Adobe Inc. or Applied Materials, Inc.: Who Manages SG&A Costs Better?

Adobe vs. Applied Materials: A Decade of SG&A Management

In the competitive landscape of technology giants, managing Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses is crucial for maintaining profitability. Over the past decade, Adobe Inc. and Applied Materials, Inc. have showcased contrasting strategies in handling these costs. Adobe's SG&A expenses have surged by approximately 230% from 2014 to 2024, reflecting its aggressive growth and expansion strategies. In contrast, Applied Materials has maintained a more conservative approach, with a 100% increase over the same period.

Adobe's significant rise in SG&A expenses, peaking at $7.3 billion in 2024, underscores its investment in marketing and administrative capabilities to support its expanding product portfolio. Meanwhile, Applied Materials, with a peak of $1.8 billion, highlights its focus on operational efficiency. This comparison not only reveals the strategic priorities of these tech titans but also offers insights into their financial health and market positioning.