Sherwin-Williams Co (SHW)

Return on total capital

Dec 31, 2023 Dec 31, 2022 Dec 31, 2021 Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019
Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) US$ in thousands 3,527,400 2,963,900 2,583,300 2,859,600 2,331,100
Long-term debt US$ in thousands 8,377,900 9,591,000 8,590,900 8,266,900 8,050,700
Total stockholders’ equity US$ in thousands 3,715,800 3,102,100 2,437,200 3,610,800 4,123,300
Return on total capital 29.17% 23.35% 23.42% 24.08% 19.15%

December 31, 2023 calculation

Return on total capital = EBIT ÷ (Long-term debt + Total stockholders’ equity)
= $3,527,400K ÷ ($8,377,900K + $3,715,800K)
= 29.17%

Sherwin-Williams Co. has shown a consistent performance in terms of return on total capital over the last five years. The return on total capital has been gradually increasing from 18.94% in 2019 to 26.62% in 2023. This indicates that the company has been effectively utilizing its total capital to generate profits for its shareholders. A return on total capital above 20% is generally considered favorable as it suggests the company is efficiently utilizing its invested capital to generate earnings. Sherwin-Williams Co.'s improving trend in return on total capital reflects positively on its operational efficiency and profitability.


Peer comparison

Dec 31, 2023

Company name
Symbol
Return on total capital
Sherwin-Williams Co
SHW
29.17%
Fastenal Company
FAST
43.19%
Tractor Supply Company
TSCO
38.13%