Albemarle Corporation reported an increase in net sales and adjusted diluted EPS for Q4 2019, but diluted EPS decreased. The company completed the acquisition of a 60% ownership in the Wodgina spodumene mine and formed a joint venture. They also issued notes to repay debt and fund the acquisition.
Net sales increased by ~8%, driven by volume in Lithium and Fine Chemistry Services and pricing in Bromine Specialties and Catalysts.
Diluted EPS decreased by ~30%, while adjusted diluted EPS increased by ~13%.
Adjusted EBITDA increased by ~12%.
Completed acquisition of 60% ownership in the Wodgina spodumene mine.
Albemarle anticipates its 2020 performance to be lower year-over-year based on expected lower results from Lithium and flat-to-slightly lower results from Bromine Specialties, partially offset by flat to slightly higher results from Catalysts.