Eastman Chemical Company (EMN)

Over the past six months, Eastman Chemical Company's shares have increased by 18%, outperforming its industry and the S&P 500, attributed to strong first-quarter 2024 results and positive future prospects. The company's adjusted earnings and revenues for Q1 2024 surpassed analyst estimates. However, the stock price as of July 18, 2025, was $77.75 per share, representing a decline of 19.97% from $97.15 per share on July 19, 2024. Recent news includes the scheduling of second-quarter 2025 financial results, the appointment of a new director, and the CFO addressing a global industrials conference. The company also announced its 2025 Annual Meeting Stockholder Vote Results and declared a dividend in May 2025.

Demand seasonality for Eastman Chemical Co.'s products and services is influenced by various factors across its diverse end markets. In the fourth quarter of 2023, Eastman experienced weak primary demand due to seasonal declines and continued customer inventory destocking in some key end markets. Discretionary markets, which represent about 40% of Eastman's revenue, are typically closer to 50% in a normal year. Anticipated declines in auto demand in 2025 are expected to impact Eastman. Eastman expects higher volumes in its specialty businesses in 2025, leveraging its innovation-driven growth model.

Eastman Chemical Company is a global specialty materials company spun off from Eastman Kodak in 1994 and headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee. It operates within the Materials sector, producing advanced materials, chemicals, and fibers for various industries, including packaging, paints, coatings, adhesives, and textiles. The company operates through four main segments: Additives & Functional Products, Advanced Materials, Chemical Intermediates, and Fibers.

Eastman Chemical Company has a significant global presence, serving customers in approximately 100 countries. As of December 2023, the company operates 36 manufacturing sites in 12 countries, including the United States, Canada, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region. A significant portion of its sales are generated outside the United States, particularly in Asian markets. Net sales are geographically distributed as follows: the United States and Canada (42%), Europe/Middle East/Africa (27.4%), Asia/Pacific (25.2%), and Latin America (5.4%).

Eastman Chemical Company's brand reputation is positively influenced by its strong focus on sustainability and innovation, particularly in circular economy solutions. The company is recognized for its advanced specialty materials and expertise in molecular recycling technology. Eastman has increased its investment in growth portfolio programs tied to sustainability macro trends, with 85% of its growth R&D aligning with sustainable macro trends in 2022, aiming for 100% by 2030. Events that have affected its reputation positively include a focus on the circular economy, sustainable innovation, and a green financing framework.

Eastman Chemical Co. is predominantly owned by institutional shareholders, who hold 90.10% of the company's shares as of June 2025. Insiders own 2.05%, and retail investors hold 7.85%. The largest individual shareholder is Vanguard Group Inc., owning 12.63% of the company. Insider ownership is relatively low, with insiders generally selling more shares than buying over the last year.