Learnings from the Earnings – Who’s Up? Who’s Down?

BASF

The Top Line. Sales of €62.7 billion (plus 2%). This represents an increase of 2% compared with the previous year. EBIT before special items of €6.4 billion (minus 17%) mainly attributable to the Chemicals segment, which accounted for around two-thirds of the total decline in earnings. Cash flows from operating activities of €7.9 billion (minus 10%). Free cash flow €4 billion. Proposed dividend of €3.20 for 2018 financial year (2017: €3.10)

The Big Highlights. BASF posts slight increase in 2018 sales and decline in earnings due mainly to lower contributions from Chemicals. Outlook for 2019 includes slight sales growth expected, mainly from higher sales volumes and portfolio effects, EBIT before special items slightly above 2018 level anticipated.

Overall, 2018 was a year characterized by difficult global economic and geopolitical developments and trade conflicts. “We are tackling these challenges. With our new corporate strategy, we will use 2019 as a transitional year to emerge even stronger. This year, we are adapting our structures and processes, and focusing our organization clearly on the needs of our customers,” said BASF’s Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors, Dr. Martin Brudermüller.

Check out more on the story here.