Ashland's Q2 Earnings and Revenues Miss Estimates, Down Y/Y

Core Viewpoint - Ashland Global Holdings Inc. reported a significant decline in profits and sales for the second quarter of fiscal 2025, missing consensus estimates across various metrics [1][2][3]. Financial Performance - The company recorded a profit of $31 million or 65 cents per share, down from$120 million or $2.39 in the same quarter last year [1]. - Adjusted earnings were 99 cents, a decrease from$1.27 year-over-year, and below the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.10 [1]. - Total sales fell 16.7$479 million, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $508.8 million [2]. Segment Performance - **Life Sciences**: Sales decreased by 22.5$172 million, below the consensus estimate of $177 million, primarily due to the divestiture of the Neutraceuticals division [2]. - **Personal Care**: Sales declined 13.6$146 million, missing the consensus estimate of $162.3 million, mainly due to portfolio optimization [3]. - **Specialty Additives**: Sales fell 14.6$134 million, also missing the consensus estimate of $141.1 million, attributed to portfolio optimization [3]. - **Intermediates**: Sales decreased 7.5$37 million, slightly beating the consensus estimate of $36.3 million, with overall sales impacted by lower prices [4]. Financial Position - Cash and cash equivalents stood at$168 million at the end of the quarter, down approximately 23% sequentially [5]. - Long-term debt increased to $1,336 million, up roughly 2$1.825 billion and $1.9 billion, with adjusted EBITDA projected at$400 million to $420 million [6]. Stock Performance - Ashland's shares have declined by 49% over the past year, contrasting with a 0.9% decline in the industry [7].