Albemarle Reports Strong Second-Quarter Sales Growth, Raising Guidance

ALBemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB) today announced its results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2022 .

Albemarle Corp. Logo. (PRNewsFoto/Albemarle Corporation)

Second Quarter 2022 and Recent Highlights
(Unless otherwise stated, all percentage changes represent year-over-year comparisons)

  • Net sales of $1.48 billion , an increase of 91%
  • Net income of $406.8 million , or $3.46 per diluted share; Adjusted diluted EPS of $3.45 , an increase of 288%
  • Adjusted EBITDA of $610 million , an increase of 214%
  • Kemerton I lithium conversion plant in Western Australia achieved first product in July 2022
  • Announced plans to build integrated lithium operations in the United States , including the Kings Mountain, North Carolina , spodumene mine and a lithium conversion plant in the southeast
  • Guidance for 2022 further revised upward on successful Lithium contract renegotiations and increased prices in the Lithium and Bromine businesses
  • Expect significant growth in full-year 2022 results including net sales of $7.1 - $7.5 billion (>2x 2021) and adjusted EBITDA of $3.2 - $3.5 billion (>3x 2021)
  • With revised guidance, expect to be free cash flow positive in 2022

"We delivered another strong quarter throughout the current turbulent market environment, thanks to strong demand and pricing trends, particularly for Lithium and Bromine. Over the past year, we have shifted our Lithium contracting strategy to realize greater benefits from these strong market dynamics," said Albemarle CEO Kent Masters . "At the same time, we remain disciplined in executing our long-term strategy as we advance our growth projects in China , Australia , and the Americas."

Outlook
Albemarle's outlook for 2022 has continued to improve based on expectations for ongoing demand strength and tightness in the markets it serves. Net sales guidance was revised upward primarily due to continued strength in pricing in its Lithium and Bromine businesses. Adjusted EBITDA guidance is also higher based on pricing expectations slightly offset by inflationary cost pressures, particularly for natural gas in Europe and raw materials. We now expect to be free cash flow positive in 2022.



FY 2022 Guidance

as of May 23, 2022

FY 2022 Guidance

Further Updated

Net sales


$5.8 - $6.2 billion

$7.1 - $7.5 billion

Adjusted EBITDA


$2.2 - $2.5 billion

$3.2 - $3.5 billion

Adjusted EBITDA Margin


38% - 40%

45% - 47%

Adjusted Diluted EPS


$12.30 - $15.00

$19.25 - $22.25

Net Cash from Operations


$550 - $850 million

$1.4 - $1.7 billion

Capital Expenditures


$1.3 - $1.5 billion

$1.3 - $1.5 billion

Second Quarter Results

In millions, except per share amounts

Q2 2022


Q2 2021


$ Change


% Change

Net sales

$    1,479.6


$       773.9


$       705.7


91.2 %

Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation

$       406.8


$       424.6


$        (17.8)


(4.2) %

Adjusted EBITDA (a)

$       610.2


$       194.6


$       415.6


213.5 %

Diluted earnings per share

$         3.46


$         3.62


$        (0.16)


(4.4) %

Non-operating pension and OPEB items (a)

(0.03)


(0.04)





Non-recurring and other unusual items (a)

0.02


(2.69)





Adjusted diluted earnings per share (a)(b)

$         3.45


$         0.89


$         2.56


287.6 %


(a)    See Non-GAAP Reconciliations for further details.

(b)    Totals may not add due to rounding.

Net sales of $1.48 billion increased by $705.7 million compared to the prior-year quarter primarily due to increased pricing driven by strong demand from diverse end markets.

Net income attributable to Albemarle of $406.8 million decreased by $17.8 million from the prior-year quarter.  Note that prior-year net income attributable to Albemarle includes a $429.4 million ( $331.6 million after discrete income taxes, or $2.87 per share) gain related to the sale of the FCS business which was sold on June 1, 2021 .

Adjusted EBITDA of $610.2 million increased by $415.6 million from the prior-year quarter primarily due to higher net sales, partially offset by inflationary cost pressures including natural gas prices in Europe and raw materials.

The effective income tax rate for the second quarter of 2022 was 22.2% compared to 20.0% in the same period of 2021. The difference is largely due to global intangible low-taxed income and the geographic mix of earnings. On an adjusted basis, the effective income tax rates were 26.3% and 17.5% for the second quarter of 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Business Segment Results

Lithium Results

In millions

Q2 2022


Q2 2021


$ Change


% Change

Net Sales

$           891.5


$           320.3


$           571.2


178.3 %

Adjusted EBITDA

$           495.2


$           109.4


$           385.8


352.5 %

Lithium net sales of $891.5 million increased $571.2 million (+178%) due to higher pricing net of FX (+160%) related to renegotiated contracts and increased market pricing. Volume was also higher (+18%) related to the La Negra III/IV expansion in Chile and higher tolling volumes to meet growing customer demand. Adjusted EBITDA of $495.2 million increased $385.8 million as higher pricing and volumes more than offset higher costs.

Lithium Outlook

Adjusted EBITDA for the full year 2022 is expected to grow approximately 500-550% year over year, up from the previous outlook of +300%. Average realized pricing is now expected to be up 225-250% year-over-year resulting from the renegotiated contracts and increased market pricing. Full-year 2022 volume is expected to be up 20-30% year over year primarily due to new capacity coming online as well as higher tolling volumes. The revised outlook assumes the company's expected third quarter realized selling price remains constant for the remainder of the year. There is potential upside if market pricing remains near current levels, if contract renegotiations result in additional price improvements, or with additional tolled volumes. There is potential downside in the event of a material correction in lithium market pricing or potential volume shortfalls (e.g., delays in acquisitions or expansion projects).

Albemarle continues to progress the expansion of its global portfolio of conversion capacity and utilization of its world-class resource portfolio:

Chile

–      La Negra III/IV conversion plant is in commercial qualification and running as expected
–      The Salar Yield Improvement Project is on schedule for mechanical completion by the middle of next year

Australia

–      Kemerton I conversion plant achieved first product in July 2022
–      Kemerton II conversion plant remains on track for mechanical completion in the second half of 2022
–      Production of spodumene concentrate from the first and second trains at Wodgina were achieved in May and July, respectively

China

–     The acquisition of the Qinzhou lithium conversion plant in Guangxi China is expected to close H2 2022
–      Construction is underway at the Meishan greenfield project
–      Zhangjiagang greenfield project has been deferred as we continue to fine tune the carbonate engineering design

United States

–      New wells and expansion projects at Silver Peak continue to progress ahead of schedule

Bromine Results

In millions

Q2 2022


Q2 2021


$ Change


% Change

Net Sales

$           377.8


$           279.7


$             98.0


35.0 %

Adjusted EBITDA

$           135.7


$             92.6


$             43.0


46.5 %

Bromine net sales of $377.8 million increased $98.0 million (+35%) primarily due to increased pricing net of FX (+31%) and slightly higher volumes (+4%). Tight market conditions continue to drive strong demand and favorable pricing across the product portfolio. Adjusted EBITDA of $135.7 million increased $43.0 million as higher net sales were partially offset by higher costs for raw materials and freight.

Bromine Outlook

Adjusted EBITDA for the full year 2022 is expected to grow approximately 25-30% from 2021 based on higher pricing resulting from strong demand in diverse end-markets including fire safety solutions and clear completion fluids for offshore new well drilling. Successful execution of growth projects in 2021 is expected to contribute to a 5-10% volume increase in full-year 2022. Bromine's ongoing cost savings initiatives and favorable pricing are expected to offset higher freight and raw material costs.

Catalysts Results

In millions

Q2 2022


Q2 2021


$ Change


% Change

Net Sales

$           210.3


$           148.3


$             62.0


41.8 %

Adjusted EBITDA

$               9.8


$             21.2


$            (11.4)


(53.7) %

Catalysts net sales of $210.3 million increased $62.0 million (+42%) compared to the previous year due to higher volumes (+37%) and higher pricing net of FX (+5%). Adjusted EBITDA of $9.8 million declined $11.4 million as higher sales were more than offset by continued cost pressures from increasing natural gas prices and raw materials.

Catalysts Outlook

Albemarle expects full-year 2022 adjusted EBITDA to be down 25-65% year-over-year, down from the previous outlook due to continued volatility of raw materials costs and natural gas pricing in Europe related to the war in Ukraine , partially offset by higher pricing.

The strategic review of the Catalysts business is ongoing. The company expects to provide an update as soon as circumstances warrant.

All Other

In millions

Q2 2022


Q2 2021


$ Change


% Change

Net Sales

$                —


$             25.5


$            (25.5)


(100.0) %

Adjusted EBITDA

$                —


$               8.4


$              (8.4)


(100.0) %

Other operations represent the FCS business which was sold on June 1, 2021 .

Balance Sheet and Liquidity

As of June 30, 2022, Albemarle had estimated liquidity of approximately $2.6 billion , including $930.6 million of cash and equivalents, the full $1 billion under its revolver, $500 million remaining under its amended delayed draw term loan and $200.7 million on other available credit lines. Total debt was $3.5 billion , representing net debt to adjusted EBITDA of approximately 1.7 times.

Cash Flow and Capital Deployment

Cash from operations of $60.3 million decreased $325.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022, versus the prior year driven by working capital changes, primarily the increase in receivables and inventories from higher lithium pricing, as well as a $332.5 million litigation settlement payment, partially offset by increased adjusted EBITDA. Capital expenditures of $502.6 million increased by $105.7 million versus the prior year as the company nears completion of its Wave 2 Lithium expansion projects and progresses the next wave of growth projects.

Albemarle's primary capital allocation priorities are to invest in organic and inorganic opportunities to drive profitable growth, maintain its financial flexibility and Investment Grade credit rating, and fund its dividend.

Earnings Call

Date:

Thursday, August 4, 2022

Time:

9:00 AM Eastern time

Dial-in (U.S.):

844-200-6205

Dial-in (International):

929-526-1599

Passcode:

446425

The company's earnings presentation and supporting material are available on Albemarle's website at https://investors.albemarle.com .

About Albemarle

ALBemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB) is a global specialty chemicals company with leading positions in lithium, bromine and refining catalysts. Albemarle thinks beyond business-as-usual to power the potential of companies in many of the world's largest and most critical industries, such as energy, electronics, and transportation. Albemarle actively pursues a sustainable approach to managing its diverse global footprint of world-class resources. In conjunction with Albemarle's highly experienced and talented global teams, its deep-seated values, and its collaborative customer relationships, Albemarle creates value-added and performance-based solutions that enable a safer and more sustainable future.

Albemarle regularly posts information to www.albemarle.com , including notification of events, news, financial performance, investor presentations and webcasts, non-GAAP reconciliations, SEC filings and other information regarding the company, its businesses and the markets it serves.

Forward-Looking Statements

Some of the information presented in this press release, the conference call and discussions that follow, including, without limitation, information related to the timing of active and proposed projects, production capacity, committed volumes, pricing, financial flexibility, expected growth, anticipated return on opportunities, earnings and demand for Albemarle's products, productivity improvements, tax rates, stock repurchases, dividends, cash flow generation, costs and cost synergies, capital projects, future acquisition and divestiture transactions including statements with respect to timing, expected benefits from proposed transactions, market and economic trends, statements with respect to 2022 outlook and all other information relating to matters that are not historical facts may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results could differ materially from the views expressed. Factors that could cause Albemarle's actual results to differ materially from the outlook expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement include, without limitation: changes in economic and business conditions; changes in financial and operating performance of its major customers and industries and markets served by it; the timing of orders received from customers; the gain or loss of significant customers; fluctuations in lithium market pricing, which could impact our revenues and profitability particularly due to our increased exposure to index-referenced and variable-priced contracts for battery grade lithium sales; changes with respect to contract renegotiations; potential production volume shortfalls; competition from other manufacturers; changes in the demand for its products or the end-user markets in which its products are sold; limitations or prohibitions on the manufacture and sale of its products; availability of raw materials; increases in the cost of raw materials and energy, and its ability to pass through such increases to its customers; technological change and development, changes in its markets in general; fluctuations in foreign currencies; changes in laws and government regulation impacting its operations or its products; the occurrence of regulatory actions, proceedings, claims or litigation (including with respect to the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and foreign anti-corruption laws); the occurrence of cyber-security breaches, terrorist attacks, industrial accidents or natural disasters; the effect of climate change, including any regulatory changes to which it might be subject; hazards associated with chemicals manufacturing; the inability to maintain current levels of insurance, including product or premises liability insurance, or the denial of such coverage; political unrest affecting the global economy, including adverse effects from terrorism or hostilities; political instability affecting our manufacturing operations or joint ventures; changes in accounting standards; the inability to achieve results from its global manufacturing cost reduction initiatives as well as its ongoing continuous improvement and rationalization programs; changes in the jurisdictional mix of its earnings and changes in tax laws and rates or interpretation; changes in monetary policies, inflation or interest rates that may impact its ability to raise capital or increase its cost of funds, impact the performance of its pension fund investments and increase its pension expense and funding obligations; volatility and uncertainties in the debt and equity markets; technology or intellectual property infringement, including cyber-security breaches, and other innovation risks; decisions it may make in the future; future acquisition and divestiture transactions, including the ability to successfully execute, operate and integrate acquisitions and divestitures and incurring additional indebtedness; continuing uncertainties as to the duration and impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic; performance of Albemarle's partners in joint ventures and other projects; changes in credit ratings; and the other factors detailed from time to time in the reports Albemarle files with the SEC, including those described under "Risk Factors" in Albemarle's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K any subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Albemarle assumes no obligation to provide any revisions to any forward-looking statements should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by securities and other applicable laws.

Albemarle Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Income

(In Thousands Except Per Share Amounts) (Unaudited)



Three Months Ended


Six Months Ended


June 30,


June 30,


2022


2021


2022


2021

Net sales

$ 1,479,593


$   773,896


$ 2,607,321


$ 1,603,187

Cost of goods sold

899,169


525,479


1,577,867


1,091,083

Gross profit

580,424


248,417


1,029,454


512,104

Selling, general and administrative expenses

128,942


121,516


241,510


214,703

Research and development expenses

17,386


13,976


33,469


28,612

(Gain) loss on sale of business/interest in properties


(429,408)


8,400


(429,408)

Operating profit

434,096


542,333


746,075


698,197

Interest and financing expenses

(41,409)


(7,152)


(69,243)


(51,034)

Other income, net

8,767


14


24,263


11,326

Income before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments

401,454


535,195


701,095


658,489

Income tax expense

89,018


106,985


169,548


129,092

Income before equity in net income of unconsolidated investments

312,436


428,210


531,547


529,397

Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)

128,156


17,998


190,592


34,509

Net income

440,592


446,208


722,139


563,906

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

(33,819)


(21,608)


(61,983)


(43,629)

Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation

$   406,773


$   424,600


$   660,156


$   520,277

Basic earnings per share

$         3.47


$         3.63


$         5.64


$         4.54

Diluted earnings per share

$         3.46


$         3.62


$         5.61


$         4.51









Weighted-average common shares outstanding – basic

117,116


116,809


117,091


114,700

Weighted-average common shares outstanding – diluted

117,724


117,436


117,689


115,383

Albemarle Corporation and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(In Thousands) (Unaudited)



June 30,


December 31,


2022


2021

ASSETS




Current assets:




Cash and cash equivalents

$           930,596


$           439,272

Trade accounts receivable

962,215


556,922

Other accounts receivable

124,409


66,184

Inventories

1,216,213


812,920

Other current assets

116,671


132,683

Total current assets

3,350,104


2,007,981

Property, plant and equipment

8,465,403


8,074,746

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization

2,257,379


2,165,130

Net property, plant and equipment

6,208,024


5,909,616

Investments

903,861


897,708

Other assets

230,346


252,239

Goodwill

1,542,767


1,597,627

Other intangibles, net of amortization

285,303


308,947

Total assets

$      12,520,405


$      10,974,118

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY




Current liabilities:




Accounts payable

$        1,091,583


$           647,986

Accrued expenses

330,941


763,293

Current portion of long-term debt

251,304


389,920

Dividends payable

46,097


45,469

Income taxes payable

61,837


27,667

Total current liabilities

1,781,762


1,874,335

Long-term debt

3,205,730


2,004,319

Postretirement benefits

43,079


43,693

Pension benefits

205,890


229,187

Other noncurrent liabilities

591,021


663,698

Deferred income taxes

391,948


353,279

Commitments and contingencies




Equity:




Albemarle Corporation shareholders' equity:




Common stock

1,171


1,170

Additional paid-in capital

2,927,086


2,920,007

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

(507,138)


(392,450)

Retained earnings

3,664,172


3,096,539

Total Albemarle Corporation shareholders' equity

6,085,291


5,625,266

Noncontrolling interests

215,684


180,341

Total equity

6,300,975


5,805,607

Total liabilities and equity

$      12,520,405


$      10,974,118

Albemarle Corporation and Subsidiaries

Selected Consolidated Cash Flow Data

(In Thousands) (Unaudited)



Six Months Ended

June 30,


2022


2021

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

$     439,272


$      746,724

Cash flows from operating activities:




Net income

722,139


563,906

Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash flows from operating activities:




Depreciation and amortization

137,567


123,683

Loss (gain) on sale of business/interest in properties

8,400


(429,408)

Stock-based compensation and other

15,232


8,425

Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)

(190,592)


(34,509)

Dividends received from unconsolidated investments and nonmarketable securities

156,964


27,420

Pension and postretirement benefit

(8,273)


(8,465)

Pension and postretirement contributions

(7,685)


(20,266)

Unrealized gain on investments in marketable securities

3,061


(2,384)

Loss on early extinguishment of debt

19,219


28,955

Deferred income taxes

39,476


27,708

Working capital changes

(888,036)


7,942

Non-cash transfer of 40% value of construction in progress of Kemerton plant to MRL

96,314


96,185

Other, net

(43,475)


(3,339)

Net cash provided by operating activities

60,311


385,853

Cash flows from investing activities:




Capital expenditures

(502,607)


(396,915)

Cash proceeds from divestitures, net


290,467

Sales of marketable securities, net

3,402


4,553

Investments in equity and other corporate investments

(767)


(286)

Net cash used in investing activities

(499,972)


(102,181)

Cash flows from financing activities:




Proceeds from issuance of common stock


1,453,888

Repayments of long-term debt and credit agreements

(455,000)


(1,173,823)

Proceeds from borrowings of credit agreements

1,964,216


Other debt repayments, net

(390,601)


(325,316)

Fees related to early extinguishment of debt

(9,767)


(24,877)

Dividends paid to shareholders

(91,894)


(86,637)

Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests

(26,525)


(43,698)

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

855


14,335

Withholding taxes paid on stock-based compensation award distributions

(10,583)


(7,047)

Other

(4,172)


(1,359)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

976,529


(194,534)

Net effect of foreign exchange on cash and cash equivalents

(45,544)


(12,290)

Increase in cash and cash equivalents

491,324


76,848

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

$     930,596


$      823,572

Albemarle Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Summary of Segment Results

(In Thousands) (Unaudited)



Three Months Ended


Six Months Ended


June 30,


June 30,


2022


2021


2022


2021

Net sales:








Lithium

$   891,516


$   320,334


$ 1,441,788


$   599,310

Bromine

377,752


279,748


737,331


560,195

Catalysts

210,325


148,344


428,202


368,587

All Other


25,470



75,095

Total net sales

$ 1,479,593


$   773,896


$ 2,607,321


$ 1,603,187









Adjusted EBITDA:








Lithium

$   495,208


$   109,441


$   803,823


$   215,877

Bromine

135,683


92,646


264,917


187,286

Catalysts

9,792


21,164


26,702


46,591

All Other


8,379



29,858

Corporate

(30,474)


(37,002)


(53,303)


(54,930)

Total adjusted EBITDA

$   610,209


$   194,628


$ 1,042,139


$   424,682

See accompanying non-GAAP reconciliations below.

Additional Information

It should be noted that adjusted net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation, adjusted diluted earnings per share, non-operating pension and OPEB items per diluted share, non-recurring and other unusual items per diluted share, adjusted effective income tax rates, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, EBITDA margin and adjusted EBITDA margin are financial measures that are not required by, or presented in accordance with, accounting principles generally accepted in the United States , or GAAP. These non-GAAP measures should not be considered as alternatives to Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation ("earnings") or other comparable measures calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP. These measures are presented here to provide additional useful measurements to review the company's operations, provide transparency to investors and enable period-to-period comparability of financial performance. The company's chief operating decision maker uses these measures to assess the ongoing performance of the company and its segments, as well as for business and enterprise planning purposes.

A description of other non-GAAP financial measures that Albemarle uses to evaluate its operations and financial performance, and reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP can be found on the following pages of this press release, which is also is available on Albemarle's website at https://investors.albemarle.com . The company does not provide a reconciliation of forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP, as the company is unable to estimate significant non-recurring or unusual items without unreasonable effort. The amounts and timing of these items are uncertain and could be material to the company's results calculated in accordance with GAAP.

ALBEMARLE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Non-GAAP Reconciliations

(Unaudited)


See below for a reconciliation of adjusted net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation, EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA, the non-GAAP financial measures, to Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation ("earnings"), the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP. Adjusted net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation is defined as net income before the non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and other post-employment benefit ( OPEB ) items as listed below. The non-recurring and unusual items may include acquisition and integration related costs, gains or losses on sales of businesses, restructuring charges, facility divestiture charges, certain litigation and arbitration costs and charges, and other significant non-recurring items. EBITDA is defined as net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation before interest and financing expenses, income tax expense, and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA plus or minus the non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and OPEB items as listed below.



Three Months Ended


Six Months Ended


June 30,


June 30,

In thousands, except percentages and per share amounts

2022


2021


2022


2021

Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation

$      406,773


$      424,600


$      660,156


$      520,277

Add back:








Non-operating pension and OPEB items (net of tax)

(3,946)


(4,273)


(8,085)


(8,540)

Non-recurring and other unusual items (net of tax)

2,909


(315,996)


33,812


(283,235)

Adjusted net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation

$      405,736


$      104,331


$      685,883


$      228,502









Adjusted diluted earnings per share

$            3.45


$            0.89


$            5.83


$            1.98









Weighted-average common shares outstanding – diluted

117,724


117,436


117,689


115,383









Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation

$      406,773


$      424,600


$      660,156


$      520,277

Add back:








Interest and financing expenses

41,409


7,152


69,243


51,034

Income tax expense

89,018


106,985


169,548


129,092

Depreciation and amortization

70,993


61,423


137,567


123,683

EBITDA

608,193


600,160


1,036,514


824,086

Non-operating pension and OPEB items

(5,038)


(5,471)


(10,318)


(10,936)

Non-recurring and other unusual items (excluding items associated with interest expense)

7,054


(400,061)


15,943


(388,468)

Adjusted EBITDA

$      610,209


$      194,628


$   1,042,139


$      424,682









Net sales

$   1,479,593


$      773,896


$   2,607,321


$   1,603,187

EBITDA margin

41.1 %


77.6 %


39.8 %


51.4 %

Adjusted EBITDA margin

41.2 %


25.1 %


40.0 %


26.5 %

See below for a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA on a segment basis, the non-GAAP financial measure, to Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP (in thousands, except percentages).


Lithium


Bromine


Catalysts


Reportable
Segments
Total


All Other


Corporate


Consolidated
Total


% of Net
Sales

Three months ended June 30, 2022
















Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation

$ 452,099


$ 122,461


$    (3,383)


$ 571,177


$       —


$ (164,404)


$  406,773


27.5 %

Depreciation and amortization

42,502


13,222


13,175


68,899



2,094


70,993


4.8 %

Non-recurring and other unusual items

607




607



6,447


7,054


0.5 %

Interest and financing expenses






41,409


41,409


2.8 %

Income tax expense






89,018


89,018


6.0 %

Non-operating pension and OPEB items






(5,038)


(5,038)


(0.3) %

Adjusted EBITDA

$ 495,208


$ 135,683


$     9,792


$ 640,683


$       —


$  (30,474)


$  610,209


41.2 %

















Three months ended June 30, 2021
















Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation

$  74,593


$  80,148


$     8,446


$ 163,187


$  7,972


$  253,441


$  424,600


54.9 %

Depreciation and amortization

33,497


12,498


12,718


58,713


407


2,303


61,423


7.9 %

Non-recurring and other unusual items

1,351




1,351



(401,412)


(400,061)


(51.7) %

Interest and financing expenses






7,152


7,152


0.9 %

Income tax expense






106,985


106,985


13.8 %

Non-operating pension and OPEB items






(5,471)


(5,471)


(0.7) %

Adjusted EBITDA

$ 109,441


$  92,646


$   21,164


$ 223,251


$  8,379


$  (37,002)


$  194,628


25.1 %

















Six months ended June 30, 2022
















Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation

$ 713,788


$ 239,022


$        606


$ 953,416


$       —


$ (293,260)


$  660,156


25.3 %

Depreciation and amortization

81,028


25,895


26,096


133,019



4,548


137,567


5.3 %

Non-recurring and other unusual items

9,007




9,007



6,936


15,943


0.6 %

Interest and financing expenses






69,243


69,243


2.7 %

Income tax expense






169,548


169,548


6.5 %

Non-operating pension and OPEB items






(10,318)


(10,318)


(0.4) %

Adjusted EBITDA

$ 803,823


$ 264,917


$   26,702


$  1,095,442


$       —


$  (53,303)


$  1,042,139


40.0 %

















Six months ended June 30, 2021
















Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation

$ 144,965


$ 162,261


$   21,362


$ 328,588


$  27,988


$  163,701


$  520,277


32.5 %

Depreciation and amortization

65,303


25,025


25,229


115,557


1,870


6,256


123,683


7.7 %

Non-recurring and other unusual items (excluding items associated
with interest expense)

5,609




5,609



(394,077)


(388,468)


(24.2) %

Interest and financing expenses






51,034


51,034


3.2 %

Income tax expense






129,092


129,092


8.1 %

Non-operating pension and OPEB items






(10,936)


(10,936)


(0.7) %

Adjusted EBITDA

$ 215,877


$ 187,286


$   46,591


$ 449,754


$  29,858


$  (54,930)


$  424,682


26.5 %

Non-operating pension and OPEB items, consisting of mark-to-market actuarial gains/losses, settlements/curtailments, interest cost and expected return on assets, are not allocated to Albemarle's operating segments and are included in the Corporate category. In addition, the company believes that these components of pension cost are mainly driven by market performance, and the company manages these separately from the operational performance of the company's businesses. In accordance with GAAP, these non-operating pension and OPEB items are included in Other income (expenses), net. Non-operating pension and OPEB items were as follows (in thousands):


Three Months Ended


Six Months Ended


June 30,


June 30,


2022


2021


2022


2021

Interest cost

$       5,894


$       5,430


$     11,826


$     10,858

Expected return on assets

(10,932)


(10,901)


(22,144)


(21,794)

Total

$      (5,038)


$      (5,471)


$    (10,318)


$    (10,936)

In addition to the non-operating pension and OPEB items disclosed above, the company has identified certain other items and excluded them from Albemarle's adjusted net income calculation for the periods presented. A listing of these items, as well as a detailed description of each follows below (per diluted share):


Three Months Ended


Six Months Ended


June 30,


June 30,


2022


2021


2022


2021

Restructuring and other (1)

$            —


$            —


$            —


$         0.01

Acquisition and integration related costs (2)

0.03


0.01


0.05


0.03

Albemarle Foundation contribution (3)


0.13



0.13

Loss (gain) on sale of business/interest in properties (4)


(2.82)


0.07


(2.87)

Loss on early extinguishment of debt (5)

0.13


0.01


0.13


0.21

Other (6)

0.01


0.04



0.10

Tax related items (7)

(0.15)


(0.06)


0.04


(0.06)

Total non-recurring and other unusual items

$         0.02


$        (2.69)


$         0.29


$        (2.45)

(1)

During the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, Albemarle recorded facility closure costs related to offices in Germany, and severance expenses in Germany and Belgium, in Selling, general and administrative expenses of $0.8 million and $1.5 million ($0.5 million and $1.1 million after income taxes, or less than $0.01 and $0.01 per share), respectively.



(2)

Costs related to the acquisition, integration and divestitures for various significant projects, recorded in Selling, general and administrative expenses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 were $5.4 million and $7.1 million ($4.2 million and $5.5 million after income taxes, or $0.03 and $0.05 per share), respectively, and for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 were $1.9 million and $4.1 million ($1.5 million and $3.2 million after income taxes, or $0.01 and $0.03 per share), respectively.



(3)

Included in Selling, general and administrative expenses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 is a charitable contribution of $20.0 million ($15.5 million after income taxes, or $0.13 per share), using a portion of the proceeds received from the FCS divestiture, to the Albemarle Foundation, a nonprofit organization that sponsors grants, health and social projects, educational initiatives, disaster relief, matching gift programs, scholarships and other charitable initiatives in locations where Albemarle's employees live and the company operates. This contribution is in addition to the normal annual contribution made to the Albemarle Foundation by the company, and is significant in size and nature in that it is intended to provide more long-term benefits in these communities.



(4)

Included in (Gain) loss on sale of business/interest in properties for the six months ended June 30, 2022 is an expense of $8.4 million ($0.07 per share after no income tax impact) related to post-measurement period Wodgina acquisition purchase price adjustment for a revised estimate of the obligation to construct the lithium hydroxide conversion assets in Kemerton due to anticipated cost overruns from supply chain, labor and COVID-19 pandemic related issues. The three and six months ended June 30, 2021 include a gain of $429.4 million ($331.6 million after discrete income taxes, or $2.87 per share) related to the sale of the FCS business.



(5)

Included in Interest and financing expenses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 is a loss on early extinguishment of debt of $19.2 million ($14.9 million after income taxes, or $0.13 per share), representing the tender premiums, fees, unamortized discounts, unamortized deferred financing costs and accelerated amortization of associated interest rate swap from the redemption of the $425 million senior notes originally due in 2024 using the proceeds from the issuance of $1.7 billion in senior notes in May 2022.




Included in Interest and financing expenses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 is a loss on early extinguishment of debt of $1.2 million and $29.0 million ($0.8 million and $23.8 million after income taxes, or $0.01 and $0.21 per share), respectively, representing the tender premiums, fees, unamortized discounts and unamortized deferred financing costs from the redemption of $1.5 billion in debt using the proceeds from the issuance of common stock.



(6)

Other adjustments for the three months ended June 30, 2022 included amounts recorded in:

  • Cost of goods sold - $0.5 million of expense related to the settlement of a legal matter resulting from a prior acquisition.
  • Selling, general and administrative expenses - $1.1 million primarily related to facility closure expenses of offices in Germany.

After income taxes, these charges totaled $1.2 million, or $0.01 per share.

Other adjustments for the six months ended June 30, 2022 included amounts recorded in:

  • Cost of goods sold - $0.5 million of expense related to the settlement of a legal matter resulting from a prior acquisition.
  • Selling, general and administrative expenses - $4.3 million of gains from the sale of legacy properties not part of our operations, partially offset by $2.8 million of charges for environmental reserves at sites not part of our operations and $1.1 million primarily related to facility closure expenses of offices in Germany.
  • Other income, net - $0.6 million gain related to a settlement received from a legal matter in a prior period.

Other adjustments for the three months ended June 30, 2021 included amounts recorded in:

  • Selling, general and administrative expenses - $4.0 million of a loss resulting from the sale of property, plant and equipment, $1.6 million of charges for an environmental reserve at a site not part of the company's operations and $1.4 million of expenses primarily related to non-routine labor and compensation related costs that are outside normal compensation arrangements.
  • Other income, net - $0.3 million of a gain resulting from the adjustment of indemnification obligations related to previously disposed businesses.

After income taxes, these charges totaled $0.3 million, or less than $0.01 per share.



(7)

Included in Income tax expense for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 are discrete net tax benefits of $17.3 million, or $0.15 per share and net tax expense of $4.7 million ,or $0.04 per share, respectively. The net benefit for the three months was primarily related to a benefit from global intangible low-taxed income, partially offset by net discrete tax expenses related to withholding taxes and foreign return to provisions. The discrete net expense for the six months was primarily related to withholding taxes and foreign return to provisions, partially offset by a benefit for excess tax benefits realized from stock-based compensation arrangements.




Included in Income tax expense for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 are discrete net tax benefits of $7.6 million, or $0.06 per share and $6.6 million, or $0.06 per share, respectively. The net benefit for the three months is primarily related to excess tax benefits realized from stock-based compensation arrangements and the revaluation of deferred taxes due to tax rate changes. The net benefit for the six months is primarily related to the release of a foreign valuation allowance, excess tax benefits realized from stock-based compensation arrangements, and the revaluation of deferred taxes due to tax rate changes, partially offset by tax expense due to an out-of-period adjustment regarding an overstated deferred tax liability for the three-month period ended December 31, 2017.

See below for a reconciliation of the adjusted effective income tax rate, the non-GAAP financial measure, to the effective income tax rate, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP (in thousands, except percentages).


Income before
income taxes
and equity in
net income of
unconsolidated
investments


Income tax
expense


Effective
income
tax rate

Three months ended June 30, 2022






As reported

$                    401,454


$                      89,018


22.2 %

Non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and OPEB items

21,235


22,272



As adjusted

$                    422,689


$                    111,290


26.3 %







Three months ended June 30, 2021






As reported

$                    535,195


$                    106,985


20.0 %

Non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and OPEB items

(404,383)


(84,114)



As adjusted

$                    130,812


$                      22,871


17.5 %







Six months ended June 30, 2022






As reported

$                    701,095


$                    169,548


24.2 %

Non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and OPEB items

24,844


(883)



As adjusted

$                    725,939


$                    168,665


23.2 %







Six months ended June 30, 2021






As reported

$                    658,489


$                    129,092


19.6 %

Non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and OPEB items

(370,457)


(78,682)



As adjusted

$                    288,032


$                      50,410


17.5 %

Cision View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/albemarle-reports-strong-second-quarter-sales-growth-raising-guidance-301599429.html

SOURCE Albemarle Corporation

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Albemarle Reports First Quarter 2024 Results

Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB), a global leader in providing essential elements for mobility, energy, connectivity and health, today announced its results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2024 .

Albemarle Corp. Logo. (PRNewsFoto/Albemarle Corporation)

First-Quarter 2024 and Recent Highlights
(Unless otherwise stated, all percentage changes represent year-over-year comparisons)

  • Net sales of $1.4 billion , driven by Energy Storage volume growth as projects ramp
  • Net income of $2 million , or ($0.08) (a) per diluted share attributable to common shareholders
  • Adjusted diluted EPS attributable to common shareholders of $0.26
  • Adjusted EBITDA (b) of $291 million
  • On track to deliver more than $280 million target in productivity benefits in 2024; in Q1, delivered over $90 million in productivity and restructuring cost savings
  • Conducted successful bidding events for spodumene concentrate and lithium carbonate, designed to promote price transparency and discovery
  • Achieved 50% operating rate milestone at Kemerton I; commissioning at Meishan and ramp of the Salar Yield Improvement Project continue to progress well
  • Reaffirmed FY 2024 corporate outlook considerations, including ranges based on lithium market price scenarios

(a)

After mandatory convertible preferred stock dividends

(b)

Beginning in 2024, Adjusted EBITDA definition includes Albemarle's share of the pre-tax earnings of the Talison joint venture

"In the first quarter, our team demonstrated agility in dynamic market conditions by continuing to deliver solid volumetric growth, ramping new conversion facilities, and executing cost reduction and productivity improvements," said Kent Masters, Albemarle's chairman and CEO. "We have strengthened our competitive position, enhanced our financial flexibility, and started to increase lithium market price transparency. Our actions best position us to serve our core end-markets today and for the future." Masters added, "We remain focused on disciplined capital allocation to deliver profitable organic growth and value for all stakeholders."

2024 Total Corporate Outlook Considerations
The company maintains its prior full-year outlook, which is based on three lithium market price scenarios.


Total Corporate FY 2024E

Including Energy Storage Scenarios

Observed market price case (a)

YE 2023

Q4 2023 average

H2 2023 average

Average lithium market price ($/kg LCE) (a)

~$15

~$20

~$25

Net sales

$5.5 - $6.2 billion

$6.1 - $6.8 billion

$6.9 - $7.6 billion

Adjusted EBITDA (b)(c)

$0.9 - $1.2 billion

$1.6 - $1.8 billion

$2.3 - $2.6 billion



(a)

Price represents blend of relevant Asia and China market indices for the periods referenced.

(b)

The company does not provide a reconciliation of forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP, as the company is unable to estimate significant non-recurring or unusual items without unreasonable effort. See "Additional Information regarding Non-GAAP Measures" for more information.

(c)

Presented under updated adjusted EBITDA definition as of 2024. FY23 adjusted EBITDA under updated definition would be $3.5B. See Non-GAAP Reconciliations for further details.

2024 Other Corporate Outlook Considerations
Following the company's public offering of depository shares representing an interest in its mandatory convertible preferred stock, interest and financing expenses are expected to be at the low end of the previous range of $180 to $220 million . The change in weighted-average common shares outstanding (diluted) reflects the recently issued shares of mandatory convertible preferred stock on an as-converted basis. The change to the adjusted effective tax rate range is related to geographic income mix and is dependent on the assumption of lithium market price. All other corporate outlook considerations are unchanged.


Other Corporate FY 2024E

Capital expenditures

$1.6 - $1.8 billion

Depreciation and amortization

$580 - $660 million

Adjusted effective tax rate

(5%) - 27%

Corporate costs

$120 - $150 million

Interest and financing expenses

$180 - $210 million

Weighted-average common shares outstanding (diluted) (d)

135 - 139 million



(d)

Each quarter, Albemarle will report the more dilutive of either: 1) adding the underlying shares in the mandatory to the share count or 2) reducing Albemarle's net income to common shareholders by the mandatory dividend. The 20-day volume-weighted average common share price will be used in determining the underlying shares to be added to the share count.

First Quarter 2024 Results

In millions, except per share amounts

Q1 2024


Q1 2023


$ Change


% Change

Net sales

$    1,360.7


$    2,580.3


$   (1,219.5)


(47.3) %

Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation

$           2.4


$    1,238.6


$   (1,236.1)


(99.8) %

Adjusted EBITDA (a)(b)

$       291.2


$    1,761.7


$   (1,470.5)


(83.5) %

Diluted (loss) earnings per share attributable to
common shareholders

$        (0.08)


$       10.51


$      (10.59)


(100.8) %

Non-recurring and other unusual items (a)

0.34


(0.19)





Adjusted diluted earnings per share attributable to
common shareholders
(a)(c)

$         0.26


$       10.32


$      (10.06)


(97.5) %



(a)

See Non-GAAP Reconciliations for further details.

(b)

For comparability, 2023 figures presented under adjusted EBITDA definition that the company adopted beginning in 2024.

(c)

Totals may not add due to rounding.

Net sales for the first quarter of 2024 were $1.4 billion compared to $2.6 billion for the prior-year quarter, a year-over-year decline of 47% that was driven primarily by lower pricing in Energy Storage. Net income attributable to Albemarle of $2 million decreased by $1.2 billion and adjusted EBITDA of $291 million declined by $1.5 billion from the prior-year quarter. The decline in earnings was primarily due to lower lithium market pricing, as well as additional margin compression due to inventory timing and reduced equity earnings at the Talison joint venture, which more than offset favorable volumes.

The effective income tax rate for the first quarter of 2024 was 2.2% compared to 23.9% in the same period of 2023. On an adjusted basis, the effective income tax rates were (12.4)% and 23.6% for the first quarter of 2024 and 2023, respectively, with the decrease primarily due to changes in the geographic income mix.

Energy Storage Results

In millions

Q1 2024


Q1 2023


$ Change


% Change

Net Sales

$           800.9


$        1,943.7


$       (1,142.8)


(58.8) %

Adjusted EBITDA

$           198.0


$        1,567.7


$       (1,369.7)


(87.4) %

Energy Storage net sales for the first quarter of 2024 were $801 million , a decrease of $1.1 billion , or 59%, due to lower pricing (-89%), which more than offset higher volumes (+31%) related to the ramp of lithium projects, including the La Negra III/IV expansion in Chile and the processing plant in Qinzhou, China , and sales of chemical-grade spodumene. Adjusted EBITDA of $198 million decreased $1.4 billion , driven by lower lithium market pricing, as well as margin compression due to inventory timing and reduced equity earnings at the Talison joint venture, which more than offset favorable volumes.

Specialties Results

In millions

Q1 2024


Q1 2023


$ Change


% Change

Net Sales

$           316.1


$           418.8


$          (102.7)


(24.5) %

Adjusted EBITDA

$             45.2


$           162.2


$          (117.0)


(72.1) %

Specialties net sales for the first quarter of 2024 were $316 million , a decrease of $103 million , or 25%, primarily due to lower prices (-19%) and lower volumes (-6%). Adjusted EBITDA of $45 million decreased $117 million . Both volumes and prices were impacted by weaker demand, particularly for consumer electronics.

Ketjen Results

In millions

Q1 2024


Q1 2023


$ Change


% Change

Net Sales

$           243.8


$           217.8


$             26.0


11.9 %

Adjusted EBITDA

$             22.0


$             14.5


$               7.4


51.1 %

Ketjen net sales of $244 million for the first quarter of 2024 were up 12% compared to the previous year due to higher volumes (+10%) and higher prices (+2%), primarily from clean fuel technologies. Adjusted EBITDA of $22 million increased $7 million largely due to higher sales and lower input costs.

Cash Flow and Capital Deployment
Cash from operations of $98 million for the first quarter of 2024 decreased $623 million versus the prior year period. The year-over-year decrease was driven by lower adjusted EBITDA and reduced dividends received from equity investments, partially offset by lower investment in working capital. Capital expenditures of $579 million increased by $164 million versus the prior-year period due to the timing of project spend.

On March 8, 2024 , Albemarle completed a $2.3 billion public mandatory convertible preferred stock offering to fortify the balance sheet, enhance financial flexibility, and fund in-flight growth investments. Albemarle's capital allocation priorities continue to focus on investing in its organic opportunities to drive profitable growth, maintaining its investment grade credit rating, and funding its dividends.

Balance Sheet and Liquidity
As of March 31, 2024 , Albemarle had estimated liquidity of approximately $3.7 billion , including $2.1 billion of cash and equivalents, $1.5 billion available under its revolver and $124 million available under other credit lines. Total debt was $3.5 billion , representing a debt covenant net debt to adjusted EBITDA of approximately 0.9 times.

Earnings Call

Date:

Thursday, May 2, 2024

Time:

9:00 AM Eastern time

Dial-in (U.S.):

1-800-590-8290

Dial-in (International):

1-240-690-8800

Conference ID:

ALBQ1

The company's earnings presentation and supporting material are available on Albemarle's website at https://investors.albemarle.com .

About Albemarle
Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB) leads the world in transforming essential resources into critical ingredients for mobility, energy, connectivity, and health. We partner to pioneer new ways to move, power, connect and protect with people and planet in mind. A reliable and high-quality global supply of lithium and bromine allow us to deliver advanced solutions for our customers. Learn more about how the people of Albemarle are enabling a more resilient world at albemarle.com and on X (formerly Twitter) @AlbemarleCorp.

Albemarle regularly posts information to www.albemarle.com , including notification of events, news, financial performance, investor presentations and webcasts, non-GAAP reconciliations, Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") filings and other information regarding the company, its businesses and the markets it serves.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains statements concerning our expectations, anticipations and beliefs regarding the future, which constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements, which are based on assumptions that we have made as of the date hereof and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, often contain words such as "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "guidance," "intend," "may," "outlook," "scenario," "should," "would," and "will". Forward-looking statements may include statements regarding: our 2024 company and segment outlooks, including expected market pricing of lithium and spodumene and other underlying assumptions and outlook considerations; expected capital expenditure amounts and the corresponding impact on cash flow; market pricing of lithium carbonate equivalent and spodumene; anticipated timing of the commissioning of the Meishan China lithium conversion facility; plans and expectations regarding other projects and activities, cost reductions and accounting charges, and all other information relating to matters that are not historical facts. Factors that could cause Albemarle's actual results to differ materially from the outlook expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement include: changes in economic and business conditions; financial and operating performance of customers; timing and magnitude of customer orders; fluctuations in lithium market prices; production volume shortfalls; increased competition; changes in product demand; availability and cost of raw materials and energy; technological change and development; fluctuations in foreign currencies; changes in laws and government regulation; regulatory actions, proceedings, claims or litigation; cyber-security breaches, terrorist attacks, industrial accidents or natural disasters; political unrest; changes in inflation or interest rates; volatility in the debt and equity markets; acquisition and divestiture transactions; timing and success of projects; performance of Albemarle's partners in joint ventures and other projects; changes in credit ratings; and the other factors detailed from time to time in the reports Albemarle files with the SEC, including those described under "Risk Factors" in Albemarle's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, which are filed with the SEC and available on the investor section of Albemarle's website (investors.albemarle.com) and on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov . These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Albemarle assumes no obligation to provide any revisions to any forward-looking statements should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by securities and other applicable laws.

Albemarle Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Statements of Income

(In Thousands Except Per Share Amounts) (Unaudited)



Three Months Ended


March 31,


2024


2023

Net sales

$ 1,360,736


$ 2,580,252

Cost of goods sold

1,321,798


1,303,712

Gross profit

38,938


1,276,540

Selling, general and administrative expenses

194,912


154,306

Research and development expenses

23,532


20,471

Operating (loss) profit

(179,506)


1,101,763

Interest and financing expenses

(37,969)


(26,777)

Other income, net

49,901


82,492

(Loss) income before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated
investments

(167,574)


1,157,478

Income tax (benefit) expense

(3,721)


276,963

(Loss) income before equity in net income of unconsolidated investments

(163,853)


880,515

Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)

180,500


396,188

Net income

16,647


1,276,703

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

(14,199)


(38,123)

Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation

2,448


1,238,580

Mandatory convertible preferred stock dividends

(11,584)


Net (loss) income attributable to Albemarle Corporation common shareholders

$      (9,136)


$ 1,238,580

Basic (loss) earnings per share attributable to common shareholders

$        (0.08)


$        10.57

Diluted (loss) earnings per share attributable to common shareholders

$        (0.08)


$        10.51





Weighted-average common shares outstanding – basic

117,451


117,232

Weighted-average common shares outstanding – diluted

117,451


117,841

Albemarle Corporation and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(In Thousands) (Unaudited)



March 31,


December 31,


2024


2023

ASSETS




Current assets:




Cash and cash equivalents

$        2,055,813


$           889,900

Trade accounts receivable

874,038


1,213,160

Other accounts receivable

438,507


509,097

Inventories

1,904,827


2,161,287

Other current assets

549,540


443,475

Total current assets

5,822,725


5,216,919

Property, plant and equipment

12,587,763


12,233,757

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization

2,831,728


2,738,553

Net property, plant and equipment

9,756,035


9,495,204

Investments

1,259,001


1,369,855

Other assets

329,283


297,087

Goodwill

1,613,534


1,629,729

Other intangibles, net of amortization

251,755


261,858

Total assets

$      19,032,333


$      18,270,652

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY




Current liabilities:




Accounts payable to third parties

$        1,165,955


$        1,537,859

Accounts payable to related parties

129,613


550,186

Accrued expenses

454,600


544,835

Current portion of long-term debt

5,076


625,761

Dividends payable

58,354


46,666

Income taxes payable

237,098


255,155

Total current liabilities

2,050,696


3,560,462

Long-term debt

3,519,453


3,541,002

Postretirement benefits

26,382


26,247

Pension benefits

145,067


150,312

Other noncurrent liabilities

833,548


769,100

Deferred income taxes

657,468


558,430

Commitments and contingencies




Equity:




Albemarle Corporation shareholders' equity:




Common stock

1,175


1,174

Mandatory convertible preferred stock

2,235,379


Additional paid-in capital

2,962,585


2,952,517

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

(597,205)


(528,526)

Retained earnings

6,930,868


6,987,015

Total Albemarle Corporation shareholders' equity

11,532,802


9,412,180

Noncontrolling interests

266,917


252,919

Total equity

11,799,719


9,665,099

Total liabilities and equity

$      19,032,333


$      18,270,652

Albemarle Corporation and Subsidiaries

Selected Consolidated Cash Flow Data

(In Thousands) (Unaudited)



Three Months Ended

March 31,


2024


2023

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

$     889,900


$   1,499,142

Cash flows from operating activities:




Net income

16,647


1,276,703

Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash flows from operating activities:




Depreciation and amortization

123,751


87,271

Stock-based compensation and other

9,317


10,540

Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)

(180,500)


(396,188)

Dividends received from unconsolidated investments and nonmarketable
securities

50,756


547,552

Pension and postretirement expense

1,273


1,954

Pension and postretirement contributions

(4,824)


(2,825)

Realized loss on investments in marketable securities

33,746


Unrealized loss (gain) on investments in marketable securities

6,737


(45,732)

Deferred income taxes

116,447


14,098

Working capital changes

(52,320)


(764,071)

Other, net

(23,076)


(8,322)

Net cash provided by operating activities

97,954


720,980

Cash flows from investing activities:




Capital expenditures

(579,322)


(415,608)

Sales (purchases) of marketable securities, net

84,893


(122,267)

Investments in equity investments and nonmarketable securities

(74)


(1,133)

Net cash used in investing activities

(494,503)


(539,008)

Cash flows from financing activities:




Proceeds from issuance of mandatory convertible preferred stock

2,236,750


Repayments of long-term debt and credit agreements

(29,019)


Proceeds from borrowings of long-term debt and credit agreements

29,019


Other debt repayments, net

(620,753)


(713)

Dividends paid to shareholders

(46,908)


(46,282)

Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests


(53,145)

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

86


81

Withholding taxes paid on stock-based compensation award distributions

(10,619)


(18,617)

Other

(1,256)


Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

1,557,300


(118,676)

Net effect of foreign exchange on cash and cash equivalents

5,162


24,296

Increase in cash and cash equivalents

1,165,913


87,592

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

$   2,055,813


$   1,586,734

Albemarle Corporation and Subsidiaries

Consolidated Summary of Segment Results

(In Thousands) (Unaudited)



Three Months Ended


March 31,


2024


2023

Net sales:




Energy Storage

$   800,898


$ 1,943,682

Specialties

316,065


418,778

Ketjen

243,773


217,792

Total net sales

$ 1,360,736


$ 2,580,252





Adjusted EBITDA:




Energy Storage

$    197,996


$ 1,567,692

Specialties

45,181


162,158

Ketjen

21,979


14,543

Total segment adjusted EBITDA

265,156


1,744,393

Corporate

26,080


17,311

Total adjusted EBITDA

$    291,236


$ 1,761,704

See accompanying non-GAAP reconciliations below.

Additional Information regarding Non-GAAP Measures

It should be noted that adjusted net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation, adjusted net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation common shareholders, adjusted diluted earnings per share attributable to common shareholders, non-operating pension and other post-employment benefit ("OPEB") items per diluted share, non-recurring and other unusual items per diluted share, adjusted effective income tax rates, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA (on a consolidated basis), EBITDA margin and adjusted EBITDA margin are financial measures that are not required by, or presented in accordance with, accounting principles generally accepted in the United States , or GAAP. These non-GAAP measures should not be considered as alternatives to Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation ("earnings") or other comparable measures calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP. These measures are presented here to provide additional useful measurements to review the company's operations, provide transparency to investors and enable period-to-period comparability of financial performance. The company's chief operating decision maker uses these measures to assess the ongoing performance of the company and its segments, as well as for business and enterprise planning purposes.

A description of other non-GAAP financial measures that Albemarle uses to evaluate its operations and financial performance, and reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP can be found on the following pages of this press release, which is also is available on Albemarle's website at https://investors.albemarle.com . The company does not provide a reconciliation of forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP, as the company is unable to estimate significant non-recurring or unusual items without unreasonable effort. The amounts and timing of these items are uncertain and could be material to the company's results calculated in accordance with GAAP.

ALBEMARLE CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

Non-GAAP Reconciliations

(Unaudited)

See below for a reconciliation of adjusted net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation, adjusted net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation common shareholders, EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA (on a consolidated basis), which are non-GAAP financial measures, to Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation ("earnings"), the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP. Adjusted net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation common shareholders is defined as net income after mandatory convertible preferred stock dividends, but before the non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and other post-employment benefit (OPEB) items as listed below. The non-recurring and unusual items may include acquisition and integration related costs, gains or losses on sales of businesses, restructuring charges, facility divestiture charges, certain litigation and arbitration costs and charges, and other significant non-recurring items. EBITDA is defined as net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation before interest and financing expenses, income tax expense, and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA plus or minus the proportionate share of Windfield Holdings income tax expense, non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and OPEB items as listed below.


Three Months Ended


March 31,


2024


2023

In thousands, except percentages and per share amounts

$


% of
net
sales


$


% of
net
sales

Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation

$         2,448




$  1,238,580



Add back:








Non-operating pension and OPEB items (net of tax)

(351)




374



Non-recurring and other unusual items (net of tax)

40,044




(22,774)



Adjusted net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation

42,141




1,216,180



Mandatory convertible preferred stock dividends

(11,584)






Adjusted net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation common shareholders

$       30,557




$  1,216,180











Adjusted diluted earnings per share attributable to common shareholders

$           0.26




$         10.32











Adjusted weighted-average common shares outstanding – diluted

117,668




117,841











Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation

$         2,448


0.2 %


$  1,238,580


48.0 %

Add back:








Interest and financing expenses

37,969


2.8 %


26,777


1.0 %

Income tax (benefit) expense

(3,721)


(0.3) %


276,963


10.7 %

Depreciation and amortization

123,751


9.1 %


87,271


3.4 %

EBITDA

160,447


11.8 %


1,629,591


63.2 %

Proportionate share of Windfield income tax expense

73,689


5.4 %


165,985


6.4 %

Non-operating pension and OPEB items

(325)


— %


601


— %

Non-recurring and other unusual items

57,425


4.2 %


(34,473)


(1.3) %

Adjusted EBITDA

$     291,236


21.4 %


$  1,761,704


68.3 %









Net sales

$  1,360,736




$  2,580,252



Non-operating pension and OPEB items, consisting of mark-to-market actuarial gains/losses, settlements/curtailments, interest cost and expected return on assets, are not allocated to Albemarle's operating segments and are included in the Corporate category. In addition, the company believes that these components of pension cost are mainly driven by market performance, and the company manages these separately from the operational performance of the company's businesses. In accordance with GAAP, these non-operating pension and OPEB items are included in Other income, net. Non-operating pension and OPEB items were as follows (in thousands):


Three Months Ended


March 31,


2024


2023

Interest cost

$       8,505


$       9,010

Expected return on assets

(8,830)


(8,409)

Total

$        (325)


$          601

In addition to the non-operating pension and OPEB items disclosed above, the company has identified certain other items and excluded them from Albemarle's adjusted net income calculation for the periods presented. A listing of these items, as well as a detailed description of each follows below (per diluted share):


Three Months Ended


March 31,


2024


2023

Restructuring and other charges (1)

$         0.23


$            —

Acquisition and integration related costs (2)

0.01


0.03

Loss (gain) in fair value of public equity securities (3)

0.35


(0.29)

Other (4)

(0.15)


0.04

Tax related items (5)

(0.10)


0.03

Total non-recurring and other unusual items

$         0.34


$       (0.19)



(1)

In January 2024, the Company announced it was taking measures to unlock near term cash flow and generate long-term financial flexibility by re-phasing organic growth investments and optimizing its cost structure. As a result, the Company recorded severance costs for employees in Corporate and each of the businesses, and losses related to the cancellation of certain capital expenditure projects. During the three months ended March 31, 2024, $33.5 million of these expenses were recorded in Selling, general and administrative expenses and $2.8 million were recorded in Other income, net ($27.0 million after income taxes, or $0.23 per share). The severance has primarily been paid, with the remainder to be paid in 2024.



(2)

Costs related to the acquisition, integration and divestitures for various significant projects, recorded in Selling, general and administrative expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023 were $1.9 million and $5.1 million ($1.5 million and $4.0 million after income taxes, or $0.01 and $0.03 per share), respectively.



(3)

Loss of $33.7 million and $9.4 million recorded in Other income, net resulting from the sale of investments in public equity securities and the change in fair value of investments in public equity securities, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2024 ($41.1 million after income taxes, or $0.35 per share). Gain of $45.8 million ($34.4 million after income taxes, or $0.29 per share) recorded in Other income, net for the three months ended March 31, 2023, resulting from the increase in fair value of investments in public equity securities.



(4)

Other adjustments for the three months ended March 31, 2024 included amounts recorded in:

  • Cost of goods sold - $1.4 million of expenses related to non-routine labor and compensation related costs that are outside normal compensation arrangements.
  • Selling, general and administrative expenses - $0.1 million of expenses related to certain legal costs.
  • Other income, net - $17.3 million gain primarily from the sale of assets at a site not part of our operations, an $8.7 million gain from PIK dividends of preferred equity in a Grace subsidiary and a $2.4 million gain primarily resulting from the adjustment of indemnification related to a previously disposed business, partially offset by $2.9 million of charges for asset retirement obligations at a site not part of our operations.

After income taxes, these net gains totaled $17.3 million, or $0.15 per share.




Other adjustments for the three months ended March 31, 2023 included amounts recorded in:

  • Selling, general and administrative expenses - $1.9 million of charges primarily for environmental reserves at sites not part of our operations and $0.7 million of facility closure expenses related to offices in Germany.
  • Other income, net - $3.6 million of asset retirement obligation charges primarily for a site not part of our operations.

After income taxes, these net charges totaled $4.8 million, or $0.04 per share.



(5)

Included in Income tax benefit for the three months ended March 31, 2024 are discrete net tax benefits of $12.3 million, or $0.10 per share primarily related to the reduction in a foreign tax reserve and excess tax benefits realized from stock-based compensation arrangements.




Included in Income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2023 are discrete net tax expenses of $2.9 million, or $0.03 per share primarily related to foreign return to provisions offset by excess tax benefits realized from stock-based compensation arrangements.

See below for a reconciliation of the adjusted effective income tax rate, the non-GAAP financial measure, to the effective income tax rate, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP (in thousands, except percentages).


Income before
income taxes and
equity in net income
of unconsolidated
investments


Income tax expense


Effective income tax
rate

Three months ended March 31, 2024






As reported

$                   (167,574)


$                       (3,721)


2.2 %

Non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and OPEB
items

57,100


17,407



As adjusted

$                   (110,474)


$                      13,686


(12.4) %







Three months ended March 31, 2023






As reported

$                 1,157,478


$                    276,963


23.9 %

Non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and OPEB
items

(33,872)


(11,472)



As adjusted

$                 1,123,606


$                    265,491


23.6 %

As noted above, beginning in 2024, the company changed its definition of adjusted EBITDA for financial accounting purposes. The updated definition includes Albemarle's share of the pre-tax earnings of the Talison joint venture, whereas the prior definition included Albemarle's share of Talison earnings net of tax. See below for a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA (on a consolidated basis), the non-GAAP financial measure, to Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation ("earnings"), the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP, as if it were presented under the new definition for the year ended December 31, 2023 .

Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation

$               1,573,476

Depreciation and amortization

429,944

Interest and financing expenses

116,072

Income tax expense

430,277

Proportionate share of Windfield income tax expense

779,703

Gain on sale of business/interest in properties, net

(71,190)

Acquisition and integration related costs

26,767

Goodwill impairment

6,765

Non-operating pension and OPEB items

(7,971)

Mark-to-market gain on public equity securities

44,732

Legal accrual

218,510

Other

(1,097)

Total adjusted EBITDA

$               3,545,988

Contact:
Meredith Bandy 1.980.999.5168

Cision View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/albemarle-reports-first-quarter-2024-results-302133681.html

SOURCE Albemarle Corporation

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