Kronos(KRO) ZACKS·2025-03-07 13:35Core Insights - Kronos Worldwide, Inc. (KRO) reported a fourth-quarter 2024 loss of 12 cents per share, which is wider than the loss of 5 cents per share from the previous year, and significantly below the Zacks Consensus Estimate of earnings of 11 cents per share [1] - The company's net sales increased approximately 6% year over year to 463.9 million [2] - TiO2 production volumes rose about 30% year over year to 136 thousand metric tons, while sales volumes increased 4% to 110 thousand metric tons, with average selling prices up 2% year over year [3] Financial Performance - TiO2 segment profit was 1.3 million a year ago, attributed to increased sales and production volumes, lower production costs, and higher selling prices [4] - For the full year 2024, KRO reported earnings of 75 cents per share, compared to a loss of 43 cents the previous year, with sales rising around 13% year over year to 106.7 million, down roughly 45% year over year, while long-term debt decreased about 3% to $429.1 million [6] Market Outlook - KRO anticipates improved demand in 2025, particularly in Europe, but expects overall demand to remain below historical levels due to ongoing global economic uncertainty and potential tariffs [7] - The company expects pricing pressures to be somewhat moderated in 2025, especially in Europe, due to duties on low-cost imports from China [7] - Based on improved demand, KRO expects to report higher operating results in 2025 compared to 2024 [8] Stock Performance - KRO shares have declined 15.2% over the past year, contrasting with a 9% decline in the Zacks Chemicals Diversified industry [9] - KRO currently holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), while other better-ranked stocks in the Basic Materials sector include Gold Royalty Corp. (GROY), Orla Mining Ltd. (ORLA), and i-80 Gold Corp. (IAUX), each with a Zacks Rank 2 (Buy) [10]