Federal Signal (FSS)
:FSS
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Federal Signal (FSS) AI Stock Analysis

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FSS

Federal Signal

(NYSE:FSS)

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Outperform 73 (OpenAI - 4o)
Rating:73Outperform
Price Target:
$129.00
▲(11.43% Upside)
Federal Signal's strong financial performance and positive earnings call sentiment are the primary drivers of its overall score. The company's robust growth and strategic initiatives are promising, though valuation concerns and technical indicators suggest caution. The stock's overvaluation and bearish technical signals temper the otherwise positive outlook.
Positive Factors
Revenue Growth
Consistent revenue growth indicates strong demand for Federal Signal's products, reflecting a robust business model and market position.
Strategic Acquisition
The acquisition of New Way Trucks expands Federal Signal's product offerings and market reach, enhancing long-term competitive advantage.
Strong Cash Flow
Robust cash flow generation supports Federal Signal's ability to invest in growth opportunities and maintain financial stability.
Negative Factors
Rising Debt Levels
Increasing debt levels could strain Federal Signal's financial flexibility, potentially impacting future investment capacity and risk profile.
Increased Operating Expenses
Rising operating expenses may pressure margins and reduce profitability if not managed effectively over the long term.
Impact of Tariff and Trade Policies
Tariff and trade policy uncertainties could affect Federal Signal's cost structure and profitability, posing a risk to future earnings stability.

Federal Signal (FSS) vs. SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY)

Federal Signal Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionFederal Signal Corporation (FSS) is a leading provider of products and solutions for the emergency response, safety, and security markets. Headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois, the company operates primarily in two sectors: the Emergency Response and Safety and Security segments. FSS manufactures a wide range of core products, including warning sirens, light bars, and other signaling devices, as well as advanced communication systems and vehicle equipment tailored for public safety and industrial applications.
How the Company Makes MoneyFederal Signal generates revenue through the sale of its diverse product offerings and services across its two main segments. The Emergency Response segment contributes significantly to its earnings by providing essential equipment used by law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services. This includes sirens, lights, and vehicle equipment. The Safety and Security segment focuses on providing products for the industrial market, including environmental monitoring systems and safety equipment. Key revenue streams also include maintenance and service contracts, which offer ongoing support for installed products. The company benefits from partnerships with government agencies, municipalities, and private sector clients, enhancing its reach and reliability in the market. Additionally, Federal Signal invests in innovation and technology, which helps to maintain a competitive edge and attract new customers.

Federal Signal Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Oct 30, 2025
(Q3-2025)
|
% Change Since: |
Next Earnings Date:Mar 03, 2026
Earnings Call Sentiment Positive
The earnings call reflects a positive sentiment with record financial performance, strong order intake, and successful acquisition integration despite challenges in backlog reduction due to the transition in refuse truck offerings and continued lead time issues in specific product lines.
Q3-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Record Third Quarter Financial Performance
Federal Signal Corporation reported record third quarter results with a 17% year-over-year net sales growth, a 24% increase in operating income, and a 130 basis point increase in adjusted EBITDA margin. Adjusted EPS was up 30% from the previous year.
Strong Order Intake and Backlog
The company recorded a third quarter order intake of $467 million, the highest ever for a third quarter, representing a 10% year-over-year increase. Despite a 4% decline in backlog, the strong order intake provides excellent visibility into 2026.
Robust Performance in ESG and SSG Segments
Environmental Solutions Group (ESG) and Safety and Security Systems Group (SSG) both showed significant growth. ESG's net sales increased by 17% and SSG's by 18% year-over-year. SSG's adjusted EBITDA margin improved by 220 basis points.
Successful Integration of Acquisitions
Recent acquisitions like Hog Technologies and Standard contributed positively to the top line, with Hog exceeding initial financial estimates.
Expansion and Investment Initiatives
The company executed a new 5-year $1.5 billion credit facility to support growth initiatives and future acquisitions. Additionally, significant investments are being made in productivity-enhancing projects and strategic growth initiatives.
Negative Updates
Decrease in Backlog Due to Transition in Refuse Truck Offerings
The backlog decreased by 4% year-over-year, primarily due to an 85% decline in third-party refuse truck orders as the company transitions to New Way refuse truck offerings.
Challenges with Lead Times
Certain product lines, such as 4-wheel sweepers, continue to experience long lead times ranging from 12 to 18 months, indicating ongoing challenges in production capacity.
Increased Corporate Operating Expenses
Corporate operating expenses increased due to higher acquisition and integration-related costs, impacting overall profitability.
Company Guidance
During the Federal Signal Corporation's third-quarter earnings call, the company updated its guidance for the fiscal year 2025, highlighting various metrics reflecting strong performance and growth initiatives. The company reported a 17% year-over-year increase in net sales, amounting to $555 million in Q3 2025, with an organic net sales growth of 11%. Consolidated operating income rose by 24% to $94 million, and adjusted EBITDA grew by 25% to $116.2 million, translating to a margin increase of 130 basis points to 20.9%. Earnings per share (EPS) on a GAAP basis were $1.11, up by 28%, while adjusted EPS was $1.14, showing a 30% increase. The company also achieved a record third-quarter order intake of $467 million, a 10% rise from the previous year, although backlog declined by 4% to $992 million. Environmental Solutions Group (ESG) and Safety and Security Systems Group (SSG) both showed significant gains, with ESG reporting a 17% increase in net sales to $466 million and SSG recording an 18% rise to $90 million. Federal Signal's full-year adjusted EPS outlook was raised to a range of $4.09 to $4.17, and the net sales outlook was increased to $2.1 billion to $2.14 billion, reflecting the company's confidence in sustained demand and strategic growth initiatives.

Federal Signal Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Federal Signal demonstrates strong financial health with consistent revenue growth and profitability. The company maintains a stable balance sheet with low leverage and effective equity utilization. While cash flow generation is robust, the recent decline in free cash flow growth is a point to monitor.
Income Statement
85
Very Positive
Federal Signal has demonstrated strong revenue growth with a TTM increase of 4.09% and consistent profitability, as evidenced by a solid gross profit margin of 29.04% and a net profit margin of 11.22%. The EBIT and EBITDA margins are healthy at 15.37% and 19.05%, respectively, indicating efficient operational management. The company has shown a positive revenue growth trajectory over the years, contributing to its high income statement score.
Balance Sheet
78
Positive
The company maintains a low debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, reflecting prudent financial leverage. The return on equity is robust at 18.97%, showcasing effective use of shareholder funds to generate profits. The equity ratio stands at 68.19%, indicating a strong equity base relative to total assets. While the balance sheet is stable, the score is slightly moderated by the need for continued equity growth to support expansion.
Cash Flow
72
Positive
Federal Signal's cash flow performance is solid, with an operating cash flow to net income ratio of 0.97, indicating strong cash generation relative to net income. However, the free cash flow growth rate has declined by 3.00% in the TTM, which slightly impacts the cash flow score. The free cash flow to net income ratio of 0.89 suggests efficient cash conversion, but the recent decline in free cash flow growth warrants attention.
BreakdownTTMDec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income Statement
Total Revenue2.06B1.86B1.72B1.43B1.21B1.13B
Gross Profit590.00M533.00M450.20M344.90M288.70M293.60M
EBITDA397.70M341.70M283.10M215.90M172.50M175.10M
Net Income235.80M216.30M157.40M120.40M100.60M96.20M
Balance Sheet
Total Assets1.94B1.77B1.62B1.52B1.37B1.21B
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments54.40M91.10M61.00M47.50M40.50M81.70M
Total Debt243.10M252.40M320.70M388.40M313.70M233.70M
Total Liabilities616.70M579.10M618.60M663.40M582.10M506.70M
Stockholders Equity1.32B1.19B1.00B860.90M784.00M702.10M
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow219.70M190.70M164.10M18.80M64.40M106.50M
Operating Cash Flow248.10M231.30M194.40M71.80M101.80M136.20M
Investing Cash Flow-149.40M-78.90M-83.70M-99.70M-168.70M-34.40M
Financing Cash Flow-118.20M-121.00M-97.90M35.50M26.40M-53.40M

Federal Signal Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Negative
Last Price115.77
Price Trends
50DMA
120.67
Negative
100DMA
118.70
Negative
200DMA
102.86
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
-2.82
Positive
RSI
37.52
Neutral
STOCH
16.89
Positive
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For FSS, the sentiment is Negative. The current price of 115.77 is below the 20-day moving average (MA) of 118.53, below the 50-day MA of 120.67, and above the 200-day MA of 102.86, indicating a neutral trend. The MACD of -2.82 indicates Positive momentum. The RSI at 37.52 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 16.89 is Positive, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Negative sentiment for FSS.

Federal Signal Risk Analysis

Federal Signal disclosed 21 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. Federal Signal reported the most risks in the "Finance & Corporate" category.
Finance & Corporate - Financial and accounting risks. Risks related to the execution of corporate activity and strategy
Latest Risks Added 0 New Risks

Federal Signal Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (63)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
79
Outperform
$7.95B42.2811.76%0.78%6.88%42.07%
78
Outperform
$4.05B20.6771.52%0.41%3.72%11.71%
77
Outperform
$1.85B36.6518.85%29.86%331.33%
73
Outperform
$6.91B29.6619.08%0.43%11.83%11.08%
68
Neutral
$744.79M41.299.41%0.10%1.50%
63
Neutral
$10.79B15.437.44%2.01%2.89%-14.66%
38
Underperform
$1.83B-147.56%12.57%
* Industrials Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
FSS
Federal Signal
111.16
20.96
23.24%
CECO
Ceco Environmental
51.88
25.78
98.77%
ERII
Energy Recovery
14.26
-4.74
-24.95%
ZWS
Zurn Water Solutions
47.51
8.97
23.27%
PCT
PureCycle Technologies
9.60
-1.54
-13.82%
ATMU
Atmus Filtration Technologies, Inc.
49.94
7.01
16.33%

Federal Signal Corporate Events

Federal Signal Reports Strong Q3 Growth and Raises Outlook
Oct 31, 2025

Federal Signal Corporation, a prominent player in the environmental and safety solutions sector, has reported robust financial results for the third quarter of 2025, showcasing significant growth in both net sales and operating income. The company, known for its innovative products and solutions that cater to municipal, governmental, industrial, and commercial customers, continues to strengthen its market position with strategic initiatives.

Business Operations and StrategyM&A Transactions
Federal Signal Acquires New Way Trucks for $396M
Neutral
Sep 25, 2025

On September 24, 2025, Federal Signal Corporation announced its agreement to acquire Scranton Manufacturing Company Inc., known as New Way Trucks, for $396 million, with additional considerations for facilities and real estate rights. This acquisition, expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, marks Federal Signal’s expansion into the refuse collection vehicle market, enhancing its specialty vehicle platform and positioning it for growth in the recession-resilient waste and recycling industry. The transaction is anticipated to be neutral to earnings per share in 2026 but accretive in subsequent years, with significant synergies expected by 2028.

The most recent analyst rating on (FSS) stock is a Buy with a $144.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Federal Signal stock, see the FSS Stock Forecast page.

Federal Signal’s Earnings Call Highlights Record Growth
Aug 1, 2025

Federal Signal Corporation’s recent earnings call painted a picture of robust financial health and optimistic future prospects. The company reported record-setting results, with significant year-over-year growth across various key metrics. Despite some increased expenses, the strong demand, impressive order intake, and raised guidance for 2025 indicate a positive outlook for the company.

Federal Signal Reports Strong Q2 Growth and Raises Outlook
Jul 31, 2025

Federal Signal Corporation, a prominent player in the environmental and safety solutions sector, has reported a robust financial performance for the second quarter of 2025, showcasing significant growth in net sales and operating income. The company, known for its high-quality equipment that serves municipal, governmental, industrial, and commercial customers, continues to expand its market presence with strategic initiatives.

Glossary
BuyA stock rated as a "Buy" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
HoldA stock rated as a "Hold" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly compelling nor unfavorable for investment. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
SellA stock rated as a "Sell" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock may deliver lower returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.Date of analysis: Oct 31, 2025