Fortive profit skyrockets as core revenue growth hits upper range of forecast

Fortive (NYSE:FTV) delivered a strong start to the 2026 fiscal year, characterized by steady expansion across its specialized technology segments and aggressive capital returns to shareholders.

The Everett-based company posted first-quarter revenue growth of 7.7% on a reported basis, with core revenue—which excludes the impact of acquisitions and divestitures—climbing 5.3%.

Financial results were aided by a calendar tailwind of approximately 150 basis points due to additional selling days compared to the prior year period.

On a GAAP basis, Fortive reported diluted net earnings per share (EPS) of $0.44.

Excluding one-time items and restructuring costs, adjusted diluted net EPS reached $0.70, reflecting the company's high-margin software and recurring revenue streams.

Management highlighted significant progress on its "Fortive Accelerated" strategy, a multi-year initiative focused on shifting the portfolio toward higher-growth, asset-light business models.

The company remains on track with its medium-term financial framework, citing resilient demand for its precision technologies and sensing solutions across the healthcare and industrial sectors.

Looking ahead, Fortive reaffirmed its full-year 2026 adjusted EPS guidance of $2.90 to $3.