Celanese Cp-A (CE) has a strong growth strategy, with growth in Asia as a key factor. There is $400 million of free cash flow per year, primarily focused on share repurchases. Higher pricing on continued strong global demand for Acetyl Intermediates products' positive currency impacts, growth in Asia supported by the company's new acetic acid unit in Nanjing, China, as well as sales of industrial specialties from the acquired Acetate Products Limited are driving the company sales.
On February 5, 2008, Celanese reported 2007 fourth quarter earnings. Diluted EPS from continuing operations was $1.23, versus $0.18 last year. Sales were $1.76 billion, up from $1.43 billion last year, an increase of 23%. Acetyl Intermediates sales increased 30%. For 2007 full year, sales increased by 12% to $6.44 billion. Diluted EPS from continuing operations was $1.96 versus $1.74 last year. Adjusted EPS was $3.42 against its guidance range of $3.26-$3.31.
The company raised its 2008 outlook for adjusted EPS to $3.40-$3.70 from its previous guidance range of $3.35-$3.65 billion last year, an increase of 23%. Acetyl Intermediates sales increased 30%. For 2007 full year, sales increased by 12% to $6.44 billion. Diluted EPS from continuing operations was $1.96 versus $1.74 last year.
Adjusted EPS was $3.42 against its guidance range of $3.26-$3.31. The company raised its 2008 outlook for adjusted EPS to $3.40-$3.70 from its previous guidance range of $3.35-$3.65. As a result, we rate the shares a Buy with a target of $50.
Read the full analyst report on CE.
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