Wall Street expects a year-over-year decline in earnings on higher revenues when Ashland (ASH - 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 stock might move higher if these key numbers top expectations in the upcoming earnings report, which is expected to be released on July 28. On the other hand, if they miss, the stock may move lower.
While management's discussion of business conditions on the earnings call will mostly determine the sustainability of the immediate price change and future earnings expectations, it's worth having a handicapping insight into the odds of a positive EPS surprise.
Zacks Consensus EstimateThis chemical company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $1.03 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -1%.
Revenues are expected to be $486.24 million, up 5% from the year-ago quarter.
Estimate Revisions TrendThe consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has been revised 1.55% higher 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. Our proprietary surprise prediction model -- the Zacks Earnings ESP (Expected Surprise Prediction) -- has this insight at its core.
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 Ashland?For Ashland, the Most Accurate Estimate is higher than the Zacks Consensus Estimate, suggesting that analysts have recently become bullish on the company's earnings prospects. This has resulted in an Earnings ESP of +3.47%.
On the other hand, the stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of #3.
So, this combination indicates that Ashland will most likely 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 Ashland would post earnings of $0.97 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.91, delivering a surprise of -6.19%.
Over the last four quarters, the company has beaten consensus EPS estimates just once.
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.
Ashland appears 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.
Stay on top of upcoming earnings announcements with the Zacks Earnings Calendar.
WILMINGTON, Del., July 14, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ashland Inc. (NYSE: ASH) today announced plans to issue its third-quarter fiscal 2026 earnings release at approximately 5 p.m. ET on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. The company’s live webcast with securities analysts will include an executive summary and detailed remarks. The live webcast will take place at 9 a.m. ET on Wednesday, July 29. Simultaneously, the company will post a slide presentation in the Investor Relations section of its website at http://investor.ashland.com.
Among those participating in the webcast presentation will be:
Guillermo Novo, chair, and chief executive officerWilliam Whitaker, senior vice president, and chief financial officerDago Caceres, senior vice president, general manager, specialty additivesAlessandra Faccin, senior vice president, general manager, life sciences and intermediatesJim Minicucci, senior vice president, general manager, personal careSandy Klugman, director, investor relations To access the call by phone, please go to this registration link and you will be provided with dial in details. To avoid delays, we encourage participants to dial into the conference call fifteen minutes ahead of the scheduled start time.
The webcast and supporting materials will be accessible through the Investor Relations section of Ashland's website at http://investor.ashland.com. Following the live event, an archived version of the webcast and supporting materials will be available on the Ashland website for 12 months.
About Ashland
Ashland Inc. (NYSE: ASH) is a global additives and specialty ingredients company with a conscious and proactive mindset for environmental, social and governance (ESG). The company serves customers in a wide range of consumer and industrial markets, including architectural coatings, construction, energy, food and beverage, personal care and pharmaceutical. Approximately 2,900 passionate, tenacious solvers – from renowned scientists and research chemists to talented engineers and plant operators – thrive on developing practical, innovative and elegant solutions to complex problems for customers in more than 100 countries. Visit ashland.com and ashland.com/ESG to learn more.
™ Trademark, Ashland, or its subsidiaries, registered in various countries.
Key Takeaways ASH reported Q2 adjusted EPS of 91 cents, down 8% year over year and below estimates. Sales rose 1% to $482M, aided by Personal Care strength but hurt by pricing pressure. Ashland sees FY2026 sales of $1.835B-$1.87B and EBITDA between $385M-$400M. Ashland Global Holdings Inc. (ASH - Free Report) recorded income from continuing operations of $15 million or 32 cents per share for the second quarter of fiscal 2026 (ended March 31, 2026) compared with income of $30 million or 63 cents per share in the prior-year quarter.
Barring one-time items, adjusted earnings were 91 cents per share, down 8% from the year-ago quarter figure of 99 cents. The bottom line missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 97 cents.
Sales were up around 1% year over year to $482 million. The top line missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $490.8 million. Sales for the second quarter benefited from strength in Personal Care, resilient performance in Life Sciences and stabilization in Specialty Additives, partly offset by softness in Intermediates and lower pricing across segments.
Ashland Inc. Price, Consensus and EPS SurpriseASH’s Segment HighlightsLife Sciences: Sales in the segment were flat year over year at $172 million in the reported quarter. The figure missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $180 million. Performance reflected higher sales volumes within pharma applications, where demand remained resilient across most regions
Personal Care: Sales in the division increased 3% year over year to $150 million. The metric missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $153 million. The year-over-year rise was driven by double-digit growth across the global platform, led by robust momentum in biofunctional actives, continued traction in microbial protection and strong execution across key care ingredients categories.
Specialty Additives: Sales in the segment were flat year over year at $134 million and were in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. Performance reflected stable volumes driven by strong execution and continued share gains in coatings and performance specialties.
Intermediates: Sales in the segment went down 5% year over year to $35 million. The figure missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $36.3 million. The decrease reflected stable market conditions in a trough environment, with lower BDO demand and pricing versus the prior year, as well as commercial and operating impacts related to the Calvert City outage.
ASH’s FinancialsCash and cash equivalents were $343 million at the end of the quarter, up around 12.8% sequentially. Long-term debt was $1,374 million, down roughly 0.9% from the prior quarter.
ASH’s OutlookFor fiscal 2026, Ashland expects sales to be in the range of $1.835-$1.870 billion and adjusted EBITDA to be $385-$400 million. Adjusted EPS, excluding intangible amortization, is forecast to deliver mid-to-high single-digit growth, while ongoing free cash flow conversion is targeted at roughly 50% of adjusted EBITDA, with capital expenditure of about $100 million.
ASH’s Price Performance
Shares of ASH have gained 4.3% in a year compared with a 5.9% rise in the industry.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
ASH’s Zacks Rank & Key PicksASH currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).
Better-ranked stocks worth a look in the basic materials space include CF Industries Holdings, Inc. (CF - Free Report) , Aris Mining Corporation (ARIS - Free Report) , and Hawkins, Inc. (HWKN - Free Report) .
CF Industries is slated to report first-quarter 2026 results on May 6. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at $2.35 per share, indicating 27.03% year-over-year growth. CF sports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) at present.
Aris Mining is slated to report quarterly results on May 6. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for earnings is pegged at 67 cents per share, indicating 318.75% year-over-year growth. ARIS has a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) at present. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
Hawkins is scheduled to report fiscal fourth-quarter results on May 13. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for HWKN’s fourth-quarter earnings is pegged at 77 cents per share. HWKN currently has a Zacks Rank #2.
WILMINGTON, Del., May 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The board of directors of Ashland Inc. (NYSE: ASH) has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.42 cents per share on the company's common stock which represents a 1.2 percent increase from the previous quarter. The dividend will be payable on June 15, 2026, to stockholders of record at the close of business on June 1, 2026.
As of April 30, 2026, there were 45,788,007 shares of Ashland common stock outstanding.
About Ashland
Ashland Inc. (NYSE: ASH) is a global additives and specialty ingredients company with a conscious and proactive mindset for environmental, social and governance (ESG). The company serves customers in a wide range of consumer and industrial markets, including architectural coatings, construction, energy, food and beverage, personal care and pharmaceutical. Approximately 2,900 passionate, tenacious solvers thrive on developing practical, innovative and elegant solutions to complex problems for customers in more than 100 countries. Visit ashland.com and ashland.com/ESG to learn more.
™ Trademark, Ashland or its subsidiaries, registered in various countries.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Ashland Inc. ("Ashland" or the "Company") (NYSE: ASH). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980.
The investigation concerns whether Ashland and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.
[Click here for information about joining the class action]
On April 28, 2026, Ashland issued a press release reporting its second quarter 2026 results and updating its full-year outlook. Among other items, Ashland reported both revenue and non-GAAP earnings per share that fell short of consensus estimates. CEO Guillermo Novo said that "results were impacted by specific operational challenges" and that "[o]perational headwinds associated with the ramp-up at our Hopewell manufacturing facility weighed on overall results." Ashland also provided updated full-year sales and EBITDA guidance to "reflect[] productivity challenges associated with the Hopewell scale-up, as well as softer energy-related demand tied to the Middle East conflict and reduced EV driven demand for BDO based derivatives."
On this news, Ashland's stock price fell $7.85 per share, or 13.77%, to close at $49.15 per share on April 29, 2026.
Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
NEW YORK, May 12, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Ashland Inc. (“Ashland” or the “Company”) (NYSE: ASH). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980.
The investigation concerns whether Ashland and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.
[Click here for information about joining the class action]
On April 28, 2026, Ashland issued a press release reporting its second quarter 2026 results and updating its full-year outlook. Among other items, Ashland reported both revenue and non-GAAP earnings per share that fell short of consensus estimates. CEO Guillermo Novo said that “results were impacted by specific operational challenges” and that “[o]perational headwinds associated with the ramp-up at our Hopewell manufacturing facility weighed on overall results.” Ashland also provided updated full-year sales and EBITDA guidance to “reflect[] productivity challenges associated with the Hopewell scale-up, as well as softer energy-related demand tied to the Middle East conflict and reduced EV driven demand for BDO based derivatives.”
On this news, Ashland’s stock price fell $7.85 per share, or 13.77%, to close at $49.15 per share on April 29, 2026.
Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
Here are three stocks added to the Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell) List today:
AllianceBernstein (AB - Free Report) is a publicly owned investment management company. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current year earnings has been revised nearly 6% downward over the last 60 days.
Baker Hughes Company (BKR - Free Report) provides oilfield services, industrial energy technologies, and climate solutions worldwide. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current year earnings has been revised 10.8% downward over the last 60 days.
Ashland Inc. (ASH - Free Report) makes specialty ingredients and additives for pharmaceutical, personal care, industrial, and consumer markets. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current year earnings has been revised 8.4% downward over the last 60 days.
LOS ANGELES, May 13, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, announces that it is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Ashland Inc. (“Ashland” or “the Company”) (NYSE: ASH) for violations of the securities laws.
The investigation focuses on whether the Company issued false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose information pertinent to investors. Ashland reported its Q2 2026 financial results on April 28, 2026. The Company reported revenue and earnings per share that fell short of analyst estimates. The Company’s CEO claimed that "results were impacted by specific operational challenges" and that "operational headwinds associated with the ramp-up at our Hopewell manufacturing facility weighed on overall results." The Company also updated its full-year guidance to "reflect productivity challenges associated with the Hopewell scale-up, as well as softer energy-related demand tied to the Middle East conflict and reduced EV driven demand for BDO based derivatives." Based on this news, shares of Ashland fell by almost 13.8% on the next day.
If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.
We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2460, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com, or by email at [email protected].
The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation.
This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics.
CONTACT:
The Schall Law Firm
Brian Schall, Esq.
310-301-3335 [email protected]
, /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Ashland Inc. ("Ashland" or the "Company") (NYSE: ASH). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980.
The investigation concerns whether Ashland and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.
[Click here for information about joining the class action]
On April 28, 2026, Ashland issued a press release reporting its second quarter 2026 results and updating its full-year outlook. Among other items, Ashland reported both revenue and non-GAAP earnings per share that fell short of consensus estimates. CEO Guillermo Novo said that "results were impacted by specific operational challenges" and that "[o]perational headwinds associated with the ramp-up at our Hopewell manufacturing facility weighed on overall results." Ashland also provided updated full-year sales and EBITDA guidance to "reflect[] productivity challenges associated with the Hopewell scale-up, as well as softer energy-related demand tied to the Middle East conflict and reduced EV driven demand for BDO based derivatives."
On this news, Ashland's stock price fell $7.85 per share, or 13.77%, to close at $49.15 per share on April 29, 2026.
Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
INVESTOR ALERT: Pomerantz Law Firm Investigates Claims On Behalf of Investors of Ashland Inc. - ASH PR Newswire
NEW YORK, May 14, 2026
, /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Ashland Inc. ("Ashland" or the "Company") (NYSE: ASH). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980.
The investigation concerns whether Ashland and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.
[Click here for information about joining the class action]
On April 28, 2026, Ashland issued a press release reporting its second quarter 2026 results and updating its full-year outlook. Among other items, Ashland reported both revenue and non-GAAP earnings per share that fell short of consensus estimates. CEO Guillermo Novo said that "results were impacted by specific operational challenges" and that "[o]perational headwinds associated with the ramp-up at our Hopewell manufacturing facility weighed on overall results." Ashland also provided updated full-year sales and EBITDA guidance to "reflect[] productivity challenges associated with the Hopewell scale-up, as well as softer energy-related demand tied to the Middle East conflict and reduced EV driven demand for BDO based derivatives."
On this news, Ashland's stock price fell $7.85 per share, or 13.77%, to close at $49.15 per share on April 29, 2026.
Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/investor-alert-pomerantz-law-firm-investigates-claims-on-behalf-of-investors-of-ashland-inc---ash-302773114.html
WILMINGTON, Del., May 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ashland Inc. (NYSE: ASH) is announcing the appointment of Bertrand Loy to its board of directors, effective May 15, 2026. Loy currently serves as a director and the executive chair of Entegris Inc. (NASDAQ: ENTG), a leading supplier of advanced materials and process solutions for the semiconductor and high-technology industries and previously served as Entegris’ president and chief executive officer. He will serve on the board's audit and governance and nominating committees, also effective as of May 15, 2026.
With the addition of Loy and in anticipation of potential director retirements under the board’s retirement and resignation policy, Ashland increases the size of the board to nine members.
Loy is a proven leader in the technology industry with a track record of operational excellence, as well as organic and inorganic growth. “I am pleased to welcome Bertrand as a new director to the Ashland Board,” said Guillermo Novo, chair and chief executive officer, Ashland. “As we continue to drive our strategy to execute, globalize, innovate and invest, Bertrand will provide distinctive viewpoints about advancing and accelerating scalable growth.”
To learn more, visit investor.ashland.com
About Ashland
Ashland Inc. (NYSE: ASH) is a global additives and specialty ingredients company with a conscious and proactive mindset for environmental, social and governance (ESG). The company serves customers in a wide range of consumer and industrial markets, including architectural coatings, construction, energy, food and beverage, personal care and pharmaceutical. Approximately 2,900 passionate, tenacious solvers – from renowned scientists and research chemists to talented engineers and plant operators – thrive on developing practical, innovative and elegant solutions to complex problems for customers in more than 100 countries. Visit ashland.com and ashland.com/ESG to learn more.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Ashland may from time to time make forward-looking statements in its annual reports, quarterly reports and other filings with the SEC, news releases and other written and oral communications. These forward-looking statements are based on Ashland’s expectations and assumptions, as of the date such statements are made. These statements include but may not be limited to, Ashland’s current expectations or beliefs concerning, among other things, its future Board size. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future. These risks and uncertainties affecting Ashland are described in Ashland’s most recent Form 10-K (including Item 1A Risk Factors) filed with the SEC, which is available on Ashland’s website at http://investor.ashland.com or on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. Various risks and uncertainties may cause actual results to differ materially from those stated, projected or implied by any forward-looking statements. Ashland believes its expectations and assumptions are reasonable, but there can be no assurance that the expectations reflected herein will be achieved. Unless legally required, Ashland undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements made in this news release whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
™ Trademark, Ashland or its subsidiaries, registered in various countries.
NEW YORK, May 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Ashland Inc. (“Ashland” or the “Company”) (NYSE: ASH). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980.
The investigation concerns whether Ashland and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.
[Click here for information about joining the class action]
On April 28, 2026, Ashland issued a press release reporting its second quarter 2026 results and updating its full-year outlook. Among other items, Ashland reported both revenue and non-GAAP earnings per share that fell short of consensus estimates. CEO Guillermo Novo said that “results were impacted by specific operational challenges” and that “[o]perational headwinds associated with the ramp-up at our Hopewell manufacturing facility weighed on overall results.” Ashland also provided updated full-year sales and EBITDA guidance to “reflect[] productivity challenges associated with the Hopewell scale-up, as well as softer energy-related demand tied to the Middle East conflict and reduced EV driven demand for BDO based derivatives.”
On this news, Ashland’s stock price fell $7.85 per share, or 13.77%, to close at $49.15 per share on April 29, 2026.
Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Ashland Inc. ("Ashland" or the "Company") (NYSE: ASH). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980.
The investigation concerns whether Ashland and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.
[Click here for information about joining the class action]
On April 28, 2026, Ashland issued a press release reporting its second quarter 2026 results and updating its full-year outlook. Among other items, Ashland reported both revenue and non-GAAP earnings per share that fell short of consensus estimates. CEO Guillermo Novo said that "results were impacted by specific operational challenges" and that "[o]perational headwinds associated with the ramp-up at our Hopewell manufacturing facility weighed on overall results." Ashland also provided updated full-year sales and EBITDA guidance to "reflect[] productivity challenges associated with the Hopewell scale-up, as well as softer energy-related demand tied to the Middle East conflict and reduced EV driven demand for BDO based derivatives."
On this news, Ashland's stock price fell $7.85 per share, or 13.77%, to close at $49.15 per share on April 29, 2026.
Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
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Here are three stocks added to the Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell) List today:
Baker Hughes (BKR - Free Report) is one of the world’s largest oilfield service providers. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current year earnings has been revised almost 11.2% downward over the last 60 days.
ASHLAND INC (ASH - Free Report) is a leading specialty chemicals company serving a vast range of consumer and industrial markets, including automotive, construction, architectural coatings, adhesives, energy, food & beverage and pharmaceutical. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current year earnings has been revised almost 8.4% downward over the last 60 days.
AllianceBernstein (AB - Free Report) provides diversified investment management services, primarily to pension funds, endowments, foreign financial institutions, and to individual investors. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current year earnings has been revised 6% downward over the last 60 days.
A month has gone by since the last earnings report for Ashland (ASH - Free Report) . Shares have added about 16.6% in that time frame, outperforming the S&P 500.
Will the recent positive trend continue leading up to its next earnings release, or is Ashland due for a pullback? Well, first let's take a quick look at the latest earnings report in order to get a better handle on the recent drivers for Ashland Inc. before we dive into how investors and analysts have reacted as of late.
Ashland’s Q2 Earnings and Sales Miss on Weak Pricing, Intermediates Weakness Ashland recorded income from continuing operations of $15 million or 32 cents per share for the second quarter of fiscal 2026 (ended March 31, 2026) compared with income of $30 million or 63 cents per share in the prior-year quarter.
Barring one-time items, adjusted earnings were 91 cents per share, down 8% from the year-ago quarter figure of 99 cents. The bottom line missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 97 cents.
Sales were up around 1% year over year to $482 million. The top line missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $490.8 million. Sales for the second quarter benefited from strength in Personal Care, resilient performance in Life Sciences and stabilization in Specialty Additives, partly offset by softness in Intermediates and lower pricing across segments.
Segment HighlightsLife Sciences: Sales in the segment were flat year over year at $172 million in the reported quarter. The figure missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $180 million. Performance reflected higher sales volumes within pharma applications, where demand remained resilient across most regions
Personal Care: Sales in the division increased 3% year over year to $150 million. The metric missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $153 million. The year-over-year rise was driven by double-digit growth across the global platform, led by robust momentum in biofunctional actives, continued traction in microbial protection and strong execution across key care ingredients categories.
Specialty Additives: Sales in the segment were flat year over year at $134 million and were in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. Performance reflected stable volumes driven by strong execution and continued share gains in coatings and performance specialties.
Intermediates: Sales in the segment went down 5% year over year to $35 million. The figure missed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $36.3 million. The decrease reflected stable market conditions in a trough environment, with lower BDO demand and pricing versus the prior year, as well as commercial and operating impacts related to the Calvert City outage.
FinancialsCash and cash equivalents were $343 million at the end of the quarter, up around 12.8% sequentially. Long-term debt was $1,374 million, down roughly 0.9% from the prior quarter.
OutlookFor fiscal 2026, Ashland expects sales to be in the range of $1.835-$1.870 billion and adjusted EBITDA to be $385-$400 million. Adjusted EPS, excluding intangible amortization, is forecast to deliver mid-to-high single-digit growth, while ongoing free cash flow conversion is targeted at roughly 50% of adjusted EBITDA, with capital expenditure of about $100 million.
How Have Estimates Been Moving Since Then?In the past month, investors have witnessed a downward trend in estimates revision.
The consensus estimate has shifted -9.4% due to these changes.
VGM ScoresAt this time, Ashland has a nice Growth Score of B, though it is lagging a bit on the Momentum Score front with a C. Following the exact same course, the stock has a score of C on the value side, putting it in the middle 20% for value investors.
Overall, the stock has an aggregate VGM Score of C. 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. It's no surprise Ashland has a Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell). We expect a below average return from the stock in the next few months.
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CLEVELAND--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ancora Holdings Group, LLC (collectively with its affiliates, “Ancora”) today released a presentation (available here) detailing what it believes is a near-term opportunity to realize the intrinsic value of Ashland Inc. (NYSE: ASH) (“Ashland” or the “Company”) through a sale of the Company. Ancora plans to engage in a constructive and open dialogue with Ashland to gauge the Board of Directors' willingness to evaluate the Company's standalone prospects versus a potent.
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At the center of everything we do is a strong commitment to independent research and sharing its profitable discoveries with investors. This dedication to giving investors a trading advantage led to the creation of our proven Zacks Rank stock-rating system. Since 1988 it has more than doubled the S&P 500 with an average gain of +24.00% per year. These returns cover a period from January 1, 1988 through May 4, 2026. Zacks Rank stock-rating system returns are computed monthly based on the beginning of the month and end of the month Zacks Rank stock prices plus any dividends received during that particular month. A simple, equally-weighted average return of all Zacks Rank stocks is calculated to determine the monthly return. The monthly returns are then compounded to arrive at the annual return. Only Zacks Rank stocks included in Zacks hypothetical portfolios at the beginning of each month are included in the return calculations. Zacks Ranks stocks can, and often do, change throughout the month. Certain Zacks Rank stocks for which no month-end price was available, pricing information was not collected, or for certain other reasons have been excluded from these return calculations. Zacks may license the Zacks Mutual Fund rating provided herein to third parties, including but not limited to the issuer.
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WILMINGTON, Del., June 10, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ashland Inc. (NYSE:ASH) today issued the following statement in response to the investor presentation released by Ancora Alternatives LLC:
Ashland’s Board of Directors and management team are committed to driving sustainable value creation for all shareholders. The Board recognizes and respects diverse perspectives and welcomes constructive input from shareholders. While Ancora did not engage with Ashland prior to its presentation, Ashland intends to engage with Ancora in a manner consistent with that commitment as part of its ongoing dialogue with investors.
Ashland remains focused on its growth strategies to execute, globalize, innovate and invest while continuing to improve operational performance and cash generation. Ashland believes these priorities will continue to position the company to convert its transformation into sustained financial and operating performance.
Ashland’s Board frequently evaluates Ashland’s strategy and value creation opportunities on an ongoing basis. This evaluation includes a regular review of the company’s operating plan, portfolio priorities and capital policy, as well as other strategic opportunities. The Board will continue to make decisions based on the best interest of the company and all of its shareholders. Ashland looks forward to continued constructive engagement with shareholders.
About Ashland
Ashland Inc. (NYSE: ASH) is a global additives and specialty ingredients company with a conscious and proactive mindset for environmental, social and governance (ESG). The company serves customers in a wide range of consumer and industrial markets, including architectural coatings, construction, energy, food and beverage, personal care and pharmaceutical. Approximately 2,900 passionate, tenacious solvers – from renowned scientists and research chemists to talented engineers and plant operators – thrive on developing practical, innovative and elegant solutions to complex problems for customers in more than 100 countries. Visit ashland.com and ashland.com/ESG to learn more.
™ Trademark, Ashland or its subsidiaries, registered in various countries.
