Sector: Materials|Industry: Specialty Chemicals|Market Cap: $208.80B|Employees: 66.3K
Linde plc is the world's largest industrial gas company and a major technological innovator. The company's primary products are atmospheric gases and process gases, which are sold to a diverse range of industries including healthcare, chemicals, and electronics. Linde also designs and builds equipment for gas production and offers related services. The company has a global presence with operations in over 80 countries across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Linde's sales increased by 2% year-over-year to $8.356 billion, driven by a 2% increase in price attainment, while volumes remained flat. Currency translation and cost pass-through each decreased sales by 1%.
Operating profit increased by 2% year-over-year to $2.086 billion, with operating margin at 25%, a slight increase from 25.2% in the prior year. This was driven by higher pricing and productivity initiatives.
Diluted earnings per share increased by 1% year-over-year to $3.22, primarily due to lower diluted shares outstanding, partially offset by lower net income. Adjusted diluted EPS increased 9% to $3.94.