AMETEK, Inc. or IDEX Corporation: Who Manages SG&A Costs Better?

AMETEK vs. IDEX: A Decade of SG&A Management

In the competitive landscape of industrial manufacturing, managing Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses is crucial for maintaining profitability. Over the past decade, AMETEK, Inc. and IDEX Corporation have demonstrated distinct strategies in handling these costs. From 2014 to 2023, AMETEK's SG&A expenses grew by approximately 46%, while IDEX saw a 40% increase. Notably, AMETEK's expenses peaked in 2023, reaching a 10-year high, whereas IDEX consistently maintained a slightly higher SG&A cost throughout the period.

Despite AMETEK's higher growth rate in expenses, both companies have shown resilience and adaptability in a fluctuating market. The data suggests that while IDEX has managed to keep its expenses relatively stable, AMETEK's strategic investments might be driving its higher cost trajectory. This analysis provides a fascinating glimpse into how two industry leaders navigate financial management in a dynamic economic environment.