STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY AND EARNINGS PER SHARE (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Feb. 29, 2024

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Calculations of the basic and diluted earnings per share from continuing operations

The calculations of basic and diluted EPS were as follows: 

	Three Months Ended				Six Months Ended
(in thousands, except share and per share data)	February 29, 2024		February 28, 2023		February 29, 2024		February 28, 2023
Net earnings	$	85,847	$	179,849	$	262,120	$	441,623
Average basic shares outstanding	116,396,530		117,224,517		116,584,235		117,249,266
Effect of dilutive securities	1,127,583		1,498,742		1,467,014		1,735,832
Average diluted shares outstanding	117,524,113		118,723,259		118,051,249		118,985,098
Earnings per share:
Basic	$	0.74	$	1.53	$	2.25	$	3.77
Diluted	0.73		1.51		2.22		3.71