Caterpillar (NYSE:CAT) Integrates LiDAR For Autonomous Trucks In Global Partnership With Luminar

Caterpillar (NYSE:CAT) has seen collaboration announcements impact its market presence recently. An exciting partnership with Luminar Technologies aims to integrate LiDAR technology into its off-highway trucks, a move that could fortify its leadership in autonomous solutions. Despite this, Caterpillar’s price move over the last week remained flat, amid broader market declines influenced by tariff news and economic data that left major indices like the Dow Jones down. During this period, markets also digested fresh GDP and jobless claims data, yet this did not significantly affect Caterpillar's on-market return.

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Over the past five years, Caterpillar's total shareholder return reached 240.74%. This significant growth reflects various strategic initiatives and market dynamics impacting the company. Key developments include the company's commitment to alternative fuels and electrification, aligning with long-term sustainability goals and expanding markets. Moreover, a robust share repurchase program, with over 54.74 million shares bought back under the 2022 plan, has strengthened earnings per share, contributing to the shareholder returns.

However, the last year saw Caterpillar underperform the US Machinery industry and broader market, with a 2.4% and 8.5% decline, respectively. Despite recent earnings demonstrating growth in net income, the company faces challenges with decreased revenues, highlighted by a 5% annual decline in 2024. Corporate guidance indicates a further expected decrease in sales for FY 2025, posing potential risks to continued shareholder returns. Nonetheless, consistent dividends provide some stability with recent increases to US$1.41 per share.

Explore historical data to track Caterpillar's performance over time in our past results report.

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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