Elkem: Fourth quarter 2025 - Impact of weak markets mitigated by cost improvements, sales agreement entered for Silicones division

Elkem has entered into a final share purchase agreement regarding the sale of the majority of the Silicones division assets to Bluestar in a transaction where the full consideration payable by Bluestar will be settled through redemption of all of Bluestar's 338,338,536 shares in Elkem. Following completion of the transaction, Bluestar will no longer hold any Elkem shares. After a comprehensive assessment of all available options, Elkem firmly believes that the share purchase agreement delivers the most favourable outcome for both the Silicones division and the company, ultimately benefitting its shareholders. Please refer to separate press release published today for more details.

The Silicon Products division was impacted by low silicon and ferrosilicon prices in the fourth quarter, while the speciality segments maintained a strong performance. Ferrosilicon prices in the EU are improving due to the implemented safeguard measures on imports of certain ferroalloys, but this has not yet impacted the division's results. Silicon Products reported a total operating income of NOK  3 231 million, a reduction of 14 per cent compared to the fourth quarter last year, while the EBITDA declined 53 per cent year-on-year. Carbon Solutions reported an EBITDA of NOK 174 million, down 38 per cent from the fourth quarter last year, resulting in an EBITDA margin of 24 per cent. The lower EBITDA was mainly due to lower sales volume. Silicones recorded higher results due to higher sales prices and strong cost improvements. The division reported an EBITDA of NOK 399 million, a 6 per cent increase year-on-year, despite a 14 per cent reduction in operating income. 

Safety remains a non-negotiable priority for Elkem and in recent years, we have introduced a revised HSE improvement system, which is delivering encouraging results. However, despite our efforts to create a safe working environment, the company experienced a tragic accident on 22 December 2025 at a Silicones R&D pilot workshop in Lyon, France. Four employees were injured in an explosion that occurred at the workshop, of which two subsequently lost their lives.

"The accident at Saint-Fons profoundly impacted our organisation in its entirety. We have done our utmost to support the families and loved ones of our colleagues who passed away and who were injured. Comprehensive investigations are conducted, and corrective actions will be implemented across all sites," says Aasen.

The Elkem group's equity as at 31 December 2025 amounted to NOK 24 026 million, which gave a ratio of equity to total assets of 51 per cent. Net interest-bearing debt was NOK 11 883 million, which gave a ratio of net interest-bearing debt to EBITDA of 3.5x. Elkem had cash and cash equivalents of NOK 3 806 million as at 31 December 2025, and undrawn credit lines of more than NOK 6 000 million.

Trade regulations and protective measures are likely to continue affecting Elkem's markets, contributing to ongoing uncertainty. However, Elkem is well positioned due to its geographic presence and strong market and cost positions. Silicon Products is still facing subdued demand and is temporarily reducing capacity in Norway to manage inventory levels. The EBITDA effect is expected to be somewhat negative, whereas the cash flow effect will be positive. Carbon Solutions is expecting a slight improvement in the sales volume, but the overall market demand remains weak. Silicones prices in China have increased due to reduced supply, while fundamental demand remains weak. The division will benefit if these higher sales prices could be maintained.

For further information, please contact:
Odd-Geir Lyngstad
VP Finance & Investor Relations
Tel: +47 976 72 806
Email: odd-geir.lyngstad@elkem.com

Marianne Stigset
VP Corporate Communications & Public Affairs
Tel: +47 411 88 482
E-mail: marianne.stigset@elkem.com  

About Elkem
Elkem is one of the world's leading providers of advanced silicon-based materials shaping a better and more sustainable future. The company develops silicones, silicon products and carbon solutions by combining natural raw materials, renewable energy and human ingenuity. Elkem helps its customers create and improve essential innovations like electric mobility, digital communications, health and personal care as well as smarter and more sustainable cities. With a strong track record since 1904, its global team of more than 7 000 people has a joint commitment to stakeholders: Delivering your potential. In 2025, Elkem achieved an operating income of NOK 31 billion. Elkem has been awarded top score of A on Forests and Water Security, and B on Climate Change from CDP. Elkem is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (ticker: ELK), where the company is also included in the ESG Index. www.elkem.com 

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/elkem/r/fourth-quarter-2025---impact-of-weak-markets-mitigated-by-cost-improvements--sales-agreement-entered,c4306937

The following files are available for download:

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/elkem-fourth-quarter-2025--impact-of-weak-markets-mitigated-by-cost-improvements-sales-agreement-entered-for-silicones-division-302687377.html

SOURCE Elkem