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2 days ago
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Axon Enterprise's Expenses are on the Rise: Will It Affect Margins?
Axon Enterprise, Inc. AXON has been grappling with rising costs and expenses over time. AXON reported an uptick in costs and expenses during the first quarter of 2025. The company's cost of sales rose 18.2% year over year in the first quarter. The metric surged 39% year over year in 2024. AXON's selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses also increased 48% year over year in the first quarter. The same rose 49.8% year over year in 2024. Key factors behind the company's high costs and SG&A expenses included business integration activities, increased headcount, higher wages and stock-based compensation the rising costs, in the first quarter, AXON's adjusted gross margin increased 40 basis points to 63.6%. Also, its adjusted EBITDA margin increased to 25.7% from 23.7% in the year-ago period. The improvement in margins was driven by higher revenues generated from robust sales for TASER 10, Axon Body 4 and platform sensor products. The company reported revenues of $603.6 million in the quarter, which increased 31.3% year over year. Axon Enterprise's focus on effective cost management and revenue improvement is likely to expand its margin performance. For 2025, AXON expects adjusted EBITDA in the range of $650-$675 million, implying an adjusted EBITDA margin of approximately 25%.It's worth noting that, effective first-quarter 2025, Axon Enterprise realigned its business segments. This realignment is expected to enhance the company's visibility into segment-specific performance and enable it to effectively manage its costs. This strategic move will likely support Axon Enterprise's ongoing margin improvement and operational efficiency. Among its major peers, Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. KTOS is facing cost pressure. Its cost of sales increased 11.1% in the first quarter of 2025. Kratos' SG&A expenses rose 4.8%, year over year in the same period. Kratos' gross margin declined 30 basis points to 24.3% in the first escalating costs and expenses are also a concern for Teledyne Technologies Incorporated TDY. Teledyne's cost of sales rose 7.8% year over year in the first quarter of 2025. The company's SG&A expenses also increased 6.5% year over year. Teledyne's gross margin declined 320 basis points to 42.7% in the same period. Shares of Axon Enterprise have surged 181.1% in the past year compared with the industry's growth of 20.8%. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research From a valuation standpoint, AXON is trading at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 1,195.30X above the industry's average of 45.34X. Axon carries a Value Score of F. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research The Zacks Consensus Estimate for AXON's 2025 earnings has been on the rise over the past 60 days. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research The company currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (TDY) : Free Stock Analysis Report Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (KTOS) : Free Stock Analysis Report Axon Enterprise, Inc (AXON) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
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2 days ago
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North America Non-Lethal Weapons Market Size, Growth Trends and Company Strategies 2025-2033 Featuring Byrna Technologies, General Dynamics, Moog and More
Key users include law enforcement, military, and private security firms, relying on products like rubber bullets, tear gas, and Tasers. Despite challenges like ethical concerns and regulatory scrutiny, advancements in AI and remote operations propel the market forward. North American Non-Lethal Weapons Market Dublin, June 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "North America Non-Lethal Weapons Market Size and Growth Trends and Companies 2025-2033" has been added to offering. The North America Non-Lethal Weapons Market is expected to reach US$ 4.41 billion by 2033 from US$ 2.86 billion in 2024, with a CAGR of 4.92% from 2025 to 2033. Due to significant defense spending, technology developments, and growing demand from the military and law enforcement, North America presently controls the majority of the market. North America Non-Lethal Weapons Industry Overview Driven by the growing need for crowd control, peacekeeping, and public safety measures, the non-lethal weapons business in North America is an essential part of the larger defense and law enforcement sector. These weapons are essential in situations when employing fatal force is either improper or prohibited by law since they are intended to incapacitate or dissuade people without causing irreversible injury. The military, law enforcement, border security, and private security companies are the main users. Important product categories include rubber bullets, tear gas, acoustic or directed energy devices, and conducted energy weapons (like Tasers). Increased expenditures in updating law enforcement infrastructure, social unrest, and geopolitical tensions all have a significant impact on the market growth in this industry. With the help of substantial government contracts and R&D funding, American businesses like Axon Enterprise, Combined Systems, and Raytheon Technologies control the area market. Moderate growth is also been observed in Canada, especially in the use of less-lethal instruments into community police strategies. Innovation and operational efficacy are being further pushed by technological developments like AI-enabled targeting and remotely controlled non-lethal drones. The sector still has to deal with issues including ethical dilemmas, public outrage over abuse, and regulatory scrutiny despite its development trajectory. Manufacturers and authorities are responding to calls for accountability and transparency by enhancing training procedures and introducing usage tracking. Furthermore, as civil rights organizations call for more stringent regulation, the regulatory landscape is becoming increasingly complicated. However, the North American market is anticipated to continue growing steadily over the next ten years due to the growing emphasis on de-escalation and non-lethal engagement, especially as social movements and urbanization put more pressure on law enforcement to use humane control techniques. Through intensive research, development, and use of cutting-edge crowd control and defense technologies, the United States plays a crucial role in the market for non-lethal weapons. To improve operating capabilities while reducing deaths, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and law enforcement organizations make significant investments in non-lethal options such as chemical agents, directed-energy weapons, and acoustic devices. Innovation is fueled by ongoing technical improvements at top defense contractors including Raytheon Technologies, General Dynamics, and Axon Enterprise. For example, Byrna Technologies reported in November 2024 that it was selling more than 500,000 Byrna SD personal security devices, which are portable CO2-powered launchers that provide less-lethal options for the personal defense and security industries. The United States' influence in international military plans is further strengthened by its exports of non-lethal weaponry, which aid allies in riot control, border security, and peacekeeping operations. Growth Drivers for the North America Non-Lethal Weapons Market Rising Incidents of Civil Unrest and Protests Civil unrest, public demonstrations, and social movements have significantly increased in North America in recent years; these events are frequently brought on by political, racial, and economic concerns. Law enforcement organizations are under more pressure than ever to control crowds without resorting to deadly force as a result of this spike. Non-lethal weapons like pepper spray, rubber bullets, tear gas, and Tasers are vital resources for defusing tense situations without causing irreversible damage. In keeping with the increasing legal and popular demands for compassionate police, these technologies provide a tactical edge in upholding public order. As a result, the market for non-lethal weaponry in North America is expanding due in large part to the growing desire for non-lethal options. Modernization of Military and Law Enforcement Agencies To address changing security threats, federal, state, and municipal governments in the United States and Canada are aggressively updating their armed forces and law enforcement organizations. Adopting cutting-edge non-lethal weapon systems that provide increased accuracy, efficacy, and adherence to human rights norms is a crucial component of this modernization. These devices are being included into counterterrorism, border security, and riot control operations when the use of lethal force would not be suitable. The need for these technologies is being sustained by ongoing investments in defense modernization and public safety initiatives, which are backed by stable government budgets. Non-lethal weapons are becoming crucial parts of modern security plans across North America as agencies look to increase operational preparedness while reducing injury. Technological Advancements The market for non-lethal weaponry in North America is expanding due in large part to technological advancement. The possibilities of non-lethal platforms are being revolutionized by developments in smart systems, acoustic deterrents, and directed energy weapons. In order to improve accuracy, flexibility, and safety in a variety of operational contexts, businesses are progressively using artificial intelligence, data analytics, and remote operation capabilities. These developments increase the effectiveness of non-lethal instruments for urban operations, tactical reaction, and crowd control. Development and deployment are moving more quickly because to government-supported R&D programs and strategic alliances with defense firms. North American manufacturers have a significant competitive edge in the worldwide market thanks to this thriving innovation environment, which also positions the area as a leader in next-generation non-lethal weapon technology. Challenges in the North America Non-Lethal Weapons Market Regulatory and Legal Constraints Both domestic legislation and international human rights frameworks strictly limit the use of non-lethal weapons in North America. To guarantee proper usage, especially in civilian contexts, law enforcement organizations must manage intricate legal obligations. Lawsuits, internal investigations, and public outcry can follow misuse or events involving excessive force, such as the incorrect use of chemical agents or Tasers. Procurement and training initiatives may be slowed down by agencies' careful implementation techniques, which are frequently prompted by these legal issues. More supervision, reporting, and accountability are also being pushed for by changing legal requirements and civil rights activism. The wider adoption and operational flexibility of non-lethal weapon systems throughout the area are therefore severely hampered by regulatory and legal restrictions. High Costs and Budget Limitations High development and deployment costs are associated with advanced non-lethal weapon systems, especially those that use technologies like directed energy, artificial intelligence, and remote operation. For smaller police agencies and local governments with tighter resources, these advanced instruments frequently necessitate large investments in infrastructure, maintenance, and training. Because of this, adoption is frequently concentrated in government agencies with more funding or in bigger urban regions. Furthermore, obtaining such technology usually involves a drawn-out, bureaucratic procurement process that includes intricate approval processes and multi-level scrutiny. By delaying implementation and lowering non-lethal weapons' overall market penetration, these administrative and financial obstacles might restrict their availability in smaller jurisdictions and impede the expansion of the sector as a whole in North America. Key Attributes Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 200 Forecast Period 2024-2033 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $2.86 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2033 $4.41 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 4.9% Regions Covered North America Key Topics Covered1. Introduction2. Research & Methodology3. Executive Summary4. Market Dynamics4.1 Growth Drivers4.2 Challenges5. North America Non-Lethal Weapons Market5.1 Historical Market Trends5.2 Market Forecast6. Market Share Analysis6.1 Product Type6.2 Technology6.3 End Use6.4 Country7. Product Type7.1 Gases and sprays7.2 Grenades7.3 Bullets7.4 Taser Guns7.5 Others8. Technology8.1 Chemical8.2 Electroshock8.3 Mechanical and Kinetic8.4 Acoustic/Light8.5 Others9. End Use9.1 Law Enforcement9.2 Military9.3 Others10. Country10.1 United States10.2 Canada11. Porter's Five Analysis11.1 Bargaining Power of Buyers11.2 Bargaining Power of Suppliers11.3 Degree of Rivalry11.4 Threat of New Entrants11.5 Threat of Substitutes12. SWOT Analysis12.1 Strength12.2 Weakness12.3 Opportunity12.4 Threat13. Company Analysis13.1 Byrna Technologies Inc.13.2 General Dynamics Corporation13.3 Moog Inc.13.4 Raytheon Technologies Corporation13.5 Rheinmetall AG13.6 Textron Inc.13.7 Combined Systems more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment North American Non-Lethal Weapons Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Sign in to access your portfolio
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4 days ago
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This CEO collected almost $165 million last year — more than the boss of Apple or Blackstone
The boss of Taser maker Axon Enterprise topped the list of best-paid CEOs last year, per MyLogIQ data. Rick Smith took home about $165 million in compensation, largely in stock awards. Axon stock is up more than 700% over the past five years, valuing the company at about $60 billion. The best-paid CEO last year was not running a technology giant or a Wall Street firm — but the company that makes Tasers. Rick Smith, the CEO and cofounder of Axon Enterprise, which makes stun guns used by many police forces, took home almost $165 million last year. Although Smith's annual salary was $31,201, he was awarded stock options worth just over $164 million after meeting a series of targets over several years. He told The Wall Street Journal that the stock award came from a scheme open to all Axon employees that lets them convert salary into stock options, whose value depends on the share price performance. "It creates that startup kind of vibe," said Smith, who has been CEO of Axon since 1993. Axon stock is up more than a fifth over the past month after posting strong first-quarter results. The price has soared more than 700% over the past five years, leaving the company worth almost $60 billion. Smith's compensation exceeded the total for better-known S&P 500 businesses such as Starbucks or Apple, per data compiled by public company intelligence platform MyLogIQ. Second on its list was new Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol, who collected a $5 million bonus and stock awards worth about $90 million. Larry Culp, CEO of GE Aerospace, was third on $89 million, followed by Blackstone boss Steve Schwarzman on $84 million. Apple CEO Tim Cook collected nearly $75 million last year, including a salary of $3 million and a stock award worth $58 million, putting him in fifth place. Other names on MyLogIQ's top 20 include KKR co-CEOs Joe Bae and Scott Nuttall ($73 million and $64 million respectively); Netflix co-CEOs Ted Sarandos and Greg Peters (almost $62 million and $60 million); and Salesforce's Marc Benioff on $55 million. A study by Equilar and The Associated Press found that in 2023, the pay of CEOs in the S&P 500 rose by 12.6% year-on-year. Axon did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Read the original article on Business Insider Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
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4 days ago
- Business
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This CEO collected almost $165 million last year — more than the boss of Apple or Blackstone
The boss of Taser maker Axon Enterprise topped the list of best-paid CEOs last year, per MyLogIQ data. Rick Smith took home about $165 million in compensation, largely in stock awards. Axon stock is up more than 700% over the past five years, valuing the company at about $60 billion. The best-paid CEO last year was not running a technology giant or a Wall Street firm — but the company that makes Tasers. Rick Smith, the CEO and cofounder of Axon Enterprise, which makes stun guns used by many police forces, took home almost $165 million last year. Although Smith's annual salary was $31,201, he was awarded stock options worth just over $164 million after meeting a series of targets over several years. He told The Wall Street Journal that the stock award came from a scheme open to all Axon employees that lets them convert salary into stock options, whose value depends on the share price performance. "It creates that startup kind of vibe," said Smith, who has been CEO of Axon since 1993. Axon stock is up more than a fifth over the past month after posting strong first-quarter results. The price has soared more than 700% over the past five years, leaving the company worth almost $60 billion. Smith's compensation exceeded the total for better-known S&P 500 businesses such as Starbucks or Apple, per data compiled by public company intelligence platform MyLogIQ. Second on its list was new Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol, who collected a $5 million bonus and stock awards worth about $90 million. Larry Culp, CEO of GE Aerospace, was third on $89 million, followed by Blackstone boss Steve Schwarzman on $84 million. Apple CEO Tim Cook collected nearly $75 million last year, including a salary of $3 million and a stock award worth $58 million, putting him in fifth place. Other names on MyLogIQ's top 20 include KKR co-CEOs Joe Bae and Scott Nuttall ($73 million and $64 million respectively); Netflix co-CEOs Ted Sarandos and Greg Peters (almost $62 million and $60 million); and Salesforce's Marc Benioff on $55 million. A study by Equilar and The Associated Press found that in 2023, the pay of CEOs in the S&P 500 rose by 12.6% year-on-year. Axon did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Read the original article on Business Insider Error while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
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4 days ago
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Axon roadshow stops in Grand Chute, showcasing law enforcement technology
GRAND CHUTE, Wis. (WFRV) – Arizona-based law enforcement technology manufacturer Axon Enterprise's massive semi-truck pulled into Grand Chute Police Department's parking lot Tuesday morning ahead of its roadshow, giving officers from agencies across the area the chance to get hands-on with the equipment. 'It's up to each agency, whether it's local, county or state, to find the appropriate funds and do those long-term contracts and have the capability to have that latest technology in their hands,' Axon Enterprise roadshow team lead Andrew Padilla said. Amid years of increasing scrutiny for law enforcement, Padilla believes that Axon's products — particularly body and dash cameras — hold a crucial role in transparency and trust for the public. 'It's about capturing the truth,' Padilla said. 'It's going to give you that angle that the officer was seeing, it's going to give you that daytime perception whether the officer is outside, they go into a dark room, they go into a basement, they climb into an attic.' Grand Chute Police Department stands by the significance that high-quality recordings have in the public's eyes, and they are used regularly by officers, according to Corporal Dylan Davis. 'That can be used in court, that can be used in investigations, we can refer back to those notes or body camera video if we have to refer back to a specific statement somebody says,' Davis said. 'The incidents that law enforcement deal with is important to capture and release to our public, as well as in the court process, to help gather that evidence, whether good or bad, to help in our investigations.' Davis was excited to welcome Axon and agencies from across Outagamie County and further-away jurisdictions in Wisconsin, as he hopes that it can help other departments make upgrades to their equipment after trying it Tuesday. 'Maybe if some agencies aren't using that technology, they can come and see how they can implement that in their agency,' he said. The Grand Chute Police Department uses a system of body cameras and Tasers that Axon makes. A development in recent years is that the cameras are synced with squad car lights and sirens, and also the tools on an officer's belt, so that the cameras begin recording as soon as an officer takes action without actually having to physically turn the cameras on. 'Now that we have those automated systems in place, our officers can focus on the task at hand rather than worrying about those technologies,' Davis said. 'Technology makes us safer, our community safer, and we like to be able to stay ahead of that.' One item that Grand Chute Police is investing in is the Taser 10, the latest in Axon's line. I got to try it myself. After pulling the safety switch, a quick pull of the trigger is all that it takes, and a laser aids in aiming. With no training, the instructor said I nailed the target, shooting two prongs at least 12 inches apart on the target. User-friendly, accurate and efficiently deployed within seconds, it's officers' chosen tool to safely take an individual into custody who is resisting or running. 'Once our department officers are fully trained up, we're going to move onto the Taser 10s, which Axon has here to demo,' Davis said. 'The Tasers cause what's called neuromuscular incapacitation, so it locks the subject up and allows officers to take control of the subject so that our officers don't get injured as well as the subject.' Axon travels to departments across the country and will be visiting Mequon on Thursday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.