Linde Plc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Linde has successfully initiated operations at two new air separation units (ASUs) to supply oxygen and nitrogen to Wanhua Chemical Group, the largest global producer of isocyanate (MDI). This expansion enhances their existing facilities in Yantai, China, contributing to improved energy efficiency and operational flexibility. The collaboration marks a significant milestone in their partnership, highlighting Linde's reliability and commitment to supporting Wanhua's global growth. In 2020, Linde reported sales of $27 billion, underscoring its position as a leader in the industrial gases sector.

Linde Reports Full-Year and Fourth-Quarter 2020 Results

For 2020, Linde achieved sales of $27.2 billion (down 3%) and operating profit of $3.3 billion. Adjusted EPS increased by 12% to $8.23. In Q4, sales rose to $7.3 billion (up 3% YoY), with adjusted EPS at $2.30, up 22%. The company anticipates 2021 adjusted EPS between $9.10 and $9.30, signaling 11% to 13% growth. Linde returned $4.4 billion to shareholders through dividends and buybacks, and reduced GHG emissions intensity by 16% since 2018.

Linde (NYSE: LIN) has partnered with Hyosung Corporation to develop extensive liquid hydrogen infrastructure in South Korea. This initiative supports the country's goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. Linde will build Asia's largest liquid hydrogen facility in Ulsan, capable of producing over 30 tons daily, enough to power 100,000 vehicles and reduce carbon emissions by 130,000 tons annually. The project aims to enhance the hydrogen supply chain and establish a network of hydrogen refueling stations across South Korea.

Linde plc has announced a 10% increase in its quarterly dividend, raising it to $1.06 per share. This dividend will be payable on March 22, 2021, to shareholders of record by March 5, 2021. The company's CEO, Steve Angel, emphasized Linde's commitment to increasing dividends annually as part of its capital allocation policy. Linde reported 2019 sales of $28 billion and serves multiple sectors, including healthcare and manufacturing, providing essential industrial gases and solutions.

Linde plc (NYSE:LIN) announced a new share repurchase program authorizing up to US$5 billion for its ordinary shares. This program replaces the previous US$6 billion program, expiring on February 1, 2021. CEO Steve Angel emphasized the importance of this move for rewarding shareholders, as Linde has maintained a strong balance sheet and generated surplus cash through operations. The Board established a buyback limit of 15% of outstanding shares and set the expiration date for July 31, 2023.

Linde plc (NYSE:LIN) has authorized a new share repurchase program worth up to US$5.0 billion, set to begin on February 1, 2021 and run until July 31, 2023. This program replaces the previous US$6.0 billion plan expiring on February 1, 2021. Linde aims to repurchase up to 15% of its outstanding shares, approximately 523 million. The repurchase will serve to reduce share capital and fulfill equity award obligations.

Linde has entered into a long-term agreement with BorsodChem, a Hungarian chemical company, to supply nitrogen, oxygen, and compressed air to its complex in Kazincbarcika. The deal includes the construction of one of Hungary's largest air separation units, expected to be completed by the end of 2021. This initiative aims to support BorsodChem's expansion and meet the increasing demand for industrial gases in Hungary and neighboring countries. Linde's commitment to reliable gas supply is reiterated, alongside an opportunity to serve additional regional customers.