Lanxess (LXS) AGM 2025 summary

Opening remarks and agenda

• Warm welcome to shareholders, with a review of challenging macroeconomic and industry conditions in 2024, including recession and sector-specific headwinds.

• Annual Stockholders' Meeting held on May 22, 2025, marking 20 years of operations.

Financial performance review

• Operating result increased despite a 5% drop in sales; EBITDA pre-exceptionals rose 20% to EUR 614 million, at the upper end of forecasts.

• Cost savings exceeded targets, with over EUR 110 million saved by end of 2023 and permanent reductions of EUR 150 million; further EUR 40 million in cost reductions targeted by end of 2025.

• Net financial debt reduced by 5% to EUR 2.4 billion; free cash flow increased by EUR 188 million.

• First quarter of 2025 showed a 32% earnings increase; full-year 2025 EBITDA pre-exceptionals forecasted at EUR 600–650 million amid increased macroeconomic uncertainty.

Dividend announcements

• Stable dividend of EUR 0.10 per share proposed for 2024, totaling EUR 8.6 million in payouts, emphasizing cost discipline and debt reduction.

• Dividend proposal submitted for shareholder approval at the meeting.