06.02.202506:46:00UTC+00ArcelorMittal Q4 Loss Narrows, EBITDA Rises; Lifts Dividend, Sees Demand Growth In FY25

In the fourth quarter, ArcelorMittal S.A., a leader in the steel and mining industry, reported a reduced net loss accompanied by a slight rise in sales figures. The Board has proposed increasing the annual base dividend to $0.55 per share for fiscal year 2025, up from the previous year's $0.50 per share. This dividend will be dispensed in two equal payments in June and December of 2025, contingent on shareholder approval at the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM).

The company intends to maintain its commitment to returning at least 50% of post-dividend free cash flow to its shareholders through share buybacks.

Looking forward, ArcelorMittal anticipates an increase in apparent demand for fiscal year 2025 in comparison to fiscal 2024. Given the low inventory levels, particularly in Europe, the company remains hopeful that replenishment activities will support the anticipated improvement in real demand.

In the fourth quarter, the net loss attributable to the company's equity holders was $390 million, a marked improvement from the loss of $2.97 billion recorded the previous year. The basic loss per share was $0.51, compared to last year's loss of $3.57. Adjusted net income attributable to equity holders was reported at $404 million, or $0.52 per share, compared to $982 million, or $1.18 per share, in the previous year.

Operating income for the quarter stood at $529 million, in contrast to an operating loss of $1.98 billion in the prior year. EBITDA saw an increase, reaching $1.65 billion from $1.45 billion the previous year. Quarterly sales increased to $14.714 billion, slightly up from last year’s $14.552 billion.

Additionally, crude steel production rose to 14 million tonnes (Mt) from 13.7 Mt a year earlier, and steel shipments showed an increase over the prior year.