Hayward Holdings (HAYW) has caught investor attention after its late July 2026 update, which combined solid quarterly results, reaffirmed full year guidance, a completed debt refinancing, and an active share repurchase program.

Over the past year Hayward Holdings has seen a modest 1 year total shareholder return of 4.22%, while its 90 day share price return of 10.01% suggests momentum has picked up around the July earnings, refinancing, and buyback updates.

If Hayward’s recent moves around cash flow, refinancing, and capital returns have you thinking about where else to look, it could be worth scanning 19 top founder-led companies

Hayward Holdings now sits at US$15.82 after its refinancing and buyback updates have played out. Is this a reasonable entry after the recent 90 day move, or does it make more sense to wait for a pullback before adding exposure?

Most Popular Narrative: 8.6% Undervalued

The most followed narrative currently places Hayward Holdings at a fair value of $17.31 compared with the last close at $15.82. This points to a modest valuation gap that hinges on specific growth and margin assumptions.

Rising demand for energy-efficient and eco-friendly pool products, combined with an aging installed pool base in the US and Europe that requires modernization, creates a durable replacement cycle, supporting consistent aftermarket revenue and higher gross margins as product mix shifts to newer, premium solutions.

Want to see what sits behind that fair value for Hayward Holdings? The narrative leans heavily on steady sales growth, firmer margins, and a richer earnings multiple. Curious which specific revenue and profit assumptions need to hold for that to stack up?

Result: Fair Value of $17.31 (UNDERVALUED)

However, Hayward Holdings still faces key risks, including reliance on a mature residential aftermarket and pressure on margins if repair activity and pricing competition intensify.

Next Steps

With sentiment around Hayward Holdings leaning cautiously positive, this is a good time to review the numbers yourself and stress test the assumptions. To see what other investors are optimistic about, take a look at the 4 key rewards.

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This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.