Investors Face Slowing Returns on Capital at Simpson Manufacturing (NYSE:SSD)

Simpson Manufacturing Co., Inc. (NYSE:SSD), a leading provider of engineered structural connectors and building solutions, has experienced a slowdown in returns on capital in recent years. Despite this, the company maintains a strong balance sheet and a solid dividend yield, suggesting potential long-term growth opportunities. This article explores the factors contributing to the slowing returns on capital and assesses Simpson Manufacturing's investment prospects.



Key factors contributing to the slowing returns on capital at Simpson Manufacturing (NYSE:SSD) include increased raw material costs, higher operating expenses, acquisition integration, and market conditions. Raw material costs have negatively impacted gross margins, which fell from 46.6% in 2022 to 45.96% in 2023. Higher operating expenses, including personnel costs, professional fees, and variable compensation, have eroded profitability, with operating margins decreasing from 20.1% in 2022 to 19.39% in 2023. The acquisition of ETANCO in 2022 brought additional costs and complexities, temporarily impacting earnings. However, the acquisition is expected to contribute positively to long-term growth. Slowing demand in the housing market, driven by higher interest rates and economic uncertainty, has also affected SSD's sales growth.



Despite these challenges, Simpson Manufacturing (NYSE:SSD) has maintained steady revenue growth, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% from 2020 to 2023. In 2023, the company's revenue reached $2.2 billion, up 4.6% from the previous year. Earnings per share (EPS) have also shown consistent growth, with a CAGR of 5.5% over the same period. In 2023, EPS was $8.26, a 6.5% increase from the previous year.

The acquisition of ETANCO in 2022 has significantly contributed to Simpson Manufacturing's financial performance. The acquisition added approximately $12.7 million in foreign currency translation related to Europe's currencies strengthening against the United States dollar. Additionally, ETANCO's operating results for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023, contributed to Simpson Manufacturing's full-year net sales, gross profit, and income from operations.



Simpson Manufacturing's dividend growth and payout ratio have evolved over time, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.74% over the past four years. The current annual dividend of $1.12 yields 0.58%. The payout ratio has remained relatively stable, averaging around 14.83% over the past year, indicating a sustainable dividend policy with room for future growth as earnings continue to increase.

In conclusion, while Simpson Manufacturing (NYSE:SSD) has faced slowing returns on capital in recent years, the company's strong balance sheet and solid dividend yield suggest potential long-term growth opportunities. The acquisition of ETANCO and the company's strategic positioning in the building solutions market provide a solid foundation for future growth. As the housing market recovers and demand for building solutions increases, Simpson Manufacturing is well-positioned to capitalize on these trends and drive shareholder value. Investors should closely monitor the company's progress and consider its potential as a long-term investment opportunity.