James Hardie Industries

Should I buy James Hardie Industries stock in 2025?

P. Laurore
P. Laurore Last updated: 3 May 2025

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Is James Hardie Industries stock a buy right now?

As of early May 2025, James Hardie Industries (JHX) is trading at approximately $24.17 per share on the NYSE, with a healthy average daily volume of 1.76 million shares. While the company has seen a modest uptick over the past two weeks, recent financial results reflect softness in key markets—particularly multi-family housing and European operations. Despite a 3% dip in quarterly sales and slightly contracting margins, long-term fundamentals remain robust, supported by reaffirmed FY25 guidance and substantial investment in manufacturing expansion. Notably, the recently announced strategic plan to combine with AZEK could position James Hardie as a dominant force in global building materials, enhancing product reach and operational scale. Market sentiment is shifting from neutral to cautiously optimistic, boosted by strong institutional support and a 'Buy' rating from the majority of covering analysts. Backed by innovation, capacity expansion, and major homebuilder partnerships, JHX shows resilience in navigating cost pressures and competitive challenges. In the context of Australia’s evolving construction sector—with repair, remodel, and material innovation at the forefront—current levels may offer a timely entry point. The consensus from over 32 national and international banks sees $31.60 as a reasonable target price, reflecting renewed confidence in the company’s upside potential.

  • World leader in high-performance fiber cement with strong brand recognition.
  • Extensive product innovation, including award-winning Hardie™ Architectural Panel.
  • Strategic manufacturing expansions boost production capacity and efficiency.
  • Exclusive partnerships with leading homebuilders add revenue stability.
  • Exposure to North American repair and remodel market supports long-term growth.
  • Recent margin compression due to elevated raw material costs.
  • Challenging conditions in European construction markets may limit near-term gains.
Table of Contents
  • What is James Hardie Industries?
  • How much is James Hardie Industries stock?
  • Our full analysis on James Hardie Industries </b>stock
  • How to buy James Hardie Industries stock in Australia?
  • Our 7 tips for buying James Hardie Industries stock
  • The latest news about James Hardie Industries
  • FAQ
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Why trust HelloSafe?

At HelloSafe, our expert has been monitoring the performance of James Hardie Industries for over three years. Each month, hundreds of thousands of Australians rely on us to interpret market trends and highlight the top investment opportunities. Our analyses are provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. In line with our ethical charter, we have never received, and will never receive, any payment from James Hardie Industries.

What is James Hardie Industries?

IndicatorValueAnalysis
🏳️ NationalityIreland (HQ), global operationsHeadquartered in Ireland, but has significant presence in Australia, North America, and Europe.
💼 MarketNYSE: JHX (also ASX: JHX)Dual-listed, capturing investors in both US and Australian markets.
🏛️ ISIN codeIE00B1RM8G12Unique identifier essential for trading and investment records.
👤 CEOAaron ErterCEO since 2022, focusing on operational efficiency and strategic expansion.
🏢 Market cap$10.39 billion USDLarge-cap status offers stability, but recent stock declines reduced overall valuation.
📈 Revenue$3.8 billion USD (latest FY)Slight year-over-year decline highlights impact of softer construction demand.
💹 EBITDA$975 million USD (projected FY25)Healthy EBITDA shows robust operating profitability despite near-term margin pressure.
📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings)23.93Reasonable for sector; offers growth potential, but above historical average.
Key financial and operational indicators for the company.
🏳️ Nationality
Value
Ireland (HQ), global operations
Analysis
Headquartered in Ireland, but has significant presence in Australia, North America, and Europe.
💼 Market
Value
NYSE: JHX (also ASX: JHX)
Analysis
Dual-listed, capturing investors in both US and Australian markets.
🏛️ ISIN code
Value
IE00B1RM8G12
Analysis
Unique identifier essential for trading and investment records.
👤 CEO
Value
Aaron Erter
Analysis
CEO since 2022, focusing on operational efficiency and strategic expansion.
🏢 Market cap
Value
$10.39 billion USD
Analysis
Large-cap status offers stability, but recent stock declines reduced overall valuation.
📈 Revenue
Value
$3.8 billion USD (latest FY)
Analysis
Slight year-over-year decline highlights impact of softer construction demand.
💹 EBITDA
Value
$975 million USD (projected FY25)
Analysis
Healthy EBITDA shows robust operating profitability despite near-term margin pressure.
📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings)
Value
23.93
Analysis
Reasonable for sector; offers growth potential, but above historical average.
Key financial and operational indicators for the company.

How much is James Hardie Industries stock?

The price of James Hardie Industries stock is rising this week. As of the last close, JHX trades at $24.17, showing a gain of $0.17 (+0.71%) today and an increase of 7.52% over the past two weeks.

The company currently has a market capitalization of $10.39 billion, with an average 3-month daily volume of 1.76 million shares. Its price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio stands at 23.93, and the stock does not currently pay a dividend.

With a beta of 1.01, James Hardie Industries’ share price tends to move in line with the broader market—making it a potentially balanced opportunity as investors watch for continued momentum and strategic developments.

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Our full analysis on James Hardie Industries stock

After a comprehensive review of James Hardie Industries’ most recent financial disclosures and a thorough examination of the stock's multi-year performance, our advanced analytical framework—integrating financial metrics, technical dynamics, and peer benchmarking—has surfaced a robust investment profile. The confluence of market data, strategic developments, and our proprietary algorithms now prompts a compelling query for investors: So, why might James Hardie Industries stock once again become a strategic entry point into the global construction materials sector in 2025?

Recent Performance and Market Context

James Hardie Industries (JHX) is emerging from a complex period punctuated by price volatility and sector challenges. The stock currently trades at $24.17, reflecting a remarkable short-term rally—up 7.52% over the last fortnight—despite posting longer-term declines of -22.71% over the past six months and -31.14% year-on-year. This context shouldn’t be viewed merely as a setback but as a recalibration phase, particularly for a category-leading company.

Importantly, recent sessions demonstrate a pronounced appetite for the stock following a technical bottom in early April, with a substantial 19.24% rebound. This rally is corroborated by increased institutional activity and renewed attention from both Australian and global investors, leveraging JHX’s highly liquid NYSE listing.

On the macro front, as monetary policy normalises and the North American construction market shows tentative signs of recovery, building materials producers like James Hardie—well-diversified across North America, Asia Pacific, and Europe—stand to benefit from improving housing starts and renovation demand. The recent stabilisation in raw material prices further signals a favourable backdrop for margin recuperation in the coming quarters.

Technical Analysis

Current technical indicators offer encouraging signals for potential bullish continuation. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) sits at 62, close to—but not yet in—overbought territory, implying robust momentum without imminent exhaustion. The MACD has recently turned positive, reflecting renewed buying pressure, and a clear buy signal was generated from the pivot bottom on April 8, 2025.

  • The stock price has surpassed the 20-day MA ($24.00), signalling upward momentum.
  • It hovers just below the 50-day MA ($24.38); a sustained close above this level would confirm a medium-term trend reversal.
  • The 100-day MA lies beneath current levels, while the 200-day MA remains above—a reminder of the longer-term trend’s challenges, but also highlighting potential for upside catch-up.

Key support zones are clustered at $23.85 and $23.20, which have absorbed previous sell-offs and provide potential low-risk entry points. Immediate resistance stands at $24.25, followed by $24.45 and $24.64; clearing these could open the path for a steeper move towards the consensus analyst target of $31.60, a 30% premium to current levels.

Fundamental Analysis

Despite a challenging period, James Hardie Industries retains a fundamentally sound operational and strategic base. Q3 FY25 net sales reached $953.3 million, a modest 3% year-on-year decline amid market headwinds, while net income of $141.7 million was off just 2%. Importantly, adjusted EBITDA margins held at an industry-leading 27.5%, illustrating the resilience of Hardie’s business model and pricing power in the premium building materials space.

  • North American segment leadership: EBIT margin in this primary market, while down, remains robust at 29.1%.
  • Geographic diversification: Contributions from Asia Pacific and Europe, with strategic adaptations (such as exiting lower-margin operations in the Philippines), improve group efficiency.
  • Operational efficiency: The innovative Hardie Operating System continues to drive quality, capital discipline, and manufacturing excellence.
  • Innovation: The award-winning Hardie® Architectural Panel and a continually refreshed product mix solidify competitive differentiation and customer loyalty.

The current valuation—P/E ratio at 23.93—appears justifiable in the context of the company’s brand premium, innovation pipeline, and normalising sector conditions. While the consensus projects a slight revenue dip this year (-1.5%), management’s conservative guidance is likely setting the stage for outperformance in FY26, particularly given upcoming capacity expansions and the product portfolio’s strength.

Volume and Liquidity

James Hardie Industries boasts an average daily traded volume of 1.76 million shares (3-month average), underpinned by significant institutional ownership. This liquidity profile not only reflects sustained investor confidence but also provides a solid cushion for new entrants, mitigating slippage risk even in volatile periods.

The stock’s float is conducive to dynamic valuation adjustments—a key advantage as market sentiment pivots in response to major corporate announcements or sector tailwinds. The recent increase in trading volume surrounding price upswings further attests to a healthy order book and broad-based participation.

Catalysts and Positive Outlook

  • Manufacturing capacity expansion in high-growth regions, notably Prattville (USA) and Westfield (USA), positioning the company to capture pent-up construction demand during housing market recovery cycles.
  • Strategic partnerships—such as those with M/I Homes and David Weekley Homes—enhance distribution networks and embed Hardie’s products at the heart of new-build pipelines.
  • Innovation leadership, demonstrated by the iF Design Award for the Hardie® Architectural Panel and a growing suite of high-margin, differentiated offerings.
  • Product and market diversification: Ongoing shift into repair-and-remodel (R&R) markets, which show greater resilience than new construction in cyclical downturns.
  • Potential AZEK combination: The planned merger with AZEK represents a transformative growth platform. This combination would forge the largest pure-play building products business globally, unlocking scale economics, cross-selling, and geographical breadth.

Additionally, the reaffirmed FY25 guidance and robust balance sheet continue to foster investor confidence. ESG initiatives and structural sustainability attributes in Hardie’s fibre cement products appeal to increasingly eco-conscious customers and institutional mandates—potentially unlocking new pools of capital and long-term demand drivers.

Investment Strategies

  • Short-term: The immediate technical resilience above $23.85 support, combined with positive MACD and near-term momentum, may favour tactical positions targeting a breakout above the $24.38-$24.45 resistance band.
  • Medium-term: The consolidation phase beneath the 50-day MA offers a classic accumulation window ahead of potential earnings beats or strategic announcements (notably, the upcoming May 20 results and AZEK merger developments).
  • Long-term: The significant dislocation from 2024 highs, combined with clear operational strengths and pent-up macro demand, positions JHX as a candidate for value and growth portfolios aiming to capture outsized returns as the construction cycle turns.

Ideal timing would involve accumulation near technical support, especially on any short-lived pullbacks preceding key catalysts. The reversion to mean hypothesis, bolstered by a 30% upside to analyst consensus, reinforces the case for patient positioning.

Is It the Right Time to Buy James Hardie Industries?

James Hardie Industries now occupies a unique inflection point—demonstrating technical resilience, preserving enviable profit margins, and executing a well-articulated growth strategy. The recalibration in share price, set against a backdrop of sector improvement and accelerating strategic initiatives, seems to represent an excellent opportunity for discerning investors.

  • Sector leadership and brand premium in the fast-growing fibre cement category
  • Innovation-fuelled product pipeline, underpinning sustainable margins and market share gains
  • Broad-based recovery potential across regional markets, particularly as housing demand normalises
  • Strategic M&A activity (AZEK transaction) set to redefine scale and growth potential
  • Robust liquidity and institutional participation, supporting a dynamic and responsive price discovery process

In sum, while vigilance is warranted regarding margin pressures and regional volatility, the sum of James Hardie’s technical signals, underlying fundamentals, and compelling catalysts justifies renewed interest. The stock may be entering a new bullish phase, with catalysts in place to drive an upward re-rating throughout 2025 and beyond.

For investors searching for a prime entry into the global construction materials renaissance—anchored by innovation, strategic expansion, and solid financial stewardship—James Hardie Industries deserves close monitoring, with current valuation and positioning offering notable upside potential.

How to buy James Hardie Industries stock in Australia?

Buying shares in James Hardie Industries plc (JHX) online is both simple and secure when you use a regulated broker in Australia. Today, you can purchase JHX shares directly (owning the stock in your name), or via Contracts for Difference (CFDs), which allow you to speculate on price movements without owning the underlying shares. Both methods can be easily accessed through reputable brokerage platforms with robust security and compliance standards. If you’re ready to get started, don’t forget to check our comprehensive broker comparison further down the page to find the option best suited to your investing style.

Spot buying

When you buy James Hardie Industries shares using a cash account, you become the direct owner of the stock. This method, also called “spot buying,” is ideal for those seeking straightforward, long-term exposure to the company. You’ll typically face a brokerage commission per order—most major Aussie brokers charge a fixed fee, often between $5 and $10 per ASX or US trade.

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Important Information

Let’s take a hands-on example:
If the James Hardie share price is $24.17 USD (approx. $37.00 AUD), a $1,000 AUD stake allows you to purchase around 27 shares (after factoring in a $5 brokerage fee).
✔️ Gain scenario:
If the share price rises by 10%, your holding grows in value to $1,100 AUD.
Result: That’s a $100 gross gain, or +10% on your original investment—simple, transparent, and yours to keep.

CFD trading

Trading James Hardie Industries via CFDs (Contracts for Difference) means you don’t own the shares outright. Instead, you speculate on the price moving up or down, often with leverage. This increases your buying power but also your risk. With CFDs, typical costs include a “spread” (the difference between the buy and sell price) and overnight financing fees for positions you hold beyond one trading day.

icon

Important Information

Here’s an example:
Suppose you open a CFD position on James Hardie with a $1,000 AUD margin deposit and 5x leverage. You then control a market exposure of $5,000 AUD.
✔️ Gain scenario:
If the share price rises by 8%, your exposure means you gain 8% × 5 = 40%, turning your $1,000 into $1,400 AUD (before fees).
Result: That’s a $400 gain—though remember, leveraged losses can also multiply, and extra charges may apply.

Final advice

Before buying James Hardie Industries shares, it’s essential to compare brokers’ fees, platforms, and terms to ensure you’re getting the best deal for your needs. Your choice—spot buying or CFD trading—should reflect your financial objectives and risk tolerance. To help you decide, review our detailed broker comparison further down the page and choose the approach that fits your goals as an Australian investor.

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#1
CFD Specialist
#1Recommended Offer
Notes
4.9
5 things to know about Avatrade

Is AvaTrade reliable?

AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions, including ASIC (Australia). They are also regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland, the AMF in France, and the FSA (Japan). Active since 2006, it offers solid guarantees, including the separation of client funds and strict compliance with international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both novice and experienced traders.

Why choose AvaTrade?

AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. Tutorials, demo accounts and free training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don't need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.

What are the fees at AvaTrade?

AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when you pay.

Who is AvaTrade for?

AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you're looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is a great choice.

Is AvaTrade reliable?

AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions, including ASIC (Australia). They are also regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland, the AMF in France, and the FSA (Japan). Active since 2006, it offers solid guarantees, including the separation of client funds and strict compliance with international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both novice and experienced traders.

Why choose AvaTrade?

AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. Tutorials, demo accounts and free training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don't need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.

What are the fees at AvaTrade?

AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when you pay.

Who is AvaTrade for?

AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you're looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is a great choice.

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#2
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4.8
74% of CFD accounts lose money. Risk limited to your capital.
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Is IG reliable?

IG is a trustworthy trading platform, regulated by top authorities such as the CFTC and NFA in the United States, ensuring your funds are secure. It has strong measures in place to protect users and guarantees complete transparency. Thousands of clients worldwide vouch for its reliability and security.

Why choose IG?

IG stands out with its user-friendly interface, making it perfect for beginners. It offers unique tools like IG Academy and ProRealTime for learning and market analysis. The platform provides access to a wide range of assets, including stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies, along with a strong community for trading discussions.

What are the fees at IG?

IG offers competitive spreads with no commissions on buying stocks or ETFs. Withdrawal fees are transparent, and inactivity fees apply after one year without activity. The platform maintains a clear pricing structure, allowing users to easily understand all costs related to their transactions.

Who is IG for?

IG is perfect for beginner and intermediate traders due to its simple interface and educational resources. It also caters to experienced investors with advanced trading tools. Users have access to a wide variety of assets like stocks, cryptocurrencies, and ETFs, making it suitable for diversifying portfolios.

Is IG reliable?

IG is a trustworthy trading platform, regulated by top authorities such as the CFTC and NFA in the United States, ensuring your funds are secure. It has strong measures in place to protect users and guarantees complete transparency. Thousands of clients worldwide vouch for its reliability and security.

Why choose IG?

IG stands out with its user-friendly interface, making it perfect for beginners. It offers unique tools like IG Academy and ProRealTime for learning and market analysis. The platform provides access to a wide range of assets, including stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies, along with a strong community for trading discussions.

What are the fees at IG?

IG offers competitive spreads with no commissions on buying stocks or ETFs. Withdrawal fees are transparent, and inactivity fees apply after one year without activity. The platform maintains a clear pricing structure, allowing users to easily understand all costs related to their transactions.

Who is IG for?

IG is perfect for beginner and intermediate traders due to its simple interface and educational resources. It also caters to experienced investors with advanced trading tools. Users have access to a wide variety of assets like stocks, cryptocurrencies, and ETFs, making it suitable for diversifying portfolios.

#3
30+ million users
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4.6
On the broker's website
5 Things to Know About eToro

Is eToro reliable?

Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including ASIC (Australia). It is also regulated by the FCA (UK) and CySEC (Europe). With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognised for its security and transparency. Based on our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.

Why choose eToro?

With eToro, you don’t need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while investing.
You have access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community for exchanging ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's a bit like the Spotify of investing.

What are the fees at eToro?

eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of stocks or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposits are free, and withdrawals are set at $5 USD. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a $10 USD monthly fee applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly stated on its website (we can't say the same about all competitors).

Who is eToro for?

eToro is mainly for beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).

Is eToro reliable?

Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including ASIC (Australia). It is also regulated by the FCA (UK) and CySEC (Europe). With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognised for its security and transparency. Based on our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.

Why choose eToro?

With eToro, you don’t need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while investing.
You have access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community for exchanging ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's a bit like the Spotify of investing.

What are the fees at eToro?

eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of stocks or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposits are free, and withdrawals are set at $5 USD. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a $10 USD monthly fee applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly stated on its website (we can't say the same about all competitors).

Who is eToro for?

eToro is mainly for beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).

Our 7 tips for buying James Hardie Industries stock

📊 Step📝 Specific tip for James Hardie Industries
Analyse the marketEvaluate the construction materials sector in Australia and globally, noting James Hardie’s market share, leadership in fibre cement, and its exposure to North American markets.
Choose the right trading platformUse an ASX-accredited online broker that allows access to James Hardie’s ASX-listed share (JHX), prioritising transparency and reasonable brokerage fees.
Define your investment budgetGiven James Hardie’s moderate volatility and sector-specific risks, allocate only a portion of your portfolio and consider diversification with other Australian stocks.
Choose a strategy (short or long term)Consider a long-term approach, capitalising on James Hardie’s planned capacity expansions and market recovery, rather than seeking short-term gains during sector volatility.
Monitor news and financial resultsFollow quarterly earnings, the next results announcement, and major news—especially regarding the AZEK combination and updates from the company’s strategic growth programs.
Use risk management toolsPlace stop-loss or trailing stop orders to protect your investment, especially as JHX volatility may increase following global economic or industry-specific developments.
Sell at the right timeConsider realising profits if the share price approaches resistance levels or after positive momentum from major company milestones, while monitoring for signs of overvaluation.
Tips for buying shares in James Hardie Industries
Analyse the market
📝 Specific tip for James Hardie Industries
Evaluate the construction materials sector in Australia and globally, noting James Hardie’s market share, leadership in fibre cement, and its exposure to North American markets.
Choose the right trading platform
📝 Specific tip for James Hardie Industries
Use an ASX-accredited online broker that allows access to James Hardie’s ASX-listed share (JHX), prioritising transparency and reasonable brokerage fees.
Define your investment budget
📝 Specific tip for James Hardie Industries
Given James Hardie’s moderate volatility and sector-specific risks, allocate only a portion of your portfolio and consider diversification with other Australian stocks.
Choose a strategy (short or long term)
📝 Specific tip for James Hardie Industries
Consider a long-term approach, capitalising on James Hardie’s planned capacity expansions and market recovery, rather than seeking short-term gains during sector volatility.
Monitor news and financial results
📝 Specific tip for James Hardie Industries
Follow quarterly earnings, the next results announcement, and major news—especially regarding the AZEK combination and updates from the company’s strategic growth programs.
Use risk management tools
📝 Specific tip for James Hardie Industries
Place stop-loss or trailing stop orders to protect your investment, especially as JHX volatility may increase following global economic or industry-specific developments.
Sell at the right time
📝 Specific tip for James Hardie Industries
Consider realising profits if the share price approaches resistance levels or after positive momentum from major company milestones, while monitoring for signs of overvaluation.
Tips for buying shares in James Hardie Industries

The latest news about James Hardie Industries

James Hardie Industries’ stock recorded a 7.52% gain over the past two weeks, marking one of the strongest short-term rallies among ASX-listed building material companies. This rise is noteworthy as it follows the issuance of a technical buy signal from a pivot bottom on April 8, 2025, resulting in a cumulative 19.24% price increase since then. The positive momentum correlates with recent improvements in key technical indicators—the MACD for JHX turned positive, and the current price has moved above its 20-day moving average, signaling short-term bullishness. Despite the recent price surge, volume fell on the last trading day, which analysts interpret as a point to monitor rather than an immediate concern.

James Hardie reaffirmed its full-year guidance for FY25, projecting North America EBIT margin at or above 29.3% and adjusted net income of at least $635 million. This guidance suggests operational confidence and resilience despite ongoing market challenges, such as elevated raw material costs and specific weakness in the multi-family construction segment. For Australian stakeholders, this stable outlook is particularly relevant given the company’s Asia Pacific Fiber Cement division, which, despite a 12% sales dip, improved its EBIT margin by 180 basis points. This highlights efficiency gains and cost management that could serve as a blueprint for operations in the Australian context.

The company’s innovation drive, led by the Hardie™ Architectural Panel—which recently won the prestigious iF Design Award—underscores a strong commitment to product differentiation and market leadership. This award not only strengthens James Hardie’s reputation in the premium building products segment but also enhances its competitive appeal in the Australian market, where design and sustainability credentials can influence contract wins with local builders and developers. Historically, James Hardie’s market position in Australia has benefited from such innovation, underpinning both sales channels and brand equity.

Strategic partnerships with major North American homebuilders, including recent exclusive agreements with M/I Homes and David Weekley Homes, position James Hardie for potential volume rebounds as the housing cycle recovers. While these deals are primarily North American in focus, they lend credibility and scale to James Hardie’s global platform, which includes Australian operations. Australian investors should note that such alliances often lead to technology transfer, higher project visibility, and strengthened distribution networks, all of which can translate into improved prospects and earnings stability on a local level when similar strategies are deployed domestically.

The planned combination with AZEK, announced on March 23, 2025, could create a global growth platform and may bring market synergies particularly relevant to the Asia Pacific, including Australia. Should the merger proceed as outlined, James Hardie could broaden its product suite, enhance manufacturing capabilities, and strengthen its balance sheet, amplifying its capacity to weather localized market disruptions such as shifts in the Australian housing or regulatory landscape. For Australian analysts and institutional investors, this deal signals a bold strategic move that has the potential to enhance both global and regional competitive positioning.

FAQ

What is the latest dividend for James Hardie Industries stock?

James Hardie Industries does not currently pay a dividend. The last dividend was issued in July 2022, and no new distributions have been announced since. This reflects the company’s focus on reinvesting profits into growth initiatives and innovation. Historically, James Hardie has taken an opportunistic approach to dividends, and investors should follow company communications for any future updates.

What is the forecast for James Hardie Industries stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?

Based on the current share price of $24.17, projected values are $31.42 for the end of 2025, $36.26 for 2026, and $48.34 by the end of 2027. This optimistic outlook is supported by the company’s strong market position in fiber cement products and strategic moves, such as planned expansion projects and the recently announced combination with AZEK, which could unlock further growth in key markets.

Should I sell my James Hardie Industries shares?

Holding onto your James Hardie Industries shares may be appropriate for investors seeking mid- to long-term growth. The company’s market leadership, strategic expansions, and operational efficiency provide solid fundamentals. While recent market weakness has pressured the share price, analysts remain positive, and catalysts like product innovation and sector recovery present attractive prospects for future appreciation.

How are dividends and capital gains from James Hardie Industries shares taxed in Australia?

For Australian investors, both dividends (if paid) and capital gains from James Hardie Industries shares are generally subject to Australian tax rules. Since the company is headquartered overseas, dividends may not carry franking credits and could be subject to foreign withholding tax. Capital gains are usually taxable, but holding shares for over 12 months may entitle you to a CGT discount. Consult the ATO or your tax advisor for your specific situation.

What is the latest dividend for James Hardie Industries stock?

James Hardie Industries does not currently pay a dividend. The last dividend was issued in July 2022, and no new distributions have been announced since. This reflects the company’s focus on reinvesting profits into growth initiatives and innovation. Historically, James Hardie has taken an opportunistic approach to dividends, and investors should follow company communications for any future updates.

What is the forecast for James Hardie Industries stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?

Based on the current share price of $24.17, projected values are $31.42 for the end of 2025, $36.26 for 2026, and $48.34 by the end of 2027. This optimistic outlook is supported by the company’s strong market position in fiber cement products and strategic moves, such as planned expansion projects and the recently announced combination with AZEK, which could unlock further growth in key markets.

Should I sell my James Hardie Industries shares?

Holding onto your James Hardie Industries shares may be appropriate for investors seeking mid- to long-term growth. The company’s market leadership, strategic expansions, and operational efficiency provide solid fundamentals. While recent market weakness has pressured the share price, analysts remain positive, and catalysts like product innovation and sector recovery present attractive prospects for future appreciation.

How are dividends and capital gains from James Hardie Industries shares taxed in Australia?

For Australian investors, both dividends (if paid) and capital gains from James Hardie Industries shares are generally subject to Australian tax rules. Since the company is headquartered overseas, dividends may not carry franking credits and could be subject to foreign withholding tax. Capital gains are usually taxable, but holding shares for over 12 months may entitle you to a CGT discount. Consult the ATO or your tax advisor for your specific situation.

P. Laurore
P. Laurore
Finance expert
HelloSafe
Co-founder of HelloSafe and holder of a Master's degree in finance, Pauline has recognised expertise in personal finance, which she uses to help users better understand and optimise their financial choices. At HelloSafe, Pauline plays a key role in designing clear, educational content on savings, investments and personal finance. Passionate about financial education, Pauline strives, with every piece of content she oversees, to provide reliable, transparent and unbiased information for independent and informed financial management. To this end, she has tested over 100 trading platforms to help internet users make the right choices.

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