Clariant AG

Clariant confirms outlook on solid Q2 results - Seite 3

Exceptional items including restructuring, impairment, and transaction-related costs decreased to CHF 23 million from CHF 33 million one year ago. The portfolio repositioning has been completed, with the closing of the sales of Leather Services, Water Treatment, and the 50% stake in ASK Chemicals during the second quarter. Those three transactions resulted in a cash inflow of CHF 188 million.

Net income from continuing operations of CHF 83 million was recorded, compared to CHF 71 million in the previous year.

Following the normal seasonal pattern, operating cash flow was negative at
CHF -62 million versus CHF -41 million in the second quarter one year ago, therefore matching the same level as in the first half of 2013. Operating cash flow is expected to gradually improve as the year progresses.

Net debt stood at CHF 1.619 billion and was therefore higher than the CHF 1.500 billion recorded at year-end 2013. Gearing, reflecting net financial debt in relation to equity, rose to 61% from 54% at the end of 2013.

 

Changes in reporting structure effective since 1 January 2013

Clariant has stringently executed the announced divestments of the five businesses Textile Chemicals, Paper Specialties, Emulsions, Detergents & Intermediates, and Leather Services. On 30 September 2013, Clariant sold its Textile Chemicals, Paper Specialties, and Emulsions businesses to SK Capital. The disposal of Detergents & Intermediates (D&I) to the International Chemical Investors Group (ICIG) was closed effective 1 January 2014. The divestment of the Leather Services business to Stahl Holdings B.V. was closed on 30 April 2014. Clariant continues to hold a 23% stake in the combined entity. Hence, all five businesses have been reported as "discontinued operations" since 1 January 2013.

In the second quarter of 2014, discontinued operations generated sales of CHF 32 million (Leather Services) compared to CHF 451 million (Textile Chemicals, Paper Specialties, Emulsions, Detergents & Intermediates, Leather Services) in the second quarter of 2013, and a net result of CHF -9 million compared to an income of CHF 8 million in the second quarter of 2013.

Outlook 2014 confirmed - Focus on performance, growth and innovation

For 2014, Clariant expects the business environment to remain challenging with heterogeneous global economic developments and volatile currency markets. The general economic environment in the emerging markets is expected to remain mixed but overall favorable, while moderate growth should continue in the advanced economies, in particular in the United States. Hence, Clariant will focus on profitably growing the four Business Areas, cost efficiency and strengthening innovation.