Operational Costs Compared: SG&A Analysis of Emerson Electric Co. and Northrop Grumman Corporation

A Decade of SG&A: Emerson Electric Co. vs. Northrop Grumman Corporation

In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate finance, understanding operational costs is crucial. Over the past decade, Emerson Electric Co. and Northrop Grumman Corporation have showcased distinct trends in their Selling, General, and Administrative (SG&A) expenses. Emerson Electric Co. started 2014 with SG&A expenses peaking at approximately 5.7 billion, but by 2023, this figure had decreased by about 27% to 4.2 billion. In contrast, Northrop Grumman Corporation's SG&A expenses have shown a steady increase, rising from 2.4 billion in 2014 to 4.0 billion in 2023, marking a 67% growth. This divergence highlights Emerson's focus on cost efficiency, while Northrop Grumman has expanded its operational scope. Notably, data for 2024 is incomplete, reflecting the dynamic nature of financial reporting. These insights offer a window into the strategic priorities of these industrial giants.