Dow's first quarter 2020 results reflect a challenging environment with net sales down 11% year-over-year due to lower prices and a 2% volume decline. The company saw demand growth in specific sectors like food packaging and cleaning products, but overall earnings were impacted by margin compression and equity losses. Despite these challenges, Dow generated solid cash flow and maintained a strong liquidity position.
GAAP earnings per share was $0.32; Operating EPS was $0.59, excluding significant items.
Net sales were $9.8 billion, down 11% versus pro forma results in the year-ago period, primarily driven by lower local prices.
Cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations was $1.2 billion, up $193 million versus the year-ago period.
Returns to shareholders totaled $643 million, including dividends and share repurchases.
Dow anticipates a gradual recovery starting in May/June, contingent on the sustainable reopening of global economies and is taking proactive measures to bolster its financial position by reducing capital expenditures, trimming operating expenses, and optimizing working capital.
Visualization of income flow from segment revenue to net income