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ALB - Embedded Expectations Analysis - 2018 03 05

 Albermarle Corporation (ALB:USA) currently trades above historical averages relative to UAFRS-based (Uniform) Earnings, with a 21.3x Uniform P/E. Although negative management sentiment suggests near-term upside may be limited, at these levels, market expectations remain far too bearish given the firm's strong macro tailwinds and favorable positioning. As such, longer-term outperformance is likely warranted

 Specifically, management may lack confidence in their ability to drive further adjusted EBITDA improvements, and may have concerns about high debt restructuring and acquisition and integration costs. Furthermore, they may lack confidence in their discussions with key accounts about contract terms, and may have concerns about the sustainability of strong demand in their Refining Solutions segment. That said, market expectations are for Uniform ROA to remain flat despite strong macro tailwinds and favorable positioning. At these valuations, longer-term equity upside is thus likely warranted
Underlying
Albemarle Corporation

Albemarle is a global developer, manufacturer and marketer of chemicals across a range of end markets including energy storage, petroleum refining, consumer electronics, construction, automotive, lubricants, pharmaceuticals, crop protection and custom chemistry services. The company's segments include: Lithium, which develops and manufactures a range of basic lithium compounds and lithium specialties and reagents; Bromine Specialties, which includes products used in fire safety solutions and other chemicals applications; and Catalysts, which includes Clean Fuels Technologies, fluidized catalytic cracking catalysts and additives, and performance catalyst solutions.

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Valens Research
Valens Research

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