Clariant AG reported earnings results for the first quarter of 2013. For the first three months, the company has achieved sales of CHF 1.526 billion, an increase of 2% in local currencies and 1% in Swiss francs compared to the prior year period. Local currency growth was entirely due to higher volumes, reflecting the stable business environment as well as strength in some seasonal businesses while sales prices remained flat. The EBITDA before exceptional items was basically unchanged at CHF 209 million compared to CHF 211 million in the year-ago period. The net result from continuing operations improved to CHF 38 million from CHF 16 million 1 year ago, helped by lower restructuring charges and a better financial result that overcompensated higher taxes. Cash flow from operations followed the usual but more pronounced seasonal pattern and was clearly the previous year period, reaching minus CHF 72 million versus CHF 6 million in the first quarter 2012. The main reasons for the lower cash flow were higher inventories and lower permissions. Before changes in networking capital and provisions, cash flow rose to CHF 123 million from CHF 95 million in the previous year period. Net debt was reduced by 7% to CHF 1.656 billion, predominantly due to the early conversion of the convertible bond maturing in 2014. For 2013, the company expects the soft macroeconomic environment to persist, characterized by high volatility. Solid growth in the emerging markets is in contrast to the European and North American economy, where no significant growth impulses are expected. In this environment, the company will focus on growing the 7 core businesses and on continuous cost discipline. This will lead to further top line growth in local currencies and an improved profitability. The company expects the free cash flow this year in the order of magnitude as 2012 as well and leading to 2013 to a significant free cash flow generation. The company reported 2014 will be on the same line, higher EBITDA as well, lower restructuring costs and no further working capital, fluctuation should improve there, a significant improvement in free cash flow as then have higher sales with higher EBITDA percentage margin combining and flow in through the cash flow statement. For 2015, the midterm targets are confirmed, an EBITDA margin of above 17% and a return on invested capital above peer group average.

Clariant AG announced at its AGM held on March 26, 2013, has approved the distribution of CHF 0.33 per share from capital contribution reserves.

Clariant AG provides earnings guidance for the year 2013. The company expects full-year sales for the 2013 financial year to continue to grow as well as an increase in year-on-year profitability. the company intend to generate additional growth by continuing to implement strategic initiatives and by increasing focus on innovations. Recent investments will also contribute towards generating growth and increasing margins.