Kronos Worldwide, Inc. (KRO)

In the past six months, Kronos Worldwide, Inc. stock has decreased by 35.80%. In Q1 2025, the company reported strong results with net income doubling and net sales increasing due to higher sales volumes and TiO2 selling prices. In Q2 2025, Kronos Worldwide reported a net loss due to lower production volumes, decreased TiO2 selling prices, and higher distribution costs. Kronos Worldwide completed a private offering of Senior Secured Notes, using the proceeds to pay amounts due under the company's Senior Secured Notes. The company expects to report its third-quarter 2025 earnings on November 6, 2025. KRO shares reached a new 52-week low, and research firms have downgraded the stock, leading to a consensus rating of "Strong Sell".

Demand for titanium dioxide is closely linked to global economic activity, particularly in industries such as construction, automotive, and coatings. Economic downturns typically lead to decreased demand, affecting sales volumes and pricing. The broader titanium dioxide market does experience a "traditional peak season," suggesting some level of demand seasonality influenced by factors like construction cycles and manufacturing output.

Kronos Worldwide, Inc. specializes in the production and marketing of titanium dioxide pigments, offering over 50 different grades under the KRONOS brand. These pigments are available in two crystalline forms, rutile and anatase, and are crucial for imparting whiteness, brightness, opacity, and durability to various products. Major applications for Kronos's TiO2 products include paints, coatings, plastics, paper, fibers, and ceramics. The company also produces specialty products for inks, foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Beyond TiO2, Kronos produces ilmenite, a raw material for sulfate-process TiO2 plants, and iron-based chemicals used in industrial effluent and municipal wastewater treatment, as well as in the manufacture of iron pigments, cement, and agricultural products. Additionally, it offers specialty chemicals for pearlescent pigments, electroceramic capacitors, and natural gas pipe applications. Kronos provides technical services, including pigment selection assistance, new pigment development collaboration, and on-site training.

Kronos Worldwide, Inc. has a significant international presence, selling its products to over 3,000 customers in approximately 100 countries. The majority of its sales are concentrated in Europe and North America, with revenue primarily generated from the United States. The company operates manufacturing sites in five countries across two continents, including Germany, Norway, Belgium, the USA, and Canada. Kronos also has its own ilmenite mine in Norway, which is a key raw material source for its sulfate process.

Kronos Worldwide, Inc. has built a reputation for high-quality pigment performance, technical support, and reliable supply, marketing its products under the "Kronos" brand. The company emphasizes its commitment to investing in transformation, enduring partnerships, and innovation to contribute to customer success and build a brighter future. In the past year, there have been no specific public events or news that have significantly impacted Kronos Worldwide's brand reputation, either positively or negatively, beyond the general business performance and financial results.

Kronos Worldwide, Inc. has a concentrated ownership structure. The Harold C. Simmons Trust and its subsidiaries hold a substantial 80.9% of the common stock. NL Industries, Inc., a diversified holding company and a subsidiary of Valhi, Inc., also owns a significant interest in Kronos Worldwide, Inc. Major institutional owners include Boston Partners Global Investors, Inc., The Vanguard Group, Inc., BlackRock, Inc., Renaissance Technologies LLC, and BNY Asset Management.