-- CFRA, an independent research provider, has providedwith the following research alert. Analysts at CFRA have summarized their opinion as follows:
LyondellBasell Industries N.V. (LYB) reported Q1 operating EPS of $0.49 vs. $0.33 in the prior-year period, beating consensus by $0.21 after missing estimates in four of the prior six quarters. Revenue of $7.2B missed consensus by 2% and declined 6% Y/Y. The company completed a strategic milestone with the sale of four European assets, advancing its portfolio transformation initiative expected to improve margins and reduce costs while positioning LYB with increased resilience. Management provided positive Q2 guidance, planning to maximize North American O&P operating rates, raise European O&P rates to 80%, and maintain I&D rates at 75%. However, operating cash flow deteriorated significantly to negative $269M in Q1 despite the earnings recovery, attributable to a working capital build and serving increased global demand. We believe the sustainability of expected improvements remains uncertain given persistent structural overcapacity and ongoing geopolitical volatility.