MSA Safety Incorporated (MSA)
NYSE:MSA
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MSA Safety (MSA) AI Stock Analysis

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MSA

MSA Safety

(NYSE:MSA)

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Outperform 70 (OpenAI - 4o)
Rating:70Outperform
Price Target:
$173.00
▲(10.69% Upside)
MSA Safety's overall stock score is driven by its strong financial performance and positive earnings call, which highlight robust sales growth and strategic acquisitions. However, technical indicators suggest a bearish trend, and valuation metrics indicate potential overvaluation, which temper the overall score.
Positive Factors
Strong Financial Health
MSA's robust balance sheet with low leverage and high return on equity indicates strong financial management, supporting long-term stability.
Successful Acquisition Integration
Successful integration of acquisitions like M&C TechGroup enhances MSA's market position and growth potential, contributing to revenue expansion.
Product Innovation
Ongoing product innovation, such as new safety devices, strengthens MSA's competitive edge and supports long-term revenue growth.
Negative Factors
Decline in Free Cash Flow
A sharp drop in free cash flow growth may limit MSA's ability to invest in new projects and innovations, potentially hindering future growth.
Fire Service Sales Decline
Declining sales in the fire service segment could signal challenges in maintaining market share and revenue in this key area.
Gross Margin Pressure
Margin pressures from inflation, tariffs, and FX could impact profitability, requiring strategic adjustments to maintain financial health.

MSA Safety (MSA) vs. SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY)

MSA Safety Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionMSA Safety Incorporated develops, manufactures, and supplies safety products that protect people and facility infrastructures in the oil, gas, petrochemical, fire service, construction, industrial manufacturing applications, utilities, military, and mining industries in North America, Latin America, and internationally. The company's core product offerings include permanently installed fixed gas and flame detection instruments, such as permanently installed gas detection monitoring systems, and flame detectors and open-path infrared gas detectors, as well as replacement components and related services to detect the presence or absence of various gases in the air. Its core product offerings also comprise breathing apparatus products, such as self-contained breathing apparatus; hand-held portable gas detection instruments; industrial head protection products; firefighter helmets and protective apparel; and fall protection equipment, including confined space equipment, harnesses, lanyards, and self-retracting lifelines, as well as engineered systems. In addition, the company offers air-purifying respirators, eye and face protection products, ballistic helmets, and gas masks. It serves distributors and end-users through indirect and direct sales channels. The company offers its product under the V-Gard, Cairns, and Gallet brand names. MSA Safety Incorporated was founded in 1914 and is based in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania.
How the Company Makes MoneyMSA generates revenue through the sale of its safety products and services, which include equipment rentals and maintenance. The primary revenue streams consist of direct sales to customers, contracts with government agencies, and partnerships with distributors worldwide. MSA's focus on innovation leads to the development of advanced technologies, such as smart helmets and wireless gas detectors, which command higher price points. Additionally, the company benefits from long-term relationships with key clients in various industries, ensuring steady demand for its safety solutions and contributing to recurring revenue through service contracts and product upgrades.

MSA Safety Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Oct 28, 2025
(Q3-2025)
|
% Change Since: |
Next Earnings Date:Feb 18, 2026
Earnings Call Sentiment Neutral
The earnings call highlighted strong sales growth, successful integration of the M&C acquisition, and robust free cash flow. However, challenges in the fire service sector, the impact of tariffs and the U.S. government shutdown, and margin pressures were significant concerns.
Q3-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Sales Growth
Consolidated reported sales growth was 8% with 3% organic growth and adjusted earnings per share were $1.94.
M&C TechGroup Acquisition
The acquisition contributed $15 million for the quarter and its integration into the MSA business has been positive.
Free Cash Flow
Robust free cash flow of $100 million or 144% of earnings with a 33% increase in operating cash flow from the previous year.
International Segment Performance
Sales increased by 16% year-over-year on a reported basis with a 7% contribution from M&C and 5% organic growth.
Product Launches
Introduced the ALTAIR io 6 multi-gas connected portable device and the new H2 V-Gard safety helmet.
Negative Updates
Fire Service Sales Decline
Organic sales in fire service declined 3% year-over-year, affected by U.S. market dynamics and international market challenges.
Order Backlog and Impact of Government Shutdown
Sequentially, the backlog declined due entirely to timing in the fire service, and the U.S. government shutdown is expected to impact fourth-quarter sales.
Gross Margin Pressure
GAAP gross margins declined to 46.5%, down 140 basis points from last year, reflecting inflation, tariffs, and FX increases.
Americas Segment Margin Contraction
Adjusted operating margin was 28.3%, down 240 basis points year-over-year due to inflation, tariffs, and FX.
Company Guidance
During the MSA Safety Third Quarter 2025 Earnings Conference Call, the company reported an 8% increase in consolidated sales, with 3% organic growth and adjusted earnings per share of $1.94. Detection saw a 6% rise in organic sales, driven by fixed and portable instruments, while industrial PPE experienced a 7% increase, led by strong performance in fall protection. However, the fire service segment faced a 3% decline due to market dynamics and funding delays. The M&C TechGroup acquisition contributed $15 million in sales for the quarter. Despite challenges, MSA Safety maintained its low single-digit full-year organic growth outlook, with M&C expected to add approximately 2 points to annual revenue growth. The company also highlighted strong free cash flow of $100 million and emphasized ongoing efforts in tariff mitigation and operational efficiencies to counter inflationary pressures, aiming for price/cost neutrality by the first half of 2026.

MSA Safety Financial Statement Overview

Summary
MSA Safety shows strong financial health with consistent revenue growth and profitability. The balance sheet is robust, with low leverage and high return on equity. However, the significant drop in free cash flow growth is a concern that needs addressing to ensure sustained financial flexibility.
Income Statement
85
Very Positive
MSA Safety has demonstrated strong revenue growth with a 1.96% increase in the TTM period, supported by healthy gross and net profit margins of 46.48% and 15.02%, respectively. The EBIT margin is robust at 21.50%, indicating efficient operational management. However, there is a slight decline in EBITDA margin compared to the previous year, suggesting potential cost pressures.
Balance Sheet
78
Positive
The company maintains a solid balance sheet with a low debt-to-equity ratio of 0.041, reflecting prudent financial management. Return on equity is strong at 22.91%, indicating effective use of shareholder funds. The equity ratio stands at 51.00%, showcasing a stable capital structure. However, the decrease in total debt suggests a strategic deleveraging approach.
Cash Flow
70
Positive
MSA Safety's cash flow performance shows a significant decline in free cash flow growth by 83.61%, which could impact future investments. The operating cash flow to net income ratio is moderate at 0.37, indicating adequate cash generation relative to net income. The free cash flow to net income ratio is 0.38, suggesting room for improvement in cash flow efficiency.
BreakdownTTMDec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income Statement
Total Revenue1.86B1.81B1.79B1.53B1.40B1.35B
Gross Profit866.15M860.45M852.14M673.83M615.35M595.49M
EBITDA470.37M476.23M314.19M316.51M84.68M217.25M
Net Income279.94M284.97M58.58M179.63M21.34M124.08M
Balance Sheet
Total Assets2.55B2.21B2.17B2.38B2.40B1.87B
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments170.00M164.56M146.44M162.90M140.90M160.67M
Total Debt54.02M565.40M646.19M572.83M597.65M351.80M
Total Liabilities1.25B1.06B1.20B1.45B1.56B1.06B
Stockholders Equity1.30B1.14B966.80M923.74M834.39M809.89M
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow282.91M242.21M50.09M113.51M150.02M157.65M
Operating Cash Flow349.42M296.43M92.86M157.46M199.15M206.56M
Investing Cash Flow-253.89M-53.76M-39.95M-4.48M-415.47M-72.77M
Financing Cash Flow-70.34M-208.69M-52.25M-113.35M203.93M-126.53M

MSA Safety Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Negative
Last Price156.29
Price Trends
50DMA
166.38
Negative
100DMA
169.45
Negative
200DMA
162.31
Negative
Market Momentum
MACD
-2.62
Negative
RSI
39.36
Neutral
STOCH
60.38
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For MSA, the sentiment is Negative. The current price of 156.29 is below the 20-day moving average (MA) of 161.25, below the 50-day MA of 166.38, and below the 200-day MA of 162.31, indicating a bearish trend. The MACD of -2.62 indicates Negative momentum. The RSI at 39.36 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 60.38 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Negative sentiment for MSA.

MSA Safety Risk Analysis

MSA Safety disclosed 27 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. MSA Safety reported the most risks in the "Legal & Regulatory" category.
Finance & Corporate - Financial and accounting risks. Risks related to the execution of corporate activity and strategy
Latest Risks Added 0 New Risks

MSA Safety Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (63)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
77
Outperform
$1.44B32.8525.03%1.30%-2.28%-9.94%
70
Outperform
$6.12B22.0223.35%1.36%3.31%2.58%
70
Outperform
$6.77B11.7917.24%2.71%4.77%-22.78%
68
Neutral
$3.53B19.0316.76%1.29%12.84%-3.06%
68
Neutral
$4.63B28.1861.95%0.91%3.07%48.57%
63
Neutral
$10.79B15.437.44%2.01%2.89%-14.66%
49
Neutral
$4.94B-20.90%15.45%-488.24%
* Industrials Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
MSA
MSA Safety
156.29
-10.92
-6.53%
BRC
Brady
74.88
5.71
8.26%
BCO
Brink's Company
111.35
21.03
23.28%
NSSC
Napco Security Technologies
40.35
5.33
15.22%
ADT
Adt
8.26
0.91
12.38%
REZI
Resideo Technologies
33.01
7.41
28.95%

MSA Safety Corporate Events

MSA Safety Reports Strong Q3 2025 Performance
Oct 30, 2025

MSA Safety Incorporated is a global leader in advanced safety products and solutions, primarily serving the safety equipment industry with a focus on protecting workers and infrastructure worldwide.

MSA Safety’s Earnings Call: Growth Amid Challenges
Oct 30, 2025

MSA Safety Incorporated’s recent earnings call painted a picture of robust growth tempered by significant challenges. The company reported strong sales growth and successful integration of its recent acquisition, alongside impressive free cash flow. However, concerns were raised regarding the fire service sector, the impact of tariffs, and the U.S. government shutdown, all contributing to margin pressures.

Business Operations and StrategyExecutive/Board Changes
MSA Safety Appoints Julie Beck as New CFO
Positive
Aug 13, 2025

On August 13, 2025, MSA Safety announced the appointment of Julie A. Beck as Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer, effective August 18, 2025. Ms. Beck, who previously held the CFO position at Terex Corporation, brings extensive global financial experience and expertise in mergers and acquisitions, inflation management, and business transformation. Her leadership is expected to enhance MSA Safety’s financial strategies and operational growth, succeeding interim CFO Elyse Brody, who will continue as Executive Director of Financial Planning and Analysis and Strategy.

The most recent analyst rating on (MSA) stock is a Hold with a $200.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on MSA Safety stock, see the MSA Stock Forecast page.

MSA Safety Reports Steady Q2 2025 Performance
Aug 6, 2025

MSA Safety Incorporated is a global leader in advanced safety products and solutions, serving diverse markets with a focus on worker and facility protection. The company recently reported its second quarter 2025 financial results, highlighting steady net sales and strategic acquisitions.

MSA Safety’s Earnings Call: Mixed Sentiment with Strategic Growth
Aug 6, 2025

MSA Safety Incorporated’s recent earnings call presented a mixed sentiment, highlighting both areas of growth and challenges. The company showcased strong performance in its Detection and Industrial PPE segments, fueled by strategic acquisitions and effective capital deployment. However, concerns were raised due to challenges in the Fire Service segment, pressures on gross margins, and a lower book-to-bill ratio. Despite these hurdles, MSA Safety’s resilience and operational strength, driven by strategic actions and innovation, offer a balanced perspective.

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