Whirlpool Shares Plunge 12% After Warning of Recession-Level Industry Decline

Story Summary
Whirlpool shares fell 12% on Thursday after the appliance manufacturer warned that the war in Iran triggered a recession-level decline in the U.S. market. Citing a collapse in consumer confidence during late February and March, the company slashed its full-year earnings guidance to a range of $3 to $3.50 per share, down from a previous forecast of approximately $6. To prioritize debt reduction, Whirlpool will suspend its dividend. CEO Marc Bitzer noted that the company is adjusting pricing and costs to combat macroeconomic deterioration and rising raw material inflation. This downturn highlights a growing divergence in consumer behavior, as demand for big-ticket items wanes despite resilient spending in the travel and services sectors.





