Celanese Reports $548 Million in Operating EBITDA and Raises 2026 Cash Flow Outlook
Key Facts
Celanese reported operating EBITDA of $548 million in the third quarter of 2026, while adjusted earnings before interest and taxes were $367 million and consolidated operating profit was $198 million. The company generated operating cash flow of $538 million and free cash flow of $461 million during the period. It also raised its full-year free cash flow outlook to a range of $750–800 million. It expected adjusted earnings per share of $6.00 to $6.25 for 2026. The company is scheduled to hold a call to discuss the results on November 3, 2026.
On a year-over-year basis, sales in the Acetyl Chain segment rose 14% to $1.2 billion in the third quarter. The company said favorable pricing and limited spot opportunities offset weak demand. But segment sales fell 9% from the prior quarter. The comparison shows a divergence between the segment’s annual and quarterly performance during the period. Celanese included expected seasonal moderation in the fourth quarter in its outlook.
Engineered Materials posted sales of $1.4 billion, down 1% year over year. The company said sales in the year-earlier period included the divested Micromax business, which accounted for 6% of the reported annual decline. Celanese attributed support for the segment’s results to a favorable product mix and strong commercial execution. It also said strategic growth initiatives contributed early to results. The company added that these factors offset inflation in raw material costs and higher logistics costs.
On debt, the company expects to end 2026 with net debt to operating EBITDA of about 4.7 times. The estimate is tied to its forecast for free cash flow generation during the year, which it raised to a range of $750–800 million. Celanese said it expects seasonal moderation in its business in the fourth quarter. It also expects full-year adjusted earnings per share of $6.00 to $6.25. The company will discuss third-quarter results on a call scheduled for November 3, 2026.
CE shares closed at $49.3 on October 30, 2026. The close comes as the company reports third-quarter results and raises its annual free cash flow outlook. Available data did not include details of the stock’s trading range during the session. The reported operating figures focus on the Engineered Materials and Acetyl Chain segments, alongside cash flows. The results call scheduled for November 3 provides an opportunity for the company to discuss its results and outlook.