Albemarle Corporation

Albemarle Corporation’s fourth quarter results were mixed as the company failed to meet the revenue expectations of Wall Street. However, its adjusted EBITDA increased by more than 400% yearly resulting in an earnings beat. In 2023, the management anticipates a significant sequential revenue increase. While higher lithium prices were a factor in these outcomes, there was also a notable increase in volume growth. The Bromine section has been slightly higher as well. However, the company’s Catalyst segment’s results for the quarter were lower than expected as improved sales volumes, and better pricing were offset by a plant stoppage brought on by the Texas winter freeze in December. Moreover, ongoing local incentives and customer preferences sustain a robust demand prognosis for EVs. Although early indicators suggest that both cathode inventories and battery inventories in China are declining, their contract clients are not slowing down their purchase habits, encouraging lithium sales. Among other updates, the company launched its brand. Ketjen that creates specialized, cutting-edge catalyst solutions for the petrochemical, refining, and specialty chemicals sectors. We give Albemarle Corporation a ‘Hold’ rating with a revised target price.