Caterpillar Q2 revenue $20 B on AI data center demand

Caterpillar Inc. reported record-breaking quarterly results on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, with surging sales and profits driven by soaring demand for its power-generation equipment from the booming artificial intelligence data center industry. The company's shares jumped sharply in premarket trading following the announcement.

The heavy machinery manufacturer reported second-quarter revenue of $20.54 billion, a 24% increase from the same period a year earlier and the first time the company has surpassed $20 billion in sales in a single quarter. Adjusted earnings per share were $8.17, significantly higher than the $4.72 reported a year ago and well above analyst expectations. The company also posted a record order backlog of $72 billion, a substantial increase from the previous year.

Chief Executive Joe Creed stated that strong order rates and the growing backlog reflect broadening momentum across all three of the company's primary business segments. He described the $20 billion sales milestone as underscoring the essential work of Caterpillar's customers and the dedication of its employees worldwide.

A key driver of this performance is the company's power and energy unit, which...