Revenue Growth and Strong Volume Execution
Revenue of $760 million, up 3% year-over-year, driven by higher TiO2 and zircon volumes. TiO2 volumes reached the highest Q1 level since 2022 and zircon volumes were the strongest since Q4 2021.
Sequential Revenue and Volume Momentum
Sequentially TiO2 revenue rose 7% (driven by +4% volumes and +3% average selling price), and zircon revenue increased 14% sequentially, reflecting stronger demand and favorable trade flows.
Pricing Momentum and Commercial Actions
Clear inflection in TiO2 pricing with announced mid-single-digit quarter-over-quarter price increases expected in Q2 and additional price actions/surcharges being implemented (majority price increases; <1/3 surcharges, largely sulfur-related). Zircon price increases announced for Q2 are being implemented.
Adjusted EBITDA Improvement Guidance and Near-Term Outlook
Adjusted EBITDA of $62 million in Q1 (8.2% margin) and sequential improvement (+9% vs prior quarter). Company guides Q2 adjusted EBITDA to $65 million–$85 million and expects positive free cash flow in Q2 and meaningful positive free cash flow for full-year 2026.
Working Capital and Cash-Generation Focus
Inventory reduced by approximately $75 million in Q1. AR securitization facility upsized by $25 million in the quarter and an additional $20 million thereafter (total +$45 million). Management expects working capital to be a source of cash well in excess of $100 million for 2026.
Cost Improvement Program
Ongoing cost improvement program on track to deliver $125 million–$175 million of run-rate savings by the end of 2026, which management expects will offset portions of inflationary headwinds.
Balance Sheet and Interest Rate Positioning
Total debt $3.3 billion (net debt $3.2 billion) with a weighted average interest rate of ~5.95% and ~74% of interest fixed through 2028. Next significant maturity not until 2029; no financial covenants on term loans/bonds.
Strategic Progress — Rare Earths Initiative
Meaningful advancement in rare earths strategy toward a definitive feasibility study, active stakeholder engagement, and Australian federal major project status awarded — signaling strategic optionality and potential long-term growth platform.