Wacker Chemie AG
XETRA:WCH
Wacker Chemie AG
In the heart of Munich, Wacker Chemie AG has established itself as a stalwart of innovation and technical prowess in the chemical industry. Founded in 1914, this German powerhouse has evolved into a diversified manufacturer with a global footprint, producing a comprehensive range of specialty chemical products. Wacker’s portfolio is impressively broad, covering silicones, polymers, polysilicon, and biosolutions. Each of these segments serves a distinct array of industries—from construction and automotive to photovoltaics and electronics—demonstrating Wacker's ability to adapt and cater to the evolving needs of modern technology and environmentally-conscious markets. By continuously investing in research and development, Wacker has positioned itself at the forefront of chemical manufacturing, pushing boundaries with sustainable and advanced material solutions.
At the core of Wacker's business model is its expertise in transforming basic chemical elements into high-performance materials. For instance, its silicone-based products play critical roles in applications that demand reliability and durability, such as automotive components, medical devices, and personal care products. Meanwhile, its polysilicon segment supplies the solar sector, feeding the world's growing appetite for renewable energy solutions. This diversified revenue stream not only fortifies Wacker’s financial stability but also aligns it with global trends towards sustainability and clean energy. By embedding itself deeply across various sectors, Wacker Chemie AG continues to thrive, propelling industries towards innovation with a steady stream of reliable and forward-thinking chemical solutions.
In the heart of Munich, Wacker Chemie AG has established itself as a stalwart of innovation and technical prowess in the chemical industry. Founded in 1914, this German powerhouse has evolved into a diversified manufacturer with a global footprint, producing a comprehensive range of specialty chemical products. Wacker’s portfolio is impressively broad, covering silicones, polymers, polysilicon, and biosolutions. Each of these segments serves a distinct array of industries—from construction and automotive to photovoltaics and electronics—demonstrating Wacker's ability to adapt and cater to the evolving needs of modern technology and environmentally-conscious markets. By continuously investing in research and development, Wacker has positioned itself at the forefront of chemical manufacturing, pushing boundaries with sustainable and advanced material solutions.
At the core of Wacker's business model is its expertise in transforming basic chemical elements into high-performance materials. For instance, its silicone-based products play critical roles in applications that demand reliability and durability, such as automotive components, medical devices, and personal care products. Meanwhile, its polysilicon segment supplies the solar sector, feeding the world's growing appetite for renewable energy solutions. This diversified revenue stream not only fortifies Wacker’s financial stability but also aligns it with global trends towards sustainability and clean energy. By embedding itself deeply across various sectors, Wacker Chemie AG continues to thrive, propelling industries towards innovation with a steady stream of reliable and forward-thinking chemical solutions.
Sales & EBITDA Decline: Q3 sales were EUR 1.34 billion and EBITDA EUR 112 million, both down year-over-year and sequentially due to weak demand, lower prices, and currency headwinds.
Guidance Lowered: Full-year sales and EBITDA guidance were cut to the lower end of previous ranges, reflecting persistent macro and market headwinds.
Segment Pressures: All divisions are experiencing low demand, especially Silicones and Polymers, with Polysilicon hit by weak solar demand and low prices.
Cost-Cutting Actions: Management is launching a major cost-saving program targeting fixed production and administrative expenses, to be implemented starting Q1 2026.
Working Capital & Cash Flow: Net cash flow improved year-over-year in Q3, mainly through active working capital reduction, but is expected to be negative for the full year.
China Competition: Competitive pressure from China remains high, particularly in standard and construction-related chemicals.
Focus on Semiconductors: Continued strong growth and strategic focus on semiconductor-grade polysilicon, with solar business seen as opportunistic and dependent on regulatory outcomes.
