Washington just handed half a billion dollars to US battery companies, but industry insiders say the window to break China's grip on the supply chain is far shorter than the money implies, and Albemarle shareholders are caught in the middle.
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A CNBC segment put a hard number on Washington’s latest attempt to loosen China’s grip on the battery supply chain. The Department of Energy is spreading $500 million across seven US battery companies, and the industry experts interviewed for the piece were candid about the math.
One expert told CNBC that catching up will take “decades and tens, if not hundreds of billions of dollars”, and that the US has closer to five, six or seven years to become competitive. That framing matters for every US-listed name tied to lithium and battery materials, and it matters most for Albemarle (NYSE:ALB | ALB Price Prediction), the largest domestic lithium producer.
Albemarle trades at $129.57 as of the September 8 close, up 60.13% over the past year but down 7.94% year to date. The stock sits in the middle of a policy story it cannot control, so the honest question is whether $500 million in federal money moves the needle for shareholders.
Where China’s Advantage Actually Sits China’s dominance is stacked at every layer. CNBC reported that China produced 85% of the world’s cathode active material and over 90% of anode active material in 2025.
Downstream, China is at 80% of global battery cells and 70% of the world’s electric vehicles in 2025. That is scale that funds the next round of capacity at prices Western producers cannot match today.
The cost gap shows up in packs. CNBC reported that Chinese battery pack prices were already lower than North American and European packs, and the gap widened between 2022 and 2025.
Albemarle sits upstream of all of this. Its Q2 realized lithium price of $19.53/kg LCE is market-set, and its buyers ultimately compete with Chinese converters.
Midstream Gap the Federal Money Is Chasing The DOE dollars target midstream processing, the step that turns rock and brine into battery-grade material. Raef Sully, whose unnamed company received a $100 million federal grant for a Great Salt Lake lithium project, told CNBC that the award covers about a third of phase one capital.
Sully said his process produces battery-grade lithium carbonate or hydroxide at the point of extraction, “bypassing that important step, that processing step that China has a chokehold on today.” That is the exact bottleneck Albemarle is also attacking with its direct lithium extraction pilot at the Salar de Atacama.
Albemarle disclosed in its Q2 call that its DLE pilot has logged over 3,000 operating hours with recovery rates “over 90%”, versus 30% to 40% for conventional ponds. Details are in the company’s Q2 2026 earnings exhibit.
Federal capital thins the risk on projects like these, although Albemarle is funding its own DLE work off $638 million in Q2 free cash flow, not grants.
Policy Whiplash Is the Real Killer The scarier figure in the CNBC segment was the number of cancellations. CNBC reported that $24 billion of US battery projects were canceled between January 2025 and August 2026.
An industry expert on the segment told CNBC that “a stable policy environment that doesn’t ricochet between administrations is the single most critical thing for successful industrial policy.” Capital allocators need a decade of visibility, and they are not getting it.
Albemarle has adjusted accordingly. The company placed Kemerton Train 1 into care and maintenance, trimmed full-year capex to approximately $500 million, and retired $1.3 billion in debt.
On September 3, Albemarle also announced a CEO succession plan, another reminder that the company is repositioning for a longer, choppier cycle than the 2022 boom suggested.
Demand Problem No Grant Can Solve The last binding constraint is the customer. An industry expert told CNBC that “the ultimate challenge is demand” and that every link depends on someone buying the finished product.
US EV sales fell 36% year over year in the fourth quarter of 2025 after federal purchase credits expired. That is a demand shock supply-side grants cannot fix.
Stationary storage is the offset. CNBC reported that roughly 15% of global battery demand came from energy storage in 2025, about double that share in the United States, and Albemarle said on its call that stationary storage will represent about 30% of global lithium market demand in 2026.
CEO Kent Masters said on the Q2 call that “energy storage demand is kind of off the charts” and that global lithium consumption was up 45% year-over-year through May. Grid batteries are carrying the lithium bull case right now, well ahead of EVs.
Is ALB Stock a Buy? Albemarle beat Q2 estimates with adjusted EPS of $3.75 on $1.74 billion in revenue, and management now expects to land at the high end of its $20 per kg LCE scenario. That would put full-year sales at $5.7 to $6 billion.
Analyst sentiment is 59% bullish with an average target of $172.56, although our model flags a -0.662 year-over-year earnings-growth drag and a beta of 1.33.
The $500 million DOE program is unlikely to reprice ALB on its own, and the policy risk described by CNBC’s experts is real. The lithium tightness Masters describes on the call is the real driver of Albemarle’s near-term earnings, and it exists independent of Washington.
The setup reads as neutral. Demand is strong enough to defend today’s price, but until US industrial policy stops ricocheting and domestic EV sales recover from that 36% drop, chasing ALB higher on grant headlines is the wrong reason to own it.
Contact [email protected] for any questions or corrections.
CYBER HORNET ETFs LLC lifted its stake in shares of Albemarle Corporation (NYSE:ALB – Free Report) by 6,118.2% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 20,209 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock after purchasing an additional 19,884 shares during the period. Albemarle accounts for 0.9% of CYBER HORNET ETFs LLC’s holdings, making the stock its 16th biggest position. CYBER HORNET ETFs LLC’s holdings in Albemarle were worth $2,729,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.
Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in ALB. AQR Capital Management LLC grew its position in shares of Albemarle by 25.5% in the 1st quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 3,223 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock valued at $229,000 after acquiring an additional 654 shares during the period. Integrated Wealth Concepts LLC lifted its stake in Albemarle by 26.2% in the 1st quarter. Integrated Wealth Concepts LLC now owns 4,798 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock valued at $346,000 after purchasing an additional 996 shares during the last quarter. United Services Automobile Association bought a new position in Albemarle during the first quarter worth about $208,000. Empowered Funds LLC bought a new position in Albemarle during the first quarter worth about $411,000. Finally, EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC increased its position in Albemarle by 536.7% during the second quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 573 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock worth $36,000 after buying an additional 483 shares during the last quarter. 92.87% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.
Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth ALB has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. Argus raised their price objective on Albemarle from $185.00 to $230.00 and gave the company a “buy” rating in a research report on Monday, May 11th. Citigroup reduced their price objective on shares of Albemarle from $225.00 to $175.00 and set a “buy” rating for the company in a research report on Friday, August 7th. Rothschild & Co Redburn dropped their price objective on shares of Albemarle from $188.00 to $170.00 and set a “neutral” rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, July 1st. Truist Financial cut their target price on shares of Albemarle from $245.00 to $225.00 and set a “buy” rating for the company in a research note on Friday, August 7th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group reduced their target price on shares of Albemarle from $244.00 to $211.00 and set a “buy” rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, June 30th. Fifteen research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, nine have assigned a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus price target of $190.04.
Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Albemarle Albemarle Price Performance NYSE:ALB opened at $126.51 on Monday. Albemarle Corporation has a 52 week low of $71.25 and a 52 week high of $221.00. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.22, a quick ratio of 1.35 and a current ratio of 2.09. The firm’s 50-day simple moving average is $128.03 and its 200 day simple moving average is $158.52. The firm has a market cap of $14.93 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 468.57, a P/E/G ratio of 0.74 and a beta of 1.33.
Albemarle (NYSE:ALB – Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, August 5th. The specialty chemicals company reported $3.75 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts’ consensus estimates of $3.20 by $0.55. Albemarle had a net margin of 3.09% and a return on equity of 10.96%. The firm had revenue of $1.74 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.61 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $0.11 EPS. The business’s revenue for the quarter was up 31.1% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Albemarle Corporation will post 11.39 earnings per share for the current year.
Albemarle Increases Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, October 1st. Investors of record on Friday, September 11th will be given a dividend of $0.41 per share. This is an increase from Albemarle’s previous quarterly dividend of $0.41. This represents a $1.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.3%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, September 11th. Albemarle’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 600.00%.
Albemarle Profile (Free Report)
Albemarle Corporation is a leading global specialty chemicals company primarily engaged in the production and distribution of lithium, bromine, and catalysts. Its lithium segment supplies key components used in rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles, portable electronics, and grid storage systems. The company’s bromine specialty products serve a wide range of industries, including oil and gas drilling fluids, fire safety solutions, and water treatment. In its catalysts division, Albemarle provides products for petroleum refining, chemical processing and emissions control.
Founded in 1994 as a spin-off from Ethyl Corporation, Albemarle has grown through strategic acquisitions and capacity expansions to become one of the world’s foremost chemical producers.
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Albemarle (ALB - Free Report) is one of the stocks most watched by Zacks.com visitors lately. So, it might be a good idea to review some of the factors that might affect the near-term performance of the stock.
Over the past month, shares of this specialty chemicals company have returned -3.7%, compared to the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -0.1% change. During this period, the Zacks Chemical - Diversified industry, which Albemarle falls in, has gained 0.3%. The key question now is: What could be the stock's future direction?
While media releases or rumors about a substantial change in a company's business prospects usually make its stock 'trending' and lead to an immediate price change, there are always some fundamental facts that eventually dominate the buy-and-hold decision-making.
Revisions to Earnings EstimatesHere at Zacks, we prioritize appraising the change in the projection of a company's future earnings over anything else. That's because we believe the present value of its future stream of earnings is what determines the fair value for its stock.
We essentially look at how sell-side analysts covering the stock are revising their earnings estimates to reflect the impact of the latest business trends. And if earnings estimates go up for a company, the fair value for its stock goes up. A higher fair value than the current market price drives investors' interest in buying the stock, leading to its price moving higher. This is why empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements.
Albemarle is expected to post earnings of $2.55 per share for the current quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +1442.1%. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -30.8%.
The consensus earnings estimate of $11.39 for the current fiscal year indicates a year-over-year change of +1541.8%. This estimate has changed -11% over the last 30 days.
For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $11.07 indicates a change of -2.8% from what Albemarle is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has changed -10.9%.
Having a strong externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool, the Zacks Rank, offers a more conclusive picture of a stock's price direction in the near term, since it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions. Due to the size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, Albemarle is rated Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
The chart below shows the evolution of the company's forward 12-month consensus EPS estimate:
12 Month EPS
Revenue Growth ForecastEven though a company's earnings growth is arguably the best indicator of its financial health, nothing much happens if it cannot raise its revenues. It's almost impossible for a company to grow its earnings without growing its revenue for long periods. Therefore, knowing a company's potential revenue growth is crucial.
In the case of Albemarle, the consensus sales estimate of $1.52 billion for the current quarter points to a year-over-year change of +16.1%. The $6.1 billion and $6.38 billion estimates for the current and next fiscal years indicate changes of +18.6% and +4.6%, respectively.
Last Reported Results and Surprise HistoryAlbemarle reported revenues of $1.74 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +31.1%. EPS of $3.75 for the same period compares with $0.11 a year ago.
Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.59 billion, the reported revenues represent a surprise of +9.94%. The EPS surprise was +11.94%.
Over the last four quarters, Albemarle surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times. The company topped consensus revenue estimates each time over this period.
ValuationWithout considering a stock's valuation, no investment decision can be efficient. In predicting a stock's future price performance, it's crucial to determine whether its current price correctly reflects the intrinsic value of the underlying business and the company's growth prospects.
While comparing the current values of a company's valuation multiples, such as price-to-earnings (P/E), price-to-sales (P/S), and price-to-cash flow (P/CF), with its own historical values helps determine whether its stock is fairly valued, overvalued, or undervalued, comparing the company relative to its peers on these parameters gives a good sense of the reasonability of the stock's price.
The Zacks Value Style Score (part of the Zacks Style Scores system), which pays close attention to both traditional and unconventional valuation metrics to grade stocks from A to F (an A is better than a B; a B is better than a C; and so on), is pretty helpful in identifying whether a stock is overvalued, rightly valued, or temporarily undervalued.
Albemarle is graded B on this front, indicating that it is trading at a discount to its peers. Click here to see the values of some of the valuation metrics that have driven this grade.
Bottom LineThe facts discussed here and much other information on Zacks.com might help determine whether or not it's worthwhile paying attention to the market buzz about Albemarle. However, its Zacks Rank #3 does suggest that it may perform in line with the broader market in the near term.
It has been about a month since the last earnings report for Albemarle (ALB - Free Report) . Shares have added about 5.4% in that time frame, outperforming the S&P 500.
But investors have to be wondering, will the recent positive trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Albemarle due for a pullback? Well, first let's take a quick look at its latest earnings report in order to get a better handle on the recent drivers for Albemarle Corporation before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late.
Albemarle’s Q2 Earnings Beat Estimates on Lithium Pricing StrengthAlbemarle posted second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of $3.75 per share, up from 11 cents a year ago. The figure beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.35 by 11.9%, supported by stronger lithium pricing, Specialties growth and productivity gains.
On a reported basis, net income (attributable to Albemarle common shareholders) was $438.3 million or $3.52 per share. This compares favorably with a loss of $18.8 million or 16 cents per share in the prior-year quarter.
Net sales increased 31.1% year over year to $1.74 billion and topped the consensus mark of $1.59 billion by 9.9%. Energy Storage sales volume rose 11% to 65 kilotons of lithium carbonate equivalent, while average realized pricing advanced 60.5% to $19.53 per kilogram.
Adjusted EBITDA climbed 155% year over year to $858.1 million. The increase reflected higher Energy Storage pricing, stronger Specialties pricing and volumes, and ongoing cost and productivity improvements.
Segment HighlightsEnergy Storage net sales surged 77.9% year over year to $1.28 billion. It beat the consensus estimate of $1.19 billion. The improvement was driven by higher pricing, with volume also increasing from the year-ago period.
The segment’s adjusted EBITDA advanced 229.3% to $723.5 million. Higher lithium pricing drove the gain, partly offset by increased CORFO commissions.
Specialties net sales rose 20.5% year over year to $423.5 million. It was above the consensus estimate of $363 million. Volumes increased 8%, while pricing improved 11%, reflecting strength across bromine and derivatives.
Adjusted EBITDA for the segment increased 61.3% to $117.7 million. Favorable pricing, higher volumes, productivity gains and proactive management of Middle East-related cost escalation supported profitability.
Cash Flow and LiquidityCash from operating activities totaled $710 million in the quarter, while free cash flow was $638.3 million. Operating cash flow conversion reached 83%, helped by the timing of a larger Talison joint venture dividend and non-recurring working capital benefits.
As of June 30, 2026, cash and cash equivalents were $1.63 billion, and estimated liquidity was about $3.2 billion. Total debt totaled $1.9 billion, with net debt to adjusted EBITDA of roughly 0.5.
For the first half of 2026, operating cash flow increased $518 million year over year to $1.06 billion. Capital expenditures declined $131.8 million to $170.4 million.
OutlookAlbemarle increased its 2026 Specialties net sales outlook to $1.4-$1.6 billion from the prior $1.3-$1.5 billion range. The adjusted EBITDA forecast rose to $275-$325 million from $225-$275 million, reflecting stronger-than-expected year-to-date pricing and volume performance.
The company cut its capital expenditure forecast to about $500 million from $550-$600 million expected earlier.
Albemarle also expects Energy Storage sales volumes of 225-235 kilotons, as higher Wodgina output partly offsets a delay in the Talison CGP3 ramp following the June 9 fire.
How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?Since the earnings release, investors have witnessed a downward trend in estimates review.
The consensus estimate has shifted -30.79% due to these changes.
VGM ScoresAt this time, Albemarle has a strong Growth Score of A, though it is lagging a lot on the Momentum Score front with an F. However, the stock was allocated a score of B on the value side, putting it in the top 40% for this investment strategy.
Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of B. If you aren't focused on one strategy, this score is the one you should be interested in.
OutlookEstimates have been broadly trending downward for the stock, and the magnitude of these revisions indicates a downward shift. Interestingly, Albemarle has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). We expect an in-line return from the stock in the next few months.
Performance of an Industry PlayerAlbemarle is part of the Zacks Chemical - Diversified industry. Over the past month, LyondellBasell (LYB - Free Report) , a stock from the same industry, has gained 5.4%. The company reported its results for the quarter ended June 2026 more than a month ago.
LyondellBasell reported revenues of $9.18 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +19.8%. EPS of $4.30 for the same period compares with $0.62 a year ago.
For the current quarter, LyondellBasell is expected to post earnings of $2.46 per share, indicating a change of +143.6% from the year-ago quarter. The Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -0.1% over the last 30 days.
LyondellBasell has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) based on the overall direction and magnitude of estimate revisions. Additionally, the stock has a VGM Score of A.
Wall Street má za sebou solidní růst tažený výrokem člena FEDu Wallera, který naznačil ochotu hlasovat pro podržení sazeb na současné úrovni. Růst indexů jde na vrub především největším společnostem jako Nvidia, Meta nebo Microsoft. Index S&P 500 je půl procenta od historického maxima.
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Martin Varecha
Fio banka, a.s.
Prohlášení
Ragnar Udd Appointed President and CEO, Effective February 1, 2027
Kent Masters to Serve as Executive Chairman
, /PRNewswire/ -- Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB), a global leader in providing essential elements for mobility, energy, connectivity and health, today announced that Ragnar "Rag" Udd has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer, effective February 1, 2027. Udd will also join the Albemarle Board of Directors. Kent Masters, Chairman and CEO, will transition to the role of Executive Chairman of the Board upon Udd joining the Company. Gerald Steiner will continue to serve as Albemarle's Lead Independent Director.
A Proven Leader to Drive Albemarle's Next Chapter
Udd has over 25 years of experience in leading global resources businesses in geographies closely mirroring Albemarle's global footprint, including Australia, Asia and North and South America. He is currently serving as Chief Commercial Officer of BHP and as a member of its executive leadership team, where he has global responsibility for sales and marketing, procurement, maritime activities and commodities market strategy. Prior to that, Udd held senior leadership roles across commercial, operational, technology, logistics and infrastructure functions, including President Americas, where he led BHP's copper and potash businesses. He also served as interim Chief Technology Officer, BHP Mitsubishi Asset President and Vice President Logistics and Infrastructure for Western Australia Iron Ore.
"Rag's appointment as our next CEO follows a comprehensive succession planning process conducted by the Board," said Steiner. "Rag brings extensive commercial and operational expertise in natural resources and has successfully led global commercial strategy and advanced disciplined growth across complex businesses. We are confident he is the right leader to capitalize on our industry-leading portfolio and operational capabilities to unlock long-term value for shareholders."
"I am honored to be named Albemarle's next CEO," said Udd. "Albemarle has world-class natural resources, deep technical expertise and strong customer partnerships. I am excited to work with Kent, the leadership team and the Board to build on the Company's strong foundation in both its Energy Storage and Specialties business segments."
A Well-Defined Transition Plan to Ensure Leadership Continuity
Masters will transition to the role of Executive Chairman of the Board upon Udd joining Albemarle. In this role, Masters will lead the Board's governance, provide input and perspective on strategic planning, and ensure a seamless handoff of leadership responsibilities.
"Kent has been instrumental in building Albemarle into the industry leader it is today," Steiner continued. "He has played a key role in the development of Albemarle's strategy and driven disciplined execution across cycles. Importantly, Kent's steadfast commitment to our core values has strengthened Albemarle's profile as a values-led, purpose-driven organization. We look forward to his continued contributions as he steps into the Executive Chairman role."
"It has been a privilege to serve as CEO and work alongside Albemarle's incredible team every day," said Masters. "I am proud of what we have achieved together, and I am confident now is the right time to transition the leadership to Rag, who is well positioned to lead Albemarle's future. I look forward to working closely with him to ensure a seamless transition."
Masters will serve as Executive Chairman through the date of the Company's 2027 annual meeting of shareholders and thereafter his role will be reviewed as part of the Board's annual director nomination process.
About Albemarle
Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB) is a world leader 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 allows 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.
Albemarle regularly posts information to Albemarle.com, including notification of events, news, financial performance, investor presentations and webcasts, non-GAAP reconciliations, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission 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," "expect," "may," "should," "would," and "will" and similar references to future periods. Forward-looking statements may include statements regarding expectations relating to Company strategy, operations, or performance; plans and expectations related to board composition and contributions; other underlying assumptions and outlook considerations, and all other information relating to matters that are not historical facts. These and other forward-looking statements are based on management's current assumptions and expectations and involve risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect expected results. Actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements if one or more of the underlying estimates, assumptions or expectations prove to be inaccurate or are unrealized. Factors that could cause Albemarle's actual results to differ materially from the outlook expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement include: breaches of contract; changes in economic and business conditions; changes in availability to serve as the CEO; trade policies and tariffs; technological change and development; changes in laws and government regulation; regulatory actions, proceedings, cyber-security breaches, 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 Corp. (NYSE:ALB) stock traded lower Tuesday as JPMorgan reduced its earnings estimates and price forecast for the lithium producer.
Analyst Jeffrey Zekauskas maintained a Neutral rating and lowered the December 2027 price forecast to $140 from a previous December 2026 forecast of $160.
Lower Lithium Prices Pressure Albemarle OutlookJPMorgan cut its 2026 adjusted EBITDA estimate by 14.4% to $2.88 billion from $3.37 billion. It also reduced its 2027 estimate by 18.4% to $2.93 billion from $3.59 billion.
The firm lowered its 2026 adjusted earnings estimate to $12.05 per share from $14.20. Its 2027 estimate fell to $11.65 from $15.35.
The revisions reflect weaker lithium prices. China lithium carbonate prices averaged $24,810 per metric ton in the second quarter. However, they have averaged about $21,625 so far in the third quarter.
JPMorgan now expects lithium prices to remain in the low-$20-per-kilogram range. The firm previously modeled prices in the mid-$20 range. Each $1-per-kilogram change could affect Albemarle’s annual EBITDA by about $250 million.
Third-Quarter Profit Expected to FallJPMorgan expects third-quarter adjusted EBITDA of $668 million. That would fall from $858 million in the second quarter but rise from $226 million a year earlier.
The firm also expects lower quarterly lithium sales volume and a weaker product mix.
Meanwhile, Albemarle faces delays at the Greenbushes CGP3 plant following a June fire. The plant restarted Aug. 1, but JPMorgan now expects full production rates by the end of the first quarter of 2027.
The bank said Albemarle trades near its price forecast and carries a fair valuation for a high-quality but volatile lithium producer.
Albemarle Price ActionALB Price Action: Albemarle shares were down 5.16% at $134.21 at the time of publication on Tuesday, according to Benzinga Pro data.
Photo via Shutterstock
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Bank of Nova Scotia acquired a new stake in Albemarle Corporation (NYSE:ALB – Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund acquired 6,006 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock, valued at approximately $811,000.
A number of other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Addison Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in Albemarle during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $28,000. Elyxium Wealth LLC bought a new position in shares of Albemarle during the fourth quarter worth $34,000. Torren Management LLC purchased a new position in Albemarle during the fourth quarter valued at $38,000. Sound Income Strategies LLC grew its stake in Albemarle by 190.1% during the first quarter. Sound Income Strategies LLC now owns 293 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock valued at $52,000 after acquiring an additional 192 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Root Financial Partners LLC increased its holdings in Albemarle by 121.5% in the 4th quarter. Root Financial Partners LLC now owns 299 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock valued at $42,000 after acquiring an additional 164 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 92.87% of the company’s stock.
Albemarle Stock Performance NYSE:ALB opened at $135.93 on Friday. The firm has a market capitalization of $16.04 billion, a PE ratio of 503.46 and a beta of 1.33. The stock’s fifty day moving average is $129.71 and its 200 day moving average is $159.90. Albemarle Corporation has a fifty-two week low of $71.25 and a fifty-two week high of $221.00. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.22, a quick ratio of 1.35 and a current ratio of 2.09.
Albemarle (NYSE:ALB – Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, August 5th. The specialty chemicals company reported $3.75 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $3.20 by $0.55. Albemarle had a net margin of 3.09% and a return on equity of 10.96%. The company had revenue of $1.74 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.61 billion. Albemarle’s quarterly revenue was up 31.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $0.11 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Albemarle Corporation will post 11.63 earnings per share for the current year. Albemarle Increases Dividend The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, October 1st. Investors of record on Friday, September 11th will be issued a dividend of $0.41 per share. This represents a $1.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.2%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, September 11th. This is an increase from Albemarle’s previous quarterly dividend of $0.41. Albemarle’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 600.00%.
Wall Street Analyst Weigh In ALB has been the topic of several research reports. Jefferies Financial Group reduced their target price on Albemarle from $244.00 to $211.00 and set a “buy” rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, June 30th. Scotiabank dropped their price target on Albemarle from $200.00 to $190.00 and set a “sector outperform” rating for the company in a research note on Monday, August 10th. Royal Bank Of Canada cut their price target on Albemarle from $166.00 to $157.00 and set an “outperform” rating for the company in a report on Monday, August 10th. Mizuho reduced their price objective on Albemarle from $205.00 to $185.00 and set a “neutral” rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, July 1st. Finally, Morgan Stanley reaffirmed a “reduce” rating and set a $161.00 price objective on shares of Albemarle in a report on Monday, August 10th. Fifteen research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, ten have issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Albemarle currently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and an average price target of $190.04.
Read Our Latest Research Report on Albemarle
About Albemarle (Free Report)
Albemarle Corporation is a leading global specialty chemicals company primarily engaged in the production and distribution of lithium, bromine, and catalysts. Its lithium segment supplies key components used in rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles, portable electronics, and grid storage systems. The company’s bromine specialty products serve a wide range of industries, including oil and gas drilling fluids, fire safety solutions, and water treatment. In its catalysts division, Albemarle provides products for petroleum refining, chemical processing and emissions control.
Founded in 1994 as a spin-off from Ethyl Corporation, Albemarle has grown through strategic acquisitions and capacity expansions to become one of the world’s foremost chemical producers.
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Albemarle Corporation (NYSE:ALB) shares are consolidating Monday. This follows Friday’s gain of 6.75%. The shares have reached a price level where they may encounter resistance. This could put a ceiling over the price. This is why Albermarle is the Stock of the Day.
Many people think that stocks move because of fundamental news. They believe a company’s trading and fundamentals are correlated.
Sometimes this is true.
But most of the time, a stock’s movement is the result of the psychology and emotions of the people who are trading it.
For example, if a stock is in an uptrend, it is because anxious, impatient buyers are outbidding one another. They are afraid that someone else will be willing to pay more than they are, and this is who the sellers will go to.
They don’t want to miss the trade, so they raise their bids.
Stocks Head Lower for the Opposite ReasonNervous and anxious sellers undercut each other. These sellers know the buyers will go to whoever is willing to sell at the lowest price.
They don’t want to miss the trade, so they reduce their offer prices.
In addition to driving trends, emotions can create important levels.
As you can see on the chart, the $169 level was support in May. When this support broke, some of the people who bought shares decided it was a mistake.
Some held on to their losing positions, but when the stock rallied back to $169, they saw the chance to get out at breakeven. They placed sell orders, creating resistance at the former support level.
The same thing may happen around $147. It was support in June. If the current rally reaches it, remorseful buyers trying to exit their positions at breakeven can create resistance.
This could result in the current rally ending or pausing.
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Zámořské akciové trhy během dnešního obchodování vzrostly a zakončily volatilní týden v kladných číslech. Podporu trhům poskytla příznivá makroekonomická data ukazující nejrychlejší tempo růstu podnikatelské aktivity v USA za poslední čtyři roky. Index Dow Jones si připsal 0,98 % na 53277,01 bodu, širší S&P 500 vzrostl o 0,43 % na 7674,36 bodu a technologický Nasdaq Composite zpevnil o 0,43 % na 26180,46 bodu. Z jednotlivých odvětví indexu S&P 500 dosáhly nejvyšších zisků základní materiály s růstem o 2,2 %, následované zdravotní péčí o 1,3 % a zbytnou spotřebou o 1 %. Naopak nejvýraznější pokles zaznamenaly utility, které ztratily 2,3 %, zatímco energie a reality odepsaly 0,2 % a 0 %. Mezi jednotlivými tituly výrazně posílila společnost Robinhood Markets (HOOD) o 14 %, dále pak Moderna (MRNA) o 8,9 %, Freeport-McMoRan (FCX) o 7,7 %, Coinbase Global (COIN) o 8,2 % a Albemarle Corp (ALB) o 6,8 %. Největší propad naopak postihl společnost Marvell Technology (MRVL), jež oslabila o 5,6 %, a nedařilo se ani firmám Sempra (SRE) se ztrátou 5,1 %, Edison International (EIX) o 4,1 %, American Electric Power (AEP) o 3,8 % a CenterPoint Energy (CNP) s poklesem o 3,6 %. Na komoditních trzích mírně vzrostla cena severoamerické lehké ropy WTI o 0,2 % na 87 dolarů za barel, zatímco spotové zlato posílilo o 2,4 % na 4624,69 dolaru za unci. Americký dolar celkově mírně oslabil. Výnos desetiletých amerických vládních dluhopisů vzrostl o tři bazické body na 4,73 %. Výrazný růst zaznamenal bitcoin, jehož cena stoupla o 6,1 % na 77086,77 dolaru.
Index Dow Jones +0,98 % na 53277,01 b.
S&P 500 +0,43 % na 7674,36 b.
Nasdaq Composite +0,43 % na 26180,46 b.
Index S&P 500 +0,43 % na 7674,36 b. Nejsilnější sektory S&P Změna Nejslabší sektory S&P Změna Základní materiály +2,2 % Utility -2,3 % Zdravotní péče +1,3 % Energie -0,2 % Finanční sektor +1 % Reality 0 % Nejsilnější akcie S&P Změna Nejslabší akcie S&P Změna Robinhood Markets (HOOD) +14 % Marvell Technology (MRVL) -5,6 % Moderna (MRNA) +8,9 % Sempra (SRE) -5,1 % Coinbase Global (COIN) +8,2 % Edison International (EIX) -4,1 % Freeport-McMoRan (FCX) +7,7 % American Electric Power (AEP) -3,8 % Albemarle Corp (ALB) +6,8 % CenterPoint Energy (CNP) -3,6 %
Daniel Marván
Fio banka, a.s.
Prohlášení
Key Takeaways Albemarle generated $638 million in free cash flow and $710 million in operating cash flow in Q2.ALB delivered $100 million in productivity gains and expects to reach the top of its 2026 target.Albemarle has raised its quarterly dividend for 30 straight years, with a 1.2% yield. Albemarle Corporation (ALB - Free Report) remains committed to driving shareholder value by leveraging solid liquidity and healthy cash flows. At the end of the second quarter of 2026, it had liquidity of around $3.2 billion, including cash and cash equivalents of around $1.6 billion. ALB generated an operating cash flow of $710 million and free cash flow of $638 million in the second quarter. Operating cash flow for the first half nearly doubled year over year to roughly $1.1 billion.
Free cash flow in 2026 is expected to be supported by strong cash conversion and productivity measures. ALB delivered $100 million in cost and productivity improvements in the first half of 2026 and expects to attain the top end of its $100-$150 million target for 2026. It achieved an operating cash flow conversion of 83% in the second quarter. First-half 2026 conversion was at the high end of its long-term target range of 60-70%.
Albemarle’s ability to convert improving operating performance into free cash is likely to result in incremental returns to shareholders. The company remains focused on maintaining its dividend payout. It has raised its quarterly dividend for the 30th straight year. ALB offers a dividend yield of 1.2% at the current stock price. Backed by healthy cash flows and sound financial health, the company's dividend is perceived to be safe and reliable.
Among its peers, Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A. (SQM - Free Report) exited the second quarter with strong liquidity, with cash and cash equivalents being around $3.4 billion. Sociedad Quimica’s solid cash position supports its capital investment in growth projects and shareholder-friendly actions. Sociedad Quimica projects total capital expenditure of roughly $3 billion for the 2026-2028 period, which includes investment in the Salar Futuro project in Chile.
ICL Group Ltd. (ICL - Free Report) ended the second quarter with cash and cash equivalents, and short-term investments and deposits of $662 million. Including unutilized revolving credit facility and securitization, ICL Group had cash resources of roughly $2.2 billion at the end of the quarter. ICL generated an operating cash flow of $290 million in the second quarter.
ALB’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesAlbemarle has gained 70.1% in over a year compared with the Zacks Chemical - Diversified industry’s rise of 4.2%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
ALB is currently trading at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 2.44, above the industry. It carries a Value Score of B.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ALB’s 2026 earnings implies a year-over-year rise of 1,607.6%. The EPS estimates for 2026 have been trending lower over the past 60 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
ALB stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Albemarle is now a focused lithium and bromine pure-play, following the divestiture of its catalyst business and balance sheet improvements. ALB holds world-class lithium assets, securing a low-cost position and structural advantages, with a robust balance sheet and $2.7 billion in liquidity. The current lithium price recovery and disciplined supply underpin a base case EBITDA of ~$2.5 billion, with further upside from Kings Mountain and DLE expansion.
Key Takeaways Albemarle shares fell 27.7% in three months as weaker lithium prices pressured the stock.ALB is expanding lithium capacity, improving productivity and cutting costs to support growth.Albemarle expects lithium demand to witness a 10-20% CAGR from 2025 to 2030, led by storage.
Albemarle Corporation’s (ALB - Free Report) shares have tumbled 27.7% in the past three months, underperforming the Zacks Chemical - Diversified industry decline of 8.3% and the S&P 500’s 3.2% increase.
Falling lithium market prices have been weighing on ALB stock. Lithium prices have pulled back amid slowing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in China, elevated inventories and expectations for higher supply from mine restarts and capacity expansions. EV orders have moderated in China, the world’s largest lithium consumer, while demand from the energy storage market remains resilient.
ALB’s 3-month Price Performance Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Reflecting the retreat in lithium prices, ALB stock broke below its 50-day simple moving average (SMA) on May 15, 2026. It also slipped below its 200-day SMA on June 23, 2026. The 50-day SMA is reading lower than the 200-day SMA, following a death crossover on July 21, 2026, signaling a bearish trend.
Albemarle Trades Below 50-Day SMA Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Given the pullback in Albemarle’s shares, investors might be tempted to snap up the stock. But is this the right time to buy ALB? Let’s find out.
Growing Lithium Demand and Productivity Aid AlbemarleAlbemarle is well-placed to gain from long-term growth in the battery-grade lithium market. The market for lithium batteries and energy storage remains strong, offering significant opportunities for the company to develop innovative products and expand capacity. Lithium demand is expected to grow on the back of significant global EV penetration.
ALB expects lithium demand to witness a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10-20% from 2025 to 2030. Stationary storage is expected to be a significant driver for lithium demand along with EVs. Albemarle expects demand to grow roughly 15-40% this year, with growth already trending near the higher end of the range.
The company is strategically executing its projects aimed at boosting its global lithium conversion capacity. It remains focused on investing in high-return projects to drive productivity. Healthy customer demand, capacity expansion and plant productivity improvements are supporting its volumes.
The Salar yield improvement project in Chile has achieved a 50-60% operating rate, and the ramp-up continues to deliver encouraging outcomes. Albemarle, in March 2026, submitted the environmental assessment permit for a commercial direct lithium extraction (DLE) project at Salar de Atacama. The DLE pilot plant supports future growth at Salar de Atacama and has demonstrated lithium recoveries of more than 90%. The CGP3 expansion at the Greenbushes spodumene mine in Australia is underway and is expected to reach full production in first-quarter 2027.
Albemarle is taking aggressive cost-saving and productivity actions. The company delivered roughly $450 million in cost and productivity improvements for full-year 2025, having surpassed its initial target of $300-$400 million. It expects additional cost and productivity improvements of $100-$150 million in 2026, with $100 million already delivered.
ALB is taking actions to maintain its competitive position, including the initiation of a comprehensive review of cost and operating structure, optimization of the conversion network and reduction of capital expenditure.
ALB’s Strong Financial Health Supports Capital AllocationAlbemarle remains committed to driving shareholder value by leveraging healthy cash flows and strong liquidity. Its operating cash flow was around $1.3 billion in 2025, up roughly 86% from the prior year. At the end of the second quarter of 2026, it had liquidity of around $3.2 billion, including cash and cash equivalents of around $1.6 billion. The company generated an operating cash flow of $710 million and free cash flow of $638 million in the second quarter. Operating cash flow for the first half nearly doubled year over year to roughly $1.1 billion.
The company remains focused on maintaining its dividend payout. It has raised its quarterly dividend for the 30th straight year. ALB offers a dividend yield of 1.3% at the current stock price. Its peers, Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A. (SQM - Free Report) and Rio Tinto Group (RIO - Free Report) , have a dividend yield of 3.7% and 5%, respectively.
Volume and Margin Pressure Weigh on ALB StockALB’s Energy Storage unit faces volume pressure in 2026, which may affect the segment’s sales. The company’s guidance reflects flat to 4% lower year-over-year Energy Storage sales volumes in 2026. Albemarle expects Energy Storage sales volumes of 225-235 kilotons (kt), compared with 235kt in 2025, as higher Wodgina output partly offsets a delay in the CGP3 ramp-up following the June 9, 2026 fire. Lower sales volumes are expected to result in a decline in Energy Storage sales in the third quarter.
Some impacts of the lithium price retreat are also expected to reflect on the company’s performance in the third quarter. ALB expects sequentially lower prices and volumes to result in a decline in Energy Storage sales and margins compared with the second quarter.
ALB’s Earnings Estimates SouthboundThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 for ALB has been revised downward over the past 60 days. The consensus estimate for third-quarter 2026 has been going down over the same time frame.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
A Look at ALB’s ValuationALB is currently trading at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 2.38, above the industry’s 0.93. It is trading at a premium to Rio Tinto and in line with Sociedad Quimica. Albemarle has a Value Score of B. Rio Tinto and Sociedad Quimica currently have a Value Score of A and C, respectively.
ALB’s P/S F12M Vs. Industry, SQM and RIO Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Final Thoughts: Hold Onto ALB SharesAlbemarle is poised to benefit from project ramp-ups, ongoing efforts to expand its global lithium conversion capacity and productivity improvement initiatives. The company remains well-positioned to gain from the long-term expansion of the battery-grade lithium market. Near-term headwinds include lower Energy Storage volumes, weaker lithium prices and margin pressure. With shares below key moving averages and trading at a premium to the industry, immediate upside appears limited. Also, declining earnings estimates cast a pall on the company's prospects. Considering these factors, holding onto this Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) stock will be prudent for investors who already own it.
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Albemarle’s Blowout Quarter Shows Why Lithium Still MattersAlbemarle NYSE: ALB reported higher second-quarter sales, earnings and cash generation as lithium pricing improved and its specialties business benefited from stronger pricing and volumes.
Second-quarter net sales rose 31% from a year earlier to $1.7 billion, while adjusted EBITDA more than doubled to $858 million. The company’s adjusted EBITDA margin expanded to 49%. Net income attributable to Albemarle was $480 million, or $3.52 per diluted share.
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3 Metals and Mining Stocks Riding the Commodity SupercycleChief Executive Officer Kent Masters said the results reflected operational execution, cost discipline and strengthening conditions in the company’s key markets. The company generated $710 million in operating cash flow and $638 million in free cash flow during the quarter.
Energy Storage Pricing Drives Results Energy Storage sales increased 78% year over year and segment adjusted EBITDA rose 229%, driven primarily by higher lithium pricing. Albemarle sold 65,000 metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent, or LCE, during the quarter at an average realized price of about $20 per kilogram LCE.
Gold and Silver Rebound, But This Metal Is Outperforming BothChief Financial Officer Neal Sheorey said the realized price was roughly 15% below market pricing, reflecting spodumene sales and a three-month pricing lag in the company’s long-term agreements.
For the full year, Albemarle now expects Energy Storage volumes of 225,000 to 235,000 tons LCE, ranging from flat to down 4% year over year. The outlook reflects a June 9 fire at the CGP3 plant at the Greenbushes joint venture, partly offset by stronger-than-expected production at Wodgina.
The CGP3 plant restarted Aug. 1 and is ramping up, although Albemarle now assumes it will reach full run rate in the first quarter of 2027. Masters said the plant had been ramping ahead of schedule before the incident. Wodgina, meanwhile, is operating all three processing trains and has benefited from better-than-planned ore availability and recoveries.
Albemarle expects third-quarter Energy Storage sales and adjusted EBITDA to decline sequentially, citing lower expected volumes and an assumption of lower lithium pricing. Margins are also expected to face pressure from the timing of higher-priced spodumene inventory moving through the company’s processing system.
Masters said lithium prices were near $20 per kilogram and that the market remained physically tight, though he declined to forecast prices. He said additional supply from Africa and Chinese lepidolite operations is beginning to return, but demand growth has required new supply to enter the market.
Specialties Outlook Raised The company raised its 2026 outlook for its Specialties segment following a strong first half. Albemarle now expects Specialties net sales of $1.4 billion to $1.6 billion and adjusted EBITDA of $275 million to $325 million for the full year.
Second-quarter Specialties sales increased 20% to $424 million, while adjusted EBITDA rose 61% to $118 million. The segment’s adjusted EBITDA margin expanded by 700 basis points from the prior-year period to 28%.
Sheorey attributed the performance to higher pricing and volumes, as well as favorable mix, amid bromine-market disruptions related to the Middle East situation. He said Albemarle expects pricing to normalize during the second half after bromine prices peaked in April, and therefore anticipates lower sequential sales and EBITDA in the third quarter.
The company continues to estimate that Middle East-related supply-chain disruptions could have a full-year unmitigated impact of approximately $70 million to $90 million. Albemarle said it had not yet experienced much of that impact during the first half and has used proactive cost management to mitigate disruptions.
Masters said the company is on track to reach the high end of its $100 million to $150 million full-year cost and productivity-improvement target. Albemarle has achieved about $100 million of run-rate savings year to date, with approximately 40% coming from supply-chain and back-office initiatives and the remainder from manufacturing cost reductions, incremental volumes and improved yields.
Demand Forecasts Increase as Storage Gains Momentum Management said global lithium consumption increased 45% year over year through May, led by stationary energy storage and improving electric-vehicle demand. Albemarle raised its 2026 forecast for stationary-storage battery production to 900 to 1,100 gigawatt hours, an increase of 100 gigawatt hours from its previous outlook.
The company also raised the low end of its 2030 stationary-storage forecast to a range of 1,500 to 2,000 gigawatt hours. As a result, it increased the low end of its 2030 total lithium-demand forecast by 100,000 tons.
Masters said stationary storage could account for about 30% of global lithium demand in 2026, approaching parity with light-duty electric vehicles. Global stationary-storage production has nearly doubled year over year, according to the company.
Global EV sales were up 10% year to date and increased 16% in the second quarter from the prior-year period, Albemarle said. European EV demand rose 31% year to date, while the rest-of-world market increased 90%, led by Brazil, Australia, India and South Korea.
Atacama DLE Project Advances Albemarle also outlined progress on direct lithium extraction, or DLE, at Chile’s Salar de Atacama. The company submitted an environmental assessment permit in March for a project that could include up to six DLE trains, though its planned initial investment would begin with one train.
The proposed process would operate alongside the company’s existing solar evaporation ponds. Lithium-rich brine would be sent both to the existing ponds and to the DLE plant, with the DLE output returning to final evaporation ponds before conversion into battery-grade lithium carbonate at La Negra.
Masters said Albemarle’s integrated pilot plant has operated for more than a year and accumulated more than 3,000 operating hours. The pilot has demonstrated lithium recoveries above 90%, compared with roughly 30% to 40% for a conventional pond system and 50% to 60% using Albemarle’s existing yield-improvement technology.
The company said the project remains subject to regulatory approvals, community consultation and further technology validation. Masters characterized the initiative as part of Albemarle’s effort to pursue long-term growth through existing resources, infrastructure and operating expertise.
About Albemarle (NYSE:ALB)Albemarle Corporation is a leading global specialty chemicals company primarily engaged in the production and distribution of lithium, bromine, and catalysts. Its lithium segment supplies key components used in rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles, portable electronics, and grid storage systems. The company's bromine specialty products serve a wide range of industries, including oil and gas drilling fluids, fire safety solutions, and water treatment. In its catalysts division, Albemarle provides products for petroleum refining, chemical processing and emissions control.
Founded in 1994 as a spin-off from Ethyl Corporation, Albemarle has grown through strategic acquisitions and capacity expansions to become one of the world's foremost chemical producers.
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Key Takeaways Albemarle sees 2026 results near the high end of its $20/kg LCE scenario, aided by volume and cost gains.Albemarle raised its 2026 storage forecast to 900-1,100 GWh; global lithium demand rose 45% year over year.Q3 Energy Storage sales, adjusted EBITDA and margins should decline sequentially on lower volume and pricing. Albemarle Corporation (ALB - Free Report) used its second-quarter 2026 earnings call to stress tight lithium inventories, stronger stationary-storage demand and cost execution, while warning that third-quarter Energy Storage sales, EBITDA and margins should decline sequentially.
Adjusted earnings of $3.75 per share topped the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.35, while revenues of $1.74 billion exceeded the $1.59 billion estimate. Management kept company scenario ranges intact, raised Specialties expectations and cut planned capital spending.
ALB Holds to the $20 Lithium ScenarioCFO Neal Sheorey said that Albemarle expects results near the high end of the $20-per-kilogram LCE scenario for both the company and Energy Storage. The company’s scenario calls for 2026 sales of $5.7-$6 billion and adjusted EBITDA of $2.4-$2.6 billion.
Sheorey cited first-half lithium pricing slightly above $20, better volumes, cost and productivity gains and stronger Specialties performance.
A Deutsche Bank analyst asked whether the high-end comment applied to the company or Energy Storage. Sheorey clarified that it applied to both.
Albemarle Raises Its Storage Demand ViewChairman and CEO Kent Masters said that global lithium demand rose 45% year over year through May, with supply additions lagging demand and inventories tight.
Masters stated that Albemarle raised its 2026 stationary-storage battery production forecast to 900-1,100 gigawatt hours and lifted the low end of its 2030 range to 1,500-2,000 gigawatt hours. The low end of the 2030 total lithium demand forecast increased by 100,000 tons.
Chief commercial officer Eric Norris told a Bank of America analyst that an anticipated storage-demand pullback did not occur. Norris said that management has greater confidence in the next couple of years, while the five-year outlook needs more work.
ALB Flags Softer Q3 Energy Storage ResultsSheorey expects third-quarter Energy Storage sales and adjusted EBITDA to fall sequentially on lower volumes and lower assumed pricing. Margins should also decline as higher-priced spodumene inventory flows through results after an approximately four-month lag.
Full-year Energy Storage sales volume is expected at 225,000-235,000 tons LCE, or flat to down 4% year over year. Masters said that Greenbushes CGP3 restarted Aug. 1, and is assumed to reach full run rate in the first quarter of 2027, while Wodgina continues to outperform.
Asked by an RBC analyst about 2027, Sheorey pointed to 240,000-260,000 tons LCE, consistent with the company's previously discussed volume-growth trajectory.
Albemarle Lifts Specialties OutlookSheorey raised 2026 Specialties sales expectations to $1.4 billion-$1.6 billion and adjusted EBITDA to $275-$325 million after stronger pricing, volume and productivity.
Sheorey expects third-quarter Specialties sales and EBITDA to decline sequentially as bromine pricing normalizes. The outlook still includes a $70-$90 million unmitigated full-year impact from Middle East-related supply-chain disruption.
A Morgan Stanley analyst pressed management on bromine normalization. Chief commercial officer Norris said that the Chinese bromine index applies to well under one-third of the business, while most Specialties sales are downstream derivatives with localized pricing.
ALB Keeps Growth Spending SelectiveSheorey said that year-to-date run-rate cost and productivity improvements reached about $100 million, putting Albemarle on track toward the high end of its $100 million-$150 million full-year target. Capital expenditures are now expected at about $500 million.
CEO Masters told BMO and Wolfe Research analysts that Albemarle wants a conservative balance sheet while evaluating brownfield growth at Wodgina and Talison, along with Salar de Atacama and Kings Mountain. No new brownfield project has reached final investment decision.
On direct lithium extraction, Masters said the phased Atacama plan starts with one train. The pilot has logged more than 3,000 operating hours and demonstrated recoveries above 90%.
Albemarle Stays Focused on ExecutionMasters closed by emphasizing operational excellence, disciplined capital allocation and growth tied to Albemarle's resource base.
Management's near-term focus balances tight lithium conditions with softer third-quarter expectations, cost productivity, selective growth and continued CGP3 ramp-up.
ALB's Zacks Rank and Style Score SignalsALB carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). It has a Growth Score of B and a VGM Score of B, while its Value Score is C and Momentum Score is C, giving it stronger marks on growth and the combined style measure than on value or momentum.
The Zacks Style Score complements the Zacks Rank, with A and B grades preferred and the strongest combinations centered on Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or 2 (Buy) stocks. ALB's current mix is more balanced than top-tier, and the Zacks Rank can change as earnings estimates are revised after the just-reported results. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Srpen patří mezi slabší měsíce pro akciové trhy, a investoři proto mohou hledat dividendové tituly, které dokážou nabídnout stabilnější výnos i v období zvýšené volatility. CNBC proto upozorňuje na několik společností z dividendových aristokratů, které vedle pravidelného růstu dividend nabízejí i zajímavý potenciál dalšího růstu ceny akcií.
Srpen bývá třetím nejslabším měsícem roku. Historická data ukazují, že index S&P 500 v srpnu v průměru přidává jen nepatrné zisky. A přitom už v červenci byly trhy letos poměrně volatilní, když se investoři museli vypořádat s napětím na Blízkém východě a obavami ohledně dalšího směřování Fedu. Index S&P 500 tak nakonec v červenci oslabil o 0,1 %, technologický index Nasdaq ztratil 3,2 % a Dow Jones Industrial Average si připsal 0,3 %.
Dividendové akcie si však ve stejný měsíc vedly lépe než širší trh. Fond ProShares S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats ETF (NOBL) vzrostl téměř o 8 % a fond Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF (VIG) přidal přibližně 1 %. NOBL investuje do společností z indexu S&P 500, které dlouhodobě každoročně zvyšují dividendy a jeho dividendový výnos činí 2,42 %. Stejně tak VIG se zaměřuje na firmy s historií růstu dividend a nabízí dividendový výnos 1,54 %.
Právě akcie vyplácející dividendy nabízí během tržní volatility stabilnější a předvídatelnější výnosy a mohou zmírnit propady portfolia. „Trhy jsou volatilní, budoucí vývoj je nejistý a růst dividend navíc pomáhá kompenzovat inflaci, která zůstává vyšší a odolnější, než se očekávalo,“ uvedl v červnu pro CNBC Michael Clarfeld, manažer dividendové strategie společnosti ClearBridge Investments.
Investoři by se však neměli zaměřovat pouze na akcie s nejvyšším dividendovým výnosem. Někdy totiž mimořádně vysoká dividenda může signalizovat problémy - pokud cena akcie výrazně klesne, dividendový výnos naopak matematicky vzroste, což může vytvářet klamný dojem atraktivity. Proto se pozornost často obrací na takzvané dividendové aristokraty, tedy společnosti z indexu S&P 500, které zvyšovaly dividendu každý rok po dobu nejméně 25 let v řadě. Jejich dividendové výnosy sice nebývají nejvyšší na trhu, ale obecně jde o kvalitní a finančně stabilní firmy s dlouhodobě prověřeným byznysem.
CNBC zveřejnila seznam akcií z fondu NOBL, které mají podle analytiků stále zajímavý růstový potenciál (tj. alespoň 15% možnost růstu oproti aktuální ceně) a zároveň je alespoň 55 % analytiků doporučuje k nákupu:
Jednou z těchto akcií je Albemarle, jeden z největších světových producentů lithia. Akcie v červenci ztratily 13 %, analytici však věří, že by mohly výrazně posílit. Průměrná cílový cena naznačuje potenciální růst až o 63 % a mezitím investoři dostávají dividendový výnos 1,4 %. Přibližně 58 % analytiků, kteří akcii sledují, doporučuje její nákup. Patří mezi ně i banka Citigroup, která v červnu své doporučení zvýšila.
Ceny akcií Albemarle v poslední době negativně ovlivňují obavy z příliš vysoké nabídky lithia na trhu. Analytik Citi Patrick Cunningham si však nemyslí, že by došlo k výraznému přebytku suroviny. „I v případě vyrovnaného trhu považujeme Albemarle za jednoho z hlavních vítězů dlouhodobě rostoucí poptávky po lithiu díky kvalitním aktivům, zpracovatelské síti a schopnosti investovat kapitál do růstových projektů s vysokou návratností. Domníváme se, že současné ocenění akcie dostatečně nezohledňuje další fázi růstu společnosti.“
Další zajímavou dividendovou akcií na seznamu je Air Products and Chemicals, která nabízí nejvyšší dividendový výnos z uvedených společností, a to 2,5 %. Podle průměrné cílové ceny analytiků má akcie 17% potenciál růstu a zároveň jí 56 % analytiků doporučuje k nákupu.
Minulý týden společnost Air Products and Chemicals oznámila výsledky za třetí fiskální čtvrtletí. Zisk překonal očekávání analytiků, avšak tržby byly o něco nižší, než trh předpokládal. Firma zároveň zvýšila svůj výhled celoročního zisku, a naopak snížila plánované kapitálové výdaje, tedy investice do nových projektů a infrastruktury. Akcie společnosti v červenci mírně posílily.
Dover vyrábí specializovaná zařízení, komponenty, software a průmyslová řešení pro firmy a k nákupu ho doporučuje téměř 62 % analytiků. Akcie nabízí 1% dividendový výnos a potenciální zhodnocení o 23 %. Management se nedávno zavázal transformovat portfolio směrem k rychlejšímu strukturálnímu růstu na trzích, jako je zemní plyn a biomedicína. Provozní marže se v posledních 10 letech rozšířila díky optimalizaci portfolia a kontrole nákladů a rozvaha firmy navíc značí prostor pro velké akvizice.
Ecolab je globálním lídrem v oblasti úpravy vody, hygieny a sanitace a prevence infekcí a mezi jeho zákazníky jsou mimo jiné i datová centra, u kterých firma očekává růst tržeb alespoň o 20 % ročně. Tento titul doporučuje k nákupu 60 % analytiků a jeho cena představuje 18% možnost zhodnocení, a navíc s dividendovým výnosem 1,1 %.
S&P Global doporučuje ke koupi až 79 % analytiků, což je nejvíce z akcií na seznamu, přičemž u ní vidí 26% zhodnocení. K tomu má titul 0,9% dividendový výnos. Nicméně poslední výsledky investory mírně zklamaly poté, co firma nedoručila očekávané výnosy ze segmentů energetiky a tržních dat. Nicméně na lince marží a zisku na akcii splnila odhady a potvrdila výhled.
Další společností na seznamu je Walmart. Ten sice nabízí relativně nízký dividendový výnos 0,9 %, podle dat společnosti FactSet však má potenciál růstu ceny akcie téměř o 26 %. Přibližně 67 % analytiků, kteří akcii sledují, doporučuje její nákup. Akcie Walmartu během července ztratily asi 2 %.
Walmart své výsledky zveřejní 20. srpna. Investiční společnost Bernstein, která akcii hodnotí doporučením „outperform“, doporučuje akcie dokoupit v případě, že by po případně slabších výsledcích výrazněji oslabily. „Přestože v nejbližší době může dojít ke zpomalení růstu srovnatelných tržeb, Walmart podle nás zůstává ve velmi silné fundamentální pozici. Má cenovou výhodu oproti konkurenci, širší nabídku produktů a stále atraktivnější služby doručování,“ napsal analytik Zhihan Ma.
West Pharmaceutical Services doporučuje 68 % analytiků k nákupu a vidí u ní cílovou cenu o 20 % nad současnou tržní cenou. Dividendový výnos je zde ale pouze 0,3 %. V posledních výsledcích tato farmacie překonala odhady trhu u tržeb, organického růstu, provozní marže i zisku na akcii. Deutsche Bank považuje tuto banku za „jeden z jasných titulů, které překonávají očekávání a od roku 2026 do roku 2027 rostou“, uvedl analytik DB Justin Bowers.
On August 06, 2026, Albemarle Corp (ALB) shares rose 5.5% today, trading at $125.42. The stock has experienced significant price fluctuations, with a 52-week ra
Release Date: August 06, 2026For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript. Positive Points Albemarle Corp
Albemarle Corporation (ALB) Q2 2026 Earnings Call August 6, 2026 8:00 AM EDT
Company Participants
Meredith Bandy - Vice President of Investor Relations & Sustainability
Jerry Masters - Chairman, President & CEO
Neal Sheorey - CFO, Executive VP & Interim Principal Accounting Officer
Eric Norris - Executive VP & Chief Commercial Officer
Conference Call Participants
David Begleiter - Deutsche Bank AG, Research Division
John Ezekiel Roberts - Mizuho Securities USA LLC, Research Division
Arun Viswanathan - RBC Capital Markets, Research Division
Laurence Alexander - Jefferies LLC, Research Division
Evan McCaul - BMO Capital Markets Equity Research
Vincent Andrews - Morgan Stanley, Research Division
Joshua Spector - UBS Investment Bank, Research Division
Matthew DeYoe - BofA Securities, Research Division
Kevin McCarthy - Vertical Research Partners, LLC
Harris Fein - Wolfe Research, LLC
Mazahir Mammadli - Rothschild & Co Redburn, Research Division
Presentation
Operator
Hello, and welcome to Albemarle Corporation's Q2 2026 Earnings Call. I will now hand it over to Meredith Bandy, Vice President of Investor Relations and Sustainability.
Meredith Bandy
Vice President of Investor Relations & Sustainability
Thank you, and welcome, everyone, to Albemarle's Second Quarter 2026 Earnings Conference Call. Our earnings were released after market close yesterday, and you'll find the press release and earnings presentation posted to our website under the Investors section at albemarle.com.
Joining me on the call today are Kent Masters, Chief Executive Officer; Neal Sheorey, Chief Financial Officer; Mark Mummert, Chief Operations Officer; and Eric Norris, Chief Commercial Officer, are also available for Q&A. As a reminder, some of the statements made during this call, including outlook, guidance, expected company performance and strategic initiatives may constitute forward-looking statements. Please note the cautionary language about forward-looking statements contained in our press release and earnings presentation. That same language applies to this call. Please also note that some of our comments today may refer to non-GAAP financial measures. You can find reconciliations in our earnings materials.
Key Takeaways Albemarle beat Q2 estimates as lithium pricing, Specialties growth and productivity gains boosted results.ALB raised its 2026 Specialties sales and adjusted EBITDA outlook on stronger pricing and volumes.ALB lowered its capital spending forecast and expects higher Wodgina output to offset Talison delays. Albemarle Corporation (ALB - Free Report) posted second-quarter 2026 adjusted earnings of $3.75 per share, up from 11 cents a year ago. The figure beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.35 by 11.9%, supported by stronger lithium pricing, Specialties growth and productivity gains.
On a reported basis, net income (attributable to Albemarle common shareholders) was $438.3 million or $3.52 per share. This compares favorably with a loss of $18.8 million or 16 cents per share in the prior-year quarter.
Net sales increased 31.1% year over year to $1.74 billion and topped the consensus mark of $1.59 billion by 9.9%. Energy Storage sales volume rose 11% to 65 kilotons of lithium carbonate equivalent, while average realized pricing advanced 60.5% to $19.53 per kilogram.
Adjusted EBITDA climbed 155% year over year to $858.1 million. The increase reflected higher Energy Storage pricing, stronger Specialties pricing and volumes, and ongoing cost and productivity improvements.
ALB’s Segment HighlightsEnergy Storage net sales surged 77.9% year over year to $1.28 billion. It beat the consensus estimate of $1.19 billion. The improvement was driven by higher pricing, with volume also increasing from the year-ago period.
The segment’s adjusted EBITDA advanced 229.3% to $723.5 million. Higher lithium pricing drove the gain, partly offset by increased CORFO commissions.
Specialties net sales rose 20.5% year over year to $423.5 million. It was above the consensus estimate of $363 million. Volumes increased 8%, while pricing improved 11%, reflecting strength across bromine and derivatives.
Adjusted EBITDA for the segment increased 61.3% to $117.7 million. Favorable pricing, higher volumes, productivity gains and proactive management of Middle East-related cost escalation supported profitability.
ALB Generates Strong Cash Flow and LiquidityCash from operating activities totaled $710 million in the quarter, while free cash flow was $638.3 million. Operating cash flow conversion reached 83%, helped by the timing of a larger Talison joint venture dividend and non-recurring working capital benefits.
As of June 30, 2026, cash and cash equivalents were $1.63 billion, and estimated liquidity was about $3.2 billion. Total debt totaled $1.9 billion, with net debt to adjusted EBITDA of roughly 0.5.
For the first half of 2026, operating cash flow increased $518 million year over year to $1.06 billion. Capital expenditures declined $131.8 million to $170.4 million.
Albemarle Raises Specialties OutlookAlbemarle increased its 2026 Specialties net sales outlook to $1.4-$1.6 billion from the prior $1.3-$1.5 billion range. The adjusted EBITDA forecast rose to $275-$325 million from $225-$275 million, reflecting stronger-than-expected year-to-date pricing and volume performance.
The company cut its capital expenditure forecast to about $500 million from $550-$600 million expected earlier.
ALB also expects Energy Storage sales volumes of 225-235 kilotons, as higher Wodgina output partly offsets a delay in the Talison CGP3 ramp following the June 9 fire.
ALB’s Stock Price PerformanceShares of Albemarle have gained 69.6% in the past year compared with the Zacks Chemicals Diversified industry’s 6.7% rise.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
ALB’s Zacks Rank & Key PicksALB currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).
Some better-ranked stocks in the Basic Materials space are Almonty Industries Inc. (ALM - Free Report) , Neo Performance Materials Inc. (NOPMF - Free Report) and Skeena Resources Limited (SKE - Free Report) .
Almonty is expected to report second-quarter results on Aug. 13. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ALM’s second-quarter earnings is pegged at 10 cents per share. It carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present.
NOPMF is slated to report second-quarter results on Aug. 11. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at 50 cents per share. NOPMF has a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Skeena Resources is expected to report second-quarter results on Aug. 13. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for SKE’s second-quarter loss is pegged at 11 cents per share. It currently carries a Zacks Rank #2.
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
For the quarter ended June 2026, Albemarle (ALB - Free Report) reported revenue of $1.74 billion, up 31.1% over the same period last year. EPS came in at $3.75, compared to $0.11 in the year-ago quarter.
The reported revenue represents a surprise of +9.94% over the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.59 billion. With the consensus EPS estimate being $3.35, the EPS surprise was +11.94%.
While investors closely watch year-over-year changes in headline numbers -- revenue and earnings -- and how they compare to Wall Street expectations to determine their next course of action, some key metrics always provide a better insight into a company's underlying performance.
As these metrics influence top- and bottom-line performance, comparing them to the year-ago numbers and what analysts estimated helps investors project a stock's price performance more accurately.
Here is how Albemarle performed in the just reported quarter in terms of the metrics most widely monitored and projected by Wall Street analysts:
Net Sales- Specialties: $423.48 million versus the three-analyst average estimate of $362.98 million. The reported number represents a year-over-year change of +20.5%.Net Sales- Energy Storage: $1.28 billion versus the three-analyst average estimate of $1.19 billion. The reported number represents a year-over-year change of +77.9%.Adjusted EBITDA- Specialties: $117.72 million versus $67.37 million estimated by three analysts on average.Adjusted EBITDA- Energy Storage: $723.46 million versus the three-analyst average estimate of $679.13 million.View all Key Company Metrics for Albemarle here>>>
Shares of Albemarle have returned -6.4% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +3.5% change. The stock currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), indicating that it could perform in line with the broader market in the near term.
Albemarle (ALB - Free Report) came out with quarterly earnings of $3.75 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $3.35 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.11 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.
This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of +11.94%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this specialty chemicals company would post earnings of $1.24 per share when it actually produced earnings of $2.95, delivering a surprise of +137.9%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times.
Albemarle, which belongs to the Zacks Chemical - Diversified industry, posted revenues of $1.74 billion for the quarter ended June 2026, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 9.94%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $1.33 billion. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates four times over the last four quarters.
The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call.
Albemarle shares have lost about 14.6% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 13%.
What's Next for Albemarle?While Albemarle has underperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock?
There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.
Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.
Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Albemarle was mixed. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to perform in line with the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and the current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $3.68 on $1.75 billion in revenues for the coming quarter and $12.79 on $6.21 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.
Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Chemical - Diversified is currently in the top 42% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.
Koppers (KOP - Free Report) , another stock in the same industry, has yet to report results for the quarter ended June 2026. The results are expected to be released on August 6.
This maker of chemicals, carbon compounds and wood treatment products is expected to post quarterly earnings of $1.12 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -24.3%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has remained unchanged over the last 30 days.
Koppers' revenues are expected to be $506.1 million, up 0.3% from the year-ago quarter.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB), a global leader in providing essential elements for mobility, energy, connectivity and health, today announced its results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2026.
Second Quarter 2026 and Recent Highlights
(Unless otherwise stated, all percentage changes represent year-over-year comparisons and do not exclude the prior-period results of Ketjen's refining catalyst solutions business in which the company sold a 51% stake on March 2, 2026)
Net sales of $1.7 billion, up 31% due to higher pricing in Energy Storage (+73%) and higher pricing and volumes in Specialties (price +11%, volume +8%). Net income of $480 million, or $3.52 per diluted share attributable to common shareholders. Adjusted EBITDA(a) of $858 million; up 155% due primarily to higher pricing in Energy Storage, increased pricing and volumes in Specialties and ongoing cost and productivity improvements. Adjusted EBITDA expanded in both Energy Storage (+229%) and Specialties (+61%). Cash from operating activities of $710 million and free cash flow of $638 million(a). Operating cash flow conversion of 83%(a), primarily driven by timing of an increased dividend from the Talison joint venture and non-recurring working capital benefits. Delivered $100 million in year-to-date run-rate cost and productivity improvements, tracking towards the high end of our full-year target of $100 to $150 million. Improving full-year 2026 outlook considerations including: Increasing full-year Specialties net sales outlook to $1.4 to $1.6 billion and adjusted EBITDA outlook to $275 to $325 million, due to stronger-than-expected pricing and volume performance year to date. Expect minimal impact to Energy Storage sales volume related to the fire at Talison CGP3 which occurred on June 9, in part due to better-than-planned output from the Wodgina mine. Reducing full-year capital expenditure forecast to approximately $500 million due to ongoing capital efficiency improvements. (a) See Non-GAAP Reconciliations for further details.
"Albemarle delivered another quarter of strong results, reflecting improved pricing, continued strength in Specialties, disciplined cost and productivity execution, and strong cash generation," said Kent Masters, Chairman and CEO. "We continue to see resilient demand fundamentals across our core markets, including energy storage, electric vehicles, and semiconductors. We are advancing our highest value organic growth opportunities while maintaining a disciplined approach to capital allocation and execution."
Second Quarter 2026 Results
In millions, except per share amounts
Q2 2026
Q2 2025
$ Change
% Change
Net sales
$ 1,743.3
$ 1,330.0
$ 413.3
31.1 %
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation
$ 480.0
$ 22.9
$ 457.1
1,996.2 %
Adjusted EBITDA(a)
$ 858.1
$ 336.5
$ 521.6
155.0 %
Diluted income (loss) per share attributable to common
shareholders
$ 3.52
$ (0.16)
$ 3.68
NM
Non-recurring and other unusual items(a)
0.22
0.27
Adjusted diluted income per share attributable to
common shareholders(a)(b)
$ 3.75
$ 0.11
$ 3.64
NM
(a) See Non-GAAP Reconciliations for further details.
(b) Totals may not add due to rounding.
Net sales for the second quarter of 2026 were $1.7 billion compared to $1.3 billion for the prior-year quarter, up 31%, driven primarily by higher prices in both Energy Storage and Specialties and volume growth in Specialties. Adjusted EBITDA of $858 million increased by $522 million from the prior-year quarter, primarily due to higher net sales and ongoing cost and productivity improvements.
Net income attributable to Albemarle of $480 million increased year over year by $457 million. The effective income tax rate for the second quarter of 2026 was 21.3% or 19.1% on an adjusted basis.
Energy Storage Results
In millions
Q2 2026
Q2 2025
$ Change
% Change
Net Sales
$ 1,276.7
$ 717.7
$ 559.0
77.9 %
Sales Volume (kT LCE)(a)
65
59
6
11.0 %
Avg. Realized Price ($/kg LCE)(a)
$ 19.53
$ 12.17
$ 7.36
60.5 %
Adjusted EBITDA
$ 723.5
$ 219.7
$ 503.7
229.3 %
(a) Includes aggregated salts and spodumene sales on a lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) basis.
Energy Storage net sales for the second quarter of 2026 were $1.3 billion, an increase of $559 million, or 78%, due to higher pricing. Adjusted EBITDA of $723 million increased $504 million, or 229%, primarily due to higher lithium pricing partially offset by higher CORFO commissions.
Specialties Results
In millions
Q2 2026
Q2 2025
$ Change
% Change
Net Sales
$ 423.5
$ 351.6
$ 71.9
20.5 %
Adjusted EBITDA
$ 117.7
$ 73.0
$ 44.7
61.3 %
Specialties net sales for the second quarter of 2026 were $423 million, an increase of $72 million, or 20%, primarily due to higher volumes (+8%) and pricing (+11%). Adjusted EBITDA of $118 million increased $45 million, or 61%, primarily due to higher volumes and favorable pricing in bromine and derivatives, along with continued productivity improvements and proactive management of cost escalations driven by the conflict in the Middle East.
2026 Outlook Considerations
Total Corporate Outlook Considerations
The table below reflects expected outcomes for the total company based on recently observed lithium market price scenarios. Outlook ranges for each scenario are based on variation in sales volume and product mix. Energy Storage production volumes are expected to increase year over year. Sales volumes are expected to be in the range of 225 to 235 kilotons lithium carbonate equivalent, as increased Wodgina volumes partially offset a delay in the Talison CGP3 ramp due to a fire that occurred on June 9. All three scenarios assume flat market pricing flowing through Energy Storage's current contract book which includes approximately 40% of salts volume (or one-third of total volumes) on long-term agreements. Scenarios also assume that spodumene pricing averages 10% of the lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) price, while other costs are assumed to be constant.
Total Corporate FY 2026E
Observed market price case(a)
FY 2025 avg.
Q1 2026 avg.
2021-2025 avg.
Average lithium market price ($/kg LCE)(a)
~$10
~$20
~$30
Net sales
$4.1 - $4.3 billion
$5.7 - $6.0 billion
$7.5 - $7.8 billion
Adjusted EBITDA(b)
$0.9 - $1.0 billion
$2.4 - $2.6 billion
$4.2 - $4.4 billion
(a) Price represents blend of relevant market pricing including spot and regional indices for the periods referenced.
(b) The Company does not provide a reconciliation of forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and reported in accordance with GAAP, as the company is unable to estimate significant non-recurring or unusual items without unreasonable effort. See "Additional Information Regarding Non-GAAP Measures" for more information.
Energy Storage Market Price Scenarios
Energy Storage FY 2026E
Observed market price case(a)
FY 2025 avg.
Q1 2026 avg.
2021-2025 avg.
Average lithium market price ($/kg LCE)(a)
~$10
~$20
~$30
Net sales
$2.5 - $2.6 billion
$4.0 - $4.2 billion
$5.9 - $6.1 billion
Adjusted EBITDA
$0.7 - $0.8 billion
$2.1 - $2.3 billion
$3.9 - $4.1 billion
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments
(net of tax)(b)
$0.2 - $0.3 billion
$0.6 - $0.7 billion
$1.0 - $1.1 billion
(a) Price represents blend of relevant market pricing including spot and regional indices for the periods referenced.
(b) Included in adjusted EBITDA on a pre-tax basis.
Specialties Outlook Considerations
Specialties net sales and adjusted EBITDA outlook is improved primarily due to strong year to date performance driven by volume growth in bromine specialties and cost and productivity improvements. Our outlook continues to reflect modest volume growth in key end markets led by semiconductors, oil and gas, flame retardants and pharmaceuticals partially offset by expected softness in automotive and petrochemicals. Second-half outlook assumes stabilization in the bromine market and continued uncertainties including the situation in the Middle East. Operations at the Jordan Bromine Company (JBC) joint venture are in line with expectations as it continues to navigate geopolitical tensions in the region.
Segment FY 2026E
Specialties net sales
$1.4 - $1.6 billion
Specialties adjusted EBITDA
$275 - $325 million
Other Corporate Outlook Considerations
Albemarle expects its full-year 2026 capital expenditures to be approximately $500 million, down 15% compared to 2025 due to ongoing capital efficiency improvements.
Following the sale of a controlling stake in Ketjen's refining catalyst solutions business, announced on March 2, 2026, the refining catalyst business earnings are now classified as equity income and included in Corporate, as are the results of the retained Performance Catalyst Solutions (PCS) business. The adjusted EBITDA and equity income contributions from these are expected to be immaterial post transaction.
Interest and financing expense is expected to be between $120 and $140 million for 2026 following the debt reduction actions completed in the first quarter of 2026.
Other Corporate FY 2026E
Capital expenditures
~$500 million
Depreciation and amortization
$660 - $680 million
Adjusted effective tax rate(a)
(50)% - 30%
Corporate adjusted EBITDA (incl. FX, Ketjen equity income & PCS)
($20) - $20 million
Interest and financing expenses
$120 - $140 million
Weighted-average common shares outstanding (diluted)(b)
~136 million
(a) Adjusted effective tax rate dependent on lithium market prices and geographic income mix
(b) Diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding amount assumes the conversion of preferred stock and the net income attributable to common shareholders will not be reduced by mandatory convertible preferred stock dividends. If the reduction of mandatory convertible preferred stock dividends results in a more dilutive earnings per share, the diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding will not assume conversion of the preferred stock.
Cash Flow and Capital Deployment
Cash from operations of $1.1 billion in the first half of 2026 increased $518 million compared to the prior-year period. Capital expenditures of $170 million in the first six months of 2026 decreased by $132 million versus the prior-year period.
Balance Sheet and Liquidity
As of June 30, 2026, Albemarle had estimated liquidity of approximately $3.2 billion, including $1.6 billion of cash and cash equivalents, $1.5 billion available under our revolver and $78 million available under other credit lines. Total debt was $1.9 billion, representing a net debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio (as defined in our credit agreement) of approximately 0.5(a).
(a) See Non-GAAP Reconciliations for further details.
Earnings Call
Date:
Thurs., August 6, 2026
Time:
8:00 AM Eastern time
Dial-in (U.S.):
1-800-590-8290
Dial-in (International):
1-240-690-8800
Conference ID:
ALBQ2
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 world leader 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 allows 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.
Albemarle regularly posts information to Albemarle.com, including notification of events, news, financial performance, investor presentations and webcasts, non-GAAP reconciliations, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission 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 "ambition," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "goal," "guidance," "intend," "may," "outlook," "scenario," "should," "would," and "will." Forward-looking statements may include statements regarding: our 2026 company and segment outlooks, including expected market pricing of lithium carbonate equivalent and spodumene and other underlying assumptions and outlook consideration; plans and expectations regarding customer demand and sales; production impacts; financial flexibility and optionality; expected or actual market pricing of lithium, spodumene, bromine, and lithium specialties ("Company Products"); supply and demand for Company Products; drivers of long-term demand and growth; other underlying assumptions and outlook considerations; expected capital allocation and expenditure amounts and the corresponding impact on cash flow; expected impact of tariffs and other trade restrictions; plans and expectations regarding other mining interests, resources, reserves, projects and activities, compound annual growth rate, cost reductions, conversion network optimization, margin improvement, 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; changes in trade policies and tariffs; and the financial and operating performance of customers; timing and magnitude of customer orders; fluctuations in market pricing of lithium carbonate equivalent and spodumene; potential production volume shortfalls; increased competition and pressure to renegotiate contract terms; changes in product or conversion 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; risks related to the integration of artificial intelligence technologies into our operations; geopolitical conflicts and political unrest affecting global trade, including tensions in the Middle East; the global economy and clean energy initiatives; our ability to retain key personnel and attract new skilled personnel changes in inflation or interest rates; volatility and uncertainties in the debt and equity markets; acquisition and divestiture transactions; timing and success of projects; expected benefits and expenses from new operating structure and asset optimization activities; 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
Six Months Ended
June 30,
June 30,
2026
2025
2026
2025
Net sales
$ 1,743,313
$ 1,329,992
$ 3,172,044
$ 2,406,873
Cost of goods sold
1,153,012
1,133,116
2,080,777
2,053,698
Gross profit
590,301
196,876
1,091,267
353,175
Selling, general and administrative expenses
126,353
132,457
263,759
255,959
Restructuring charges and asset write-offs
7,337
4,448
33,203
3,385
Research and development expenses
3,667
12,444
12,837
26,543
Loss on sale of business
—
—
95,018
—
Operating income
452,944
47,527
686,450
67,288
Interest and financing expenses
(30,924)
(49,939)
(64,045)
(98,916)
Other income (expenses), net
19,629
(6,559)
73,439
3,691
Income (loss) before income taxes and equity in net
income of unconsolidated investments
441,649
(8,971)
695,844
(27,937)
Income tax expense
94,002
34,094
115,513
30,116
Income (loss) before equity in net income of
unconsolidated investments
347,647
(43,065)
580,331
(58,053)
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments
(net of tax)
151,564
78,258
247,857
142,544
Net income
499,211
35,193
828,188
84,491
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
(19,252)
(12,296)
(29,138)
(20,246)
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation
479,959
22,897
799,050
64,245
Mandatory convertible preferred stock dividends
(41,687)
(41,687)
(83,375)
(83,375)
Net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation
common shareholders
$ 438,272
$ (18,790)
$ 715,675
$ (19,130)
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to common
shareholders
$ 3.72
$ (0.16)
$ 6.07
$ (0.16)
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to
common shareholders
$ 3.52
$ (0.16)
$ 5.87
$ (0.16)
Weighted-average common shares outstanding – basic
117,961
117,665
117,907
117,634
Weighted-average common shares outstanding –
diluted
136,212
117,665
136,170
117,634
Albemarle Corporation and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In Thousands) (Unaudited)
June 30,
December 31,
2026
2025
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
$ 1,631,688
$ 1,618,001
Trade accounts receivable
603,805
593,502
Other accounts receivable
123,870
105,110
Inventories
1,384,563
1,179,271
Other current assets
200,275
140,440
Current assets held for sale
—
371,815
Total current assets
3,944,201
4,008,139
Property, plant and equipment
11,902,156
11,768,840
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
3,442,831
3,156,429
Net property, plant and equipment
8,459,325
8,612,411
Investments
1,109,241
900,926
Other assets
707,577
647,185
Goodwill
1,482,672
1,499,657
Other intangibles, net of amortization
202,079
214,233
Noncurrent assets held for sale
—
491,660
Total assets
$ 15,905,095
$ 16,374,211
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable to third parties
$ 670,229
$ 779,160
Accounts payable to related parties
445,421
134,369
Accrued expenses
507,556
521,831
Current portion of long-term debt
74,677
74,077
Dividends payable
61,514
61,387
Income taxes payable
131,703
35,467
Current liabilities held for sale
—
191,753
Total current liabilities
1,891,100
1,798,044
Long-term debt
1,802,107
3,119,464
Postretirement benefits
45,198
44,744
Pension benefits
105,729
117,361
Other noncurrent liabilities
1,158,555
1,084,892
Deferred income taxes
368,552
368,275
Noncurrent liabilities held for sale
—
59,970
Commitments and contingencies
Equity:
Albemarle Corporation shareholders' equity:
Common stock
1,180
1,178
Mandatory convertible preferred stock
2,235,105
2,235,105
Additional paid-in capital
3,048,664
3,018,213
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(243,599)
(334,807)
Retained earnings
5,233,819
4,613,676
Total Albemarle Corporation shareholders' equity
10,275,169
9,533,365
Noncontrolling interests
258,685
248,096
Total equity
10,533,854
9,781,461
Total liabilities and equity
$ 15,905,095
$ 16,374,211
Albemarle Corporation and Subsidiaries
Selected Consolidated Cash Flow Data
(In Thousands) (Unaudited)
Six Months Ended
June 30,
2026
2025
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
$ 1,618,001
$ 1,192,230
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income
828,188
84,491
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash flows from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization
313,606
330,485
Loss on sale of business
95,018
—
Gain on sale of equity investment
(42,300)
—
Stock-based compensation and other
14,661
17,068
Equity in net income of unconsolidated investments (net of tax)
(247,857)
(142,544)
Dividends received from unconsolidated investments and nonmarketable
securities
131,744
67,765
Pension and postretirement expense
5,299
3,504
Pension and postretirement contributions
(14,298)
(9,934)
Unrealized (gain) loss on investments in marketable securities
(2,792)
4,984
Gain on early extinguishment of debt
(12,543)
—
Deferred income taxes
(19,798)
(38,907)
Working capital changes
(53,125)
(96,762)
Noncurrent liability changes and other, net
60,438
318,030
Net cash provided by operating activities
1,056,241
538,180
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures
(170,407)
(302,252)
Proceeds from sale of businesses, net of cash sold
525,156
—
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment
—
23,751
Proceeds from sale of investments
123,270
—
Proceeds from sale of available for sale debt securities
—
288,000
(Payments) proceeds from settlement of foreign currency forward contracts,
net
(18,772)
171,262
Sales of marketable securities, net
1,392
2,971
Investments in equity investments and nonmarketable securities
(119)
(120)
Net cash provided by investing activities
460,520
183,612
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayments of long-term debt and credit agreements
(1,314,151)
(29,103)
Proceeds from borrowings of long-term debt and credit agreements
35,952
19,488
Other debt repayments, net
(12,309)
(2,427)
Fees related to early extinguishment of debt
(1,686)
—
Dividends paid to common shareholders
(95,372)
(95,244)
Dividends paid to mandatory convertible preferred shareholders
(83,375)
(83,375)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests
(37,463)
(18,169)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options
19,635
1,186
Withholding taxes paid on stock-based compensation award distributions
(4,199)
(2,941)
Other
(438)
(55)
Net cash used in financing activities
(1,493,406)
(210,640)
Net effect of foreign exchange on cash and cash equivalents
(9,668)
103,447
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
13,687
614,599
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$ 1,631,688
$ 1,806,829
Albemarle Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Summary of Segment Results
(In Thousands) (Unaudited)
Three Months Ended
Six Months Ended
June 30,
June 30,
2026
2025
2026
2025
Net sales:
Energy Storage
$ 1,276,684
$ 717,656
$ 2,167,849
$ 1,242,221
Specialties
423,484
351,560
781,897
672,574
Total segment net sales
1,700,168
1,069,216
2,949,746
1,914,795
Corporate and all other
43,145
260,776
222,298
492,078
Total net sales
$ 1,743,313
$ 1,329,992
$ 3,172,044
$ 2,406,873
Adjusted EBITDA:
Energy Storage
$ 723,457
$ 219,725
$ 1,274,813
$ 406,080
Specialties
117,720
72,977
193,849
131,643
Total segment adjusted EBITDA
841,177
292,702
1,468,662
537,723
Corporate and all other
16,920
43,773
53,249
65,896
Total adjusted EBITDA
$ 858,097
$ 336,475
$ 1,521,911
$ 603,619
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 (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation common shareholders, adjusted diluted income (loss) 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, adjusted EBITDA margin, operating cash flow conversion and net debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio 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 (loss) 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, 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 attributable to Albemarle Corporation 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. Adjusted net income (loss) attributable to Albemarle Corporation common stockholders is defined as adjusted net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation after mandatory convertible preferred stock dividends. EBITDA is defined as net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation before interest and financing expenses, income tax expense (benefit), and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA plus or minus the proportionate share of Windfield Holdings income tax expense, non-recurring and other unusual items, and non-operating pension and OPEB items as listed below.
Three Months Ended
Six Months Ended
June 30,
June 30,
2026
2025
2026
2025
In thousands, except percentages and per
share amounts
$
% of
net
sales
$
% of
net
sales
$
% of
net
sales
$
% of
net
sales
Net income attributable to Albemarle
Corporation
$479,959
$ 22,897
$ 799,050
$ 64,245
Add back:
Non-operating pension and OPEB items
(net of tax)
626
169
1,597
294
Non-recurring and other unusual items (net
of tax)
30,555
31,708
111,945
10,508
Adjusted net income attributable to Albemarle
Corporation
Adjusted net income (loss) attributable to
Albemarle Corporation common shareholders
$511,140
$ 13,087
$ 912,592
$ (8,328)
Adjusted diluted income (loss) per share
attributable to common shareholders
$ 3.75
$ 0.11
$ 6.70
$ (0.07)
Adjusted weighted-average common shares
outstanding – diluted(a)
136,212
117,691
136,170
117,634
Net income attributable to Albemarle
Corporation
$479,959
27.5 %
$ 22,897
1.7 %
$ 799,050
25.2 %
$ 64,245
2.7 %
Add back:
Interest and financing expenses
30,924
1.8 %
49,939
3.8 %
64,045
2.0 %
98,916
4.1 %
Income tax expense
94,002
5.4 %
34,094
2.6 %
115,513
3.6 %
30,116
1.3 %
Depreciation and amortization
155,801
8.9 %
168,731
12.7 %
313,606
9.9 %
330,485
13.7 %
EBITDA
760,686
43.6 %
275,661
20.7 %
1,292,214
40.7 %
523,762
21.8 %
Proportionate share of Windfield income
tax expense
70,766
4.1 %
33,150
2.5 %
112,300
3.5 %
58,476
2.4 %
Non-operating pension and OPEB items
854
— %
336
— %
2,201
0.1 %
611
— %
Non-recurring and other unusual items
25,791
1.5 %
27,328
2.1 %
115,196
3.6 %
20,770
0.9 %
Adjusted EBITDA
$858,097
49.2 %
$ 336,475
25.3 %
$ 1,521,911
48.0 %
$ 603,619
25.1 %
Net sales
$ 1,743,313
$ 1,329,992
$ 3,172,044
$ 2,406,873
(a) Calculation of adjusted diluted income (loss) per share attributable to common shareholders for the three and six months ended June 30, 2026 excludes $41.7 million and $83.4 million, respectively, of mandatory convertible preferred stock dividends and includes the assumed conversion of preferred stock into the diluted shares outstanding, as this results in the more dilutive per share result.
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 and all other 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,
2026
2025
2026
2025
Interest cost
$ 8,994
$ 8,924
$ 18,035
$ 17,734
Expected return on assets
(8,140)
(8,588)
(15,834)
(17,123)
Total
$ 854
$ 336
$ 2,201
$ 611
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 (loss) 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,
2026
2025
2026
2025
Restructuring charges and asset write-offs(1)
$ 0.05
$ 0.02
$ 0.24
$ 0.01
Acquisition and integration related costs(2)
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.02
Loss on sale of business/equity investment, net(3)
—
—
0.39
—
Gain on early extinguishment of debt(4)
—
—
(0.09)
—
(Gain) loss in fair value of public equity securities(5)
(0.05)
—
(0.01)
0.03
Other(6)
0.17
0.13
0.20
0.05
Tax related items(7)
0.04
0.11
0.08
(0.02)
Total non-recurring and other unusual items
$ 0.22
$ 0.27
$ 0.82
$ 0.09
(1)
In 2026, the Company announced it would place Kemerton Train 1 into care and maintenance. As a result, and in addition to other previously announced restructuring actions, the Company recorded charges of $7.3 million and $33.2 million in Restructuring charges and asset write-offs for the three and six months ended June 30, 2026, respectively. Due to the impact of valuation allowances, this resulted in total after-tax charges of $7.5 million and $33.3 million, or $0.05 and $0.24 per share, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2026, respectively. The three and six months ended June 30, 2025 included certain restructuring costs and adjustments to previously recorded costs related to restructuring actions originally entered into in 2024. As a result, the Company recorded charges of $4.4 million and $3.4 million in Restructuring charges and asset write-offs and gains (losses) of $0.1 million and ($0.1) million in Other income (expenses), net for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, respectively. Due to the impact of valuation allowances, this resulted in total after-tax gains of $2.9 million and $0.8 million, or $0.02 and $0.01 per share, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, 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, 2026 were $0.8 million and $1.9 million ($0.01 and $0.01 per share, with no income tax effect due to the impact of valuation allowances), respectively, and for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 were $1.8 million and $3.2 million ($1.4 million and $2.5 million after income taxes, or $0.01 and $0.02 per share), respectively.
(3)
During the first quarter of 2026, the Company divested its controlling ownership interest in its Refining Solutions business and its full 50% ownership interest in the Eurecat joint venture. As a result of these transactions, the Company recorded a net loss of $52.7 million ($0.39 per share, with no income tax effect due to the impact of valuation allowances), representing the proceeds received less the carrying value as of the transaction dates.
(4)
During the first quarter of 2026, the Company completed a $1.3 billion debt tender and redemption, resulting in a gain on early extinguishment of debt of $12.5 million ($0.09 per share, with no income tax effect due to the impact of valuation allowances), representing the repurchase of this debt at a discount, partially offset by tender premiums and redemption fees.
(5)
Gains resulting from the net change in fair value of investments in public equity securities, recorded in Other income (expenses), net for the three and six months ended June 30, 2026 of $6.5 million and $1.0 million ($0.05 and $0.01 per share, with no income tax effect due to the impact of valuation allowances), respectively, and for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 gains (losses) of $0.2 million and ($4.8) million ($0.1 million and ($3.8 million) after income taxes, or less than $0.01 and $0.03 per share), respectively.
(6)
Other adjustments for the three months ended June 30, 2026 included amounts recorded in:
Cost of goods sold - $3.9 million of expenses related to non-routine labor and compensation related costs that are outside normal compensation arrangements.
Selling, general and administrative expenses - Primarily comprised of $19.0 million of expenses, mainly consulting fees, related to the Company's strategic cost savings initiative.
Other income (expenses), net - Primarily related to $3.4 million of charges for asset retirement obligations at a site not part of our operations and a net loss of $1.5 million primarily driven by indemnification charges related to the Eurecat S.A. joint venture sale, partially offset by a $3.9 million gain resulting from the adjustment of indemnification related to previously disposed businesses.
After income taxes, these net losses totaled $22.8 million, or $0.17 per share.
Other adjustments for the three months ended June 30, 2025 included amounts recorded in:
Selling, general and administrative expenses - $8.3 million of gains from the sale of assets not part of our production operations, partially offset by $1.8 million of severance expenses not related to a restructuring plan.
Other income (expenses), net - $38.0 million loss resulting from the redemption of preferred equity in a Grace subsidiary, partially offset by $10.1 million of income from PIK dividends of that preferred equity prior to redemption.
After income taxes, these net losses totaled $15.3 million, or $0.13 per share.
Other adjustments for the six months ended June 30, 2026 included amounts recorded in:
Cost of goods sold - $3.9 million of expenses related to non-routine labor and compensation related costs that are outside normal compensation arrangements.
Selling, general and administrative expenses - Primarily comprised of $19.0 million of expenses, mainly consulting fees, related to the Company's strategic cost savings initiative and a $3.9 million charge for a non-income tax audit of a facility no longer controlled by the Company.
Other income (expenses), net - Primarily related to $3.4 million of charges for asset retirement obligations at a site not part of our operations and a net loss of $1.5 million primarily driven by indemnification charges related to the Eurecat S.A. joint venture sale, partially offset by a $3.9 million gain resulting from the adjustment of indemnification related to previously disposed businesses.
After income taxes, these net losses totaled $27.0 million, or $0.20 per share.
Other adjustments for the six months ended June 30, 2025 included amounts recorded in:
Selling, general and administrative expenses - $11.4 million of gains from the sale of assets not part of our production operations, partially offset by $1.8 million of severance expenses not related to a restructuring plan and $0.6 million of expenses related to certain historical legal matters.
Other income (expenses), net - $38.0 million loss resulting from the redemption of preferred equity in a Grace subsidiary and $1.9 million of charges for asset retirement obligations at a site not part of our operations, partially offset by $19.8 million of income from PIK dividends of the preferred equity in a Grace subsidiary prior to redemption and a $1.9 million gain primarily resulting from the adjustment of indemnification related to previously disposed businesses.
After income taxes, these net losses totaled $5.4 million, or $0.05 per share.
(7)
Included in Income tax expense for the three and six months ended June 30, 2026 are discrete net tax expenses of $6.0 million and $10.6 million, or $0.04 and $0.08 per share, respectively, primarily related to the impact of foreign tax reserves and foreign return to provisions.
Included in Income tax expense for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 are discrete net tax expenses of $12.2 million, or $0.11 per share, and benefits of $2.0 million, or $0.02 per share, respectively, primarily related to the impact of foreign tax reserves and 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 taxes and
equity in net income
of unconsolidated
investments
Income tax expense
(benefit)
Effective income tax
rate
Three months ended June 30, 2026
As reported
$ 441,649
$ 94,002
21.3 %
Non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and OPEB
items
26,691
(4,490)
As adjusted
$ 468,340
$ 89,512
19.1 %
Three months ended June 30, 2025
As reported
$ (8,971)
$ 34,094
(380.0) %
Non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and OPEB
items
27,664
(4,213)
As adjusted
$ 18,693
$ 29,881
159.9 %
Six months ended June 30, 2026
As reported
$ 695,844
$ 115,513
16.6 %
Non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and OPEB
items
104,853
(8,689)
As adjusted
$ 800,697
$ 106,824
13.3 %
Six months ended June 30, 2025
As reported
$ (27,937)
$ 30,116
(107.8) %
Non-recurring, other unusual and non-operating pension and OPEB
items
21,381
10,579
As adjusted
$ (6,556)
$ 40,695
(620.7) %
See below for the calculation of operating cash flow conversion and a reconciliation of free cash flow, a non-GAAP measure, to net cash provided by operating activities, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and reporting in accordance with GAAP. The Company defines operating cash flow conversion as Net cash provided by operating activities from the statement of cash flows divided by adjusted EBITDA, which is a non-GAAP measure. A reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA, the non-GAAP financial measure, from net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation, the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and reporting in accordance with GAAP, is provided in the above tables (in thousands, except percentages).
Three Months Ended
June 30, 2026
Free cash flow:
Net cash provided by operating activities
$ 709,997
Less: Capital expenditures
(71,731)
Free cash flow
$ 638,266
Operating cash flow conversion:
Net cash provided by operating activities
$ 709,997
Adjusted EBITDA
$ 858,097
Operating cash flow conversion
83 %
See below for the calculation of the net debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio ("Consolidated Leverage Ratio," as defined in our credit agreement), a non-GAAP financial measure, for the twelve months ended June 30, 2026 (in thousands, except ratio).
Twelve Months Ended
June 30, 2026
Adjusted EBITDA
$ 2,016,285
Equity in net income of non-Windfield Holdings unconsolidated investments (net of tax)
544
Dividends received from non-Windfield Holdings unconsolidated investments
9,804
Consolidated Windfield-Adjusted EBITDA
$ 2,026,633
Total Albemarle Corporation long-term debt (as reported)
Key Takeaways ALB is set to report Q2 2026 earnings on Aug. 5, with estimates pointing to sharp year-over-year growth.Albemarle gains from higher lithium volumes and cost-saving and productivity actions.ALB faces pressure from lower lithium prices despite healthy energy storage demand and expansion efforts. Albemarle Corporation (ALB - Free Report) is slated to report second-quarter 2026 results after the closing bell on Aug. 5. ALB is likely to have benefited from its cost and productivity actions and higher volumes in its Energy Storage unit in the second quarter.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter earnings has been revised upward over the past 60 days. The consensus estimate for earnings is pegged at $3.35 per share, suggesting a 2,945.5% year-over-year rise. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for second-quarter revenues is currently $1.59 billion, indicating a roughly 19.2% increase from the year-ago quarter.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
ALB beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings in three of the last four quarters. It has a trailing four-quarter earnings surprise of 74.5%, on average.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Q2 Earnings Whispers for ALBOur proven model predicts an earnings beat for ALB this time around. The combination of a positive Earnings ESP and a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold) increases the chances of an earnings beat. That is just the case here. You can uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they’re reported with our Earnings ESP Filter.
ALB has an Earnings ESP of +2.21% and a Zacks Rank #3. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Factors Shaping ALB’s Q2 ResultsALB is expected to have gained from higher lithium volumes in the June quarter. Healthy customer demand, capacity expansion and plant productivity improvements are expected to have supported volumes. ALB saw higher sales volumes (up 14% year over year) in its Energy Storage unit in the first quarter on the strength of its integrated conversion facilities. The consensus estimate for Energy Storage sales for the second quarter is pegged at $1,192 million, suggesting a 66% year-over-year growth.
Cost-saving, pricing and productivity initiatives are also expected to have aided ALB’s performance in the second quarter, supporting margins. Efforts to drive operating efficiency and improve the utilization of raw materials are likely to aid the company’s results.
Albemarle is taking aggressive cost-saving and productivity actions. The company delivered roughly $450 million in cost and productivity improvements in 2025, having surpassed its initial target of $300-$400 million. It expects additional cost and productivity improvements of $100-$150 million in 2026, with $40 million already delivered.
While the Specialties segment faces challenges from the ongoing volatility in petrochemicals and oil & gas markets due to geopolitical tensions, higher bromine prices as well as benefits of cost and productivity actions, are expected to have supported results in the quarter to be reported.
Falling lithium market prices are weighing on ALB stock. Lithium prices have pulled back amid slowing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in China, an inventory glut and prospects of increased supply from mine restarts and capacity additions. EV orders have slowed in China, the world’s biggest lithium consumer, while demand in energy storage systems remains healthy. Some impacts of the price retreat are expected to reflect on the company’s performance in the June quarter.
Albemarle Stock’s Price Performance and ValuationALB’s shares are down 16.1% year to date, underperforming the Zacks Chemical - Diversified industry’s 17.6% increase and the S&P 500’s rise of 9.5%. Its peers Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A. (SQM - Free Report) and Rio Tinto Group (RIO - Free Report) have lost 2.6% and gained 19.8%, respectively, over the same period.
ALB’s YTD Price Performance Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
ALB is currently trading at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 2.17, above the industry. It is trading at a discount to Sociedad Quimica and a premium to Rio Tinto. Albemarle currently has a Value Score of C. Sociedad Quimica and Rio Tinto have a Value Score of B and A, respectively.
ALB’s P/S F12M Vs. Industry, SQM and RIO Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Investment Thesis for ALB StockAlbemarle is well-positioned to capitalize on the substantial growth opportunity in the battery-grade lithium market, supported by the global transition toward EVs. The market for lithium batteries and energy storage remains strong, especially for EVs, offering significant opportunities for the company to develop innovative products and expand capacity. The company is strategically executing its projects aimed at boosting its global lithium conversion capacity. It remains focused on investing in high-return projects to drive productivity.
ALB also remains committed to driving shareholder value by leveraging healthy cash flows and strong liquidity. However, the pullback in lithium prices casts a pall on its prospects.
Conclusion: Hold Onto ALB Stock for NowAlbemarle is gaining from higher lithium volumes driven by project ramp-ups, as well as initiatives to expand global lithium conversion capacity and enhance productivity. The company is well-placed to gain from long-term growth in the battery-grade lithium market.
Rising earnings estimates and a strong growth outlook are other positives. However, retreating lithium prices could dampen its prospects. Its stretched valuation also might not offer an attractive entry point at this time. Investors who already own ALB shares may consider maintaining their positions while awaiting greater visibility following the company’s upcoming earnings release.
Wall Street analysts expect Albemarle (ALB - Free Report) to post quarterly earnings of $3.35 per share in its upcoming report, which indicates a year-over-year increase of 2945.5%. Revenues are expected to be $1.59 billion, up 19.2% from the year-ago quarter.
The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 13.8% lower over the last 30 days to the current level. This reflects how the analysts covering the stock have collectively reevaluated their initial estimates during this timeframe.
Before a company announces its earnings, it is essential to take into account any changes made to earnings estimates. This is a valuable factor in predicting the potential reactions of investors toward the stock. Empirical research has consistently shown a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and the short-term price performance of a stock.
While investors typically rely on consensus earnings and revenue estimates to gauge how the business may have fared during the quarter, examining analysts' projections for some of the company's key metrics often helps gain a deeper insight.
Given this perspective, it's time to examine the average forecasts of specific Albemarle metrics that are routinely monitored and predicted by Wall Street analysts.
Analysts expect 'Net Sales- Specialties' to come in at $362.98 million. The estimate indicates a change of +3.3% from the prior-year quarter.
Analysts predict that the 'Net Sales- Energy Storage' will reach $1.19 billion. The estimate suggests a change of +66.1% year over year.
Analysts forecast 'Adjusted EBITDA- Corporate' to reach -$12.33 million. The estimate compares to the year-ago value of $15.21 million.
Based on the collective assessment of analysts, 'Adjusted EBITDA- Specialties' should arrive at $67.37 million. Compared to the present estimate, the company reported $72.98 million in the same quarter last year.
The consensus among analysts is that 'Adjusted EBITDA- Energy Storage' will reach $679.13 million. Compared to the current estimate, the company reported $219.73 million in the same quarter of the previous year.
View all Key Company Metrics for Albemarle here>>>
Over the past month, shares of Albemarle have returned -13.2% versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +0.2% change. Currently, ALB carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), suggesting that its performance may align with the overall market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Investors in Albemarle Corporation (ALB - Free Report) need to pay close attention to the stock based on moves in the options market lately. That is because the Sept. 18, 2026 $50.00 Call had some of the highest implied volatility of all equity options today.
What is Implied Volatility?Implied volatility shows how much movement the market is expecting in the future. Options with high levels of implied volatility suggest that investors in the underlying stocks are expecting a big move in one direction or the other. It could also mean there is an event coming up soon that may cause a big rally or a huge sell-off. However, implied volatility is only one piece of the puzzle when putting together an options trading strategy.
What do the Analysts Think?Clearly, options traders are pricing in a big move for Albemarle shares, but what is the fundamental picture for the company? Currently, Albemarle is a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) in the Chemical - Diversified industry that ranks in the Bottom 42% of our Zacks Industry Rank. Over the last 60 days, our Zacks Consensus Estimate for the current quarter has moved from $3.70 per share to $3.68 in that period.
Given the way analysts feel about Albemarle right now, this huge implied volatility could mean there’s a trade developing. Oftentimes, options traders look for options with high levels of implied volatility to sell premium. This is a strategy many seasoned traders use because it captures decay. At expiration, the hope for these traders is that the underlying stock does not move as much as originally expected.
On July 30, 2026, Albemarle Corp (ALB) shares rose 3.4% to a current price of $117.76, amid a 52-week trading range of $64.95 to $221.00. This uptick comes desp
Key Takeaways Albemarle and Rio Tinto are well-positioned to benefit from rising lithium demand.ALB focuses on capacity expansion, cost cuts and strong cash flow to support growth.RIO advances major lithium projects, boosts output and leverages a strong balance sheet. Albemarle Corporation (ALB - Free Report) and Rio Tinto Group (RIO - Free Report) are prominent players in the lithium space. Both companies are well-positioned to gain from robust long-term growth in lithium demand from electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems.
Falling lithium market prices are weighing on lithium stocks lately. Lithium prices have pulled back amid slowing demand for EVs in China, an inventory glut and prospects of increased supply from mine restarts and capacity additions. EV orders have slowed in China, the world’s biggest lithium consumer, while demand in energy storage systems remains healthy.
Let’s dive deep and closely compare the fundamentals of these two lithium producers to determine which one is a better investment option now in the prevailing lithium market environment.
The Case for ALBAlbemarle is well-placed to gain from long-term growth in the battery-grade lithium market. The market for lithium batteries and energy storage remains strong, offering significant opportunities for the company to develop innovative products and expand capacity. Lithium demand is expected to grow on the back of significant global EV penetration.
ALB expects lithium demand to witness a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10-20% from 2025 to 2030. Stationary storage is expected to be a significant driver for lithium demand along with EVs. Albemarle expects demand to grow roughly 15-40% this year. Demand indicators stayed positive in the first quarter of 2026, with global Energy Storage Systems production rising 117% year over year.
The company is strategically executing its projects aimed at boosting its global lithium conversion capacity. It remains focused on investing in high-return projects to drive productivity. Healthy customer demand, capacity expansion and plant productivity improvements are supporting its volumes. ALB saw higher sales volumes (up 14% year over year) in its Energy Storage unit in the first quarter on the strength of its integrated conversion facilities.
The Salar yield improvement project in Chile has achieved a 50% operating rate, and the ramp-up continues to deliver encouraging outcomes. ALB has started the environmental permitting process for a commercial direct lithium extraction project at Salar de Atacama. The ramp-up at the Meishan lithium conversion facility in China is also progressing ahead of schedule.
Albemarle is taking aggressive cost-saving and productivity actions. The company delivered roughly $450 million in cost and productivity improvements in 2025, having surpassed its initial target of $300-$400 million. It expects additional cost and productivity improvements of $100-$150 million in 2026, with $40 million already delivered. ALB is taking actions to maintain its competitive position, including the initiation of a comprehensive review of cost and operating structure, optimization of the conversion network and reduction of capital expenditure.
Albemarle remains committed to driving shareholder value by leveraging healthy cash flows and strong liquidity. Its operating cash flow was around $1.3 billion in 2025, up roughly 86% from the prior-year period. At the end of the first quarter, ALB had liquidity of around $2.7 billion, including cash and cash equivalents of around $1.1 billion. ALB generated an operating cash flow of $346 million and free cash flow of $248 million in the quarter.
The company paid down $1.3 billion of outstanding debt in March 2026, reducing annual interest expense by roughly $60 million. This followed the successful divestments of the controlling stake in Ketjen and its 50% interest in the Eurecat joint venture, which together generated $670 million in pre-tax proceeds.
The company remains focused on maintaining its dividend payout. It has raised its quarterly dividend for the 30th straight year. ALB offers a dividend yield of 1.4% at the current stock price.
The Case for RIORio Tinto holds one of the world’s largest lithium portfolios and a robust pipeline of development projects, positioning it well to benefit from the growing demand for lithium. RIO produces lithium using several established methods, including direct lithium extraction (“DLE”) from brines, traditional pond-based brine extraction and hard-rock mining. The company also manufactures a broad suite of lithium products, including lithium chloride, lithium carbonate, lithium hydroxide, and spodumene concentrate.
RIO is expanding its lithium extraction capabilities through a new partnership with ILiAD Technologies, a leader in DLE technology. The collaboration supports the company’s efforts to enhance operational efficiency while improving sustainability and cost-effectiveness. ILiAD’s technology allows the extraction of high-purity lithium chloride from a wide range of lithium-rich brine resources and complements RIO’s existing DLE operations at Fénix and Rincon.
RIO is making progress with its high-value lithium projects. The fully owned Rincon Lithium Project in Argentina remains on track, with commissioning of the starter plant already being completed and ramp-up currently in progress, with full capacity expected by the end of 2026. RIO is investing $2.5 billion to expand Rincon, which has a capacity of 60,000 tons of battery-grade lithium carbonate annually with a 40-year mine life. First production from the project is expected in 2028, followed by a three-year ramp-up to full capacity. Rio Tinto has secured a $1.175 billion financing package from international lenders to support the development of the Rincon project.
The Fénix expansion project and Sal de Vida in Argentina, with a capital cost of $0.7 billion each, have achieved first production ahead of schedule. The Nemaska Lithium project, in which Rio Tinto now holds a 53.9% stake with the Government of Québec retaining the balance, is a fully integrated spodumene-to-lithium hydroxide development project comprising the lithium hydroxide plant in Bécancour and the Whabouchi spodumene mine with a production capacity of 32,000 tons. RIO initially acquired a 50% interest in Nemaska Lithium through the buyout of Arcadium in March 2025.
At Bécancour, engineering has been completed, with construction at more than 70%. RIO has decided to slow the pace of construction of the project during 2026, but remains fully committed to advancing the project. It expects construction to ramp up following optimization works and does not envision major changes to the project’s overall timeline.
RIO has a robust balance sheet and generates strong cash flows, which allow it to make investments in projects while driving shareholder returns. RIO generated a strong operating cash flow of $9.2 billion in the six months ended June 30, 2026, up 32% year over year. Free cash flow surged 75% year over year to roughly $3.8 billion. The company ended the period with cash and cash equivalents, and other short-term, highly liquid investments, totaling $9.1 billion.
Rio Tinto has a policy of returning 40-60% of its underlying earnings, with a 10-year track record of dividend payout at the top end of the range. It has declared an interim ordinary dividend of $3.4 billion, up 43% year over year, with a payout ratio of 50%. It offers a dividend yield of 5.5% at the current stock price.
ALB & RIO: Price Performance, Valuation & Other ComparisonsThe ALB stock is down 20% year to date, while RIO has gained 14.5%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
ALB is currently trading at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 2.11. RIO is currently trading at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 1.84, below ALB.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
ALB’s long-term debt-to-capitalization is around 15.2%, lower than RIO’s 24.6%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
How the Zacks Consensus Estimate Compares for ALB & RIOThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for ALB’s 2026 sales implies year-over-year growth of 18.9%. The same for EPS suggests a 1,727.9% year-over-year rise. The EPS estimates for 2026 have been trending higher over the past 60 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The consensus estimate for RIO’s 2026 sales and EPS implies a year-over-year rise of 14% and 27.7%, respectively. The EPS estimates for 2026 have been trending southward over the past 60 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
ALB or RIO: Which Stock Holds the Edge?Both ALB and RIO currently carry a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), so picking one stock is not easy. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
ALB and RIO stand to benefit from higher lithium demand, driven by EVs and energy storage. Albemarle is benefiting from higher lithium volumes on project ramp-ups and actions to boost global lithium conversion capacity and productivity. RIO is advancing major lithium projects to boost output and leveraging a strong balance sheet. ALB's higher earnings growth projections suggest that it may offer better investment prospects in the current market environment. ALB’s lower leverage also suggests lower financial risks. Investors seeking exposure to the lithium space might consider Albemarle as the more favorable option at this time.
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What are the Zacks Style Scores? The Zacks Style Scores, developed alongside the Zacks Rank, are complementary indicators that rate stocks based on three widely-followed investing methodologies; they also help investors pick stocks with the best chances of beating the market over the next 30 days.
Each stock is assigned a rating of A, B, C, D, or F based on their value, growth, and momentum characteristics. Just like in school, an A is better than a B, a B is better than a C, and so on -- that means the better the score, the better chance the stock will outperform.
The Style Scores are broken down into four categories:
Value ScoreFor value investors, it's all about finding good stocks at good prices, and discovering which companies are trading under their true value before the broader market catches on. The Value Style Score utilizes ratios like P/E, PEG, Price/Sales, Price/Cash Flow, and a host of other multiples to help pick out the most attractive and discounted stocks.
Growth ScoreWhile good value is important, growth investors are more focused on a company's financial strength and health, and its future outlook. The Growth Style Score takes projected and historic earnings, sales, and cash flow into account to uncover stocks that will see long-term, sustainable growth.
Momentum ScoreMomentum investors, who live by the saying "the trend is your friend," are most interested in taking advantage of upward or downward trends in a stock's price or earnings outlook. Utilizing one-week price change and the monthly percentage change in earnings estimates, among other factors, the Momentum Style Score can help determine favorable times to buy high-momentum stocks.
VGM ScoreWhat if you like to use all three types of investing? The VGM Score is a combination of all Style Scores, making it one of the most comprehensive indicators to use with the Zacks Rank. It rates each stock on their combined weighted styles, which helps narrow down the companies with the most attractive value, best growth forecast, and most promising momentum.
How Style Scores Work with the Zacks Rank The Zacks Rank is a proprietary stock-rating model that harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions, or changes to a company's earnings expectations, to help investors build a successful portfolio.
It's highly successful, with #1 (Strong Buy) stocks producing an unmatched +23.94% average annual return since 1988. That's more than double the S&P 500. But because of the large number of stocks we rate, there are over 200 companies with a Strong Buy rank, plus another 600 with a #2 (Buy) rank, on any given day.
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You want to make sure you're buying stocks with the highest likelihood of success, and to do that, you'll need to pick stocks with a Zacks Rank #1 or #2 that also have Style Scores of A or B. If you like a stock that only has a #3 (Hold) rank, it should also have Scores of A or B to guarantee as much upside potential as possible.
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For instance, a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one that boasts Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings forecast, and a much greater likelihood its share price will decline as well.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Albemarle (ALB - Free Report) Charlotte, NC-based Albemarle Corporation is a premier specialty chemicals company with leading positions in attractive end markets globally. It is a leading producer of highly-engineered specialty chemicals geared to meet customer requirements across a bevy of end markets including petroleum refining, consumer electronics, energy storage, construction and automotive.
ALB is a #3 (Hold) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.
Additionally, the company could be a top pick for growth investors. ALB has a Growth Style Score of B, forecasting year-over-year earnings growth of 1727.9% for the current fiscal year.
For fiscal 2026, four analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days, and the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $0.46 to $12.86 per share. ALB boasts an average earnings surprise of +74.5%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Growth and VGM Style Scores, ALB should be on investors' short list.
Wall Street expects a year-over-year increase in earnings on higher revenues when Albemarle (ALB - Free Report) reports results for the quarter ended June 2026. While this widely-known consensus outlook is important in gauging the company's earnings picture, a powerful factor that could impact its near-term stock price is how the actual results compare to these estimates.
The earnings report, which is expected to be released on August 5, might help the stock move higher if these key numbers are better than expectations. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower.
While the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's discussion of business conditions on the earnings call, it's worth handicapping the probability of a positive EPS surprise.
Zacks Consensus EstimateThis specialty chemicals company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $3.39 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +2981.8%.
Revenues are expected to be $1.53 billion, up 15% from the year-ago quarter.
Estimate Revisions TrendThe consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 13.82% lower over the last 30 days to the current level. This is essentially a reflection of how the covering analysts have collectively reassessed their initial estimates over this period.
Investors should keep in mind that the direction of estimate revisions by each of the covering analysts may not always get reflected in the aggregate change.
Price, Consensus and EPS Surprise
Earnings WhisperEstimate revisions ahead of a company's earnings release offer clues to the business conditions for the period whose results are coming out. This insight is at the core of our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction).
The Zacks Earnings ESP compares the Most Accurate Estimate to the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the quarter; the Most Accurate Estimate is a more recent version of the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate. The idea here is that analysts revising their estimates right before an earnings release have the latest information, which could potentially be more accurate than what they and others contributing to the consensus had predicted earlier.
Thus, a positive or negative Earnings ESP reading theoretically indicates the likely deviation of the actual earnings from the consensus estimate. However, the model's predictive power is significant for positive ESP readings only.
A positive Earnings ESP is a strong predictor of an earnings beat, particularly when combined with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), 2 (Buy) or 3 (Hold). Our research shows that stocks with this combination produce a positive surprise nearly 70% of the time, and a solid Zacks Rank actually increases the predictive power of Earnings ESP.
Please note that a negative Earnings ESP reading is not indicative of an earnings miss. Our research shows that it is difficult to predict an earnings beat with any degree of confidence for stocks with negative Earnings ESP readings and/or Zacks Rank of 4 (Sell) or 5 (Strong Sell).
How Have the Numbers Shaped Up for Albemarle?For Albemarle, the Most Accurate Estimate is lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that analysts have recently become bearish on the company's earnings prospects. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of -3.28%.
On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #3.
So, this combination makes it difficult to conclusively predict that Albemarle will beat the consensus EPS estimate.
Does Earnings Surprise History Hold Any Clue?While calculating estimates for a company's future earnings, analysts often consider to what extent it has been able to match past consensus estimates. So, it's worth taking a look at the surprise history for gauging its influence on the upcoming number.
For the last reported quarter, it was expected that Albemarle would post earnings of $1.24 per share when it actually produced earnings of $2.95, delivering a surprise of +137.90%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates three times.
Bottom LineAn earnings beat or miss may not be the sole basis for a stock moving higher or lower. Many stocks end up losing ground despite an earnings beat due to other factors that disappoint investors. Similarly, unforeseen catalysts help a number of stocks gain despite an earnings miss.
That said, betting on stocks that are expected to beat earnings expectations does increase the odds of success. This is why it's worth checking a company's Earnings ESP and Zacks Rank ahead of its quarterly release. Make sure to utilize our Earnings ESP Filter to uncover the best stocks to buy or sell before they've reported.
Albemarle doesn't appear a compelling earnings-beat candidate. However, investors should pay attention to other factors too for betting on this stock or staying away from it ahead of its earnings release.
Expected Results of an Industry PlayerChemours (CC - Free Report) , another stock in the Zacks Chemical - Diversified industry, is expected to report earnings per share of $0.43 for the quarter ended June 2026. This estimate points to a year-over-year change of -25.9%. Revenues for the quarter are expected to be $1.67 billion, up 3.7% from the year-ago quarter.
Over the last 30 days, the consensus EPS estimate for Chemours has been revised 4.4% down to the current level. Nevertheless, the company now has an Earnings ESP of +27.17%, reflecting a higher Most Accurate Estimate.
This Earnings ESP, combined with its Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), suggests that Chemours will most likely beat the consensus EPS estimate. Over the last four quarters, the company surpassed consensus EPS estimates two times.
Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar.
First Trust Advisors LP trimmed its position in shares of Albemarle Corporation (NYSE:ALB – Free Report) by 7.5% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 185,708 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock after selling 15,093 shares during the quarter. First Trust Advisors LP owned about 0.16% of Albemarle worth $33,340,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.
Other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Evexia Wealth LLC grew its position in shares of Albemarle by 2.3% in the 1st quarter. Evexia Wealth LLC now owns 2,088 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock worth $387,000 after buying an additional 47 shares during the last quarter. Parallel Advisors LLC lifted its position in Albemarle by 2.5% during the fourth quarter. Parallel Advisors LLC now owns 2,468 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock valued at $349,000 after acquiring an additional 60 shares during the last quarter. Eaton Financial Holdings Company LLC boosted its stake in Albemarle by 1.2% in the fourth quarter. Eaton Financial Holdings Company LLC now owns 5,769 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock valued at $816,000 after acquiring an additional 66 shares in the last quarter. Sigma Planning Corp boosted its stake in Albemarle by 2.3% in the first quarter. Sigma Planning Corp now owns 2,952 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock valued at $530,000 after acquiring an additional 66 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Signature Estate & Investment Advisors LLC grew its holdings in Albemarle by 1.9% in the fourth quarter. Signature Estate & Investment Advisors LLC now owns 3,592 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock worth $508,000 after purchasing an additional 67 shares during the last quarter. 92.87% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.
Albemarle Trading Down 2.5% NYSE ALB opened at $113.28 on Wednesday. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $146.11 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $166.74. The stock has a market cap of $13.36 billion, a P/E ratio of -33.22 and a beta of 1.34. Albemarle Corporation has a 12-month low of $64.95 and a 12-month high of $221.00. The company has a current ratio of 2.07, a quick ratio of 1.21 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23.
Albemarle (NYSE:ALB – Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, May 6th. The specialty chemicals company reported $2.95 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.24 by $1.71. The business had revenue of $1.43 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.34 billion. Albemarle had a negative net margin of 5.00% and a positive return on equity of 5.22%. The business’s revenue for the quarter was up 32.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted ($0.18) earnings per share. On average, analysts forecast that Albemarle Corporation will post 12.86 earnings per share for the current year.
Albemarle Increases Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, October 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, September 11th will be given a dividend of $0.41 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, September 11th. This represents a $1.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.4%. This is an increase from Albemarle’s previous quarterly dividend of $0.41. Albemarle’s payout ratio is presently -47.51%.
Insiders Place Their Bets In other Albemarle news, CEO J Kent Masters sold 16,393 shares of the business’s stock in a transaction dated Friday, May 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $183.72, for a total transaction of $3,011,721.96. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 87,519 shares in the company, valued at approximately $16,078,990.68. The trade was a 15.78% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Insiders own 0.42% of the company’s stock.
Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities analysts have recently issued reports on ALB shares. Argus upped their price target on Albemarle from $185.00 to $230.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research report on Monday, May 11th. Berenberg Bank boosted their target price on Albemarle from $153.00 to $192.00 and gave the stock a “hold” rating in a research note on Tuesday, June 2nd. UBS Group boosted their target price on Albemarle from $230.00 to $264.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research note on Friday, May 8th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft increased their price target on Albemarle from $210.00 to $250.00 and gave the company a “buy” rating in a research note on Tuesday, May 12th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group lowered their price target on Albemarle from $244.00 to $211.00 and set a “buy” rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, June 30th. Fifteen investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, eleven have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus price target of $199.22.
Get Our Latest Research Report on ALB
Albemarle Profile (Free Report)
Albemarle Corporation is a leading global specialty chemicals company primarily engaged in the production and distribution of lithium, bromine, and catalysts. Its lithium segment supplies key components used in rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles, portable electronics, and grid storage systems. The company’s bromine specialty products serve a wide range of industries, including oil and gas drilling fluids, fire safety solutions, and water treatment. In its catalysts division, Albemarle provides products for petroleum refining, chemical processing and emissions control.
Founded in 1994 as a spin-off from Ethyl Corporation, Albemarle has grown through strategic acquisitions and capacity expansions to become one of the world’s foremost chemical producers.
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Albemarle (ALB - Free Report) has recently been on Zacks.com's list of the most searched stocks. Therefore, you might want to consider some of the key factors that could influence the stock's performance in the near future.
Shares of this specialty chemicals company have returned -10.4% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +1.7% change. The Zacks Chemical - Diversified industry, to which Albemarle belongs, has gained 0.7% over this period. Now the key question is: Where could the stock be headed in the near term?
While media releases or rumors about a substantial change in a company's business prospects usually make its stock 'trending' and lead to an immediate price change, there are always some fundamental facts that eventually dominate the buy-and-hold decision-making.
Earnings Estimate RevisionsHere at Zacks, we prioritize appraising the change in the projection of a company's future earnings over anything else. That's because we believe the present value of its future stream of earnings is what determines the fair value for its stock.
We essentially look at how sell-side analysts covering the stock are revising their earnings estimates to reflect the impact of the latest business trends. And if earnings estimates go up for a company, the fair value for its stock goes up. A higher fair value than the current market price drives investors' interest in buying the stock, leading to its price moving higher. This is why empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements.
Albemarle is expected to post earnings of $3.39 per share for the current quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +2981.8%. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed -13.8%.
For the current fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $12.86 points to a change of +1727.9% from the prior year. Over the last 30 days, this estimate has changed -0.9%.
For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $12.52 indicates a change of -2.6% from what Albemarle is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has changed -6.4%.
With an impressive externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool -- the Zacks Rank -- is a more conclusive indicator of a stock's near-term price performance, as it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions. The size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, has resulted in a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for Albemarle.
The chart below shows the evolution of the company's forward 12-month consensus EPS estimate:
12 Month EPS
Revenue Growth ForecastEven though a company's earnings growth is arguably the best indicator of its financial health, nothing much happens if it cannot raise its revenues. It's almost impossible for a company to grow its earnings without growing its revenue for long periods. Therefore, knowing a company's potential revenue growth is crucial.
In the case of Albemarle, the consensus sales estimate of $1.53 billion for the current quarter points to a year-over-year change of +15%. The $6.11 billion and $6.49 billion estimates for the current and next fiscal years indicate changes of +18.9% and +6.2%, respectively.
Last Reported Results and Surprise HistoryAlbemarle reported revenues of $1.43 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +32.7%. EPS of $2.95 for the same period compares with -$0.18 a year ago.
Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.33 billion, the reported revenues represent a surprise of +7.82%. The EPS surprise was +137.9%.
Over the last four quarters, Albemarle surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times. The company topped consensus revenue estimates each time over this period.
ValuationNo investment decision can be efficient without considering a stock's valuation. Whether a stock's current price rightly reflects the intrinsic value of the underlying business and the company's growth prospects is an essential determinant of its future price performance.
Comparing the current value of a company's valuation multiples, such as its price-to-earnings (P/E), price-to-sales (P/S), and price-to-cash flow (P/CF), to its own historical values helps ascertain whether its stock is fairly valued, overvalued, or undervalued, whereas comparing the company relative to its peers on these parameters gives a good sense of how reasonable its stock price is.
The Zacks Value Style Score (part of the Zacks Style Scores system), which pays close attention to both traditional and unconventional valuation metrics to grade stocks from A to F (an A is better than a B; a B is better than a C; and so on), is pretty helpful in identifying whether a stock is overvalued, rightly valued, or temporarily undervalued.
Albemarle is graded C on this front, indicating that it is trading at par with its peers. Click here to see the values of some of the valuation metrics that have driven this grade.
ConclusionThe facts discussed here and much other information on Zacks.com might help determine whether or not it's worthwhile paying attention to the market buzz about Albemarle. However, its Zacks Rank #3 does suggest that it may perform in line with the broader market in the near term.
Entropy Technologies LP acquired a new stake in shares of Albemarle Corporation (NYSE:ALB – Free Report) during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm acquired 15,776 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock, valued at approximately $2,832,000.
Other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. MH & Associates Securities Management Corp ADV acquired a new position in shares of Albemarle during the 4th quarter worth $26,000. BOKF NA raised its holdings in shares of Albemarle by 5,771.4% during the 3rd quarter. BOKF NA now owns 411 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock valued at $33,000 after purchasing an additional 404 shares in the last quarter. Elyxium Wealth LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Albemarle in the 4th quarter valued at $34,000. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its stake in shares of Albemarle by 536.7% in the 2nd quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 573 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock valued at $36,000 after purchasing an additional 483 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Torren Management LLC bought a new stake in Albemarle in the fourth quarter worth $38,000. 92.87% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.
Albemarle Stock Performance NYSE:ALB opened at $114.88 on Monday. The firm’s 50-day moving average is $148.42 and its 200-day moving average is $167.38. Albemarle Corporation has a 52-week low of $64.95 and a 52-week high of $221.00. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a quick ratio of 1.21 and a current ratio of 2.07. The company has a market cap of $13.55 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -33.69 and a beta of 1.34.
Albemarle (NYSE:ALB – Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, May 6th. The specialty chemicals company reported $2.95 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts’ consensus estimates of $1.24 by $1.71. Albemarle had a negative net margin of 5.00% and a positive return on equity of 5.22%. The business had revenue of $1.43 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.34 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned ($0.18) earnings per share. The firm’s revenue for the quarter was up 32.7% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts anticipate that Albemarle Corporation will post 12.86 earnings per share for the current year.
Albemarle Increases Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, October 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, September 11th will be issued a $0.41 dividend. This is a positive change from Albemarle’s previous quarterly dividend of $0.41. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, September 11th. This represents a $1.64 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.4%. Albemarle’s payout ratio is currently -47.51%.
Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research firms have commented on ALB. Berenberg Bank increased their target price on shares of Albemarle from $153.00 to $192.00 and gave the stock a “hold” rating in a research report on Tuesday, June 2nd. Jefferies Financial Group reduced their price target on Albemarle from $244.00 to $211.00 and set a “buy” rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, June 30th. Vertical Research upgraded Albemarle from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating and set a $224.00 price target for the company in a research note on Tuesday, May 26th. Argus increased their price objective on Albemarle from $185.00 to $230.00 and gave the company a “buy” rating in a report on Monday, May 11th. Finally, Wall Street Zen raised Albemarle from a “buy” rating to a “strong-buy” rating in a research note on Monday, July 13th. Fifteen investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, eleven have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company’s stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Albemarle presently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and an average target price of $199.87.
Get Our Latest Report on ALB
Insider Activity at Albemarle In other Albemarle news, CEO J Kent Masters sold 16,393 shares of the firm’s stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, May 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $183.72, for a total value of $3,011,721.96. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer owned 87,519 shares in the company, valued at approximately $16,078,990.68. This trade represents a 15.78% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 0.42% of the company’s stock.
Albemarle Profile (Free Report)
Albemarle Corporation is a leading global specialty chemicals company primarily engaged in the production and distribution of lithium, bromine, and catalysts. Its lithium segment supplies key components used in rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles, portable electronics, and grid storage systems. The company’s bromine specialty products serve a wide range of industries, including oil and gas drilling fluids, fire safety solutions, and water treatment. In its catalysts division, Albemarle provides products for petroleum refining, chemical processing and emissions control.
Founded in 1994 as a spin-off from Ethyl Corporation, Albemarle has grown through strategic acquisitions and capacity expansions to become one of the world’s foremost chemical producers.
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Albemarle (ALB - Free Report) ended the recent trading session at $114.85, demonstrating a -1.76% change from the preceding day's closing price. This change lagged the S&P 500's 0.05% gain on the day. Elsewhere, the Dow saw an upswing of 0.46%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq depreciated by 0.64%.
Coming into today, shares of the specialty chemicals company had lost 17.11% in the past month. In that same time, the Basic Materials sector lost 1.68%, while the S&P 500 gained 0.61%.
The investment community will be closely monitoring the performance of Albemarle in its forthcoming earnings report. The company is scheduled to release its earnings on August 5, 2026. The company is expected to report EPS of $3.39, up 2981.82% from the prior-year quarter. At the same time, our most recent consensus estimate is projecting a revenue of $1.53 billion, reflecting a 15.04% rise from the equivalent quarter last year.
For the annual period, the Zacks Consensus Estimates anticipate earnings of $12.86 per share and a revenue of $6.11 billion, signifying shifts of +1727.85% and +18.87%, respectively, from the last year.
Investors should also pay attention to any latest changes in analyst estimates for Albemarle. These latest adjustments often mirror the shifting dynamics of short-term business patterns. Hence, positive alterations in estimates signify analyst optimism regarding the business and profitability.
Our research suggests that these changes in estimates have a direct relationship with upcoming stock price performance. To take advantage of this, we've established the Zacks Rank, an exclusive model that considers these estimated changes and delivers an operational rating system.
The Zacks Rank system, ranging from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), possesses a remarkable history of outdoing, externally audited, with #1 stocks returning an average annual gain of +25% since 1988. Over the past month, the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate has shifted 0.94% downward. As of now, Albemarle holds a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).
With respect to valuation, Albemarle is currently being traded at a Forward P/E ratio of 9.09. This signifies a discount in comparison to the average Forward P/E of 14.87 for its industry.
The Chemical - Diversified industry is part of the Basic Materials sector. This industry, currently bearing a Zacks Industry Rank of 91, finds itself in the top 37% echelons of all 250+ industries.
The Zacks Industry Rank gauges the strength of our industry groups by measuring the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks within the groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.
Don't forget to use Zacks.com to keep track of all these stock-moving metrics, and others, in the upcoming trading sessions.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB), a global leader in providing essential elements for mobility, energy, connectivity and health, today announced that its Board of Directors (the "Board") has appointed Eduardo Bartolomeo to the Board, effective July 21, 2026.
Bartolomeo brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in complex global industrial environments, particularly in mining and logistics. Bartolomeo most recently served as Chief Executive Officer of Vale S.A., one of the world's largest mining companies, from 2019 to 2024. During his tenure, he led the company's operational, safety, and cultural transformation and oversaw business lines in global mining, logistics, and metals.
"Eduardo is a highly respected executive with extensive experience across mining, metals, logistics and global operations," said Albemarle Chairman and CEO Kent Masters. "His insights and leadership will be invaluable as we continue to execute our strategy, strengthen our competitive position and create long-term value for our stakeholders. We are pleased to welcome him to the Board."
Prior to serving as Vale's CEO, Bartolomeo held several senior leadership positions at the company, including Executive Director of base metals and Executive Director of logistics operations. He also previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Nova Transportadora do Sudeste and as Chairman of Log-In Logística Intermodal.
He holds an MBA from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, an MBA from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven in Belgium, and a bachelor's degree in metallurgical engineering from Universidade Federal Fluminense in Brazil. He also serves on the Board of Directors of Boston Metal, Inc., a privately held global company based in Massachusetts. Bartolomeo will join the Board's Audit & Finance Committee and the Safety, Sustainability, Operations & Capital Committee.
About Albemarle
Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB) is a world leader 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 allows 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.
Albemarle regularly posts information to Albemarle.com, including notification of events, news, financial performance, investor presentations and webcasts, non-GAAP reconciliations, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission 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," "expect," "may," "should," "would," and "will" and similar references to future periods. Forward-looking statements may include statements regarding: expectations relating to Company strategy, operations, or performance; plans and expectations related to board composition and contributions; other underlying assumptions and outlook considerations, and all other information relating to matters that are not historical facts. These and other forward-looking statements are based on management's current assumptions and expectations and involve risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect expected results. Actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements if one or more of the underlying estimates, assumptions or expectations prove to be inaccurate or are unrealized. Factors that could cause Albemarle's actual results to differ materially from the outlook expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement include: breaches of contract; changes in economic and business conditions; changes in availability to serve on the board of directors; trade policies and tariffs; technological change and development; changes in laws and government regulation; regulatory actions, proceedings, cyber-security breaches, 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.
, /PRNewswire/ -- The Board of Directors of Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB) today announced that it declared a quarterly common stock dividend of $0.41 per share. The dividend, which has an annualized rate of $1.64, is payable Oct. 1, 2026, to shareholders of record at the close of business as of Sept. 11, 2026.
About Albemarle
Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB) is a world leader 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 allows 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.
Albemarle regularly posts information to Albemarle.com, including notification of events, news, financial performance, investor presentations and webcasts, non-GAAP reconciliations, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission 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, including, without limitation, statements related to future dividends and results, which 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 actual results to differ materially from the statements expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement include, without limitation: changes in economic and business conditions; potential expected market pricing of bromine, lithium and spodumene and other underlying assumptions and our 2026 outlook considerations; adverse changes in liquidity or financial or operating performance; changes in the demand for our products or the end-user markets in which our products are sold and the other factors detailed from time to time in the reports we file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including those described under "Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. We assume no obligation to provide any revisions to any forward-looking statements should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by securities and other applicable laws.
Investor Relations Contact: +1 (980) 308-6194, [email protected]
Media Contact: Courtney St. Onge, +1 (980) 308-6310, [email protected]
California Public Employees Retirement System raised its position in Albemarle Corporation (NYSE:ALB – Free Report) by 19.0% during the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 271,555 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock after purchasing an additional 43,283 shares during the period. California Public Employees Retirement System owned 0.23% of Albemarle worth $48,752,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.
A number of other large investors have also modified their holdings of ALB. MH & Associates Securities Management Corp ADV purchased a new position in shares of Albemarle in the fourth quarter worth about $26,000. BOKF NA boosted its position in Albemarle by 5,771.4% during the third quarter. BOKF NA now owns 411 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock worth $33,000 after acquiring an additional 404 shares during the last quarter. Elyxium Wealth LLC purchased a new stake in Albemarle during the 4th quarter valued at about $34,000. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC grew its stake in Albemarle by 536.7% during the 2nd quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 573 shares of the specialty chemicals company’s stock valued at $36,000 after acquiring an additional 483 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Torren Management LLC acquired a new stake in Albemarle in the 4th quarter valued at about $38,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 92.87% of the company’s stock.
Albemarle Stock Performance NYSE:ALB opened at $118.01 on Tuesday. Albemarle Corporation has a fifty-two week low of $64.95 and a fifty-two week high of $221.00. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a quick ratio of 1.21 and a current ratio of 2.07. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $154.62 and a 200 day moving average price of $168.12. The stock has a market capitalization of $13.92 billion, a P/E ratio of -34.61 and a beta of 1.34.
Albemarle (NYSE:ALB – Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, May 6th. The specialty chemicals company reported $2.95 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts’ consensus estimates of $1.24 by $1.71. Albemarle had a positive return on equity of 5.22% and a negative net margin of 5.00%.The company had revenue of $1.43 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.34 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned ($0.18) earnings per share. The firm’s quarterly revenue was up 32.7% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts forecast that Albemarle Corporation will post 13.07 EPS for the current year.
Albemarle Dividend Announcement The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, July 1st. Investors of record on Friday, June 12th were issued a $0.405 dividend. This represents a $1.62 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.4%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, June 12th. Albemarle’s payout ratio is currently -47.51%.
Analyst Ratings Changes ALB has been the topic of a number of research reports. Vertical Research raised shares of Albemarle from a “hold” rating to a “buy” rating and set a $224.00 target price on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, May 26th. Berenberg Bank upped their price target on Albemarle from $153.00 to $192.00 and gave the company a “hold” rating in a research report on Tuesday, June 2nd. Wall Street Zen raised Albemarle from a “buy” rating to a “strong-buy” rating in a report on Monday, July 13th. Morgan Stanley lifted their price objective on Albemarle from $170.00 to $189.00 and gave the stock an “equal weight” rating in a research report on Tuesday, April 28th. Finally, Mizuho lowered their price objective on Albemarle from $205.00 to $185.00 and set a “neutral” rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, July 1st. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fifteen have assigned a Buy rating, ten have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus target price of $199.87.
Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on ALB
Insider Transactions at Albemarle In related news, CEO J Kent Masters sold 16,393 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, May 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $183.72, for a total transaction of $3,011,721.96. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 87,519 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $16,078,990.68. This represents a 15.78% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Insiders own 0.42% of the company’s stock.
Albemarle Company Profile (Free Report)
Albemarle Corporation is a leading global specialty chemicals company primarily engaged in the production and distribution of lithium, bromine, and catalysts. Its lithium segment supplies key components used in rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles, portable electronics, and grid storage systems. The company’s bromine specialty products serve a wide range of industries, including oil and gas drilling fluids, fire safety solutions, and water treatment. In its catalysts division, Albemarle provides products for petroleum refining, chemical processing and emissions control.
Founded in 1994 as a spin-off from Ethyl Corporation, Albemarle has grown through strategic acquisitions and capacity expansions to become one of the world’s foremost chemical producers.
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Albemarle (ALB - Free Report) ended the recent trading session at $120.78, demonstrating a +1.1% change from the preceding day's closing price. The stock's performance was ahead of the S&P 500's daily loss of 1.01%. Elsewhere, the Dow saw a downswing of 0.77%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq depreciated by 1.4%.
Shares of the specialty chemicals company witnessed a loss of 25.5% over the previous month, trailing the performance of the Basic Materials sector with its loss of 10.7%, and the S&P 500's gain of 0.32%.
Investors will be eagerly watching for the performance of Albemarle in its upcoming earnings disclosure. The company's earnings report is set to be unveiled on August 5, 2026. The company's earnings per share (EPS) are projected to be $3.21, reflecting a 2818.18% increase from the same quarter last year. At the same time, our most recent consensus estimate is projecting a revenue of $1.52 billion, reflecting a 14.53% rise from the equivalent quarter last year.
ALB's full-year Zacks Consensus Estimates are calling for earnings of $13.06 per share and revenue of $6.13 billion. These results would represent year-over-year changes of +1753.16% and +19.15%, respectively.
Investors should also note any recent changes to analyst estimates for Albemarle. Recent revisions tend to reflect the latest near-term business trends. Consequently, upward revisions in estimates express analysts' positivity towards the business operations and its ability to generate profits.
Our research demonstrates that these adjustments in estimates directly associate with imminent stock price performance. To utilize this, we have created the Zacks Rank, a proprietary model that integrates these estimate changes and provides a functional rating system.
The Zacks Rank system, spanning from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), boasts an impressive track record of outperformance, audited externally, with #1 ranked stocks yielding an average annual return of +25% since 1988. Over the past month, the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate has shifted 5.44% upward. Albemarle presently features a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy).
From a valuation perspective, Albemarle is currently exchanging hands at a Forward P/E ratio of 9.15. This represents a discount compared to its industry average Forward P/E of 15.01.
The Chemical - Diversified industry is part of the Basic Materials sector. This group has a Zacks Industry Rank of 158, putting it in the bottom 36% of all 250+ industries.
The Zacks Industry Rank gauges the strength of our industry groups by measuring the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks within the groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.
You can find more information on all of these metrics, and much more, on Zacks.com.
In the latest trading session, Albemarle (ALB - Free Report) closed at $119.46, marking a -4.23% move from the previous day. This move lagged the S&P 500's daily loss of 0.51%. At the same time, the Dow lost 0.2%, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq lost 1.47%.
Coming into today, shares of the specialty chemicals company had lost 25.11% in the past month. In that same time, the Basic Materials sector lost 8.52%, while the S&P 500 gained 0.53%.
Market participants will be closely following the financial results of Albemarle in its upcoming release. The company plans to announce its earnings on August 5, 2026. The company is expected to report EPS of $3.21, up 2818.18% from the prior-year quarter. At the same time, our most recent consensus estimate is projecting a revenue of $1.52 billion, reflecting a 14.53% rise from the equivalent quarter last year.
In terms of the entire fiscal year, the Zacks Consensus Estimates predict earnings of $13.06 per share and a revenue of $6.13 billion, indicating changes of +1753.16% and +19.15%, respectively, from the former year.
It's also important for investors to be aware of any recent modifications to analyst estimates for Albemarle. These revisions help to show the ever-changing nature of near-term business trends. Hence, positive alterations in estimates signify analyst optimism regarding the business and profitability.
Our research shows that these estimate changes are directly correlated with near-term stock prices. To take advantage of this, we've established the Zacks Rank, an exclusive model that considers these estimated changes and delivers an operational rating system.
The Zacks Rank system, stretching from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), has a noteworthy track record of outperforming, validated by third-party audits, with stocks rated #1 producing an average annual return of +25% since the year 1988. Over the past month, the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate has moved 5.44% higher. Right now, Albemarle possesses a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy).
Looking at its valuation, Albemarle is holding a Forward P/E ratio of 9.55. For comparison, its industry has an average Forward P/E of 15.92, which means Albemarle is trading at a discount to the group.
The Chemical - Diversified industry is part of the Basic Materials sector. This industry currently has a Zacks Industry Rank of 160, which puts it in the bottom 35% of all 250+ industries.
The Zacks Industry Rank gauges the strength of our industry groups by measuring the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks within the groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.
Remember to apply Zacks.com to follow these and more stock-moving metrics during the upcoming trading sessions.
Albemarle (ALB - Free Report) has been on a downward spiral lately with significant selling pressure. After declining 25.1% over the past four weeks, the stock looks well positioned for a trend reversal as it is now in oversold territory and there is strong agreement among Wall Street analysts that the company will report better earnings than they predicted earlier.
We use Relative Strength Index (RSI), one of the most commonly used technical indicators, for spotting whether a stock is oversold. This is a momentum oscillator that measures the speed and change of price movements.
RSI oscillates between zero and 100. Usually, a stock is considered oversold when its RSI reading falls below 30.
Technically, every stock oscillates between being overbought and oversold irrespective of the quality of their fundamentals. And the beauty of RSI is that it helps you quickly and easily check if a stock's price is reaching a point of reversal.
So, by this measure, if a stock has gotten too far below its fair value just because of unwarranted selling pressure, investors may start looking for entry opportunities in the stock for benefiting from the inevitable rebound.
However, like every investing tool, RSI has its limitations, and should not be used alone for making an investment decision.
Why ALB Could Bounce Back Before LongThe heavy selling of ALB shares appears to be in the process of exhausting itself, as indicated by its RSI reading of 28.92. So, the trend for the stock could reverse soon for reaching the old equilibrium of supply and demand.
The RSI value is not the only factor that indicates a potential turnaround for the stock in the near term. On the fundamental side, there has been strong agreement among the sell-side analysts covering the stock in raising earnings estimates for the current year. Over the last 30 days, the consensus EPS estimate for ALB has increased 5.4%. And an upward trend in earnings estimate revisions usually translates into price appreciation in the near term.
Moreover, ALB currently has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), which means it is in the top 20% of more than 4,000 stocks that we rank based on trends in earnings estimate revisions and EPS surprises. This is a more conclusive indication of the stock's potential turnaround in the near term. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .
Key Takeaways Albemarle is expanding lithium conversion capacity to capture rising demand.ALB is seeing higher Energy Storage volumes, supported by integrated conversion facilities.ALB's 2026 EPS estimate has trended higher over the past 60 days, with sharp year-over-year expected growth. Albemarle Corporation (ALB - Free Report) is strategically executing its projects aimed at boosting its global lithium conversion capacity. The market for lithium batteries and energy storage remains strong, offering significant opportunities for the company to develop innovative products and expand capacity.
ALB remains focused on investing in high-return projects to drive productivity. Healthy customer demand, capacity expansion and plant productivity improvements are supporting its volumes. ALB saw higher sales volumes (up 14% year over year) in its Energy Storage unit in the first quarter on the strength of its integrated conversion facilities.
The Salar yield improvement project in Chile has achieved a 50% operating rate, and the ramp-up continues to deliver encouraging outcomes. ALB has started the environmental permitting process for a commercial direct lithium extraction project at Salar de Atacama. The ramp-up at the Meishan lithium conversion facility in China is also progressing ahead of schedule. The company’s volumes are expected to continue to be supported by these capacity expansion actions going forward.
Among its peers, Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A. (SQM - Free Report) has a robust balance sheet and generates strong cash flows, which allow it to make investments in driving production capacity. SQM logged strong lithium sales volumes of 69,000 metric tons in the first quarter. The Nova Andino Litio business recorded roughly 19% higher volumes compared to the prior-year quarter, driven by capacity expansion actions. SQM is operating at full capacity at the Mt. Holland mine and concentrator in Australia and continues to ramp up the Kwinana refinery.
Rio Tinto Group (RIO - Free Report) is making progress with its high-value lithium projects. The fully owned Rincon Lithium Project in Argentina remains on track with commissioning of the starter plant already being completed and ramp-up currently in progress, with full capacity expected by the end of 2026. The Fénix expansion project and Sal de Vida in Argentina, with a capital cost of $0.7 billion each, are mechanically complete with first production expected in second-half 2026.
The Nemaska Lithium project, in which Rio Tinto now holds a 53.9% stake with the Government of Québec retaining the balance, is a fully integrated spodumene-to-lithium hydroxide development project comprising the lithium hydroxide plant in Bécancour and the Whabouchi spodumene mine with a production capacity of 32,000 tons. RIO initially acquired a 50% interest in Nemaska Lithium through the buyout of Arcadium in March 2025.
ALB’s Price Performance, Valuation & EstimatesAlbemarle has gained 64.7% in the past year compared with the Zacks Chemical - Diversified industry’s decline of 2.8%.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
ALB is currently trading at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 2.32, above the industry. It carries a Value Score of C.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ALB’s 2026 earnings implies a year-over-year rise of 1,753.2%. The EPS estimates for 2026 have been trending higher over the past 60 days.
Albemarle (ALB - Free Report) has recently been on Zacks.com's list of the most searched stocks. Therefore, you might want to consider some of the key factors that could influence the stock's performance in the near future.
Over the past month, shares of this specialty chemicals company have returned -22.5%, compared to the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +1.6% change. During this period, the Zacks Chemical - Diversified industry, which Albemarle falls in, has lost 5.7%. The key question now is: What could be the stock's future direction?
Although media reports or rumors about a significant change in a company's business prospects usually cause its stock to trend and lead to an immediate price change, there are always certain fundamental factors that ultimately drive the buy-and-hold decision.
Revisions to Earnings EstimatesRather than focusing on anything else, we at Zacks prioritize evaluating the change in a company's earnings projection. This is because we believe the fair value for its stock is determined by the present value of its future stream of earnings.
We essentially look at how sell-side analysts covering the stock are revising their earnings estimates to reflect the impact of the latest business trends. And if earnings estimates go up for a company, the fair value for its stock goes up. A higher fair value than the current market price drives investors' interest in buying the stock, leading to its price moving higher. This is why empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock price movements.
Albemarle is expected to post earnings of $3.21 per share for the current quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +2818.2%. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus Estimate has changed +8.4%.
For the current fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $13.06 points to a change of +1753.2% from the prior year. Over the last 30 days, this estimate has changed +5.4%.
For the next fiscal year, the consensus earnings estimate of $13.53 indicates a change of +3.6% from what Albemarle is expected to report a year ago. Over the past month, the estimate has changed +7%.
Having a strong externally audited track record, our proprietary stock rating tool, the Zacks Rank, offers a more conclusive picture of a stock's price direction in the near term, since it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions. Due to the size of the recent change in the consensus estimate, along with three other factors related to earnings estimates, Albemarle is rated Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
The chart below shows the evolution of the company's forward 12-month consensus EPS estimate:
12 Month EPS
Revenue Growth ForecastEven though a company's earnings growth is arguably the best indicator of its financial health, nothing much happens if it cannot raise its revenues. It's almost impossible for a company to grow its earnings without growing its revenue for long periods. Therefore, knowing a company's potential revenue growth is crucial.
In the case of Albemarle, the consensus sales estimate of $1.52 billion for the current quarter points to a year-over-year change of +14.5%. The $6.13 billion and $6.51 billion estimates for the current and next fiscal years indicate changes of +19.1% and +6.3%, respectively.
Last Reported Results and Surprise HistoryAlbemarle reported revenues of $1.43 billion in the last reported quarter, representing a year-over-year change of +32.7%. EPS of $2.95 for the same period compares with -$0.18 a year ago.
Compared to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.33 billion, the reported revenues represent a surprise of +7.82%. The EPS surprise was +137.9%.
Over the last four quarters, Albemarle surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times. The company topped consensus revenue estimates each time over this period.
ValuationNo investment decision can be efficient without considering a stock's valuation. Whether a stock's current price rightly reflects the intrinsic value of the underlying business and the company's growth prospects is an essential determinant of its future price performance.
While comparing the current values of a company's valuation multiples, such as price-to-earnings (P/E), price-to-sales (P/S), and price-to-cash flow (P/CF), with its own historical values helps determine whether its stock is fairly valued, overvalued, or undervalued, comparing the company relative to its peers on these parameters gives a good sense of the reasonability of the stock's price.
The Zacks Value Style Score (part of the Zacks Style Scores system), which pays close attention to both traditional and unconventional valuation metrics to grade stocks from A to F (an A is better than a B; a B is better than a C; and so on), is pretty helpful in identifying whether a stock is overvalued, rightly valued, or temporarily undervalued.
Albemarle is graded C on this front, indicating that it is trading at par with its peers. Click here to see the values of some of the valuation metrics that have driven this grade.
ConclusionThe facts discussed here and much other information on Zacks.com might help determine whether or not it's worthwhile paying attention to the market buzz about Albemarle. However, its Zacks Rank #2 does suggest that it may outperform the broader market in the near term.
Key Takeaways Albemarle shares fell 25.5% in a month as weaker lithium prices pressured the stock.ALB is expanding lithium capacity, improving productivity and cutting costs to support growth.Albemarle expects lithium demand to witness a 10-20% CAGR from 2025 to 2030, led by storage. Albemarle Corporation’s (ALB - Free Report) shares have tumbled 25.5% in the past month, underperforming the Zacks Chemical - Diversified industry and the S&P 500’s declines of 6.7% and 0.1%, respectively.
Falling lithium market prices are weighing on the ALB stock lately. Lithium prices have pulled back amid slowing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) in China, an inventory glut and prospects of increased supply from mine restarts and capacity additions. EV orders have slowed in China, the world’s biggest lithium consumer, while demand in energy storage systems remains healthy.
Meanwhile, China’s battery giant Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL) has reportedly secured a safety production permit to resume production at its Jianxiawo lithium mine, with operations expected to resume soon. CATL suspended operations at the mine in August 2025, following the expiry of its mining permit. Mineral Resources has also announced the restart of operations at its fully-owned Bald Hill lithium mine in Western Australia. The mine was placed on care and maintenance in November 2024 amid weak lithium market conditions.
ALB’s One-month Price Performance Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Reflecting the retreat in lithium prices, ALB stock broke below its 50-day simple moving average (SMA) on May 15, 2026. It also slipped below its 200-day SMA on June 23, 2026. Nonetheless, the 50-day SMA is reading higher than the 200-day SMA following a golden crossover on Sept. 3, 2025.
Albemarle Trades Below 50-Day SMA Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Let’s take a look at ALB’s fundamentals to analyze the stock better.
Growing Lithium Demand and Productivity Aid ALBAlbemarle is well-placed to gain from long-term growth in the battery-grade lithium market. The market for lithium batteries and energy storage remains strong, offering significant opportunities for the company to develop innovative products and expand capacity. Lithium demand is expected to grow on the back of significant global EV penetration.
ALB expects lithium demand to witness a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10-20% from 2025 to 2030. Stationary storage is expected to be a significant driver for lithium demand along with EVs. Albemarle expects demand to grow roughly 15-40% this year. Demand indicators stayed positive in the first quarter of 2026, with global Energy Storage Systems production rising 117% year over year.
The company is strategically executing its projects aimed at boosting its global lithium conversion capacity. It remains focused on investing in high-return projects to drive productivity. Healthy customer demand, capacity expansion and plant productivity improvements are supporting its volumes. ALB saw higher sales volumes (up 14% year over year) in its Energy Storage unit in the first quarter on the strength of its integrated conversion facilities.
The Salar yield improvement project in Chile has achieved a 50% operating rate, and the ramp-up continues to deliver encouraging outcomes. ALB has started the environmental permitting process for a commercial direct lithium extraction project at Salar de Atacama. The ramp-up at the Meishan lithium conversion facility in China is also progressing ahead of schedule.
Albemarle is taking aggressive cost-saving and productivity actions. The company delivered roughly $450 million in cost and productivity improvements for full-year 2025, having surpassed its initial target of $300-$400 million. It expects additional cost and productivity improvements of $100-$150 million in 2026, with $40 million already delivered this year. ALB is taking actions to maintain its competitive position, including the initiation of a comprehensive review of cost and operating structure, optimization of the conversion network and reduction of capital expenditure.
ALB’s Strong Financial Health Supports Capital AllocationAlbemarle remains committed to driving shareholder value by leveraging healthy cash flows and strong liquidity. Its operating cash flow was around $1.3 billion in 2025, up roughly 86% from the prior-year period. At the end of the first quarter, ALB had liquidity of around $2.7 billion, including cash and cash equivalents of around $1.1 billion. ALB generated an operating cash flow of $346 million and free cash flow of $248 million in the quarter.
The company paid down $1.3 billion of outstanding debt in March 2026, reducing annual interest expense by roughly $60 million. This followed the successful divestments of the controlling stake in Ketjen and its 50% interest in the Eurecat joint venture, which together generated $670 million in pre-tax proceeds.
The company remains focused on maintaining its dividend payout. It has raised its quarterly dividend for the 30th straight year. ALB offers a dividend yield of 1.3% at the current stock price. Its peers, Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A. (SQM - Free Report) and Rio Tinto Group (RIO - Free Report) , have a dividend yield of 3.6% and 5.6%, respectively.
ALB’s Earnings Estimates NorthboundThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 for ALB has been revised upward over the past 60 days. The consensus estimate for second-quarter 2026 has been going up over the same time frame.
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 earnings is currently pegged at $13.06, suggesting a year-over-year increase of 1,735.2%. Earnings are expected to increase roughly 2,818.2% in the second quarter.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
A Look at ALB’s ValuationALB is currently trading at a forward price-to-sales ratio of 2.34, above the industry’s 0.88. It is trading at a modest discount to Sociedad Quimica and at a premium to Rio Tinto. Both Albemarle and Sociedad Quimica currently have a Value Score of C, while Rio Tinto has a Value Score of B.
ALB’s P/S F12M Vs. Industry, SQM and RIO Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
How Should Investors Play ALB Stock?Albemarle is gaining from increased lithium volumes, supported by project ramp-ups, ongoing efforts to expand its global lithium conversion capacity and productivity improvement initiatives. The company remains well-positioned to benefit from the long-term expansion of the battery-grade lithium market. Robust growth prospects and rising earnings estimates are some other positives. Although ALB trades at a premium valuation, its strong fundamentals and earnings growth potential justify the higher multiple. Notwithstanding the recent pullback in lithium prices, we advise investors to bet on this Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) stock now, as it has solid earnings growth prospects.
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
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For instance, a stock with a #4 (Sell) or #5 (Strong Sell) rating, even one that boasts Scores of A and B, still has a downward-trending earnings forecast, and a much greater likelihood its share price will decline as well.
Thus, the more stocks you own with a #1 or #2 Rank and Scores of A or B, the better.
Stock to Watch: Albemarle (ALB - Free Report) Charlotte, NC-based Albemarle Corporation is a premier specialty chemicals company with leading positions in attractive end markets globally. It is a leading producer of highly-engineered specialty chemicals geared to meet customer requirements across a bevy of end markets including petroleum refining, consumer electronics, energy storage, construction and automotive.
ALB is a #2 (Buy) on the Zacks Rank, with a VGM Score of B.
Additionally, the company could be a top pick for growth investors. ALB has a Growth Style Score of B, forecasting year-over-year earnings growth of 1753.2% for the current fiscal year.
For fiscal 2026, five analysts revised their earnings estimate upwards in the last 60 days, and the Zacks Consensus Estimate has increased $2.69 to $13.06 per share. ALB boasts an average earnings surprise of +74.5%.
With a solid Zacks Rank and top-tier Growth and VGM Style Scores, ALB should be on investors' short list.
It’s not hard to see why investing in rare-earth metals is a long-term investment theme. Rare-earth metals are 17 metallic elements with unusual magnetic, optical, and conductive properties that make them indispensable to modern technology, including:
Defense and national security
Artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and data centers
Electrification and clean energy
The rare-earth story is frequently positioned as one of scarcity, but that isn't the case. Many countries have abundant rare-earth deposits, including the United States, Australia, Canada, Brazil, and India.
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China's dominance in rare-earths stems from decades of developing its midstream processing industry, rather than just controlling the largest deposits. Beginning in the 1980s, China invested heavily in refining, separation technology, chemical engineering capacity, and magnet manufacturing—areas that other countries avoided because of cost, environmental complexity, and long development timelines.
Rare-earth refining is chemically intensive and produces radioactive byproducts, and China’s willingness to subsidize the industry and manage the environmental burden allowed it to scale rapidly while competitors fell behind. This is where today’s investment opportunities exist.
Why Rare-Earth Refining Is the Real Investment OpportunityThe bottleneck in rare-earth is in the refining process. This was a conscious choice that was made by China (to invest in refining) and many other countries, including the United States, which chose not to invest in refining.
The Trump administration is accelerating domestic rare‑earth development through targeted industrial policy, including federal funding, strategic partnerships, and streamlined permitting for critical‑mineral projects. Rather than broad deregulation, the focus has been on removing specific bottlenecks that historically made U.S. refining uneconomic—such as long environmental review timelines and limited federal support for midstream processing.
These policy shifts are designed to help companies begin refining rare-earth elements inside the United States for the first time in decades. As a result, several U.S. companies are now receiving federal support to build refining, separation, and magnet‑manufacturing capacity—marking the first major rebuild of the domestic rare‑earth supply chain in more than 30 years.
MP Materials NYSE: MP: The Pentagon became the company’s largest shareholder after buying $400 million in preferred stock in July 2025. The investment supports the company’s expansion of rare-earth processing and the construction of a second magnet manufacturing plant.
USA Rare Earth NASDAQ: USAR: The Trump administration announced a partnership in early 2026 that gives the company access to $1.6 billion in funding. The deal also issued 16.1 million shares to the Department of War, which could increase the government’s stake to between 12% and 25%, depending on warrant exercise.
Vulcan Elements & ReElement Technologies: The Department of War issued these rare-earth startups a $620 million loan and $50 million in federal incentives. The investment is to help the companies scale their magnet and ore processing capacity.
This is where some investors may believe the opportunity carries too much risk. After all, there are no guarantees in this sector, and the real payoff is likely years away. However, for patient investors with a long-term outlook, that’s an ideal argument for investing in an exchange-traded fund (ETF) that includes dozens of holdings in the sector. This provides exposure to the entire supply chain without overreliance on one or two companies.
REMX: A Diversified ETF for Rare-Earth InvestingVanEck Rare Earth and Strategic Metals ETF Today
REMX
VanEck Rare Earth and Strategic Metals ETF
$79.76 -0.27 (-0.34%)
As of 07/10/2026 04:10 PM Eastern
52-Week Range$46.30▼
$111.55Dividend Yield1.63%
Assets Under Management$2.40 billion
The VanEck Rare Earth and Strategic Metals ETF NYSEARCA: REMX tracks an index of global companies that mine, refine, or recycle rare-earth and strategic metals.
The fund is an ideal option for investors looking for a direct proxy for the current export-control backdrop,
REMX is a weighted average market cap fund with 38 holdings. Albemarle NYSE: ALB holds the most weight in the fund at around 7.2%. The fund has $2.4 billion of assets under management (AUM) with a net expense ratio of 0.58%.
REMX is up over 91% in the last 12 months. But a sharp sell-off that started in May has pushed the stock price into the middle of its 52-week range, which may create a solid entry point for investors.
EART ETF Targets the Companies Powering Future TechnologiesGlobal X Rare Earth & Critical Materials ETF Today
EART
Global X Rare Earth & Critical Materials ETF
$27.43 +0.13 (+0.48%)
As of 07/10/2026 03:47 PM Eastern
52-Week Range$17.42▼
$36.92Dividend Yield0.66%
Assets Under Management$39.03 million
The Global X Rare Earth & Critical Materials ETF NASDAQ: EART is a more targeted play on the rare-earth theme.
The fund targets companies that produce rare-earth components and other raw or composite materials that are essential to expanding the development of critical technologies such as electric vehicles (EVs), energy storage, robotics, and radar systems.
The fund has over 50 holdings that are weighted according to their Free Float Market Capitalization. The fund currently has around $40 million of AUM with a net expense ratio of 0.59%.
EART is up over 60% in the last 12 months. Like the REMX, the fund has been in a downtrend since mid-May, giving investors a similar opportunistic setup.
In contrast to the EART, which takes a narrower focus on the rare-earth sector, the Sprott Critical Materials ETF NASDAQ: SETM takes a broader view and includes a focus on several critical metals that are essential to the modern industrial economy.
For example, in percentage terms, uranium companies have the most exposure in the fund.
With its focus on a wider range of metals, the fund has at any given time between 125 and 170 holdings, which provides significant diversification. The fund has close to $560 million of AUM and a net expense ratio of 0.65%.
SETM is up 74% in the last 12 months. But like the broader sector, the fund is down over 14% in the last three months.
Should You Invest $1,000 in VanEck Rare Earth and Strategic Metals ETF Right Now?Before you consider VanEck Rare Earth and Strategic Metals ETF, you'll want to hear this.
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Inside this report, you’ll find 10 companies positioned to benefit as artificial intelligence moves from hype to real-world deployment and becomes a core growth driver for corporate America.
Albemarle (ALB - Free Report) ended the recent trading session at $126.05, demonstrating a -1.85% change from the preceding day's closing price. The stock trailed the S&P 500, which registered a daily gain of 0.42%. Meanwhile, the Dow gained 0.29%, and the Nasdaq, a tech-heavy index, added 0.29%.
The stock of specialty chemicals company has fallen by 19.26% in the past month, lagging the Basic Materials sector's loss of 4.07% and the S&P 500's gain of 2.2%.
The investment community will be paying close attention to the earnings performance of Albemarle in its upcoming release. The company is slated to reveal its earnings on August 5, 2026. The company is expected to report EPS of $3.21, up 2818.18% from the prior-year quarter. Our most recent consensus estimate is calling for quarterly revenue of $1.53 billion, up 15.08% from the year-ago period.
ALB's full-year Zacks Consensus Estimates are calling for earnings of $13.15 per share and revenue of $6.13 billion. These results would represent year-over-year changes of +1764.56% and +19.15%, respectively.
Investors might also notice recent changes to analyst estimates for Albemarle. These recent revisions tend to reflect the evolving nature of short-term business trends. As such, positive estimate revisions reflect analyst optimism about the business and profitability.
Our research demonstrates that these adjustments in estimates directly associate with imminent stock price performance. Investors can capitalize on this by using the Zacks Rank. This model considers these estimate changes and provides a simple, actionable rating system.
Ranging from #1 (Strong Buy) to #5 (Strong Sell), the Zacks Rank system has a proven, outside-audited track record of outperformance, with #1 stocks returning an average of +25% annually since 1988. Over the last 30 days, the Zacks Consensus EPS estimate has moved 6.14% higher. Albemarle is currently a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
In terms of valuation, Albemarle is currently trading at a Forward P/E ratio of 9.77. This valuation marks a discount compared to its industry average Forward P/E of 14.96.
The Chemical - Diversified industry is part of the Basic Materials sector. This group has a Zacks Industry Rank of 109, putting it in the top 45% of all 250+ industries.
The strength of our individual industry groups is measured by the Zacks Industry Rank, which is calculated based on the average Zacks Rank of the individual stocks within these groups. Our research shows that the top 50% rated industries outperform the bottom half by a factor of 2 to 1.
Make sure to utilize Zacks.com to follow all of these stock-moving metrics, and more, in the coming trading sessions.
