EARNINGS PER SHARE (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Aug. 31, 2023

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Calculations of basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing operations

The calculations of basic and diluted EPS were as follows: 

	Year Ended August 31,
(in thousands, except share and per share data)	2023		2022		2021
Net earnings	$	859,760	$	1,217,262	$	412,865
Average basic shares outstanding	117,077,703		120,648,090		120,338,357
Effect of dilutive securities	1,528,568		1,724,296		1,645,140
Average diluted shares outstanding	118,606,271		122,372,386		121,983,497
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	7.34	$	10.09	$	3.43
Diluted	7.25		9.95		3.38