Element Solutions (ESI)
Market Price (7/25/2026): $37.445 | Market Cap: $9.1 BilSector: Materials | Industry: Specialty Chemicals
Element Solutions (ESI)
Market Price (7/25/2026): $37.445Market Cap: $9.1 BilSector: MaterialsIndustry: Specialty Chemicals
Investment Highlights Why It Matters Detailed financial logic regarding cash flow yields vs trend-riding momentum.
Low stock price volatilityVol 12M is 44% Megatrend and thematic driversMegatrends include Advanced Materials, Battery Technology & Metals, and Sustainable Resource Management. Themes include Specialty Chemicals for Performance, Show more. | Expensive valuation multiplesP/EBITPrice/EBIT or Price/(Operating Income) ratio is 31x, P/CFOPrice/(Cash Flow from Operations). CFO is cash before capital expenditures. is 46x, P/EPrice/Earnings or Price/(Net Income) is 61x Key risksESI key risks include [1] demand volatility in its core electronics and automotive markets, Show more. |
| Low stock price volatilityVol 12M is 44% |
| Megatrend and thematic driversMegatrends include Advanced Materials, Battery Technology & Metals, and Sustainable Resource Management. Themes include Specialty Chemicals for Performance, Show more. |
| Expensive valuation multiplesP/EBITPrice/EBIT or Price/(Operating Income) ratio is 31x, P/CFOPrice/(Cash Flow from Operations). CFO is cash before capital expenditures. is 46x, P/EPrice/Earnings or Price/(Net Income) is 61x |
| Key risksESI key risks include [1] demand volatility in its core electronics and automotive markets, Show more. |
Qualitative Assessment
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Element Solutions (ESI) stock has gained about 10% since 3/31/2026 because of the following key factors:
1. Element Solutions Inc (ESI) reported robust financial results for fiscal Q1 2026, which ended on March 31, 2026, surpassing analyst expectations and increasing full-year guidance. The company announced its Q1 2026 results on April 28, 2026, with adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $0.41, beating the consensus estimate of $0.38. Quarterly revenue increased by 41.5% year-over-year to $840 million, exceeding the $710.51 million consensus estimate. Following these strong results, Element Solutions raised its full-year 2026 adjusted EBITDA guidance to a range of $665 million to $685 million. The Electronics segment, a significant contributor, achieved 15% organic sales growth, driven by demand from advanced AI infrastructure, data center hardware, and high-performance electronics.
2. The proposed acquisition by Solstice Advanced Materials at a significant premium drove investor interest. On July 6, 2026, Element Solutions announced a definitive agreement to be acquired by Solstice Advanced Materials in a cash-and-stock transaction valued at approximately $14.5 billion, including assumed net debt. Element Solutions shareholders are set to receive $10.00 in cash plus 0.500 shares of Solstice common stock for each ESI share, implying a consideration of roughly $50.10 per share. This represented a premium of about 15% to Element Solutions' closing price as of July 2, 2026. The strategic rationale for the acquisition highlighted the creation of a leading advanced materials platform with increased exposure to high-growth end markets such as semiconductors, electronics, and AI infrastructure.
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Element Solutions (ESI) stock has gained about 10% since 3/31/2026 because of the following key factors:
1. Element Solutions Inc (ESI) reported robust financial results for fiscal Q1 2026, which ended on March 31, 2026, surpassing analyst expectations and increasing full-year guidance. The company announced its Q1 2026 results on April 28, 2026, with adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $0.41, beating the consensus estimate of $0.38. Quarterly revenue increased by 41.5% year-over-year to $840 million, exceeding the $710.51 million consensus estimate. Following these strong results, Element Solutions raised its full-year 2026 adjusted EBITDA guidance to a range of $665 million to $685 million. The Electronics segment, a significant contributor, achieved 15% organic sales growth, driven by demand from advanced AI infrastructure, data center hardware, and high-performance electronics.
2. The proposed acquisition by Solstice Advanced Materials at a significant premium drove investor interest. On July 6, 2026, Element Solutions announced a definitive agreement to be acquired by Solstice Advanced Materials in a cash-and-stock transaction valued at approximately $14.5 billion, including assumed net debt. Element Solutions shareholders are set to receive $10.00 in cash plus 0.500 shares of Solstice common stock for each ESI share, implying a consideration of roughly $50.10 per share. This represented a premium of about 15% to Element Solutions' closing price as of July 2, 2026. The strategic rationale for the acquisition highlighted the creation of a leading advanced materials platform with increased exposure to high-growth end markets such as semiconductors, electronics, and AI infrastructure.
3. Analyst sentiment largely remained positive, with many firms raising price targets and maintaining a "Strong Buy" consensus. Prior to and following the acquisition announcement, several analysts reiterated or upgraded their ratings and increased price targets for ESI. For example, UBS boosted its price objective to $52.00, BMO Capital increased its target to $50.00, and Truist Securities nudged its target up to $48.00. While Mizuho downgraded ESI from "strong-buy" to "hold" on July 16, 2026, the overall consensus from analysts remains a "Strong Buy" with an average 12-month price target of $48.20 to $48.80, indicating a substantial upside potential from its current trading price.
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Stock Movement Drivers
Fundamental Drivers
The 9.9% change in ESI stock from 3/31/2026 to 7/24/2026 was primarily driven by a 41.7% change in the company's P/E Multiple.| (LTM values as of) | 3312026 | 7242026 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock Price ($) | 34.08 | 37.44 | 9.9% |
| Change Contribution By: | |||
| Total Revenues ($ Mil) | 2,551 | 2,798 | 9.7% |
| Net Income Margin (%) | 7.5% | 5.3% | -28.9% |
| P/E Multiple | 43.2 | 61.2 | 41.7% |
| Shares Outstanding (Mil) | 242 | 243 | -0.5% |
| Cumulative Contribution | 9.9% |
Market Drivers
3/31/2026 to 7/24/2026| Return | Correlation | |
|---|---|---|
| ESI | 9.9% | |
| Market (SPY) | 13.6% | 53.1% |
| Sector (XLB) | 2.6% | 39.9% |
Fundamental Drivers
The 50.4% change in ESI stock from 12/31/2025 to 7/24/2026 was primarily driven by a 143.8% change in the company's P/E Multiple.| (LTM values as of) | 12312025 | 7242026 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock Price ($) | 24.89 | 37.44 | 50.4% |
| Change Contribution By: | |||
| Total Revenues ($ Mil) | 2,499 | 2,798 | 11.9% |
| Net Income Margin (%) | 9.6% | 5.3% | -44.5% |
| P/E Multiple | 25.1 | 61.2 | 143.8% |
| Shares Outstanding (Mil) | 242 | 243 | -0.7% |
| Cumulative Contribution | 50.4% |
Market Drivers
12/31/2025 to 7/24/2026| Return | Correlation | |
|---|---|---|
| ESI | 50.4% | |
| Market (SPY) | 8.7% | 58.2% |
| Sector (XLB) | 13.5% | 48.7% |
Fundamental Drivers
The 67.0% change in ESI stock from 6/30/2025 to 7/24/2026 was primarily driven by a 222.5% change in the company's P/E Multiple.| (LTM values as of) | 6302025 | 7242026 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock Price ($) | 22.42 | 37.44 | 67.0% |
| Change Contribution By: | |||
| Total Revenues ($ Mil) | 2,476 | 2,798 | 13.0% |
| Net Income Margin (%) | 11.6% | 5.3% | -54.0% |
| P/E Multiple | 19.0 | 61.2 | 222.5% |
| Shares Outstanding (Mil) | 242 | 243 | -0.3% |
| Cumulative Contribution | 67.0% |
Market Drivers
6/30/2025 to 7/24/2026| Return | Correlation | |
|---|---|---|
| ESI | 67.0% | |
| Market (SPY) | 20.6% | 59.2% |
| Sector (XLB) | 18.4% | 52.3% |
Fundamental Drivers
The 102.5% change in ESI stock from 6/30/2023 to 7/24/2026 was primarily driven by a 139.0% change in the company's P/E Multiple.| (LTM values as of) | 6302023 | 7242026 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock Price ($) | 18.49 | 37.44 | 102.5% |
| Change Contribution By: | |||
| Total Revenues ($ Mil) | 2,444 | 2,798 | 14.5% |
| Net Income Margin (%) | 7.1% | 5.3% | -25.4% |
| P/E Multiple | 25.6 | 61.2 | 139.0% |
| Shares Outstanding (Mil) | 241 | 243 | -0.9% |
| Cumulative Contribution | 102.5% |
Market Drivers
6/30/2023 to 7/24/2026| Return | Correlation | |
|---|---|---|
| ESI | 102.5% | |
| Market (SPY) | 72.6% | 61.9% |
| Sector (XLB) | 30.6% | 60.7% |
Price Returns Compared
| 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 | Total [1] | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Returns | |||||||
| ESI Return | 39% | -24% | 29% | 11% | -0% | 54% | 132% |
| Peers Return | 22% | -24% | 33% | -5% | -4% | 17% | 33% |
| S&P 500 Return | 27% | -19% | 24% | 23% | 16% | 8% | 97% |
Monthly Win Rates [3] | |||||||
| ESI Win Rate | 67% | 42% | 50% | 50% | 58% | 57% | |
| Peers Win Rate | 55% | 38% | 45% | 53% | 48% | 63% | |
| S&P 500 Win Rate | 75% | 42% | 67% | 75% | 67% | 43% | |
Max Drawdowns [4] | |||||||
| ESI Max Drawdown | -16% | -35% | -19% | -15% | -36% | -26% | |
| Peers Max Drawdown | -20% | -39% | -21% | -21% | -32% | -24% | |
| S&P 500 Max Drawdown | -5% | -25% | -10% | -8% | -19% | -9% | |
[1] Cumulative total returns since the beginning of 2021
[2] Peers: ENTG, DD, PPG, RPM, AXTA. See ESI Returns vs. Peers.
[3] Win Rate = % of calendar months in which monthly returns were positive
[4] Max drawdown represents maximum peak-to-trough decline within a year
[5] 2026 data is for the year up to 7/24/2026 (YTD)
How Low Can It Go
| Event | ESI | S&P 500 |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 US Tariff Shock | ||
| % Loss | -36.3% | -18.8% |
| % Gain to Breakeven | 56.9% | 23.1% |
| Time to Breakeven | 213 days | 79 days |
| 2024 Yen Carry Trade Unwind | ||
| % Loss | -11.9% | -7.8% |
| % Gain to Breakeven | 13.4% | 8.5% |
| Time to Breakeven | 83 days | 18 days |
| Summer-Fall 2023 Five Percent Yield Shock | ||
| % Loss | -11.0% | -9.5% |
| % Gain to Breakeven | 12.4% | 10.5% |
| Time to Breakeven | 20 days | 24 days |
| 2023 SVB Regional Banking Crisis | ||
| % Loss | -12.4% | -6.7% |
| % Gain to Breakeven | 14.2% | 7.1% |
| Time to Breakeven | 83 days | 31 days |
| 2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening | ||
| % Loss | -33.9% | -24.5% |
| % Gain to Breakeven | 51.3% | 32.4% |
| Time to Breakeven | 489 days | 427 days |
| 2020 COVID-19 Crash | ||
| % Loss | -47.9% | -33.7% |
| % Gain to Breakeven | 92.0% | 50.9% |
| Time to Breakeven | 208 days | 140 days |
In The Past
Element Solutions's stock fell -36.3% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 56.9% gain to breakeven.
Preserve Wealth
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Asset Allocation
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| Event | ESI | S&P 500 |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 US Tariff Shock | ||
| % Loss | -36.3% | -18.8% |
| % Gain to Breakeven | 56.9% | 23.1% |
| Time to Breakeven | 213 days | 79 days |
| 2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening | ||
| % Loss | -33.9% | -24.5% |
| % Gain to Breakeven | 51.3% | 32.4% |
| Time to Breakeven | 489 days | 427 days |
| 2020 COVID-19 Crash | ||
| % Loss | -47.9% | -33.7% |
| % Gain to Breakeven | 92.0% | 50.9% |
| Time to Breakeven | 208 days | 140 days |
| Q4 2018 Fed Policy Error / Growth Scare | ||
| % Loss | -25.0% | -19.2% |
| % Gain to Breakeven | 33.4% | 23.8% |
| Time to Breakeven | 389 days | 105 days |
| 2015-2016 China Devaluation / Global Growth Scare | ||
| % Loss | -73.2% | -12.2% |
| % Gain to Breakeven | 273.3% | 13.9% |
| Time to Breakeven | 1856 days | 62 days |
| 2014-2016 Oil Price Collapse | ||
| % Loss | -79.7% | -6.8% |
| % Gain to Breakeven | 392.1% | 7.3% |
| Time to Breakeven | 3044 days | 15 days |
| 2013 Taper Tantrum | ||
| % Loss | -34.9% | -0.2% |
| % Gain to Breakeven | 53.6% | 0.2% |
| Time to Breakeven | 1 days | 1 days |
| 2008-2009 Global Financial Crisis | ||
| % Loss | -49.0% | -53.4% |
| % Gain to Breakeven | 96.1% | 114.4% |
| Time to Breakeven | 114 days | 1085 days |
In The Past
Element Solutions's stock fell -36.3% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 56.9% gain to breakeven.
Preserve Wealth
Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.
Asset Allocation
Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.
About Element Solutions (ESI)
Element Solutions Inc (ESI) is a global specialty chemicals company with operations across the United States, China, and other international markets. The company develops and sells advanced chemical solutions that serve a wide range of critical industrial applications. ESI organizes its business into two primary segments: Electronics, and Industrial & Specialty.
The Electronics segment is focused on providing essential specialty chemicals and materials for the manufacturing of various electronics hardware. This includes offering solder technologies, fluxes, cleaners, and other attachment materials vital for electronics assembly. It also supplies proprietary liquid chemical processes for printed circuit board production, along with advanced materials like copper interconnects and wafer bump processes used in integrated circuit fabrication and semiconductor packaging. Key industries served by this segment include mobile communications, computers, automobiles, and aerospace equipment.
ESI's Industrial & Specialty segment offers diverse chemical systems designed to protect and enhance metal and plastic surfaces. Additionally, it provides consumable chemicals for printing image transfer on flexible packaging materials, critical for the consumer packaged goods industry. The segment also supplies specialized chemistries for water-based hydraulic control fluids used in offshore energy production. This segment caters to a broad array of end markets, including aerospace, automotive, construction, consumer electronics, and oil and gas production.
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Here are 1-3 brief analogies for Element Solutions (ESI):
- The 'Intel Inside' for specialty chemicals that enable advanced electronics and industrial manufacturing.
- Like a highly specialized 3M, focused on providing essential chemical solutions for manufacturing electronics and industrial products.
- A niche chemical giant, similar to a focused version of Dow Chemical or BASF, providing essential chemical solutions for everything from circuit boards to metal coatings.
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- Specialty Chemicals for Electronics Hardware: Formulates and sells specialty chemicals and materials essential for various electronics hardware products.
- Electronics Assembly Materials: Supplies solder technologies, fluxes, cleaners, and other attachment materials for the electronics assembly industry.
- Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Manufacturing Processes: Provides proprietary liquid chemical processes used in the manufacturing of printed circuit boards.
- Semiconductor Packaging Technologies: Offers advanced copper interconnects, die attachment, wafer bump processes, and photomask technologies for integrated circuit fabrication and semiconductor packaging.
- Surface Treatment Chemical Systems: Delivers chemical systems that protect and decorate metal and plastic surfaces for industrial applications.
- Flexible Packaging Printing Chemicals: Provides consumable chemicals that enable printing image transfer on flexible packaging materials.
- Offshore Energy Hydraulic Control Fluids: Supplies chemistries used in water-based hydraulic control fluids for offshore energy production applications.
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Element Solutions Inc (ESI) is a Business-to-Business (B2B) company that manufactures and sells specialty chemicals and materials. Therefore, its major customers are other companies rather than individuals.
Based on the provided background, specific names of major customer companies are not disclosed. However, the company serves a broad range of manufacturers across various industries and end markets. These customers can be identified by the industries they operate in:
- Companies in the mobile communications industry (e.g., manufacturers of devices and components for smartphones and other mobile devices).
- Companies in the computer industry (e.g., manufacturers of computers, servers, and their internal components).
- Companies in the automotive industry (e.g., car manufacturers and their suppliers, utilizing ESI's products for surface treatment and other applications).
- Companies in the aerospace equipment industry (e.g., manufacturers of aircraft and spacecraft components requiring specialized materials).
- Companies in the consumer electronics industry (e.g., manufacturers of various electronic gadgets and devices).
- Companies in the construction industry.
- Companies in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry (e.g., companies requiring chemicals for printing image transfer on flexible packaging materials).
- Companies in the oil and gas production industry (e.g., for offshore energy production applications, utilizing water-based hydraulic control fluids).
These categories represent the diverse range of industrial and manufacturing companies that are major customers of Element Solutions Inc.
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Benjamin Gliklich
Chief Executive OfficerBenjamin Gliklich has been serving as the Chief Executive Officer and a director of Element Solutions Inc since January 2019. Prior to this role, he held various positions within the company, including Executive Vice President - Operations and Strategy, Chief Operating Officer, and Vice President - Corporate Development, Finance and Investor Relations. Before joining Element Solutions, Mr. Gliklich was with General Atlantic, a global growth-oriented private equity firm. Earlier in his career, he worked in the investment banking division of Goldman Sachs & Co. He is the founding CEO of Element Solutions.
Carey Dorman
President, Enterprise Operations and Chief Financial OfficerCarey Dorman is the President, Enterprise Operations and Chief Financial Officer of Element Solutions Inc, a position he has held since March 2019. His responsibilities encompass finance, information technology, human resources, legal, and other central functions. Before his promotion to CFO, Mr. Dorman served as Corporate Treasurer and VP, Investor Relations, and previously as Director and Senior Director of Corporate Development at Element Solutions. Prior to joining the company in 2015, he held investment and corporate finance positions at Taconic Capital Advisors, a global institutional investment firm, and Goldman Sachs & Co.
Sir Martin E. Franklin
Executive ChairmanSir Martin E. Franklin was appointed as Executive Chairman in January 2019, having founded Element Solutions in 2013 and serving as Chairman of the Board since its inception. He is the founder and CEO of Mariposa Capital LLC, a Miami-based family office focused on long-term value creation. He is also the Chairman and controlling shareholder of Sweet Oak, a diversified platform for consumable products. Sir Martin E. Franklin has a notable history of launching Platform Specialty Products Corporation in 2013 with early capital and strategic sponsorship from Pershing Square Capital Management.
Richard L. Fricke
President, ElectronicsRichard L. Fricke is the President, Electronics, a role he took over in July 2024. He has held several leadership positions within the Electronics segment, including EVP and Head of Electronics, Senior Vice President, Electronic Solutions, and Senior Vice President, Semiconductor & Assembly Solutions. Mr. Fricke joined Element Solutions with over 15 years of experience in the semiconductor industry. Before joining Element Solutions, he served as Vice President & General Manager of the Electronic Materials business at Honeywell International Inc. His prior experience also includes roles at ATMI, Inc. (now Entegris, Inc.) and Danaher Corporation.
Matthew Liebowitz
President, SpecialtiesMatthew Liebowitz is the President, Specialties, a position he assumed after serving as EVP, Strategy and Head of Industrial & Specialty since February 2024. His previous roles at Element Solutions include SVP of Strategy & Integration, Vice President, Strategy & FP&A, Director of Global FP&A, and Associate Director of Special Projects. His responsibilities have included strategy deployment, corporate development, merger integration, capital markets, financial planning, and investor relations.
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Here are the key risks to Element Solutions Inc. (ESI):
- Raw Material Cost Volatility: As a specialty chemicals company, Element Solutions Inc. is significantly exposed to fluctuations in the cost of raw materials, including precious metals like tin and silver, as well as crude oil and petrochemical feedstocks. Recent geopolitical events have demonstrated how sharp increases in these input costs can compress profit margins if pricing and efficiency measures do not keep pace. This volatility has notably impacted adjusted EBITDA and working capital.
- Regulatory Constraints: Element Solutions Inc. faces risks associated with evolving environmental regulations, particularly stringent sustainability compliance requirements such as PFAS restrictions in the EU and tightening limits on heavy metals. These regulations necessitate costly reformulation efforts and investments in capital treatment, increasing operational expenses.
- Cyclicality of End-Markets and Macroeconomic/Geopolitical Uncertainties: Element Solutions Inc.'s business is highly concentrated in cyclical end-markets, predominantly electronics (including semiconductor fabrication, advanced packaging, and consumer electronics) and automotive. This concentration makes the company's performance sensitive to economic downturns or softness in these specific industries. Furthermore, broader economic and political uncertainties, along with geopolitical risks, can disrupt global supply chains and demand, further impacting revenue streams and profitability.
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Element Solutions Inc. (ESI) operates in various specialty chemical markets. The addressable markets for its main products and services are sized as follows:
Electronics Segment
- Electronic Assembly Materials: The global electronic assembly materials market was valued at approximately USD 61.49 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 84.37 billion by 2031.
- Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Chemicals and Semiconductor Packaging Materials: The global market for PCB chemicals and semiconductor packaging materials combined was valued at USD 33.49 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 58.04 billion by 2034. The broader global printed circuit board market was valued at USD 80.2 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow to USD 137.8 billion in 2035.
- Semiconductor Packaging Materials: The global semiconductor IC packaging materials market was valued at USD 49.12 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 118.48 billion by 2034.
- Electronic Materials and Chemicals (overall): The global electronic materials and chemicals market size was valued at USD 73.94 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 106.11 billion by 2030.
Industrial & Specialty Segment
- Metal Finishing and Surface Treatment Chemicals: The global metal finishing chemicals market size was valued at USD 10.70 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 16.36 billion by 2032. Separately, the global surface treatment chemical market size was estimated at USD 8.10 billion in 2025 and is expected to increase to USD 14.51 billion by 2035.
- Packaging Printing Chemicals (Inks and Coatings): The global packaging print inks market is projected to expand from USD 13.3 billion in 2025 to USD 24.7 billion by 2034. More broadly, the global packaging inks and coatings market was valued at USD 4.77 billion in 2025 and is anticipated to reach USD 7.89 billion by 2035.
- Hydraulic Control Fluids (for offshore energy production and other applications): The global hydraulic fluids market size is expected to be valued at US$ 9.1 billion in 2026 and is projected to reach US$ 12.6 billion by 2033.
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Element Solutions Inc (ESI): Expected Revenue Growth Drivers (2026-2028)
- Strong Demand in High-End Electronics: Element Solutions anticipates continued revenue growth driven by robust demand from data center infrastructure and high-performance computing markets, particularly in areas related to Artificial Intelligence (AI). The Electronics segment has demonstrated consistent double-digit organic growth, fueled by these applications.
- Strategic Acquisitions: The company's recent acquisitions of Micromax and EFC Gases & Advanced Materials, both finalized in early 2026, are expected to significantly contribute to future revenue growth. Micromax specializes in advanced electronics inks and pastes, while EFC provides high-purity specialty gases and advanced materials for critical electronics applications, expanding Element Solutions' footprint in high-value markets.
- Expansion in Advanced Semiconductor Packaging and HDI PCBs: Element Solutions is strategically targeting growth in advanced semiconductor packaging technologies, including fan-out, copper pillar, and micro-bump, as well as High-Density Interconnect (HDI) and modified Semi-Additive Process (mSAP) for smartphones and AI servers. The rollout of next-generation metallization and surface finish chemistries for mSAP/SLP is expected to capitalize on the anticipated 20-30% CAGR in AI server motherboard and accelerator demand through 2027.
- Growth in Electric Vehicle (EV) and Automotive Coatings: The company is expanding its offerings of corrosion-resistant and decorative coatings for EV components, connectors, and lightweight alloys. This includes securing program awards on vehicle platforms slated for 2025-2028 in North America and Europe.
- New Product Introductions and Technology-Led Differentiation: Element Solutions' growth strategy emphasizes technology-led differentiation and the introduction of new products. Management has highlighted "exciting" new product launches planned for 2026. The company also focuses on expanding its portfolio of sustainable chemistries, such as PFAS-free, low-VOC, and hexavalent-chrome-free solutions, to meet evolving regulatory and customer demands.
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Capital Allocation Decisions (Last 3-5 Years)
Share Repurchases
- Element Solutions repurchased approximately $25.0 million of its common stock during the full year ended December 31, 2025.
- During the three months ended June 30, 2025, the company repurchased approximately $19.5 million worth of shares.
- As of December 31, 2025, the remaining authorization under Element Solutions' stock repurchase program was approximately $556 million.
Share Issuance
- Element Solutions' shares outstanding for the quarter ending December 31, 2025, were 0.242 billion, a 0.08% decline year-over-year.
- Common stock authorized was 400.0 million shares, with 269.6 million shares issued in 2025 and 267.2 million shares issued in 2024.
- Restricted stock units are issued from time to time under the Amended and Restated 2013 Incentive Compensation Plan.
Outbound Investments
- In early 2026, Element Solutions completed the acquisitions of Micromax and EFC Gases & Advanced Materials, which were announced in the fourth quarter of 2025, for approximately $870 million.
- The acquisition of HSO Herbert Schmidt GmbH & Co. KG, Dipl.-Ing. W. Schmidt GmbH, and HSO Hong Kong Holding Limited and its subsidiary (HSO) was completed on January 26, 2022.
- Element Solutions completed the acquisition of Coventya Holding SAS and its subsidiaries (Coventya) on September 1, 2021.
Capital Expenditures
- Capital expenditures were $62.2 million in 2025, $68.4 million in 2024, and $52.7 million in 2023.
- For 2026, Element Solutions expects capital expenditures of approximately $75 million.
- These anticipated capital expenditures for 2026 are primarily focused on innovation, capacity expansion, and new product introductions in fast-growing AI and data center markets.
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Peer Comparisons
| Peers to compare with: |
Financials
| Median | |
|---|---|
| Name | |
| Mkt Price | 111.50 |
| Mkt Cap | 16.6 |
| Rev LTM | 5,624 |
| Op Inc LTM | 827 |
| FCF LTM | 497 |
| FCF 3Y Avg | 410 |
| CFO LTM | 714 |
| CFO 3Y Avg | 654 |
Growth & Margins
| Median | |
|---|---|
| Name | |
| Rev Chg LTM | 1.7% |
| Rev Chg 3Y Avg | 0.9% |
| Rev Chg Q | 5.8% |
| QoQ Delta Rev Chg LTM | 1.4% |
| Op Inc Chg LTM | 4.7% |
| Op Inc Chg 3Y Avg | 10.4% |
| Op Mgn LTM | 13.6% |
| Op Mgn 3Y Avg | 13.0% |
| QoQ Delta Op Mgn LTM | 0.1% |
| CFO/Rev LTM | 11.9% |
| CFO/Rev 3Y Avg | 12.2% |
| FCF/Rev LTM | 8.1% |
| FCF/Rev 3Y Avg | 9.1% |
Valuation
| Median | |
|---|---|
| Name | |
| Mkt Cap | 16.6 |
| P/S | 2.5 |
| P/Op Inc | 17.4 |
| P/EBIT | 22.4 |
| P/E | 19.7 |
| P/CFO | 20.9 |
| Total Yield | 3.9% |
| Dividend Yield | 0.9% |
| FCF Yield 3Y Avg | 3.9% |
| D/E | 0.2 |
| Net D/E | 0.2 |
Returns
| Median | |
|---|---|
| Name | |
| 1M Rtn | -4.8% |
| 3M Rtn | 0.8% |
| 6M Rtn | 4.3% |
| 12M Rtn | 26.6% |
| 3Y Rtn | 22.4% |
| 1M Excs Rtn | -5.5% |
| 3M Excs Rtn | -3.9% |
| 6M Excs Rtn | -3.3% |
| 12M Excs Rtn | 8.7% |
| 3Y Excs Rtn | -41.7% |
Comparison Analyses
Price Behavior
| Market Price | $37.44 | |
| Market Cap ($ Bil) | 9.1 | |
| First Trading Date | 12/20/1994 | |
| Distance from 52W High | -23.7% | |
| 50 Days | 200 Days | |
| DMA Price | $41.99 | $33.47 |
| DMA Trend | up | up |
| Distance from DMA | -10.8% | 11.9% |
| 3M | 1YR | |
| Volatility | 56.4% | 44.2% |
| Downside Capture | 266.13 | 195.04 |
| Upside Capture | 190.42 | 214.54 |
| Correlation (SPY) | 50.8% | 60.5% |
| 1M | 2M | 3M | 6M | 1Y | 3Y | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beta | 2.31 | 2.24 | 2.11 | 2.22 | 2.07 | 1.48 |
| Up Beta | 2.26 | 1.96 | 2.06 | 2.07 | 2.05 | 1.41 |
| Down Beta | 3.62 | 1.99 | 2.75 | 2.84 | 2.47 | 1.58 |
| Up Capture | 302% | 287% | 251% | 392% | 392% | 408% |
| Bmk +ve Days | 11 | 24 | 40 | 67 | 140 | 429 |
| Stock +ve Days | 13 | 23 | 37 | 69 | 133 | 380 |
| Down Capture | 116% | 218% | 171% | 137% | 139% | 108% |
| Bmk -ve Days | 10 | 17 | 23 | 58 | 112 | 321 |
| Stock -ve Days | 8 | 18 | 26 | 55 | 117 | 367 |
[1] Upside and downside betas calculated using positive and negative benchmark daily returns respectively
Based On 1-Year Data
| Annualized Return | Annualized Volatility | Sharpe Ratio | Correlation with ESI | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ESI | 56.5% | 44.2% | 1.13 | - |
| Sector ETF (XLB) | 12.8% | 17.7% | 0.53 | 52.8% |
| Equity (SPY) | 17.6% | 12.7% | 1.00 | 60.3% |
| Gold (GLD) | 19.2% | 28.1% | 0.61 | 23.8% |
| Commodities (DBC) | 34.7% | 19.1% | 1.42 | -11.6% |
| Real Estate (VNQ) | 13.8% | 14.1% | 0.69 | 19.5% |
| Bitcoin (BTCUSD) | -45.4% | 42.9% | -1.29 | 32.5% |
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Based On 5-Year Data
| Annualized Return | Annualized Volatility | Sharpe Ratio | Correlation with ESI | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ESI | 11.9% | 35.4% | 0.39 | - |
| Sector ETF (XLB) | 6.8% | 19.1% | 0.25 | 66.7% |
| Equity (SPY) | 12.8% | 17.1% | 0.58 | 66.8% |
| Gold (GLD) | 17.0% | 18.4% | 0.75 | 11.3% |
| Commodities (DBC) | 9.6% | 19.5% | 0.38 | 9.0% |
| Real Estate (VNQ) | 3.0% | 18.9% | 0.06 | 47.7% |
| Bitcoin (BTCUSD) | 15.7% | 53.4% | 0.47 | 27.1% |
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Based On 10-Year Data
| Annualized Return | Annualized Volatility | Sharpe Ratio | Correlation with ESI | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ESI | 15.9% | 37.0% | 0.51 | - |
| Sector ETF (XLB) | 9.9% | 20.6% | 0.42 | 66.8% |
| Equity (SPY) | 14.9% | 17.9% | 0.71 | 63.5% |
| Gold (GLD) | 11.3% | 16.1% | 0.57 | 5.2% |
| Commodities (DBC) | 7.2% | 17.9% | 0.32 | 21.6% |
| Real Estate (VNQ) | 5.2% | 20.7% | 0.21 | 47.0% |
| Bitcoin (BTCUSD) | 58.3% | 66.2% | 0.98 | 17.3% |
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Returns Analyses
Earnings Returns History
Updated 7/20/2026| Forward Returns | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Earnings Date | 1D Returns | 5D Returns | 21D Returns |
| 4/28/2026 | 9.7% | 13.4% | 8.1% |
| 2/17/2026 | 4.3% | 13.6% | -1.9% |
| 10/28/2025 | 0.8% | 3.1% | -1.2% |
| 7/30/2025 | 1.9% | 0.1% | 11.9% |
| 4/23/2025 | 6.8% | 6.2% | 12.3% |
| 2/18/2025 | 4.4% | -0.4% | -0.5% |
| 10/28/2024 | 3.8% | 2.8% | 7.4% |
| 7/29/2024 | -3.0% | -9.4% | -3.0% |
| ... | |||
| SUMMARY STATS | |||
| # Positive | 14 | 15 | 14 |
| # Negative | 10 | 9 | 10 |
| Median Positive | 3.9% | 3.7% | 8.5% |
| Median Negative | -2.6% | -1.2% | -1.9% |
| Max Positive | 9.7% | 14.6% | 17.8% |
| Max Negative | -5.3% | -9.4% | -5.3% |
| Forward Returns | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Earnings Date | 1D Returns | 5D Returns | 21D Returns |
| 4/28/2026 | 9.7% | 13.4% | 8.1% |
| 2/17/2026 | 4.3% | 13.6% | -1.9% |
| 10/28/2025 | 0.8% | 3.1% | -1.2% |
| 7/30/2025 | 1.9% | 0.1% | 11.9% |
| 4/23/2025 | 6.8% | 6.2% | 12.3% |
| 2/18/2025 | 4.4% | -0.4% | -0.5% |
| 10/28/2024 | 3.8% | 2.8% | 7.4% |
| 7/29/2024 | -3.0% | -9.4% | -3.0% |
| 4/29/2024 | -4.2% | -1.2% | -1.7% |
| 2/20/2024 | -2.0% | -0.3% | 5.1% |
| 10/25/2023 | 3.9% | 2.8% | 17.0% |
| 7/26/2023 | 3.7% | 3.7% | -0.6% |
| 4/26/2023 | 1.8% | 3.1% | 4.0% |
| 2/21/2023 | 4.5% | 5.8% | -5.3% |
| 10/26/2022 | -2.1% | -6.2% | 9.1% |
| 7/27/2022 | -0.2% | 0.3% | 2.0% |
| 4/27/2022 | 6.4% | 8.9% | 4.6% |
| 2/22/2022 | -0.3% | -1.5% | -5.3% |
| 10/27/2021 | 2.5% | 14.6% | 8.9% |
| 7/28/2021 | -0.3% | -3.7% | -1.9% |
| 4/28/2021 | 3.9% | 10.8% | 14.1% |
| 2/24/2021 | -5.3% | 1.8% | 0.5% |
| 10/27/2020 | -4.1% | -0.7% | 17.8% |
| 8/4/2020 | -5.2% | -1.1% | -3.2% |
| SUMMARY STATS | |||
| # Positive | 14 | 15 | 14 |
| # Negative | 10 | 9 | 10 |
| Median Positive | 3.9% | 3.7% | 8.5% |
| Median Negative | -2.6% | -1.2% | -1.9% |
| Max Positive | 9.7% | 14.6% | 17.8% |
| Max Negative | -5.3% | -9.4% | -5.3% |
SEC Filings
Expand for More| Report Date | Filing Date | Filing |
|---|---|---|
| 03/31/2026 | 04/29/2026 | 10-Q |
| 12/31/2025 | 02/18/2026 | 10-K |
| 09/30/2025 | 10/29/2025 | 10-Q |
| 06/30/2025 | 07/31/2025 | 10-Q |
| 03/31/2025 | 04/24/2025 | 10-Q |
| 12/31/2024 | 02/19/2025 | 10-K |
| 09/30/2024 | 10/29/2024 | 10-Q |
| 06/30/2024 | 07/30/2024 | 10-Q |
| 03/31/2024 | 04/30/2024 | 10-Q |
| 12/31/2023 | 02/21/2024 | 10-K |
| 09/30/2023 | 10/26/2023 | 10-Q |
| 06/30/2023 | 07/27/2023 | 10-Q |
| 03/31/2023 | 04/27/2023 | 10-Q |
| 12/31/2022 | 02/22/2023 | 10-K |
| 09/30/2022 | 10/27/2022 | 10-Q |
| 06/30/2022 | 07/28/2022 | 10-Q |
| Report Date | Filing Date | Filing |
|---|---|---|
| 03/31/2026 | 04/29/2026 | 10-Q |
| 12/31/2025 | 02/18/2026 | 10-K |
| 09/30/2025 | 10/29/2025 | 10-Q |
| 06/30/2025 | 07/31/2025 | 10-Q |
| 03/31/2025 | 04/24/2025 | 10-Q |
| 12/31/2024 | 02/19/2025 | 10-K |
| 09/30/2024 | 10/29/2024 | 10-Q |
| 06/30/2024 | 07/30/2024 | 10-Q |
| 03/31/2024 | 04/30/2024 | 10-Q |
| 12/31/2023 | 02/21/2024 | 10-K |
| 09/30/2023 | 10/26/2023 | 10-Q |
| 06/30/2023 | 07/27/2023 | 10-Q |
| 03/31/2023 | 04/27/2023 | 10-Q |
| 12/31/2022 | 02/22/2023 | 10-K |
| 09/30/2022 | 10/27/2022 | 10-Q |
| 06/30/2022 | 07/28/2022 | 10-Q |
| 03/31/2022 | 04/28/2022 | 10-Q |
| 12/31/2021 | 02/23/2022 | 10-K |
| 09/30/2021 | 10/28/2021 | 10-Q |
| 06/30/2021 | 07/29/2021 | 10-Q |
| 03/31/2021 | 04/29/2021 | 10-Q |
| 12/31/2020 | 02/25/2021 | 10-K |
| 09/30/2020 | 10/28/2020 | 10-Q |
| 06/30/2020 | 08/04/2020 | 10-Q |
| 03/31/2020 | 04/30/2020 | 10-Q |
| 12/31/2019 | 02/28/2020 | 10-K |
| 09/30/2019 | 11/07/2019 | 10-Q |
| 06/30/2019 | 08/02/2019 | 10-Q |
Recent Forward Guidance
Updated 7/12/2026Latest: Q1 2026 Earnings Reported 4/28/2026
| Forward Guidance | Guidance Change | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metric | Low | Mid | High | % Chg | % Delta | Change | Prior |
| Q2 2026 Adjusted EBITDA | 155.00 Mil | 162.50 Mil | 170.00 Mil | ||||
| 2026 Adjusted EBITDA | 665.00 Mil | 675.00 Mil | 685.00 Mil | 2.3% | Raised | Guidance: 660.00 Mil for 2026 | |
| 2026 Adjusted EPS Growth | 16.0% | 17.5% | 19.0% | 0.0% | Affirmed | Guidance: 17.5% for 2026 | |
Prior: Q4 2025 Earnings Reported 2/17/2026
| Forward Guidance | Guidance Change | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metric | Low | Mid | High | % Chg | % Delta | Change | Prior |
| Q1 2026 Adjusted EBITDA | 140.00 Mil | 147.50 Mil | 155.00 Mil | ||||
| 2026 Adjusted EBITDA | 650.00 Mil | 660.00 Mil | 670.00 Mil | 20.5% | Higher New | Guidance: 547.50 Mil for 2025 | |
| 2026 Adjusted EPS Growth | 16.0% | 17.5% | 19.0% | ||||
Q3 2025 Earnings Reported 10/28/2025
| Forward Guidance | Guidance Change | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metric | Low | Mid | High | % Chg | % Delta | Change | Prior |
| 2025 Adjusted EBITDA | 545.00 Mil | 547.50 Mil | 550.00 Mil | 1.4% | Raised | Guidance: 540.00 Mil for 2025 | |
| 2025 Adjusted Free Cash Flow | 280.00 Mil | ||||||
Insider Activity
Updated 5/5/2026| # | Owner | Title | Holding | Action | Filing Date | Price | Shares | Transacted Value | Value of Held Shares | Form |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gliklich, Benjamin | CEO | Direct | Sell | 2242026 | 37.30 | 170,000 | 6,341,000 | 44,427,209 | Form |
| 2 | Dorman, Carey J | Pdt Enterprise Ops and CFO | Direct | Sell | 2242026 | 34.87 | 97,500 | 3,399,825 | 8,266,875 | Form |
| 3 | Oneal, E Stanley | Direct | Sell | 2242026 | 35.52 | 143,564 | 5,099,393 | 5,250,993 | Form | |
| 4 | Oneal, E Stanley | Trust | Sell | 2242026 | 35.52 | 57,077 | Form | |||
| 5 | Liebowitz, Matthew | President, Specialties | Direct | Sell | 12122025 | 26.60 | 37,000 | 984,200 | 3,122,654 | Form |
| # | Owner | Title | Holding | Action | Filing Date | Price | Shares | Transacted Value | Value of Held Shares | Form |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gliklich, Benjamin | CEO | Direct | Sell | 2242026 | 37.30 | 170,000 | 6,341,000 | 44,427,209 | Form |
| 2 | Dorman, Carey J | Pdt Enterprise Ops and CFO | Direct | Sell | 2242026 | 34.87 | 97,500 | 3,399,825 | 8,266,875 | Form |
| 3 | Oneal, E Stanley | Direct | Sell | 2242026 | 35.52 | 143,564 | 5,099,393 | 5,250,993 | Form | |
| 4 | Oneal, E Stanley | Trust | Sell | 2242026 | 35.52 | 57,077 | Form | |||
| 5 | Liebowitz, Matthew | President, Specialties | Direct | Sell | 12122025 | 26.60 | 37,000 | 984,200 | 3,122,654 | Form |
| 6 | Ashken, Ian G H | Nancy and Ian Ashken Investment Trust LLLP (fka IGHA Holdings, LLLP) | Sell | 11072025 | 27.00 | 292,000 | 7,884,000 | 8,285,760 | Form | |
| 7 | Capps, John Edward | EVP, General Counsel & Sec. | Direct | Sell | 9192025 | 26.77 | 77,674 | 2,079,333 | 16,324,078 | Form |
| 8 | Gliklich, Benjamin | President and CEO | Direct | Sell | 9192025 | 26.56 | 117,637 | 3,124,439 | 22,961,678 | Form |
| 9 | Dorman, Carey J | EVP, CFO | Direct | Sell | 9192025 | 26.66 | 40,725 | 1,085,728 | 5,727,554 | Form |
| 10 | Liebowitz, Matthew | EVP, Strategy and Head of I&S | Direct | Sell | 9192025 | 26.55 | 50,000 | 1,327,500 | 1,522,722 | Form |
Investor Activity (13F)
Updated Jul 25, 2026Active managers (13F portfolio over $250M, at least 3 holdings) with a position over $5M that is either over 10% of their portfolio or held in a concentrated book of 50 or fewer total positions. Index/ETF, sovereign, bank, community-bank and charitable/donor-advised filers are excluded.
| Active Manager | Value | % of Portfolio | Total Positions | QoQ | As Of | Filing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Albar Capital Partners LLP | $7.2 Mil | 1.7% | 31 | Exited | Dec 31, 2025 | 13F |
| Glenview Capital Management, LLC | $55.6 Mil | 1.5% | 41 | TRIM -42.5% | Mar 31, 2026 | 13F |
| Gates Capital Management, Inc. | $104.4 Mil | 3.6% | 31 | TRIM -33.0% | Mar 31, 2026 | 13F |
| Locust Wood Capital Advisers, LLC | $150.8 Mil | 4.1% | 27 | TRIM -8.7% | Mar 31, 2026 | 13F |
Industry Resources
| Materials Resources |
| Chemical & Engineering News (C&EN) |
| Mining.com |
| Plastics News |
| Specialty Chemicals Resources |
| SpecialChem |
| Chemical Week |
| ICIS |
External Quote Links
| Y Finance | Barrons |
| TradingView | Morningstar |
| SeekingAlpha | ValueLine |
| Motley Fool | Robinhood |
| CNBC | Etrade |
| MarketWatch | Unusual Whales |
| YCharts | Perplexity Finance |
| FinViz |
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