Mergers and Acquisitions - Shapiro Capital Management opposes Axalta Coating Systems' $17 billion merger with AkzoNobel [1] - Shapiro Capital Management is the second shareholder to voice opposition [1]

Core Viewpoint - Artisan Partners expresses dissatisfaction with Axalta Coating Systems' plan to merge with AkzoNobel in an all-stock transaction, which is expected to create a significant player in the paint industry with an enterprise value of $25 billion [1] Company Summary - Axalta Coating Systems is planning to combine with AkzoNobel, which will result in a new entity valued at $25 billion [1] - The merger is structured as an all-stock deal, indicating that shareholders of both companies will exchange their shares for shares in the new combined company [1] Industry Summary - The merger aims to create a giant in the paint industry, potentially reshaping competitive dynamics and market share among existing players [1]

Core Viewpoint - Artisan Partners expresses dissatisfaction with Axalta Coating Systems' plan to merge with AkzoNobel in an all-stock transaction, which would result in a combined entity valued at $25 billion [1] Company Summary - The proposed merger aims to create a significant player in the paint industry, enhancing market presence and operational scale [1] - The enterprise value of the combined company is projected to be $25 billion, indicating a substantial consolidation within the sector [1]

Akzo Nobel is in advanced talks to combine with rival paintmaker Axalta Coating Systems https://t.co/1SjA41B515 ...

July 30, 2025 Axalta Coating Systems Q2 2025 Financial Results 1 Sensitivity: Business Internal Legal Notices Forward-Looking Statements This presentation and the oral remarks made in connection herewith may contain certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding Axalta and its subsidiaries including, but not limited to, our outlook and/or guidance, which includes net sales growth, net sales, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Diluted EPS, ...

Earnings Guidance - Nucor Corporation (NUE) expects first-quarter 2025 earnings to be in the range of 45-55 cents per share, with adjusted earnings forecasted between 50 and 60 cents per share [1] - The company reported earnings of $1.22 per share in the prior quarter and $3.46 per share for the first quarter of 2024 [1] Non-Adjusted Earnings Factors - The non-adjusted earnings guidance includes one-time non-cash charges of approximately $16 million, or 5 cents per share, for the closure of two facilities in the steel products segment [2] - Higher corporate, administrative, and tax impacts are expected in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the prior quarter [2] Profitability Decline Reasons - The primary reason for the predicted decline in profitability is weaker selling prices, particularly in the steel products segment, which is projected to see lower earnings due to reduced average selling prices [3] - Profitability in the steel mills segment is expected to be in line with the fourth quarter of 2024, while earnings in the raw materials segment are predicted to decline due to lower margins at DRI facilities [3] Shareholder Returns - During the first quarter to date, Nucor repurchased approximately 2.3 million shares at an average price of $133.17 per share [4] - The company has returned about $428 million to shareholders through share repurchases and dividend payments so far in the quarter [4] Stock Performance - Shares of Nucor have lost 34.1% in a year, compared to the industry's decline of 19.3% [4]

Core Viewpoint - LyondellBasell Industries N.V. and Covestro have decided to permanently shut down the Propylene Oxide Styrene and Monomer production unit at the Maasvlakte site in the Netherlands due to ongoing profitability pressures from global overcapacities and high production costs in Europe [1][2]. Group 1: Company Actions and Decisions - The closure of the POSM production unit was made after careful consideration of the profitability challenges faced by the Maasvlakte site, influenced by increased imports from Asia [2]. - LyondellBasell will ensure a safe shutdown process for the asset, expected to be completed by the end of 2026 [3]. Group 2: Market Conditions and Expectations - The company anticipates that macroeconomic drivers will eventually lead to supply chain replenishment and increased demand for durable goods, aiding economic recovery [4]. - Seasonal demand gains are expected across most product categories in the first quarter, supported by interest rate cuts and inflation moderation [5]. Group 3: Stock Performance and Rankings - LyondellBasell's stock has declined by 28% over the past year, compared to a 13.1% decline in the industry [3]. - The company currently holds a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold), while other companies in the Basic Materials sector have higher rankings, indicating potential investment opportunities [6].