Caterpillar Inc. reported a significant increase in financial performance for the first quarter of 2026, with total sales and revenues reaching $17.415 billion, a 22% increase from $14.249 billion in the same period last year. The growth was primarily driven by a $2.3 billion rise in sales volume and favorable price realization of $426 million. The company's operating profit also rose to $3.085 billion, up 20% from $2.579 billion in the first quarter of 2025, although the operating profit margin slightly decreased to 17.7% from 18.1%.
The company's profit for the quarter was $2.549 billion, translating to a profit per share of $5.47, compared to $2.003 billion and $4.20 per share in the prior year. The increase in profit was attributed to higher sales volume and price realization, which were partially offset by increased manufacturing costs and higher selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expenses. Notably, Caterpillar faced unfavorable manufacturing costs largely due to higher tariff expenses, which are expected to total around $2.2 billion for the full year.
Caterpillar's strategic developments included the acquisition of RPMGlobal Holdings Limited, a software company specializing in mining solutions, for approximately $733 million. This acquisition is expected to enhance Caterpillar's product offerings within the Resource Industries segment. The company also reported a significant increase in its order backlog, which rose to approximately $62.7 billion, reflecting strong demand across its primary segments, particularly in Power & Energy.
Operationally, Caterpillar's workforce remained stable, with a slight decrease in the number of shares outstanding due to share repurchase activities. The company repurchased 5.6 million shares at a cost of $3.7 billion during the quarter. Geographically, sales increased across all regions, with North America showing a notable 34% increase, driven by higher sales volume and favorable price realization. Caterpillar's outlook for 2026 remains positive, with expectations of continued growth across its segments, despite ongoing global economic uncertainties and tariff impacts.
About CATERPILLAR INC
Caterpillar Inc. is a global manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and diesel-electric locomotives. Operating through segments like Construction Industries, Resource Industries, Energy & Transportation, and Financial Products, it serves customers worldwide via a vast dealer network. Caterpillar’s competitive advantages include integrated product design, extensive service offerings, and financing solutions that support equipment sales and lifecycle management.
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