Linde Flags Record $8.1B Gas Backlog, Lincare Margin Drag
LIN sits 25% above its 52-week low of $387.78.
Summary
Linde's weekly recap highlights a record $8.1B gas backlog driven by AI and electronics demand, with over $1.3B in additional electronics projects starting before year-end. The company raised FY adjusted EPS guidance to $17.70–$17.90 and set Q3 guidance at $4.45–$4.55. However, the U.S. home-care unit Lincare is flagged as the main margin drag from cost inflation and policy shifts, and management is reviewing its strategic fit, possibly pursuing a sale. Shares dipped on the margin pressure and slower growth outside the U.S., despite analyst buy ratings. This follows the Q2 earnings report from July 31, which had already raised full-year guidance; the new details on backlog, Lincare, and Q3 guidance add material context.
At the time of this announcement, LIN was trading at $483.90 on NASDAQ in the Industrial Applications And Services sector, with a market capitalization of approximately $223B. The 52-week trading range was $387.78 to $548.20. This news item was assessed with neutral market sentiment and an importance score of 7 out of 10. Source: Wiseek News.