Leggett & Platt Incorporated (LEG)

Return on total capital

Dec 31, 2024 Dec 31, 2023 Dec 31, 2022 Dec 31, 2021 Dec 31, 2020
Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) US$ in thousands -423,300 -84,700 486,800 594,100 406,100
Long-term debt US$ in thousands
Total stockholders’ equity US$ in thousands 689,400 1,333,300 1,641,400 1,648,600 1,390,300
Return on total capital -61.40% -6.35% 29.66% 36.04% 29.21%

December 31, 2024 calculation

Return on total capital = EBIT ÷ (Long-term debt + Total stockholders’ equity)
= $-423,300K ÷ ($—K + $689,400K)
= -61.40%

The return on total capital for Leggett & Platt Incorporated has shown fluctuating trends over the years based on the provided data.

- In December 31, 2020, the return on total capital stood at 29.21%, representing a respectable performance in generating profits relative to the total capital employed in the business.
- By December 31, 2021, the return on total capital increased significantly to 36.04%, indicating improved efficiency in utilizing the total capital to generate returns.
- In December 31, 2022, the return on total capital slightly decreased to 29.66%, but still maintained a solid performance in generating returns on the total capital invested.
- However, a concerning trend emerged by December 31, 2023, where the return on total capital turned negative at -6.35%, indicating a potential issue in effectively utilizing the total capital to generate profits.
- The most alarming observation was made by December 31, 2024, with a sharp decline in the return on total capital to -61.40%. This indicates a significant deterioration in the company's ability to generate profits relative to the total capital employed, raising serious concerns about the company's financial performance and operational efficiency.

In summary, while Leggett & Platt Incorporated demonstrated strong performance in the earlier years with positive returns on total capital, a noticeable decline in recent years, particularly in 2024, suggests the need for a closer examination of the company's operational strategies and financial management to address the challenges impacting its profitability and capital utilization.


Peer comparison

Dec 31, 2024

Company name
Symbol
Return on total capital
Leggett & Platt Incorporated
LEG
-61.40%
La-Z-Boy Incorporated
LZB
16.57%
Somnigroup International Inc.
SGI
114.33%