Tariff Refunds Boost Cost of Sales
Following a Supreme Court ruling that IEEPA tariffs were unauthorized, Axon received $47.4 million in refunds during the quarter, of which $18.1 million had been previously expensed to cost of sales, directly lowering costs. The remaining majority was reclassified from inventory and property, reducing future expense.
Carbyne Acquisition Drives Investing Outflows
Axon used $551.6 million in business combinations during the first half of fiscal 2026, substantially all related to the Carbyne acquisition, significantly impacting net cash used in investing activities.
AI and Headcount Investments Push Operating Expenses Higher
SG&A and R&D expenses rose primarily due to increased headcount and investments in AI initiatives, including higher advisory, travel, and technology license costs. R&D spending in particular grew 28.4% year-over-year to $208.7 million, with AI-related engineering and licensing expenses up.