildout?

Evidence suggests a structural shift, layering secular data center growth onto a healthy cyclical business.

Mechanism: Massive power-generation orders for data centers are driving a record $63 billion backlog, supporting a raised outlook for low double-digit sales growth in 2026.
Supporting Evidence:
  • Order backlog grew to a record $63 billion in Q1 2026, up 79% year-over-year.
  • Large reciprocating engine backlog has grown by more than 3.5x since January 2024.
  • Company is increasing large engine capacity to nearly 3x 2024 levels to meet demand.
  • Full-year 2026 sales growth guidance was raised to 'low double-digit growth'.
  • Power & Energy retail sales grew a robust 32% in Q1 2026.
PRIMARY RISK
Margin Pressure Spoils Growth

Significant, quantified tariff headwinds and sharp margin declines in the Resource Industries segment could erode profitability, offsetting top-line gains and de-rating the stock.

Mechanism: Failure to show sequential margin improvement in the Resource Industries segment in the upcoming Q2 report.
Supporting Evidence:
  • Company expects $2.2 billion to $2.4 billion in tariff costs for full-year 2026.
  • Resource Industries' Q1 operating margin fell to 10.0% from 17.0% a year prior.
  • Trailing-twelve-month operating margin compressed to 16.5% from 19.2% a year ago.
  • Construction Industries' Q1 retail sales growth of 7% decelerated.
Key KPI Watchlist
KPI Status Rationale
Order Backlog$63 billion as of Q1 2026 - AcceleratingThe order backlog has reached a record level, with management noting that all three primary segments contributed to both the year-over-year and sequential growth. This indicates broad-based demand strength, not just concentration in one area.
Sales to Users (Retail Statistics)In Q1 2026, Sales to Users grew 7% in Construction Industries, 6% in Resource Industries, and a robust 32% in Power & Energy. - StableEnd-market demand remains healthy across the board. Construction Industries saw its fifth consecutive quarter of growth. The rebound in Resource Industries is a positive signal after a weak prior quarter, and Power & Energy continues to be the primary growth engine.
Sales to Users Growth (Retail Statistics)Power & Energy: +32%, Construction Industries: +7%, Resource Industries: +6% (Q1 FY2026)Measures end-market demand at the dealer level, providing a more direct view of customer activity than factory shipments, which can be affected by inventory changes.
Core Investment Debate

Secular Power Growth vs. Cyclical Margin Squeeze

BULL VIEW

The Power & Energy segment's secular growth, evidenced by a 3.5x increase in its engine backlog, will drive revenue and profit growth that far outweighs temporary margin pressures from tariffs.

CORE TENSION

Can the record $63 billion backlog offset the $2.2 billion tariff headwind, which drove the recent 10.0% post-earnings stock rally?


PREVAILING SENTIMENT
BULLISH

The latest evidence favors the bull view. The company raised its full-year sales guidance despite the known tariff impact, signaling confidence that volume and price can overcome the cost pressures.

BEAR VIEW

The $2.2 billion tariff impact and the margin collapse in Resource Industries to 10.0% are signs of deep cyclical pressure that will overwhelm the data center story and lead to earnings misses.

Next 6 months: Risks and Catalysts
Timeline Event & Metric To Watch
Aug. 4, 2026
Tariff Impact Worsens In Q2 Results
Watch: Q2 tariff cost figure versus implied run-rate; management commentary on mitigation progress and second-half outlook.
Aug. 4, 2026
Resource Industries Margin Fails To Recover
Watch: Resource Industries segment operating margin and management's explanation for any continued weakness or recovery.
Aug. 19, 2026
Quarterly Dividend Payment
Watch: Dividend of $1.63 per share is scheduled to be paid to shareholders.
8/20/2026
Peer Report Signals Market Slowdown
Watch: Deere's construction segment guidance and commentary on large ag equipment demand and inventory levels.
8/20/2026
Peer Deere Earnings Report
Watch: Peer Deere (DE) is scheduled to report its quarterly earnings.
10/19/2026
Peer PACCAR Earnings Report
Watch: Peer PACCAR (PCAR) is scheduled to report its quarterly earnings.
10/27/2026
Third Quarter Earnings Report
Watch: Caterpillar is scheduled to report its third-quarter 2026 earnings.
Tuesday, Aug. 4
Second Quarter Earnings Report
Watch: Caterpillar to release second-quarter 2026 financial results and hold an earnings call with investors.
Key Events in Last 6 Months
Date Event Stock Impact
2026-07-07
Acquires Skycatch For Mining Tech
Details: Caterpillar acquired Skycatch, Inc., a provider of spatial data capture and analysis solutions, to enhance its data-driven mining technology portfolio following the RPMGlobal acquisition.
-2.3%
$968.12 -> $946.32
2026-06-10
Increases Quarterly Dividend
Details: The Board of Directors approved an eight percent increase in the quarterly dividend, payable on Aug. 19, 2026.
-1.9%
$913.01 -> $895.97
2026-04-30
Reports Strong Q1, Raises Guidance
Details: Q1 2026 sales increased 22% to $17.4 billion. The company raised its full-year 2026 sales growth outlook to "low double-digit growth." The stock reacted +10.0%.
+9.8%
$808.55 -> $888.02
2026-04-30
Acquires Mining Software Firm
Details: Resource Industries completed the acquisition of RPMGlobal in February, a leader in mining software technology, to strengthen its ability to deliver integrated solutions for customers.
+9.8%
$808.55 -> $888.02
2026-04-29
Secures Another Large Power Deal
Details: 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%
$816.36 -> $888.46
2026-01-29
Reports Record 2025 Results
Details: Full-year 2025 sales reached a record $67.6 billion with adjusted profit per share of $19.06. The stock had a two-day reaction of +2.0% following the announcement.
+2.2%
$640.87 -> $654.90
2026-01-28
Announces Major Power Gen Alliance
Details: Caterpillar formed a strategic alliance with American Intelligence & Power Corporation to deploy 2 Gigawatts of power for a hyperscale AI infrastructure project, the Monarch Compute Campus.
+4.1%
$636.52 -> $662.75
Risk Management
Position Sizing

2% - 4%

REDUCED POSITION

Sizing is volatility-based: CAT trades at roughly 51% annualized options-implied volatility versus about 15% for the S&P 500 (3.4x the market), around the 100th 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
Agricultural Cycle Exposure

Deere provides exposure to different end-markets, particularly agriculture, which may offer diversification from CAT's construction and mining cycles. Its trailing-twelve-month gross margin of 34.6% is higher than CAT's.

Core Thesis: An investment in a high-quality industrial leader with strong technology and market share in agricultural equipment.
CMI - Cummins Inc.
Pure-Play Power Systems

Cummins is a more focused competitor in the Power & Energy segment, offering a pure-play investment on engine and power generation technology without the cyclicality of construction and mining equipment.

Core Thesis: A bet on a key competitor in the engine market, capitalizing on global power and transportation trends.
How Is The Market Pricing CAT?

A cyclical industrial leader capturing a secular growth wave as a critical supplier to the global data center and energy infrastructure build-out.

Caterpillar is experiencing a dual-engine growth story. Its traditional cyclical businesses in construction and mining are healthy, supported by infrastructure spending and commodity demand. Simultaneously, its Power & Energy segment is seeing explosive, record-breaking demand driven by the power needs of AI and data centers, transforming a portion of its business into a secular growth narrative with long-term visibility.

What will confirm the thesis

Continued multi-billion dollar orders for power generation, especially for data centers; sustained backlog growth; and continued favorable price realization.

What will damage the thesis

A sharp downturn in data center capital spending, a global recession impacting construction and mining demand, or an inability to execute on its massive capacity expansion plans.

Noise: Real but irrelevant to thesis

Quarter-to-quarter fluctuations in dealer inventory levels, which can be seasonal and do not always reflect underlying end-user demand.

Repricing Catalyst

The market's re-evaluation of Caterpillar from a pure cyclical industrial to a company with a significant, high-visibility secular growth driver in its Power & Energy segment, evidenced by the record backlog and aggressive capacity expansion plans.

What CAT Makes & Who Pays
TTM figures based on the twelve months through fiscal Q1 2026
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 (including data centers), industrial, marine, and rail applications.

Who Pays & How

Enterprises in the energy, transportation, and industrial sectors pay for reliable and efficient power solutions. Data center operators are a key growth driver, purchasing generator sets for both backup and prime power to support expansion related to cloud computing and AI.

Unit sales of engines, turbines, and related equipment, along with long-term service opportunities.
Competition
Cummins Inc., Rolls-Royce Power Systems AG, Siemens Energy AG
Competitors include a few large global players and many smaller companies focused on specific products, regions, or applications.
A broad portfolio including both reciprocating engines and turbines, a global dealer network for support, and the ability to provide integrated power solutions.
Construction Industries
$27.0B TTM (38% of Total)
What It Is

Sells a portfolio of construction machinery including excavators, loaders, and tractors to customers in infrastructure, building construction, rental, and quarry and aggregates industries.

Who Pays & How

Construction contractors and rental companies pay for equipment that offers high productivity and low owning and operating costs. In developing economies, purchase price can be a primary factor.

Unit sales of machines, related parts, and work tools, supported by financing and merchandising programs.
Competition
Komatsu Ltd., Deere & Company, Volvo Construction Equipment
The competitive environment includes global competitors as well as many regional and specialized local competitors, particularly in China.
A global dealer network, financing through Cat Financial, and differentiated product offerings like the SEM brand for developing economies.
Resource Industries
$12.6B TTM (18% of Total)
What It Is

Sells large-scale machinery and technology for surface and underground mining, heavy construction, and quarry applications. Products include large mining trucks, electric rope shovels, and autonomous hauling solutions.

Who Pays & How

Mining and heavy construction companies pay for highly productive and reliable equipment that provides the lowest total cost of ownership. Technology products for fleet management and autonomy are also sold to improve safety and productivity.

Unit sales of large equipment, technology solutions, components, and related parts.
Competition
Komatsu Ltd., Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd., Epiroc AB, Sandvik AB
Competition consists of a few large global players and numerous smaller companies with limited product ranges or regional focus.
A broad product range for comprehensive solutions, control over key component design, and innovative technologies like autonomous hauling.
Financial Products Segment
$4.3B TTM (6% of Total)
What It Is

Provides retail and wholesale financing and leasing alternatives to customers and dealers for Caterpillar products. Also offers insurance and risk management products.

Who Pays & How

Customers and dealers use financing to purchase and lease Caterpillar equipment. These financing options are designed to support the sale of Caterpillar products.

Interest income from loans and leases, and fees from insurance products.
Competition
John Deere Capital Corporation, Komatsu Financial L.P., Volvo Financial Services, Wells Fargo Equipment Finance Inc.
Competitors include commercial banks, leasing companies, and the financial subsidiaries of other equipment manufacturers.
A significant competitive advantage comes from marketing programs offered in conjunction with Caterpillar and its dealers, which can include below-market interest rates funded by the parent company.
CAT Evolution: Price Return by Era
2021-2025 · The Rise of Power & Energy
+246%
Over this period, the Power & Energy segment's revenue grew from $16,670 million to $32,201 million, surpassing the more traditionally dominant Construction Industries segment. This shift was driven by accelerating demand for power generation and energy infrastructure, establishing it as the company's primary growth and profit engine.
Market Is In Wait-and-See Mode
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 clearly negative. OBV (on-balance volume) and volume character point to institutional exit. 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
-1 / 12
1 Price Structure & Trend Potential Bottoming · -
2 Momentum Pausing
3 Relative Strength vs. SPY Facing Relative Strength
4 Institutional Footprint & Volume Mild Distribution
5 Volatility Normal
6 Key Price Levels Range · Vol Rising
7 Earnings Reaction History Diminishing Reward
8 How the Verdict Is Derived Three Pillars

Industry Resources

Industrials Resources
IndustryWeek
Manufacturing.net
Aviation Week
Construction Machinery & Heavy Transportation Equipment Resources
Equipment World
Construction Equipment
OEM Off-Highway
Core Cache Last Updated: 7/22/2026