Albemarle(US:ALB) Zhi Tong Cai Jing·2026-02-12 00:48Core Viewpoint - Albemarle Corporation (ALB.US), the world's largest lithium producer, reported a quarterly loss that exceeded expectations and announced the shutdown of a major processing plant in Australia due to persistently weak battery metal prices [1] Financial Performance - In Q4, the company reported revenue of $1.43 billion, a year-over-year increase of 16.3%, surpassing expectations by $80 million [1] - The net loss was $455.9 million, translating to a loss of $3.87 per share, compared to a net profit of $33.6 million or $0.29 per share in the same period last year [1][2] Market Conditions - Lithium prices have plummeted over 90% in the past two years, primarily due to oversupply from China, leading to layoffs, acquisitions, and project delays within the industry [1] - Despite a recent price recovery, current prices remain significantly lower than the historical highs reached in 2023 [1] Operational Changes - The company will idle the last active processing line at the Kemerton facility in Western Australia, following the closure of one production line last year, and has canceled plans for two additional lines [1] - The Kemerton facility processes spodumene from the Greenbushes mine, the largest lithium mine globally, co-owned by Albemarle and China's Tianqi Lithium [1] Sales and Future Outlook - Despite the weak pricing environment, Albemarle reported a 23% increase in lithium product sales [3] - The company anticipates revenue of $6 billion for the fiscal year 2026, with an expected adjusted earnings per share of $2.61 [4]