SCHEDULE: BlackRock Boosts Hayward Holdings Stake to 10.6%

BlackRock, Inc. has reported an increased beneficial ownership of 10.6% in Hayward Holdings, Inc. common stock, holding 22,976,015 shares as of September 30, 2025.

Summary

• BlackRock, Inc. has filed an Amendment No. 1 to its Schedule 13G, reporting beneficial ownership in Hayward Holdings, Inc.
• As of September 30, 2025, BlackRock, Inc. beneficially owns 22,976,015 shares of Hayward Holdings, Inc. common stock.
• This ownership represents 10.6% of the total outstanding common stock of Hayward Holdings, Inc.
• BlackRock, Inc. holds sole voting power over 22,549,565 shares and sole dispositive power over 22,976,015 shares.
• No shared voting or dispositive power is reported.
• The securities were acquired and are held in the ordinary course of business, not for the purpose of changing or influencing control of the issuer.
• One of BlackRock's entities, iShares Core S&P Small-Cap ETF, holds more than 5% of the common stock of Hayward Holdings, Inc.

Sentiment

Score: 7

Explanation: The filing indicates a significant and increased institutional stake by BlackRock, a major asset manager, which is generally viewed as a positive signal of confidence in the company. The stated purpose of ordinary course investment, without intent to influence control, suggests stability rather than disruptive activism.

Positives

• Increased institutional ownership by a major asset manager like BlackRock can signal confidence in the company's long-term prospects.
• The acquisition of shares is stated to be in the ordinary course of business, indicating a passive investment strategy rather than an activist one.

Risks

• The filing explicitly states that the securities were not acquired and are not held for the purpose of or with the effect of changing or influencing the control of the issuer, which means BlackRock is not pursuing an activist role that could potentially unlock value through governance changes.

Future Outlook

This filing does not contain forward-looking statements or guidance regarding Hayward Holdings, Inc.'s financial performance or strategic direction, as it pertains solely to beneficial ownership by BlackRock, Inc.

Industry Context

BlackRock, Inc. is one of the world's largest asset managers, and its significant stake in Hayward Holdings, Inc. reflects its ongoing portfolio management activities. Such filings are common for large institutional investors as they adjust their holdings in publicly traded companies, often through various funds and mandates.

Stakeholder Impact

• Shareholders: May view BlackRock's increased stake as a vote of confidence, potentially leading to positive sentiment and stability in the stock price.
• Management: The filing indicates a passive investment, suggesting BlackRock is not seeking to influence management or corporate strategy at this time.

Key Dates

Recommendation

The filing indicates a significant and increased stake by BlackRock, a leading institutional investor, which can be interpreted as a positive signal for Hayward Holdings. However, a Schedule 13G primarily reports ownership and does not provide financial performance data or strategic updates from the issuer. While increased institutional confidence is a good sign, it's insufficient on its own to warrant a 'buy' recommendation without further fundamental analysis of Hayward Holdings' financial health and market position. Therefore, a 'hold' recommendation is appropriate for existing investors, while new investors should conduct further due diligence.

Keywords

BlackRock, Hayward Holdings, Institutional Ownership, Common Stock, Schedule 13G, Investment Management, Asset Management