Albemarle's third-quarter net sales rose 19% year over year to $1.55 billion, beating the $1.52 billion consensus, while adjusted EPS of $2.58 also topped estimates. The company raised its 2026 Specialties adjusted EBITDA outlook and lowered its capital expenditure forecast.
Albemarle reported third-quarter net sales of $1.55 billion, up 19% year over year and above the $1.52 billion analyst consensus. Adjusted EPS was $2.58 versus estimates of $2.54, and adjusted EBITDA of $645.5 million slightly beat the $639.76 million consensus. The company said sales growth was primarily driven by higher prices in Energy Storage and Specialties, along with Specialties volume growth; improved lithium pricing supported Energy Storage profitability, partly offset by higher input costs.
Albemarle raised its 2026 Specialties adjusted EBITDA outlook to $350 million-$375 million from $275 million-$325 million and lowered its 2026 capital expenditure forecast to $300 million-$350 million from about $500 million. It expects fourth-quarter 2026 net sales and adjusted EBITDA to fall sequentially on lower market pricing. The company also cited ongoing cost and productivity improvements as contributing to higher adjusted EBITDA.
