OLIN Corp

Previous wording

Olin Corporation (Olin) is a Virginia corporation, incorporated in 1892, having its principal executive offices in Clayton, MO. We are a leading vertically integrated global manufacturer and distributor of chemical products and a leading U.S. manufacturer of ammunition. Our operations are concentrated in three business segments: Chlor Alkali Products and Vinyls, Epoxy and Winchester. All of our business segments are capital-intensive manufacturing businesses. The Chlor Alkali Products and Vinyls segment manufactures and sells chlorine and caustic soda, ethylene dichloride and vinyl chloride monomer, methyl chloride, methylene chloride, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, perchloroethylene, hydrochloric acid, hydrogen, bleach products and potassium hydroxide. The Epoxy segment produces and sells a full range of epoxy materials and precursors, including aromatics (acetone and phenol), allyl chloride, epichlorohydrin, liquid epoxy resins, solid epoxy resins and systems and growth products such as converted epoxy resins and additives. The Winchester segment produces and sells sporting ammunition, reloading components, small caliber military ammunition and components, industrial cartridges and clay targets.

Current wording

Olin Corporation (Olin) is a Virginia corporation, incorporated in 1892, having its principal executive offices in Clayton, MO. We are a leading vertically integrated global manufacturer and distributor of chemical products and a leading U.S. manufacturer of ammunition. Our operations are concentrated in three business segments: Chlor Alkali Products and Vinyls, Epoxy and Winchester. All of our business segments are capital-intensive manufacturing businesses. The Chlor Alkali Products and Vinyls segment manufactures and sells chlorine and caustic soda, ethylene dichloride and vinyl chloride monomer, methyl chloride, methylene chloride, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, perchloroethylene, hydrochloric acid, hydrogen, bleach products and potassium hydroxide. The Epoxy segment produces and sells a full range of epoxy materials and precursors, including aromatics (acetone and phenol), allyl chloride, epichlorohydrin, liquid epoxy resins, solid epoxy resins and formulated solutions products such as converted epoxy resins and additives. The Winchester segment produces and sells sporting ammunition, reloading components, small caliber military ammunition and components, industrial cartridges and clay targets.

Previous wording

Net income was $460.2 million for 2023 compared to $1,326.9 million for 2022, a decrease of $866.7 million, or 65%. The decrease in net income from the prior year was primarily due to lower operating results across all of our business segments. Net income for 2023 also reflects a pretax gain of $27.0 million from the sale of our domestic private trucking fleet and operations. Diluted net income per share was $3.57 for 2023 compared to $8.94 for 2022, a decrease of $5.37 per share, or 60%. The decrease in diluted net income per share was positively impacted by share repurchases throughout 2023.

Current wording

Net income was $108.6 million for 2024 compared to $460.2 million for 2023, a decrease of $351.6 million, or 76%. The decrease in net income from the prior year was primarily due to lower operating results across all of our business segments. Net income for 2023 also reflects a pretax gain of $27.0 million from the sale of our domestic private trucking fleet and operations. Diluted net income per share was $0.91 for 2024 compared to $3.57 for 2023, a decrease of $2.66 per share, or 75%.

Previous wording

Chlor Alkali Products and Vinyls reported segment income of $664.2 million for 2023 compared to $1,181.3 million for 2022. Chlor Alkali Products and Vinyls segment results were lower than in the prior year due to lower volumes and lower pricing, partially offset by lower raw material and operating costs. The Chlor Alkali Products and Vinyls 2023 segment results were also negatively impacted by the second quarter’s maintenance turnaround and related operating issues at our vinyl chloride monomer plant at the Freeport, TX facility, which resulted in higher costs and reduced profit from lost sales of $104.2 million. The vinyl chloride monomer plant resumed normal operations in the latter half of the third quarter.

Current wording

Chlor Alkali Products and Vinyls repo rted segment income of $296.4 million for 2024 compared to $664.2 million for 2023. Chlor Alkali Products and Vinyls segment results were lower than the prior year due to lower pricing, primarily caustic soda, partially offset by lower costs associated with products purchased from other parties, and lower raw material and operating costs. The Chlor Alkali Products and Vinyls 2024 segment results were also negatively impacted by Hurricane Beryl resulting in incremental costs to restore operations, unabsorbed fixed manufacturing costs, and reduced profit from lost sales of $93.6 million. The 2023 segment results were negatively impacted by higher costs and reduced profit from lost sales of $104.2 million associated with operating issues related to a 2023 second quarter maintenance turnaround at our vinyl chloride monomer plant at the Freeport, TX facility.

Previous wording

Epoxy reported segment loss of $31.0 million for 2023 compared to segment income of $388.5 million for 2022. Epoxy segment results were lower than in the prior year primarily due to lower volumes and lower product pricing. Epoxy segment results in 2023 have been impacted by significant exports out of Asia into the European and North American markets, negatively impacting pricing and volumes. Partially offsetting the lower volumes and pricing were lower raw material and operating costs.

Current wording

Epoxy reported segment loss of $85.0 million for 2024 compared to segment loss of $31.0 million for 2023. Epoxy segment results were lower than in the prior year primarily due to lower product pricing and the impact of Hurricane Beryl of $32.7 million, partially offset by increased volumes, improved product mix and lower raw material and operating costs.

Previous wording

Winchester reported segment income of $255.6 million for 2023 compared to $372.9 million for 2022. Winchester segment results were lower than in the prior year primarily due to lower commercial volumes and pricing, partially offset by higher domestic and international military sales.

Current wording

Winchester reported segment income of $237.9 million for 2024 compared to $255.6 million for 2023. Winchester segment results were lower than in the prior year primarily due to higher commodity and operating costs, including propellant costs, and lower pricing. The decline was partially offset by higher sales volumes. Higher international military sales, military project revenue, and White Flyer sales were partially offset by lower commercial ammunition sales.

Previous wording

During 2023, we repurchased and retired 13.3 million shares of common stock at a total value of $711.3 million. As of December 31, 2023, we have $997.0 million of remaining authorized common stock to be repurchased under the 2022 Repurchase Authorization program.

Current wording

On December 11, 2024, our Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program for the purchase of shares of common stock at an aggregate price of up to $1.3 billion. During 2024, we repurchased and retired 5.9 million shares of common stock at a total value of $300.3 million under a prior authorized share repurchase program. As of December 31, 2024, we have $2.0 billion of remaining authorized common stock to be repurchased under the 2022 and 2024 Repurchase Authorization programs.

Previous wording

Gross margin in 2022 decreased $112.3 million from 2021. Epoxy gross margin decreased by $238.4 million, and Winchester gross margin decreased by $36.2 million, primarily due to lower volumes and higher raw material and operating costs, partially offset by higher product pricing. Chlor Alkali Products and Vinyls gross margin increased by $185.2 million, primarily due to higher pricing, partially offset by higher raw material and operating costs and lower volumes. Gross margin as a percentage of sales decreased to 23% in 2022 from 26% in 2021.

Current wording

Gross margin in 2024 decreased $428.0 million from 2023. Chlor Alkali Products and Vinyls gross margin decreased by $344.1 million primarily due to lower pricing, primarily caustic soda. Epoxy gross margin decreased by $55.1 million primarily due to lower product pricing, partially offset by increased volumes. Winchester gross margin decreased by $21.3 million, primarily due to higher commodity and operating costs, including propellant costs, and lower product pricing, partially offset by White Flyer results. Gross margin as a percentage of sales decreased to 11% in 2024 from 17% in 2023.

Previous wording

Selling and administrative expenses in 2022 decreased $23.0 million, or 6%, from 2021. The decrease was primarily due to the lower variable incentive compensation expense of $35.4 million, which includes mark-to-market adjustments on stock-based compensation expense, partially offset by higher legal and legal-related settlement expense of $7.1 million and an unfavorable foreign currency impact of $7.5 million. Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales decreased to 4% in 2022 from 5% in 2021.

Current wording

Selling and administrative expenses in 2024 increased $1.8 million from the prior year. The increase was primarily due to higher legal and legal-related settlement expense of $23.2 million and consulting and contract services of $3.1 million, partially offset by lower stock-based compensation expense of $18.0 million, which includes mark-to-market adjustments, and a favorable foreign currency impact of $7.4 million. Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales was 6% for both 2024 and 2023.

Previous wording

The effective tax rate for 2022 included benefits associated with a legal entity liquidation, prior year tax positions, stock-based compensation, and remeasurement of deferred taxes due to a decrease in our state effective tax rates, and expenses associated with a net increase in the valuation allowance related to state tax credits and a change in tax contingencies. These factors resulted in a net $60.2 million tax benefit. Excluding these items, the effective tax rate for 2022 of 24.4% was higher than the 21.0% U.S. federal statutory rate primarily due to state taxes, an increase in the valuation allowance related to losses in foreign jurisdictions and foreign income taxes, partially offset by foreign income exclusions and favorable permanent salt depletion deductions. The effective tax rate for 2021 included benefits from a net decrease in the valuation allowance related to deferred tax assets in foreign jurisdictions, domestic tax credits, prior year tax positions, stock-based compensation, and expenses from remeasurement of deferred taxes due to an increase in our state effective tax rates and a change in tax contingencies. These factors resulted in a net $103.6 million tax benefit. Excluding these items, the effective tax rate for 2021 of 22.5% was higher than the 21.0% U.S. federal statutory rate primarily due to state taxes, foreign income inclusions and foreign rate differential, partially offset by a net decrease in the valuation allowance related to utilization of losses in foreign jurisdictions and favorable permanent salt depletion deductions.

Current wording

The effective tax rate for 2024 included benefits associated with stock-based compensation, U.S. Federal tax credits purchased at a discount, changes in tax contingencies and remeasurement of deferred taxes due to a decrease in our state effective tax rates, partially offset by expenses from prior year tax positions and from a net increase in the valuation allowance related to deferred tax assets in foreign jurisdictions. These factors resulted in a net $5.1 million tax benefit. Excluding these items, the effective tax rate for 2024 of 29.5% was higher than the 21.0% U.S. federal statutory rate primarily due to state income tax, foreign income inclusions and non-deductible exchange rate results, partially offset by favorable permanent salt depletion deductions. The effective tax rate for 2023 included benefits associated with a legal entity liquidation, prior year tax positions, stock-based compensation, remeasurement of deferred taxes due to a decrease in our state effective tax rates and foreign rate changes, and from a change in tax contingencies, and an expense from a net increase in the valuation allowance related to deferred tax assets in foreign jurisdictions. These factors resulted in a net $29.4 million tax benefit. Excluding these items, the effective tax rate for 2023 of 24.4% was higher than the 21.0% U.S. federal statutory rate primarily due to state income tax, an increase in the valuation allowance related to losses in foreign jurisdictions and foreign income inclusions, partially offset by foreign rate differential and favorable permanent salt depletion deductions.

Previous wording

Restructuring charges for 2023 were $89.6 million compared to $25.3 million in 2022. The increase in charges was primarily due to our actions to reconfigure our global Epoxy asset footprint to optimize the most productive and cost-effective assets to support our strategic operating model, which resulted in restructuring charges of $73.4 million for 2023.

Current wording

Restructuring charges for 2023 were $89.6 million compared to $25.3 million in 2022. The increase in charges was primarily due to our actions to reconfigure our global Epoxy asset footprint to optimize the most productive and cost-effective assets to support our operating model, which resulted in restructuring charges of $73.4 million for 2023.

Previous wording

The effective tax rate for 2023 included benefits associated with a legal entity liquidation, prior year tax positions, stock-based compensation, remeasurement of deferred taxes due to a decrease in our state effective tax rates and foreign rate changes, and from a change in tax contingencies, and an expense from a net increase in the valuation allowance related to deferred tax assets in foreign jurisdictions. These factors resulted in a net $29.4 million tax benefit. Excluding these items, the effective tax rate for 2023 of 24.4% was higher than the 21.0% U.S. federal statutory rate primarily due to state taxes, an increase in the valuation allowance related to losses in foreign jurisdictions and foreign income inclusions, partially offset by foreign rate differential and favorable permanent salt depletion deductions. The effective tax rate for 2022 included benefits associated with a legal entity liquidation, prior year tax positions, stock-based compensation, and remeasurement of deferred taxes due to a decrease in our state effective tax rates, and expenses associated with a net increase in the valuation allowance related to state tax credits and a change in tax contingencies. These factors resulted in a net $60.2 million tax benefit. Excluding these items, the effective tax rate for 2022 of 24.4% was higher than the 21.0% U.S. federal statutory rate primarily due to state taxes, an increase in the valuation allowance related to losses in foreign jurisdictions and foreign income taxes, partially offset by foreign income exclusions and favorable permanent salt depletion deductions.

Current wording

The effective tax rate for 2023 included benefits associated with a legal entity liquidation, prior year tax positions, stock-based compensation, remeasurement of deferred taxes due to a decrease in our state effective tax rates and foreign rate changes, and from a change in tax contingencies, and an expense from a net increase in the valuation allowance related to deferred tax assets in foreign jurisdictions. These factors resulted in a net $29.4 million tax benefit. Excluding these items, the effective tax rate for 2023 of 24.4% was higher than the 21.0% U.S. federal statutory rate primarily due to state income tax, an increase in the valuation allowance related to losses in foreign jurisdictions and foreign income inclusions, partially offset by foreign rate differential and favorable permanent salt depletion deductions. The effective tax rate for 2022 included benefits associated with a legal entity liquidation, prior year tax positions, stock-based compensation, and remeasurement of deferred taxes due to a decrease in our state effective tax rates, and expenses associated with a net increase in the valuation allowance related to state tax credits and a change in tax contingencies. These factors resulted in a net $60.2 million tax benefit. Excluding these items, the effective tax rate for 2022 of 24.4% was higher than the 21.0% U.S. federal statutory rate primarily due to state income tax, an increase in the valuation allowance related to losses in foreign jurisdictions and foreign income taxes, partially offset by foreign income exclusions and favorable permanent salt depletion deductions.

Previous wording

(1)Environmental expense for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, included $6.4 million, $1.0 million and $2.2 million, respectively, of insurance recoveries for environmental costs incurred and expensed in prior periods. Environmental expense is included in cost of goods sold in the consolidated statements of operations.

Current wording

(1)Environmental expense for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, included $6.4 million and $1.0 million, respectively, of insurance recoveries for environmental costs incurred and expensed in prior periods. Environmental expense is included in cost of goods sold in the consolidated statements of operations.

Previous wording

(2)Other operating income for the year ended December 31, 2023, included a gain of $27.0 million from the sale of our domestic private trucking fleet and operations and an insurance recovery of $15.6 million associated with a second quarter 2022 business interruption at our Plaquemine, LA, Chlor Alkali Products and Vinyls facility. Other operating income for the year ended December 31, 2022, included $13.0 million of gains from the sale of two former manufacturing facilities. Other operating income for the year ended December 31, 2021, included a $1.4 million gain from the sale of a terminal facility.

Current wording

(2)Other operating income for the year ended December 31, 2023, included a gain of $27.0 million from the sale of our domestic private trucking fleet and operations and an insurance recovery of $15.6 million associated with a second quarter 2022 business interruption at our Plaquemine, LA, Chlor Alkali Products and Vinyls facility. Other operating income for the year ended December 31, 2022, included $13.0 million of gains from the sale of two former manufacturing facilities.

Previous wording

Epoxy sales were $2,690.5 million for 2022 compared to $3,186.0 million for 2021, a decrease of $495.5 million, or 16%. The sales decrease was due to lower volumes ($942.1 million) and an unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation ($144.1 million), partially offset by higher product prices ($590.7 million).

Current wording

Epoxy sales were $1,226.3 million for 2024 compared to $1,329.2 million in 2023, a decrease of $102.9 million, or 8%. The sales decrease was due to lower product prices ($148.3 million) and an unfavorable effect of foreign currency translation ($4.5 million), partially offset by increased sales volumes ($49.9 million), which were negatively impacted by Hurricane Beryl.

Previous wording

Epoxy reported segment income of $388.5 million for 2022 compared to $616.5 million for 2021, a decrease of $228.0 million. Epoxy 2021 operating results were unfavorably impacted by Winter Storm Uri ($21.5 million), which included unabsorbed fixed manufacturing costs and storm-related maintenance costs. Without the impact of Winter Storm Uri, the decrease in segment results of $249.5 million was due to lower volumes ($460.5 million), higher raw material costs ($260.3 million), primarily benzene and propylene, higher operating costs ($106.5 million), primarily increased natural gas and electrical power costs, and a net unfavorable foreign currency impact ($12.9 million). These decreases were partially offset by higher product prices ($590.7 million). A significant percentage of our Euro denominated sales are of products manufactured within Europe. As a result, the impact of foreign currency translation on revenue is primarily offset by the impact of foreign currency translation on raw materials and manufacturing costs also denominated in Euros. Epoxy segment results included depreciation and amortization expense of $83.3 million and $86.1 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Current wording

Epoxy reported segment loss of $85.0 million for 2024 compared to $31.0 million for 2023, a decrease in segment results of $54.0 million. The decrease was due to lower product prices ($148.3 million), which continues to be impacted by significant exports out of Asia into the European and North American markets, and the negative impact of Hurricane Beryl resulting in incremental costs to restore operations, unabsorbed fixed manufacturing costs, and reduced profit from lost sales ($32.7 million), partially offset by increased volumes and improved product mix ($76.4 million) and lower raw material and operating costs ($50.6 million). A significant percentage of our Euro denominated sales are of products manufactured within Europe. As a result, the impact of foreign currency translation on revenue is primarily offset by the impact of foreign currency translation on raw materials and manufacturing costs also denominated in Euros. Epoxy segment results included depreciation and amortization expense of $53.7 million and $57.4 million in 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Previous wording

Epoxy reported segment loss of $31.0 million for 2023 compared to segment income of $388.5 million for 2022, a decrease of $419.5 million. The decrease in segment results was due to lower product prices ($419.6 million) and lower volumes ($138.6 million), which were both impacted by significant exports out of Asia into the European and North American markets, partially offset by lower raw material costs and operating costs ($138.7 million). A significant percentage of our Euro denominated sales are of products manufactured within Europe. As a result, the impact of foreign currency translation on revenue is primarily offset by the impact of foreign currency translation on raw materials and manufacturing costs also denominated in Euros. Epoxy segment results included depreciation and amortization expense of $57.4 million and $83.3 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Current wording

Epoxy reported segment loss of $31.0 million for 2023 compared to segment income of $388.5 million for 2022, a decrease of $419.5 million. The decrease in segment results was due to lower product prices ($419.6 million) and lower volumes ($138.6 million), which were both impacted by significant exports out of Asia into the European and North American markets, partially offset by lower raw material and operating costs ($138.7 million). A significant percentage of our Euro denominated sales are of products manufactured within Europe. As a result, the impact of foreign currency translation on revenue is primarily offset by the impact of foreign currency translation on raw materials and manufacturing costs also denominated in Euros. Epoxy segment results included depreciation and amortization expense of $57.4 million and $83.3 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Previous wording

For the years ended December 2022 and 2021, environmental expense included $1.0 million and $2.2 million, respectively, of insurance recoveries for environmental costs incurred and expensed in prior periods. Without these recoveries, charges to income for environmental investigatory and remedial activities for the year ended December 31, 2022, would have been $24.2 million, compared to $16.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. These charges related primarily to expected future investigatory and remedial activities associated with past manufacturing operations and former waste disposal sites.

Current wording

For the year ended December 31, 2024, charges to income for environmental investigatory and remedial activities were $30.2 million, compared to $23.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. These charges related primarily to expected future investigatory and remedial activities associated with past manufacturing operations and former waste disposal sites. For the year ended December 31, 2023, environmental expense included $6.4 million of insurance recoveries for environmental costs incurred and expensed in prior periods.

Previous wording

As a result of weak global resin demand and higher cost structures within the European region, we began a review of our global Epoxy asset footprint to optimize the most productive and cost-effective assets to support our strategic operating model. As part of this review, we announced operational cessations in the fourth quarter of 2022 and the first half of 2023 (collectively, Epoxy Optimization Plan).

Current wording

As a result of weak global resin demand and higher cost structures within the European region, we began a review of our global Epoxy asset footprint to optimize the most productive and cost-effective assets to support our strategic operating model. As part of this review, we announced operational cessations in the fourth quarter of 2022 and the first half of 2023 (collectively, Epoxy Optimization Plan). In connection with the Epoxy Optimization Plan for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, we recorded pretax restructuring charges of $24.1 million and $73.4 million, respectively. We expect to incur additional restructuring charges through 2025 of approximately $10 million related to these actions.

Previous wording

In 2023 and 2022, Olin incurred charges of $16.2 million and $17.3 million, respectively, associated with other previously disclosed restructuring plans. We expect to incur additional restructuring charges through 2027 of approximately $45 million related to these actions.

Current wording

In 2024 and 2023, we incurred charges of $9.2 million and $16.2 million, respectively, associated with other previously disclosed restructuring plans. We expect to incur additional restructuring charges through 2027 of approximately $35 million related to these actions. Discussion of our restructuring activity, including a description of each plan, is referenced under Item 8, within Note 5, “Restructuring Charges.” Pretax restructuring charges related to our actions include facility exit costs, lease and other contract termination costs, employee severance and related benefits costs and the write-off of equipment and facilities.

Previous wording

Other corporate and unallocated costs in 2024 are expected to be higher than the $106.3 million in 2023.

Current wording

Other corporate and unallocated costs in 2025 are expected to be higher than the $90.1 million in 2024.

Previous wording

During 2024, we anticipate environmental expenses in the $25 million to $35 million range, compared to $23.7 million in 2023.

Current wording

During 2025, we anticipate environmental expenses in the $25 million to $35 million range, compared to $30.2 million in 2024.

Previous wording

We expect non-operating pension income in 2024 to be similar to the $24.0 million in 2023. Based on our plan assumptions and estimates, we will not be required to make any cash contributions to our domestic qualified defined benefit pension plan in 2024. We have several international qualified defined benefit pension plans for which we anticipate cash contributions of less than $5 million in 2024.

Current wording

We expect non-operating pension income in 2025 to be lower than the $26.0 million in 2024. Based on our plan assumptions and estimates, we will not be required to make any cash contributions to our domestic qualified defined benefit pension plan in 2025. We have several international qualified defined benefit pension plans for which we anticipate cash contributions of less than $5 million in 2025.

Previous wording

In 2024, we currently expect our capital spending to be in the $225 million to $250 million range and we expect to make payments under other long-term supply contracts in the $25 million to $50 million range for energy modernization on the U.S. Gulf Coast. We expect 2024 depreciation and amortization expense to be in the $500 million to $525 million range.

Current wording

In 2025, we currently expect our capital spending to be in the $225 million to $250 million range. We expect 2025 depreciation and amortization expense to be in the $525 million range.

Previous wording

We currently believe the 2024 effective tax rate will be in the 25% to 30% range and our cash tax rate to be in the 35% to 40% range as a result of previously deferred international tax payments expected to be made in 2024.

Current wording

We currently believe the 2025 effective tax rate will be in the 25% to 30% range and our cash tax rate to be in the 60% to 70% range as a result of previously deferred international tax payments expected to be made in 2025.

Previous wording

We recorded an after-tax charge of $13.2 million ($18.1 million pretax) to shareholders’ equity as of December 31, 2023, for our pension and other postretirement plans. This charge primarily reflected a 30-basis point decrease in the domestic pension plans’ discount rate and a 50-basis point decrease in the international defined benefit pension plans’ discount rate, partially offset by a favorable performance on plan assets during 2023. In 2022, we recorded an after-tax benefit of $46.8 million ($72.1 million pretax) to shareholders’ equity as of December 31, 2022, for our pension and other postretirement plans. This benefit primarily reflected a 260-basis point increase in the domestic pension plans’ discount rate and a 230-basis point increase in the international defined benefit pension plans’ discount rate, partially offset by unfavorable performance on plan assets during 2022. In 2021, we recorded an after-tax benefit of $188.5 million ($249.7 million pretax) to shareholders’ equity as of December 31, 2021, for our pension and other postretirement plans. This benefit primarily reflected a 50-basis point increase in the domestic pension plans’ discount rate and favorable performance on plan assets during 2021.

Current wording

We recorded an after-tax benefit of $21.7 million ($29.7 million pretax) to shareholders’ equity as of December 31, 2024, for our pension and other postretirement plans. This charge primarily reflects a 50-basis point increase in the domestic pension plans’ discount rate and a 20-basis point increase in the international defined benefit pension plans’ discount rate, partially offset by unfavorable performance on plan assets during 2024. In 2023, we recorded an after-tax charge of $13.2 million ($18.1 million pretax) to shareholders’ equity as of December 31, 2023, for our pension and other postretirement plans. This charge primarily reflected a 30-basis point decrease in the domestic pension plans’ discount rate and a 50-basis point decrease in the international defined benefit pension plans’ discount rate, partially offset by a favorable performance on plan assets during 2023. In 2022, we recorded an after-tax benefit of $46.8 million ($72.1 million pretax) to shareholders’ equity as of December 31, 2022, for our pension and other postretirement plans. This benefit primarily reflected a 260-basis point increase in the domestic pension plans’ discount rate and a 230-basis point increase in the international defined benefit pension plans’ discount rate, partially offset by unfavorable performance on plan assets during 2022.

Previous wording

In connection with international qualified defined benefit pension plans, we made cash contributions of $1.0 million, $1.3 million and $1.1 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, and we anticipate less than $5 million of cash contributions to international qualified defined benefit pension plans in 2024.

Current wording

In connection with international qualified defined benefit pension plans, we made cash contributions of $1.3 million, $1.0 million and $1.3 million in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and we anticipate less than $5 million of cash contributions to international qualified defined benefit pension plans in 2025.

Previous wording

At December 31, 2023, the projected benefit obligation of $2,144.5 million exceeded the market value of assets in our qualified defined benefit pension plans by $226.5 million, as calculated under Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 715 “Compensation—Retirement Benefits”.

Current wording

At December 31, 2024, the projected benefit obligation of $2,013.4 million exceeded the market value of assets in our qualified defined benefit pension plans by $155.9 million, as calculated under Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 715 “Compensation—Retirement Benefits”.

Previous wording

We have included additional information with respect our defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans within Note 13 “Pension Plans” and Note 14 “Postretirement Benefits” of our Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Current wording

We have included additional information with respect our defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans within Item 8, Note 12, “Pension Plans,” and Note 13, “Postretirement Benefits,” of our notes to consolidated financial statements.

Previous wording

Total environmental-related cash outlays for 2024 are estimated to be approximately $210 million, of which approximately $25 million to $35 million is expected to be spent on investigatory and remedial efforts, approximately $5 million on capital projects and approximately $175 million on normal plant operations. Historically, we have funded our environmental capital expenditures through cash flow from operations and expect to do so in the future.

Current wording

Total environmental-related cash outlays for 2025 are estimated to be approximately $220 million, of which approximately $25 million to $35 million is expected to be spent on investigatory and remedial efforts, approximately $5 million on capital projects and approximately $175 million on normal plant operations. Historically, we have funded our environmental capital expenditures through cash flow from operations and expect to do so in the future.

Previous wording

We have included additional information with respect to environmental matters within Note 21, “Environmental,” of our Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Current wording

We have included additional information with respect to environmental matters within Item 8, Note 20, “Environmental,” of our notes to consolidated financial statements.

Previous wording

Capital spending was $236.0 million and $236.9 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively. In 2024, we expect our capital spending to be in the $225 million to $250 million range. Our capital spending forecast represents normal capital spending to maintain our current operating facilities.

Current wording

Capital spending was $195.1 million and $236.0 million in 2024 and 2023, respectively. In 2025, we expect our capital spending to be in the $225 million to $250 million range. Our capital spending forecast represents capital spending to maintain our current operating facilities.

Previous wording

For the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, payments of $64.5 million and $37.7 million, respectively, were made under other long-term supply contracts for energy modernization projects on the U.S. Gulf Coast and we expect to make payments in the $25.0 million to $50.0 million range in 2024.

Current wording

For the year ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, payments of $58.6 million and $64.5 million, respectively, were made under other long-term supply contracts for energy modernization projects on the U.S. Gulf Coast. Our payments for this project were completed in 2024.

Previous wording

For the year ended December 31, 2023, we received $28.5 million of cash proceeds from the sale of our domestic private trucking fleet and operations. For the year ended December 31, 2022, we received proceeds of $14.9 million from the sale of two former manufacturing facilities.

Current wording

For the year ended December 31, 2023, we received $28.5 million of cash proceeds from the sale of our domestic private trucking fleet and operations.

Previous wording

In 2023 and 2022, we repurchased and retired 13.3 million and 25.7 million shares, respectively, of common stock with a total value of $711.3 million and $1,350.7 million, respectively.

Current wording

In 2024 and 2023, we repurchased and retired 5.9 million and 13.3 million shares, respectively, of common stock with a total value of $300.3 million and $711.3 million, respectively.

Previous wording

In 2023 and 2022, we issued 1.0 million and 1.1 million shares, respectively, with a total value of $25.4 million and $25.7 million, respectively, representing stock options exercised.

Current wording

In 2024 and 2023, we issued 0.9 million and 1.0 million shares, respectively, with a total value of $23.9 million and $25.4 million, respectively, representing stock options exercised. For the year ended December 31, 2024, we withheld and paid $10.5 million for employee taxes on share-based payment arrangements.

Previous wording

The percent of total debt to total capitalization increased to 54.1% as of December 31, 2023, from 50.4% as of December 31, 2022, primarily as a result of a higher level of debt outstanding and lower shareholders’ equity, primarily due to common stock repurchases partially offset by our operating results.

Current wording

The percent of total debt to total capitalization increased to 58.0% as of December 31, 2024, from 54.1% as of December 31, 2023, primarily as a result of a higher level of debt outstanding and lower shareholders’ equity, primarily due to common stock repurchases, partially offset by our operating results.

Previous wording

Dividends per common share were $0.80 in 2023 and 2022. Total dividends paid on common stock amounted to $101.0 million and $116.2 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively. On February 21, 2024, our Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.20 per share on our common stock, payable on March 15, 2024, to shareholders of record on March 7, 2024.

Current wording

Dividends per common share were $0.80 in 2024 and 2023. Total dividends paid on common stock amounted to $94.2 million and $101.0 million in 2024 and 2023, respectively. On February 19, 2025, our Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.20 per share on our common stock, payable on March 14, 2025, to shareholders of record on March 6, 2025.

Previous wording

Our principal sources of liquidity are from cash and cash equivalents, cash flow from operations and borrowings under our Senior Revolving Credit Facility, Receivables Financing Agreement (as defined below) and AR Facilities (as defined below). Additionally, we believe that we have access to the high yield debt and equity markets.

Current wording

Our principal sources of liquidity are from cash and cash equivalents, cash flow from operations and borrowings under our Senior Revolving Credit Facility and 2024 Receivables Financing Agreement. Additionally, we believe that we have access to the high yield debt and equity markets.

Previous wording

On October 11, 2022, we entered into a $1,550.0 million senior credit facility (Senior Credit Facility) that replaced our 2021 Senior Credit Facility. The Senior Credit Facility includes a senior term loan facility with aggregate commitments of $350.0 million (Term Loan Facility) and a senior revolving credit facility with aggregate commitments of $1,200.0 million (Senior Revolving Credit Facility). The Term Loan Facility was fully drawn on the closing date with the proceeds of the Term Loan Facility used to refinance the loans and commitments outstanding under the 2021 Senior Credit Facility. The Term Loan Facility requires principal amortization payments which began on March 31, 2023, at a rate of 0.625% per quarter through the end of 2024, increasing to 1.250% per quarter thereafter until maturity. The maturity date for the Senior Credit Facility is October 11, 2027.

Current wording

We maintain a $1,550.0 million senior credit facility (Senior Credit Facility) which includes a senior term loan facility with aggregate commitments of $350.0 million (Term Loan Facility) and a senior revolving credit facility with aggregate commitments of $1,200.0 million (Senior Revolving Credit Facility). The Term Loan Facility requires principal amortization payments which began on March 31, 2023, at a rate of 0.625% per quarter through the end of 2024, increasing to 1.250% per quarter thereafter until maturity. The maturity date for the Senior Credit Facility is October 11, 2027.

Previous wording

The Senior Revolving Credit Facility includes a $100.0 million letter of credit subfacility. At December 31, 2023, we had $1,131.6 million available under our $1,200.0 million Senior Revolving Credit Facility because we had $68.0 million borrowed under the facility and issued $0.4 million of letters of credit.

Current wording

The Senior Revolving Credit Facility includes a $100.0 million letter of credit subfacility. At December 31, 2024, we had $1,029.6 million available under our $1,200.0 million Senior Revolving Credit Facility because we had $170.0 million borrowed under the facility and issued $0.4 million of letters of credit. During 2024, we partially utilized our Senior Revolving Credit Facility to repay $50.0 million of Go Zone and $20.0 million of Recovery Zone tax-exempt variable-rate bonds.