Albemarle Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2023 Results
Full-Year Net Sales Increase of 31%, Driven by 21% Volume Growth
CHARLOTTE, N.C., Feb. 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB), a global leader in providing essential elements for mobility, energy, connectivity and health, today announced its results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2023.
Full Year 2023 Results
(Unless otherwise stated, all percentage changes represent year-over-year comparisons)
- Net sales of $9.6 billion, the highest in company history, up 31%, of which 21% was total volume growth; Energy Storage sales volumes were up 35%
- Net income of $1.6 billion, or $13.36 per diluted share, the second highest in company history, which included a lower of cost or net realizable value (LCM) pre-tax charge and a tax valuation allowance expense in China, both recorded in the fourth quarter
- Adjusted EBITDA of $2.8 billion, or $3.4 billion excluding the $604 million LCM charge, which is in-line with previous outlook as higher volumes offset lower pricing
- Adjusted diluted EPS of $15.22 per share, or $22.25 excluding the LCM charge and the $223 million tax valuation allowance expense, which is in-line with previous outlook
Fourth Quarter 2023 Results and Recent Highlights
- Net sales of $2.4 billion, primarily driven by 35% volume growth in Energy Storage
- Net loss of $618 million, or ($5.26) per diluted share, including the LCM charge and tax valuation allowance expense
- Adjusted EBITDA of ($315) million, or $289 million excluding the LCM charge
- Adjusted diluted EPS of ($5.19), or $1.85 excluding the LCM charge and tax valuation allowance expense
- Announced proactive measures expected to unlock >$750 million of cash flow including reduced capital expenditures, costs and working capital
- Meishan lithium conversion plant achieved mechanical completion in December 2023
- Recognized by Newsweek as one of America's greatest workplaces for diversity and one of America's most responsible companies; featured in JUST Capital's 2024 JUST 100
- Completed amendment to the company's credit agreement to ensure on-going financial flexibility; amendment utilizes an updated adjusted EBITDA definition that more accurately reflects the value of Albemarle's strategic ownership in the Windfield (Talison) joint venture
- Introduced full-year 2024 outlook considerations, including Energy Storage ranges based on lithium market price scenarios and utilizing an updated adjusted EBITDA definition similar to that in the company's amended credit agreement
"Albemarle's full-year 2023 result marks the second highest earnings year in company history, made possible by the disciplined focus of our global teams," said Albemarle CEO Kent Masters. "Looking ahead, we are taking actions to enhance our financial flexibility, while advancing near-term growth and preserving future opportunities to create value. As a global leader for the end-markets we serve, we remain confident about the projects in our portfolio and our ability to leverage our world-class resources and industry-leading technologies."
Fourth Quarter 2023 Results
In millions, except per share amounts | Q4 2023 | Q4 2022 | $ Change | % Change | |||
Net sales | $ 2,356.2 | $ 2,621.0 | $ (264.8) | (10.1) % | |||
Net (loss) income attributable to Albemarle Corporation | $ (617.7) | $ 1,132.4 | $ (1,750.1) | (154.5) % | |||
Adjusted EBITDA(a) | $ (315.0) | $ 1,243.8 | $ (1,558.8) | (125.3) % | |||
Diluted (loss) earnings per share | $ (5.26) | $ 9.60 | $ (14.86) | (154.8) % | |||
Non-operating pension and OPEB items(a) | (0.07) | (0.26) | |||||
Non-recurring and other unusual items(a) | 0.14 | (0.72) | |||||
Adjusted diluted (loss) earnings per share(a)(b) | $ (5.19) | $ 8.62 | $ (13.81) | (160.2) % |
(a) | See Non-GAAP Reconciliations for further details. |
(b) | Totals may not add due to rounding. |
Net sales for the fourth quarter of 2023 were $2.4 billion compared to $2.6 billion for the prior-year quarter. The 10% decrease was driven by lower lithium market pricing, partially offset by increased volumes in Energy Storage and higher volumes and pricing in Ketjen. Net loss attributable to Albemarle of $617.7 million decreased by $1.8 billion and Adjusted EBITDA of ($315.0) million decreased by $1.6 billion from the prior year quarter due to lower lithium market pricing and a $604 million lower of cost or net realizable value (LCM) pre-tax charge driven by lower lithium market pricing and higher spodumene values in cost of goods sold, partially offset by higher equity income due to inventory timing.
The effective income tax rate for the fourth quarter of 2023 was (12.9)%, compared to 2.8% in the same period in 2022. The rate in 2023 was impacted by the recording of an income tax expense of $223 million related to a valuation allowance in China, while 2022 was impacted by the release of a significant valuation allowance in Australia. On an adjusted basis, the effective income tax rates were (12.7)% and 14.0% for the fourth quarter of 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Energy Storage Results
In millions | Q4 2023 | Q4 2022 | $ Change | % Change | |||
Net Sales | $ 1,675.1 | $ 1,980.8 | $ (305.7) | (15.4) % | |||
Adjusted EBITDA | $ (338.3) | $ 1,178.9 | $ (1,517.1) | (128.7) % |
Energy Storage net sales of $1.7 billion decreased $305.7 million (-15%) due to lower pricing net of foreign currency (-50%) related to lower lithium market pricing. Volume was higher (+35%) related primarily to the La Negra III/IV expansion in Chile and higher tolling volumes to meet growing customer demand. Adjusted EBITDA of ($338.3) million decreased by $1.5 billion as lower pricing and a $604 million LCM charge driven by lower lithium market pricing and higher spodumene values in cost of goods sold more than offset higher volumes.
Specialties Results
In millions | Q4 2023 | Q4 2022 | $ Change | % Change | |||
Net Sales | $ 339.6 | $ 404.6 | $ (65.0) | (16.1) % | |||
Adjusted EBITDA | $ 29.8 | $ 93.8 | $ (63.9) | (68.2) % |
Specialties net sales of $339.6 million decreased $65.0 million (-16%) primarily due to decreased pricing net of foreign currency (-15%) and lower volumes (-2%). Adjusted EBITDA of $29.8 million decreased $63.9 million primarily due to lower net sales. Both volumes and prices were impacted by weaker demand, particularly for consumer electronics. Operations in the Middle East continued as normal, with some shipping delays and tighter availability of processing materials.
Ketjen Results
In millions | Q4 2023 | Q4 2022 | $ Change | % Change | |||
Net Sales | $ 341.5 | $ 235.5 | $ 105.9 | 45.0 % | |||
Adjusted EBITDA | $ 31.3 | $ (2.6) | $ 33.9 | * |
* | Percentage change not meaningful. |
Ketjen net sales of $341.5 million increased $105.9 million (+45%) compared to the previous year due to higher volumes (+37%) and higher pricing net of foreign currency (+7%). Adjusted EBITDA of $31.3 million increased $33.9 million as higher sales were partially offset by pressures from increasing raw materials costs.
Updated Adjusted EBITDA Definition
Beginning in 2024, the company will change its definition of adjusted EBITDA for financial accounting purposes. The updated definition includes Albemarle's share of the pre-tax earnings of the Talison joint venture, whereas the prior definition included Albemarle's share of Talison earnings net of tax. This presentation more closely represents the materiality and financial contribution of the strategic investment in Talison, smooths the impact of price variations and inventory timing, and more closely represents a measure of EBITDA. This calculation is consistent with the covenant definition in the February 2024 amendment to the credit agreement.
2024 Outlook Considerations
Energy Storage Market Price Scenarios
The table below reflects expected outcomes for Albemarle's Energy Storage segment based on recently observed lithium market price scenarios. Ranges are based on a projected increase in Energy Storage volumes of 10% to 20% in 2024 compared to 2023. All three scenarios assume flat market pricing flowing through Energy Storage's current contract book. Scenarios also assume spodumene pricing averages 10% of the lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) price, while other costs are assumed to be constant.
Energy Storage FY 2024E | |||
Observed market price case(a) | YE 2023 | Q4 2023 average | H2 2023 average |
Average lithium market price ($/kg LCE)(a) | ~$15 | ~$20 | ~$25 |
Net sales | $3.2 - $3.4 billion | $3.8 - $4.1 billion | $4.5 - $4.9 billion |
Adjusted EBITDA(b) | $0.7 - $0.8 billion | $1.3 - $1.5 billion | $2.0 - $2.3 billion |
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)(c)(d) | $0.8 - $0.9 billion | $0.9 - $1.0 billion | $1.0 - $1.2 billion |
(a) | Price represents blend of relevant Asia and China market indices for the periods referenced. |
(b) | Presented under updated adjusted EBITDA definition as of 2024. FY23 Energy Storage adjusted EBITDA under updated definition would be $3.2B. |
(c) | Included in adjusted EBITDA on a pre-tax basis. |
(d) | Assumes full Talison sales volumes for the second half of the calendar year. |
Specialties and Ketjen Outlook Considerations
Specialties outlook reflects continued softness in consumer electronics and elastomers, partially offset by stronger demand in other end-markets, including oilfield services, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. Demand visibility is expected to remain low in the first half of 2024. Specialties outlook assumes operations continue as normal in the Middle East, with some shipping delays and tighter availability of processing materials.
Ketjen outlook assumes increased volumes driven by expected high refinery utilization, as well as higher pricing driven primarily by Clean Fuel Technology (CFT) products.
Segment FY 2024E | |
Specialties net sales | $1.3 - $1.5 billion |
Specialties adjusted EBITDA | $270 - $330 million |
Ketjen net sales | $1.0 - $1.2 billion |
Ketjen adjusted EBITDA | $130 - $150 million |
Other Corporate Outlook Considerations
Albemarle expects its 2024 capital expenditures to be in the range of $1.6 billion to $1.8 billion, down from approximately $2.1 billion in 2023. This level of spending reflects a re-phasing of larger projects to focus on those that are significantly progressed, near completion and in startup.
Other Corporate FY 2024E | |
Capital expenditures | $1.6 - $1.8 billion |
Depreciation and amortization | $580 - $660 million |
Adjusted effective tax rate | 27% - 28% |
Corporate costs | $120 - $150 million |
Interest and financing expenses | $180 - $220 million |
Weighted-average common shares outstanding (diluted) | 117.7 million |
Total Corporate Outlook Considerations
The company's full-year outlook has been constructed assuming the above Specialties, Ketjen and Corporate outlook considerations plus the three Energy Storage market price scenarios.
Total Corporate FY 2024E Including Energy Storage Scenarios | |||
Observed market price case(a) | YE 2023 | Q4 2023 average | H2 2023 average |
Average lithium market price ($/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 $3.6B. See Non-GAAP Reconciliations for further details. |
Cash Flow and Capital Deployment
Cash from operations of $1.3 billion for the year ended December 31, 2023 decreased $747.6 million compared to the prior year period. This was driven by lower adjusted EBITDA and working capital changes that were primarily due to increases in receivables and inventories from higher lithium pricing, partially offset by increased dividends received from equity investments. Capital expenditures of $2.1 billion were in-line with previous outlook and increased by $887.6 million versus the prior year period as the company invested in Energy Storage and Specialties capacity to support growth.
Capital spend is focused on high return projects to expand Albemarle's global portfolio of conversion capacity and world-class resources, as well as productivity and cost savings initiatives. At the end of 2023, the Meishan lithium conversion facility reached mechanical completion. Primary 2024 capital activities will include commissioning the Meishan lithium conversion facility; completing commissioning activities for trains 1 and 2 at the Kemerton lithium conversion facility and focusing construction on train 3; and prioritizing permitting activities at the Kings Mountain spodumene resource.
Albemarle's primary capital allocation priorities are to invest in organic opportunities to drive profitable growth, maintain its financial flexibility and investment grade credit rating, and fund its dividend.
Balance Sheet and Liquidity
As of December 31, 2023, Albemarle had estimated liquidity of approximately $1.9 billion, including $889.9 million of cash and equivalents, $880.0 million available under its revolver and $104 million available on other credit lines.
On February 9, 2024, Albemarle completed an amendment to its credit agreement to ensure on-going financial flexibility. The amendment uses an updated adjusted EBITDA definition in the company's financial covenant, which includes Talison equity income on a pre-tax basis. This presentation more closely represents the materiality and financial contribution of the strategic investment in Talison, smooths the impact of price variations and inventory timing, and more closely represents a measure of EBITDA.
Earnings Call
Date: | Thurs., Feb. 15, 2024 |
Time: | 9:00 AM Eastern time |
Dial-in (U.S.): | +1 888-330-2007 |
Dial-in (International): | +1 646-960-0105 |
Passcode: | 5205664 |
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 | Year Ended | ||||||
December 31, | December 31, | ||||||
2023 | 2022 | 2023 | 2022 | ||||
Net sales | $ 2,356,165 | $ 2,620,978 | $ 9,617,203 | $ 7,320,104 | |||
Cost of goods sold | 3,060,217 | 1,619,659 | 8,431,294 | 4,245,517 | |||
Gross profit | (704,052) | 1,001,319 | 1,185,909 | 3,074,587 | |||
Selling, general and administrative expenses | 194,251 | 148,156 | 919,493 | 524,145 | |||
Research and development expenses | 22,753 | 20,154 | 85,725 | 71,981 | |||
(Gain) loss on change in interest in properties/sale of business, net | (71,190) | — | (71,190) | 8,400 | |||
Operating profit | (849,866) | 833,009 | 251,881 | 2,470,061 | |||
Interest and financing expenses | (34,386) | (24,039) | (116,072) | (122,973) | |||
Other (expenses) income, net | (36,699) | 54,119 | 110,929 | 86,356 | |||
(Loss) income before income taxes and equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | (920,951) | 863,089 | 246,738 | 2,433,444 | |||
Income tax expense | 118,878 | 24,102 | 430,277 | 390,588 | |||
(Loss) income before equity in net income of unconsolidated investments | (1,039,829) | 838,987 | (183,539) | 2,042,856 | |||
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax) | 436,537 | 322,799 | 1,854,082 | 772,275 | |||
Net (loss) income | (603,292) | 1,161,786 | 1,670,543 | 2,815,131 | |||
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests | (14,388) | (29,341) | (97,067) | (125,315) | |||
Net (loss) income attributable to Albemarle Corporation | $ (617,680) | $ 1,132,445 | $ 1,573,476 | $ 2,689,816 | |||
Basic (loss) earnings per share: | $ (5.26) | $ 9.67 | $ 13.41 | $ 22.97 | |||
Diluted (loss) earnings per share: | $ (5.26) | $ 9.60 | $ 13.36 | $ 22.84 | |||
Weighted-average common shares outstanding – basic | 117,354 | 117,160 | 117,317 | 117,120 | |||
Weighted-average common shares outstanding – diluted | 117,354 | 117,925 | 117,766 | 117,793 | |||
Albemarle Corporation and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (In Thousands) (Unaudited) | |||
December 31, | December 31, | ||
2023 | 2022 | ||
ASSETS | |||
Current assets: | |||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ 889,900 | $ 1,499,142 | |
Trade accounts receivable | 1,213,160 | 1,190,970 | |
Other accounts receivable | 509,097 | 185,819 | |
Inventories | 2,161,287 | 2,076,031 | |
Other current assets | 443,475 | 234,955 | |
Total current assets | 5,216,919 | 5,186,917 | |
Property, plant and equipment | 12,233,757 | 9,354,330 | |
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization | 2,738,553 | 2,391,333 | |
Net property, plant and equipment | 9,495,204 | 6,962,997 | |
Investments | 1,369,855 | 1,150,553 | |
Other assets | 297,087 | 250,558 | |
Goodwill | 1,629,729 | 1,617,627 | |
Other intangibles, net of amortization | 261,858 | 287,870 | |
Total assets | $ 18,270,652 | $ 15,456,522 | |
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY | |||
Current liabilities: | |||
Accounts payable to third parties | $ 1,537,859 | $ 1,533,624 | |
Accounts payable to related parties | 550,186 | 518,377 | |
Accrued expenses | 544,835 | 505,894 | |
Current portion of long-term debt | 625,761 | 2,128 | |
Dividends payable | 46,666 | 46,116 | |
Income taxes payable | 255,155 | 134,876 | |
Total current liabilities | 3,560,462 | 2,741,015 | |
Long-term debt | 3,541,002 | 3,214,972 | |
Postretirement benefits | 26,247 | 32,751 | |
Pension benefits | 150,312 | 159,571 | |
Other noncurrent liabilities | 769,100 | 636,596 | |
Deferred income taxes | 558,430 | 480,770 | |
Commitments and contingencies | |||
Equity: | |||
Albemarle Corporation shareholders' equity: | |||
Common stock | 1,174 | 1,172 | |
Additional paid-in-capital | 2,952,517 | 2,940,840 | |
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (528,526) | (560,662) | |
Retained earnings | 6,987,015 | 5,601,277 | |
Total Albemarle Corporation shareholders' equity | 9,412,180 | 7,982,627 | |
Noncontrolling interests | 252,919 | 208,220 | |
Total equity | 9,665,099 | 8,190,847 | |
Total liabilities and equity | $ 18,270,652 | $ 15,456,522 | |
Albemarle Corporation and Subsidiaries Selected Consolidated Cash Flow Data (In Thousands) (Unaudited) | |||
Year Ended | |||
December 31, | |||
2023 | 2022 | ||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year | $ 1,499,142 | $ 439,272 | |
Cash flows from operating activities: | |||
Net income | 1,670,543 | 2,815,131 | |
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash flows from operating activities: | |||
Depreciation and amortization | 429,944 | 300,841 | |
(Gain) loss on change in interest in properties/sale of business, net | (71,190) | 8,400 | |
Inventory net realizable value adjustment | 604,099 | — | |
Stock-based compensation and other | 36,545 | 30,474 | |
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax) | (1,854,082) | (772,275) | |
Dividends received from unconsolidated investments and nonmarketable securities | 2,000,862 | 801,239 | |
Pension and postretirement benefit | (1,658) | (52,254) | |
Pension and postretirement contributions | (17,866) | (16,112) | |
Unrealized gain on investments in marketable securities | 39,864 | 3,279 | |
Loss on early extinguishment of debt | — | 19,219 | |
Deferred income taxes | 100,877 | 93,339 | |
Changes in current assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and divestitures: | |||
(Increase) in accounts receivable | (350,655) | (786,121) | |
(Increase) in inventories | (962,924) | (1,609,642) | |
(Increase) in other current assets | (171,870) | (104,655) | |
(Decrease) increase in accounts payable to third parties | (315,220) | 816,194 | |
Increase in accounts payable to related parties | 31,809 | 470,878 | |
Increase (decrease) in accrued expenses and income taxes payable | 253,518 | (201,356) | |
Non-cash transfer of 40% value of construction in progress of Kemerton plant to MRL | 17,297 | 122,682 | |
Other, net | (114,572) | (31,412) | |
Net cash provided by operating activities | 1,325,321 | 1,907,849 | |
Cash flows from investing activities: | |||
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired | (426,228) | (162,239) | |
Capital expenditures | (2,149,281) | (1,261,646) | |
Sales of marketable securities, net | (204,451) | 1,942 | |
Investments in equity and other corporate investments | (1,200) | (706) | |
Net cash used in investing activities | (2,781,160) | (1,422,649) | |
Cash flows from financing activities: | |||
Proceeds from borrowings of credit agreements | 356,047 | 1,964,216 | |
Repayments of long-term debt and credit agreements | (28,862) | (705,000) | |
Other borrowings (repayments), net | 617,014 | (391,662) | |
Fees related to early extinguishment of debt | — | (9,767) | |
Dividends paid to shareholders | (187,188) | (184,429) | |
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests | (105,631) | (44,208) | |
Proceeds from exercise of stock options | 190 | 2,783 | |
Withholding taxes paid on stock-based compensation award distributions | (27,468) | (13,338) | |
Other | (191) | (6,708) | |
Net cash provided by financing activities | 623,911 | 611,887 | |
Net effect of foreign exchange on cash and cash equivalents | 222,686 | (37,217) | |
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents | (609,242) | 1,059,870 | |
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ 889,900 | $ 1,499,142 | |
Albemarle Corporation and Subsidiaries Consolidated Summary of Segment Results (In Thousands) (Unaudited) | |||||||
Three Months Ended | Year Ended | ||||||
December 31, | December 31, | ||||||
2023 | 2022 | 2023 | 2022 | ||||
Net sales: | |||||||
Energy Storage | $ 1,675,088 | $ 1,980,795 | $ 7,078,998 | $ 4,660,945 | |||
Specialties | 339,623 | 404,637 | 1,482,425 | 1,759,587 | |||
Ketjen | 341,454 | 235,546 | 1,055,780 | 899,572 | |||
Total net sales | $ 2,356,165 | $ 2,620,978 | $ 9,617,203 | $ 7,320,104 | |||
Adjusted EBITDA: | |||||||
Energy Storage | $ (338,287) | $ 1,178,853 | $ 2,407,393 | $ 3,032,260 | |||
Specialties | 29,841 | 93,784 | 298,506 | 527,318 | |||
Ketjen | 31,288 | (2,605) | 103,872 | 28,732 | |||
Total segment adjusted EBITDA | (277,158) | 1,270,032 | 2,809,771 | 3,588,310 | |||
Corporate | (37,829) | (26,280) | (43,486) | (112,453) | |||
Total adjusted EBITDA | $ (314,987) | $ 1,243,752 | $ 2,766,285 | $ 3,475,857 | |||
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 diluted earnings per share, 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, 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 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 | Year Ended | ||||||||||||||
December 31, | December 31, | ||||||||||||||
2023 | 2022 | 2023 | 2022 | ||||||||||||
In thousands, except percentages and per | $ | % of | $ | % of | $ | % of | $ | % of | |||||||
Net (loss) income attributable to Albemarle | $ (617,680) | $ 1,132,445 | $ 1,573,476 | $ 2,689,816 | |||||||||||
Add back: | |||||||||||||||
Non-operating pension and OPEB items | (8,107) | (30,168) | (6,966) | (42,189) | |||||||||||
Non-recurring and other unusual items | 16,262 | (85,400) | 226,356 | (61,377) | |||||||||||
Adjusted net (loss) income attributable to | $ (609,525) | $ 1,016,877 | $ 1,792,866 | $ 2,586,250 | |||||||||||
Lower of cost or net realizable value (LCM) | 604,099 | — | 604,099 | — | |||||||||||
Tax valuation allowance expense (TVA) | 223,000 | — | 223,000 | — | |||||||||||
Adjusted net income attributable to Albemarle | $ 217,574 | $ 1,016,877 | $ 2,619,965 | $ 2,586,250 | |||||||||||
Adjusted diluted (loss) earnings per share | $ (5.19) | $ 8.62 | $ 15.22 | $ 21.96 | |||||||||||
Adjusted diluted earnings per share, | $ 1.85 | $ 8.62 | $ 22.25 | $ 21.96 | |||||||||||
Weighted-average common shares | 117,354 | 117,925 | 117,766 | 117,793 | |||||||||||
Net (loss) income attributable to Albemarle | $ (617,680) | (26.2) % | $ 1,132,445 | 43.2 % | $ 1,573,476 | 16.4 % | $ 2,689,816 | 36.7 % | |||||||
Add back: | |||||||||||||||
Interest and financing expenses | 34,386 | 1.5 % | 24,039 | 0.9 % | 116,072 | 1.2 % | 122,973 | 1.7 % | |||||||
Income tax expense | 118,878 | 5.0 % | 24,102 | 0.9 % | 430,277 | 4.5 % | 390,588 | 5.3 % | |||||||
Depreciation and amortization | 144,143 | 6.1 % | 85,561 | 3.3 % | 429,944 | 4.5 % | 300,841 | 4.1 % | |||||||
EBITDA | (320,273) | (13.6) % | 1,266,147 | 48.3 % | 2,549,769 | 26.5 % | 3,504,218 | 47.9 % | |||||||
Non-operating pension and OPEB items | (9,804) | (0.4) % | (41,687) | (1.6) % | (7,971) | (0.1) % | (57,032) | (0.8) % | |||||||
Non-recurring and other unusual items | 15,090 | 0.6 % | 19,292 | 0.7 % | 224,487 | 2.3 % | 28,671 | 0.4 % | |||||||
Adjusted EBITDA | $ (314,987) | (13.4) % | $ 1,243,752 | 47.5 % | $ 2,766,285 | 28.8 % | $ 3,475,857 | 47.5 % | |||||||
Lower of cost or net realizable value (LCM) | 604,099 | 25.6 % | — | — % | 604,099 | 6.3 % | — | — % | |||||||
Adjusted EBITDA, excluding LCM | $ 289,112 | 12.3 % | $ 1,243,752 | 47.5 % | $ 3,370,384 | 35.0 % | $ 3,475,857 | 47.5 % | |||||||
Net sales | $ 2,356,165 | $ 2,620,978 | $ 9,617,203 | $ 7,320,104 | |||||||||||
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 (expenses) income, net. Non-operating pension and OPEB items were as follows (in thousands):
Three Months Ended | Year Ended | ||||||
December 31, | December 31, | ||||||
2023 | 2022 | 2023 | 2022 | ||||
MTM actuarial gain | $ (10,174) | $ (36,989) | $ (10,174) | $ (36,989) | |||
Interest cost | 8,859 | 5,814 | 35,950 | 23,497 | |||
Expected return on assets | (8,489) | (10,512) | (33,747) | (43,540) | |||
Total | $ (9,804) | $ (41,687) | $ (7,971) | $ (57,032) | |||
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 | Year Ended | ||||||
December 31, | December 31, | ||||||
2023 | 2022 | 2023 | 2022 | ||||
Acquisition and integration related costs(1) | $ 0.03 | $ 0.05 | $ 0.18 | $ 0.11 | |||
Goodwill impairment(2) | 0.05 | — | 0.05 | — | |||
(Gain) loss on change in interest in properties, net(3) | (0.40) | — | (0.40) | 0.07 | |||
Mark-to-market loss (gain) on public equity securities(4) | 0.51 | 0.04 | 0.29 | (0.03) | |||
Loss on extinguishment of debt(5) | — | — | — | 0.13 | |||
Legal accrual(6) | — | — | 1.82 | — | |||
Other(7) | (0.04) | 0.05 | (0.01) | 0.05 | |||
Tax related items(8) | (0.01) | (0.86) | (0.01) | (0.85) | |||
Total non-recurring and other unusual items | $ 0.14 | $ (0.72) | $ 1.92 | $ (0.52) | |||
(1) | Costs related to the acquisition, integration and divestitures for various significant projects, recorded in Selling, general and administrative expenses for the three months and year ended December 31, 2023 of $5.1 million and $26.8 million ($4.0 million and $20.8 million after income taxes, or $0.03 and $0.18 per share), respectively, and for the three months and year ended December 31, 2022 of $7.0 million and $16.3 million ($5.4 million and $12.6 million after income taxes, or $0.05 and $0.11 per share), respectively. |
(2) | Goodwill impairment charge of $6.8 million ($5.3 million after taxes, or $0.05 per share) recorded in Selling, general and administrative expenses during the three months and year ended December 31, 2023 related to our performance catalyst solutions ("PCS") business. |
(3) | Included in (Gain) loss on change in interest in properties/sale of business, net for the three months and year ended December 31, 2023 is a gain of $71.2 million ($46.6 million after taxes, or $0.40 per share) resulting from the restructuring of the MARBL joint venture with Mineral Resources Limited. Included in (Gain) loss on change in interest in properties/sale of business, net for the year ended December 31, 2022 is an expense of $8.4 million ($0.07 per share after no income tax impact) related to a 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. |
(4) | Losses of $79.1 million and $44.7 million ($59.6 million and $34.4 million after income taxes, or $0.51 and $0.29 per share) recorded in Other (expenses) income, net for the three months and year ended December 31, 2023, respectively, resulting from the net change in fair value of investments in public equity securities. The three months and year ended December 31, 2022 included losses (gains) of $6.3 million and ($4.3) million ($5.0 million and ($3.4) million after income taxes, or $0.04 and ($0.03) per share) for these changes in fair value of investments in public equity securities. |
(5) | Included in Interest and financing expenses for the year ended December 31, 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. |
(6) | Loss of $218.5 million ($1.82 per share after no income tax impact) recorded in Selling, general and administrative expenses during the year ended December 31, 2023 resulting from agreements to resolve a previously disclosed legal matter with the U.S. Department of Justice and the SEC related to conduct in our Ketjen business prior to 2018. |
(7) | Other adjustments for the three months ended December 31, 2023 included amounts recorded in:
|
After income taxes, these net gains totaled $4.7 million, or $0.04 per share. | |
Other adjustments for the year ended December 31, 2023 included amounts recorded in:
| |
After income taxes, these charges totaled $1.4 million, or $0.01 per share. | |
Other adjustments for the three months ended December 31, 2022 included amounts recorded in:
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After income taxes, these net charges totaled $5.4 million, or $0.05 per share. | |
Other adjustments for the year ended December 31, 2022 included amounts recorded in:
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After income taxes, these net charges totaled $6.7 million, or $0.05 per share. | |
(8) | Included in Income tax expense for the three months and year ended December 31, 2023 are discrete net tax benefits of $1.3 million, or $0.01 per share, and $1.0 million, or $0.01 per share, respectively. The net benefits primarily related to foreign return to provisions, partially offset by an uncertain tax position in Chile and excess tax benefits realized from stock-based compensation arrangements. |
Included in Income tax expense for the three months and year ended December 31, 2022 are discrete net tax benefits of $101.2 million, or $0.86 per share, and $100.5 million, or $0.85 per share, respectively. The net benefit for the three months and full year 2022 was primarily related to the reversal of a valuation allowance in Australia. In addition, the three months includes a tax benefit for global intangible low-taxed income and net discrete tax benefits related to excess tax benefits realized from stock-based compensation arrangements and domestic and foreign return to provisions. The discrete net benefit for the full year 2022 also includes withholding taxes, and domestic and foreign return to provisions, partially offset by a benefit for 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 reporting in accordance with GAAP (in thousands, except percentages).
Income (loss) before | Income tax expense | Effective income tax | |||
Three months ended December 31, 2023: | |||||
As reported | $ (920,951) | $ 118,878 | (12.9) % | ||
Non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and OPEB items | 5,286 | (2,869) | |||
As adjusted | $ (915,665) | $ 116,009 | (12.7) % | ||
Three months ended December 31, 2022: | |||||
As reported | $ 863,089 | $ 24,102 | 2.8 % | ||
Non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and OPEB items | (22,394) | 93,174 | |||
As adjusted | $ 840,695 | $ 117,276 | 14.0 % | ||
Year ended December 31, 2023: | |||||
As reported | $ 246,738 | $ 430,277 | 174.4 % | ||
Non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and OPEB items | 216,516 | (2,874) | |||
As adjusted | $ 463,254 | $ 427,403 | 92.3 % | ||
Year ended December 31, 2022: | |||||
As reported | $ 2,433,444 | $ 390,588 | 16.1 % | ||
Non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and OPEB items | (8,821) | 94,424 | |||
As adjusted | $ 2,424,623 | $ 485,012 | 20.0 % |
As noted above, beginning in 2024, the company will change 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, both as reported and as if it were presented under the new definition for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Year ended December 31, 2023 | |||
As Reported | As Adjusted - | ||
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation | $ 1,573,476 | $ 1,573,476 | |
Depreciation and amortization | 429,944 | 429,944 | |
Interest and financing expenses | 116,072 | 116,072 | |
Income tax expense | 430,277 | 430,277 | |
Proportionate share of Windfield Holdings income tax expense | 785,824 | ||
Gain on sale of business/interest in properties, net | (71,190) | (71,190) | |
Acquisition and integration related costs | 26,767 | 26,767 | |
Goodwill impairment | 6,765 | 6,765 | |
Non-operating pension and OPEB items | (7,971) | (7,971) | |
Mark-to-market gain on public equity securities | 44,732 | 44,732 | |
Legal accrual | 218,510 | 218,510 | |
Other | (1,097) | (1,097) | |
Total adjusted EBITDA | $ 2,766,285 | $ 3,552,109 | |
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SOURCE Albemarle Corporation
