Albemarle Surprises With Q2 Profit, Raises Outlook

Albemarle Corporation posted a surprise adjusted profit of 11 cents per share for Q2 2025, with revenues reaching $1.33 billion despite a 7% yearly decline attributed to lower lithium prices. The company reported strong volume growth in Energy Storage (+15%) and Specialties (+5-6%) segments, resulting in an adjusted EBITDA of $336 million. Albemarle achieved $538 million in cash from operations for the first half of 2025 and met its $400 million cost and productivity improvement target run-rate. Management raised its 2025 outlook to positive free cash flow and lowered capital expenditure guidance to $650–$700 million. The stock gained over 6% in after-hours trading after results were announced. Despite continued lithium price pressure from oversupply, Albemarle's strategic review and operational adjustments reinforce its resilience in a challenging market.