注1: Black Stone Minerals有限合夥公司(「BSM」或「合夥公司」)是一家公開交易的特拉華州有限合夥公司,擁有石油和天然氣礦物權益,這構成了絕大部分資產基礎。本合作公司的資產也包括非參與的專有權利和超限專有權益。這些權益,基本上是不承擔費用的,統稱爲「礦物和專有權益」。合作公司的礦物和專有權益位於美國本土的各個州,包括所有主要陸上產油盆地。合作公司還擁有特定石油和天然氣屬性的非經營工作權益。合作公司的普通單位在紐約證券交易所上市,代碼爲「BSM」。
Our lithium asset portfolio, consisting of both operating assets and development projects, provides us with global reach, scale, and product flexibility. Today we have operating resources in Argentina and Australia and downstream conversion assets in the U.S., China, Japan, and the U.K. We also have multiple development stage projects in Argentina (greenfield and brownfield) and Canada (greenfield) that will in time allow us to increase production capabilities and meet the future needs of customers around the world. In the U.S., we operate the only integrated mine-to-metal production facility in the Western Hemisphere for high purity lithium metal, a core component of next generation battery technologies.
We manufacture a wide range of lithium products, including battery-grade lithium hydroxide, battery-grade lithium carbonate, spodumene, and other specialty chemicals such as butyllithium and high purity lithium metal. Our products are used in various performance applications, including lithium-based batteries, specialty polymers and pharmaceutical products and chemical synthesis applications.
Pending Rio Tinto Transaction
On October 9, 2024, Arcadium Lithium entered into the Transaction Agreement (the "Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement") with Rio Tinto Western Holdings Limited, a private limited company incorporated under the laws of England & Wales ("Parent"), and Rio Tinto BM Subsidiary Limited, a private limited company incorporated under the laws of England & Wales ("Buyer").
The Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement provides that pursuant to a scheme of arrangement (the "Scheme") under the Companies (Jersey) Law 1991, at the effective time of the Scheme, all of the ordinary shares, par value $1.00 per share, of the Company (the "Company Shares"), including the Company Shares represented by CHESS depositary interests issued by the Company and listed on the securities exchange operated by ASX Limited, then outstanding will be transferred from the shareholders of the Company to Buyer (or an affiliate of Buyer) in exchange for the right to receive an amount in cash, without interest, equal to $5.85 per Company Share (the "Rio Tinto Transaction").
If the Rio Tinto Transaction is consummated, the Company’s ordinary shares will be delisted from the New York Stock Exchange and the Company’s registration under the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, will be terminated as promptly as practicable after the effective time of the Rio Tinto Transaction, and the quotation on the Australian Securities Exchange Ltd of the CHESS depositary interests issued by the Company will be suspended immediately prior to the effective time of the Rio Tinto Transaction.
The closing of the Rio Tinto Transaction is subject to customary closing conditions under the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement, including, among others: the approval of the Scheme by the Company’s shareholders; all applicable governmental consents under specified antitrust and investment screening laws having been obtained and remaining in full force and effect and all applicable waiting periods having expired, lapsed or been terminated (as applicable); no governmental entity of a competent jurisdiction having issued any order that is in effect and restrains, enjoins or otherwise prohibits the consummation of the Rio Tinto Transaction and no governmental entity having jurisdiction over any party having adopted any law that is in effect and makes consummation of the Rio Tinto Transaction illegal or otherwise prohibited; the representations and warranties of each of the Company and Parent being true and correct to the extent required by, and subject to the applicable materiality standards set forth in, the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement; each of the Company, Parent and Buyer having in all material respects performed the obligations and complied with the covenants required to be performed or complied with by it under the
In the fourth quarter of 2023, the Company entered into an agreement with EnergySource Minerals, LLC ("EnergySource"), a developer of lithium projects in the Salton Sea Known Geothermal Resource Area in California, for a minority equity interest in ESM, a subsidiary of EnergySource and the parent company of ILiAD Technologies, LLC ("ILiAD Technologies"). In connection with its investment in ESM, Arcadium Lithium will have the right to license ILiAD Technologies' Integrated Lithium Adsorption Desorption ("ILiAD") technology for potential deployment at its lithium brine resources in Argentina.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) — (Continued)
Arcadium Lithium accounts for its interest in ESM under ASC Topic 321, Investments – Equity Securities ("ASC 321"). Since our investment in ESM does not have a readily determinable fair value, we use the measurement alternative under ASC 321. Our investment is measured at cost less impairments, adjusted for observable price changes in orderly transactions for the identical or similar investment of the same issuer. If the Company determines that an indicator of impairment or upward adjustment is present, an adjustment is recorded, which is measured as the difference between carrying value and estimated fair value. Estimated fair value is generally determined using an income approach on discounted cash flows or negotiated transaction values. As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the carrying amount of our investment in ESM was $30.1 million.
Toyotsu Lithium Corporation ("TLC")
The Company owns 49% of the Class A voting shares and 100% of the Class B non-voting shares in TLC. Toyota Tsusho Corporation ("TTC") owns 51% of the Class A voting shares. As a result, the Company has a 75% economic interest and a 49% ownership interest in TLC and TTC has the remaining 25% economic interest and 51% ownership interest in TLC. TLC constructed and now operates the Naraha Lithium Hydroxide Plant (the "Naraha Plant"), located in Japan. The technical grade lithium carbonate feedstock for the plant is sourced from the Company’s Olaroz Plant.
The Company accounts for its interest in TLC as an equity method investment because it does not have control but has significant influence. This is evidenced by the Company having 2 of the 5 board members while decisions are made by a majority. In addition to capital contributions made through its investment in TLC, Allkem has also provided past funding through loans. At the Acquisition Date, the carrying values of the investment in TLC and a fully reserved loan receivable were zero and fair value was deemed to be equal to carrying value.
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, we recorded a $5.9 million loss related to our interest in TLC to Equity in net loss of unconsolidated affiliates in our condensed consolidated statements of operations. At September 30, 2024, the carrying value of our interest in TLC and the loan receivable was zero and $2.4 million, respectively.
Note 9: Partially-Owned Subsidiaries and Noncontrolling Interests
Nemaska Lithium Inc. ("Nemaska Lithium", or "NLI")
Nemaska Lithium, domiciled in Canada and headquartered in Montreal, Québec, is a non-public lithium company not yet in the production stage. It is a development company aiming to vertically integrate, from extracting, processing and concentrating spodumene to conversion of spodumene into battery-grade lithium hydroxide, primarily intended for EV and other energy storage applications. Its primary assets are construction in progress and intangibles principally related to intellectual property. Nemaska Lithium intends to develop the Whabouchi spodumene mine and concentrator in the James Bay region of Québec and a lithium hydroxide conversion plant in Bécancour, Québec (collectively, the "Nemaska Lithium Project"). As a developing company and to fund the Nemaska Lithium Project, Nemaska Lithium is reliant on securing financing from its shareholders through share subscriptions.
On October 18, 2023, we entered into an amendment to our shareholders agreement with Nemaska Lithium, and also amendments to certain related service agreements. The amendments to these agreements provide QLP with control of certain substantive participating rights, and as such, the Company began to consolidate Nemaska Lithium as of October 18, 2023. Nemaska Lithium is a development company which, as of the October 18, 2023 consolidation date, met the U.S. GAAP definition of a business and, as such, the Company remeasured its equity interest in Nemaska, including the noncontrolling interest of Investissement Québec ("IQ"), at fair value as of the consolidation date. We estimated the fair value of IQ's noncontrolling interest by multiplying the total fair value of Nemaska Lithium equity by IQ's equity ownership interest and also considered any discounts for lack of control and marketability.
The fair value of the assets and liabilities of Nemaska Lithium assumed under business combination accounting guidance for the Nemaska Lithium consolidation, including the impact of income taxes, is preliminary. The preliminary fair value allocation is subject to change for up to one year subsequent to the October 18, 2023 consolidation date of Nemaska Lithium. Determining the fair value of the assets and liabilities of Nemaska Lithium requires judgment and certain assumptions to be made, the most significant of these being related to the valuation of Nemaska Lithium's mining properties and rights. Nemaska Lithium is consolidated on a one-quarter lag basis.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) — (Continued)
Before October 18, 2023, the Company accounted for its 50% interest in Nemaska Lithium as an equity method investment on a one-quarter lag basis and it was included in Investments in our consolidated balance sheets. The carrying amount of our interest in Nemaska Lithium was $437.1 million as of December 31, 2022 under equity method investment accounting. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 we recorded a $6.7 million and $22.0 million loss related to our interest in Nemaska Lithium to Equity in net loss of unconsolidated affiliate in our condensed consolidated statements of operations.
Arcadium's cash and cash equivalents balance in its condensed consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2024 includes Nemaska Lithium's cash of $42 million at June 30, 2024 as Nemaska Lithium is consolidated on a one-quarter lag. All cash at Nemaska Lithium will be used for capital expenditures and operating expenses of the Nemaska Lithium Project.
As of September 30, 2024, Nemaska Lithium received cash of $225.0 million related to advance payments in connection with a customer supply agreement repayable in equal quarterly installments beginning in January 2027 and ending in October 2031. The related liability, consolidated on a one-quarter lag basis, is $161.3 million debt and $63.7 million contract liability as of September 30, 2024, see Note 15 for details. A total of $350.0 million in prepayments are expected from the customer with final prepayment expected in early 2025.
In the third quarter of 2024, the Company contributed cash of $43.9 million to Nemaska Lithium which, due to one-quarter lag reporting, is not yet recorded in our consolidation of Nemaska. The balance is recorded to Other assets - noncurrent because the cash is expected to be used by Nemaska primarily for capital expenditures. IQ contemporaneously made an equal contribution in the third quarter of 2024 which, due to one-quarter lag reporting, is not recorded in our consolidation of Nemaska.
In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company invested cash of $22.0 million in Nemaska Lithium under a subscription agreement dated October 9, 2024. IQ, which owns the remaining 50% interest in Nemaska Lithium, contemporaneously made an equal contribution and Arcadium's ownership stake is not changed pursuant to the additional investment.
Sales de Jujuy Pte Ltd and Sales de Jujuy S.A.
The Company has an interest of 72.68% in Sales de Jujuy Pte Ltd ("SDJ Pte"), 66.5% in Sales de Jujuy S.A. ("SDJ"), the legal entities which operate the Olaroz Lithium Facility (the "Olaroz Plant").
Located in the Jujuy Province of northern Argentina, the Olaroz Plant produces lithium carbonate chemicals for the battery, technical and chemical markets. The Olaroz Plant is operated through SDJ, which is a 91.5% owned subsidiary of SDJ Pte, a Singaporean company owned by Arcadium (72.68%) and Toyotsu Lithium Pte Ltd. (27.32%), an affiliated company of TTC. Jujuy Energia y Minera Sociedad del Estado ("JEMSE") owns the remaining 8.5% of SDJ. Consequently, the effective equity ownership of the Olaroz Plant is 66.5% by Arcadium, 25% by TTC, and 8.5% by JEMSE.
As of September 30, 2024, Arcadium had restricted cash of $18.1 million on deposit with Mizuho as collateral for the Project Loan Facility and classified within Other non-current assets in its condensed consolidated balance sheets. See Note 15 for details.
Arcadium's cash and cash equivalents balance in its condensed consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2024 includes $42.6 million held by the entities discussed above.
Arcadium funded JEMSE’s equity contributions in SDJ with an interest-free loan (the "JEMSE Receivable") to be repaid by JEMSE out of 33% of the dividends it receives from SDJ. The fair value of the non-current receivable is $5.0 million as of September 30, 2024.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) — (Continued)
Note 10: Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Property, plant and equipment consisted of the following:
(in Millions)
September 30, 2024
December 31, 2023
Land and land improvements
$
334.7
$
106.2
Buildings
985.3
134.9
Machinery and equipment
985.6
420.7
Mineral rights
3,279.6
560.0
Construction in progress
2,009.5
1,284.4
Total cost
$
7,594.7
$
2,506.2
Accumulated depreciation
(345.5)
(269.1)
Property, plant and equipment, net
$
7,249.2
$
2,237.1
Depreciation is calculated principally on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets or a units-of-production basis based on the rate of depletion of reserves. Land is not depreciated. The major classifications of property, equipment and software, including their respective principal depreciation and amortization method and expected useful lives, consisted of the following:
Asset type
Depreciation and amortization method
Useful Life
Land
N/A
—
Land improvements
Straight-line
20 years
Buildings
Straight-line
20-40 years
Mineral rights
Units-of-production
Based on rate of depletion of reserves
Mining extraction equipment
Units-of-production
Based on rate of depletion of reserves
Leased plant and equipment
Straight-line
Lease period (1-10.5 years)
Other machinery and equipment
Straight-line
3-18 years
Software
Straight-line
3-10 years
Depreciation expense was $74.6 million and $21.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Long-Lived Asset Impairment
On September 4, 2024, Arcadium Lithium announced that it will suspend Stage 4A waste stripping, and any expansionary investment beyond Stage 3, at its Mt Cattlin spodumene operation in Western Australia given the decline in spodumene prices. As a result, the Company plans to place the Mt Cattlin site into care and maintenance by the end of the first half of 2025 after it completes Stage 3 mining and ore processing. The Company does not intend to close Mt Cattlin. Care and maintenance will keep the mine and processing facilities in a position to potentially resume operations when market conditions become more favorable. The Company will also continue to explore the viability of underground mining at the Mt Cattlin site, which could potentially extend the remaining mine life.
In the third quarter of 2024, as a result of the plan to place Mt Cattlin into care and maintenance, the Company determined that there were indicators of impairment and therefore performed long-lived assets impairment testing for the Mt Cattlin asset group. As a result of the evaluation using the income approach, the Company determined the undiscounted cash flows of Mt Cattlin's assets were not greater than their carrying value, resulting in a non-cash charge of $51.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, recorded to Impairment charges in the condensed consolidated statement of operations. Management will continue to monitor events and circumstances that would require a future test of recoverability on the remaining Mt Cattlin long-lived assets.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) — (Continued)
Note 12: Other gains/(losses)
The following table shows amounts included in Other gains/(losses) in the condensed consolidated statements of operations:
Three Months Ended September 30,
Nine Months Ended September 30,
(in Millions)
2024
2023
2024
2023
Blue Chip Swap gains: (1)
Non-recurring - SDV and MdA Holdings LLC (2)
$
8.7
$
10.0
$
45.2
$
21.4
Recurring - SDJ and MdA
5.7
—
19.7
—
Total Blue Chip Swap gains
14.4
10.0
64.9
21.4
Foreign currency remeasurement gains/(losses):
Remeasurement gains on U.S. dollar denominated cash held by foreign currency functional subsidiary
—
—
14.3
—
All other foreign currency remeasurement gains/(losses) (3)
30.9
(11.2)
123.7
(16.1)
Total Foreign currency remeasurement gains/(losses)
30.9
(11.2)
138.0
(16.1)
Loss on trading securities
(0.5)
—
(0.9)
—
Total Other gains/(losses)
$
44.8
$
(1.2)
$
202.0
$
5.3
___________________________
1.See Note 2 for details.
2.Represents the non-recurring gain from the sale in Argentina pesos of Argentina Sovereign U.S. dollar-denominated bonds due to the divergence of Argentina's Blue Chip Swap market exchange rate from the official rate.
3.The three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 primarily includes impact of currency fluctuations on deferred income tax assets and liabilities related to the Allkem Livent Merger.
Note 13: Income Taxes
We determine our interim tax provision using an estimated annual effective tax rate methodology ("EAETR") in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The EAETR is applied to the year-to-date ordinary income, exclusive of discrete items. The tax effects of discrete items are then included to arrive at the total reported interim tax provision.
The determination of the EAETR is based upon a number of estimates, including the estimated annual pretax ordinary income in each tax jurisdiction in which we operate. As our projections of ordinary income change throughout the year, the EAETR will change period-to-period. The tax effects of discrete items are recognized in the tax provision in the period they occur in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Depending on various factors, such as the item’s significance in relation to total income and the rate of tax applicable in the jurisdiction to which it relates, discrete items in any quarter can materially impact the reported effective tax rate. As a global enterprise, our tax expense can be impacted by changes in tax rates or laws, the finalization of tax audits and reviews, as well as other factors. As a result, there can be significant volatility in interim tax provisions.
Provision for income taxes for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 was a benefit of $33.4 million and expense of $55.7 million resulting in an effective tax rate of 383.9% and 28.6%, respectively. Provision for income taxes for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 was an expense of $9.3 million and $47.8 million resulting in an effective tax rate of 9.6% and 14.1%, respectively.
Note 14: Asset Retirement Obligations
Legacy Allkem asset retirement obligations acquired in the Allkem Livent Merger were recorded at fair value on the Acquisition Date and consist of $7.3 million, $1.5 million and $1.0 million related to the Mt Cattlin spodumene mine in Western Australia, the Olaroz lithium brine extraction facility in Jujuy, Argentina and the Sal de Vida lithium brine extraction facility (currently under development) in Catamarca, Argentina, respectively.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) — (Continued)
Note 15: Debt
Debt consists of the following:
Interest Rate
Percentage
Maturity Date
September 30, 2024
December 31, 2023
(in Millions)
SOFR borrowings
Base rate borrowings
Revolving Credit Facility (1)
6.70%
8.75%
2027
$
99.0
$
—
4.125% Convertible Senior Notes due 2025
4.125%
2025
245.8
245.8
Transaction costs - 2025 Notes
(1.2)
(2.4)
Nemaska - Prepayment agreement - tranche 1 (2)
8.9%
75.0
75.0
Discount - Prepayment agreement
(16.2)
(19.8)
Nemaska - Prepayment agreement - tranche 2 (2)
9.4%
150.0
—
Discount - Prepayment agreement
(47.5)
—
Nemaska - Other
0.5
3.4
Debt assumed in Allkem Livent Merger (3)
Project Loan Facility - Stage 2 of Olaroz Plant
2.61%
2029
135.0
—
Affiliate Loans with TTC
15.29%
2030
81.5
—
Affiliate Loan with TLP
10.34%
2026
2.5
—
Total debt assumed in Allkem Livent Merger
219.0
—
Subtotal long-term debt (including current maturities)
724.4
302.0
Less current maturities
(288.4)
(2.4)
Total long-term debt
$
436.0
$
299.6
______________________________
1.As of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, there were $20.7 million and $15.5 million, respectively, in letters of credit outstanding under our Revolving Credit Facility and $380.3 million and $484.5 million available funds as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. Fund availability is subject to the Company meeting its debt covenants.
2.Represents advance payments in connection with customer supply agreement which do not have a contractual interest rate or bear any actual interest and are repayable in equal quarterly installments beginning in January 2027 and ending in October 2031. Represents U.S. GAAP imputed interest rate.
3.On September 10, 2024, SDJ paid the outstanding principal balance of $9.1 million to repay Stage 1 of the Olaroz Plan Project Loan Facility in its entirety. On May 30, 2024, SDV paid the outstanding principal balance of $47.0 million, a prepayment fee of $0.9 million and accrued interest and commitment fees of $1.3 million to repay the Sal de Vida Project Financing Facility in its entirety.
4.125% Convertible Senior Notes due 2025
In 2020, the Company issued $245.8 million in aggregate principal amount of 4.125% Convertible Senior Notes due in July 2025 (the "2025 Notes"). The 2025 Notes are our general unsecured senior obligations. Total net cash proceeds received were $238.2 million net of $7.6 million of third-party transaction costs, including initial purchasers' discounts and commissions. The Company used or will use the net proceeds received to finance or refinance eligible green projects designed to align with the provisions of the International Capital Market Association Green Bond Principles 2018.
Each $1,000 of principal of the 2025 Notes was initially convertible into 114.4885 shares of common stock of Livent Corporation, which was equivalent to an initial conversion price of $8.73 per share, subject to adjustment upon the occurrence of specified events. Following the effectiveness of that certain First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of January 4, 2024, by and among the Company, Livent Corporation and U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, each $1,000 of principal of the 2025 Notes is convertible into 275.459331 shares of our ordinary shares, which is equivalent to a conversion price of $3.63 per share, subject to adjustment upon the occurrence of specified events. We may redeem for cash all or any portion of the 2025 Notes, at our option, if the last reported sale price of our ordinary shares has been at least 130% of the conversion price then in effect for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during any 30 consecutive trading day period (including the last trading day of such period) ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the date on which we provide
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) — (Continued)
notice of redemption at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2025 Notes to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest. Holders of the 2025 Notes may convert their notes at any time, at their option, on or after January 15, 2025. Further, holders of the 2025 Notes may convert their notes at any time, at their option, prior to January 15, 2025 only under the following circumstances: (1) during any calendar quarter commencing after September 30, 2020 (and only during such calendar quarter), if the last reported sale price of our ordinary shares for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during a period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on, and including, the last trading day of the immediately preceding calendar quarter is greater than or equal to 130% of the conversion price on each trading day; (2) during the five-business day period after any five-consecutive trading day period in which the trading price per $1,000 principal amount of the 2025 Notes for each trading day of such period is less than 98% of the product of the last reported sale price of our ordinary shares and the conversion rate on each such trading day, (3) if we call any or all of the 2020 Notes for redemption, at any time prior to the close of business on the scheduled trading day immediately preceding the redemption date or (4) if specified corporate events occur. Upon conversion, the 2025 Notes will be settled in cash, shares of our ordinary shares or a combination thereof, at our election. If a fundamental change occurs prior to the maturity date, holders of the 2025 Notes may require us to repurchase all or a portion of their 2025 Notes for cash at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount plus any accrued and unpaid interest. In addition, if specific corporate events occur prior to the maturity date or if we deliver a notice of redemption, we will increase the conversion rate for a holder who elects to convert its 2025 Notes in connection with such an event or notice of redemption in certain circumstances.
The last reported sale price of our ordinary shares for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during the period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on, and including, September 30, 2024 was not greater than or equal to 130% of the conversion price as adjusted for the Allkem Livent Merger, which is $4.72, on each trading day, and as a result, the holders do not have the option to convert all or any portion of their 2025 Notes through December 31, 2024.
The conversion rate for the 2025 Notes is 275.4593 ordinary shares of Arcadium Lithium per $1,000 principal amount of 2025 Notes. The 2025 Notes mature in July 2025 and were reclassified to current portion of long-term debt in the third quarter of 2024.
On the July 15, 2025 maturity date, we are required to cash settle any outstanding 2025 Notes that have not otherwise been redeemed or converted.
The Company recognized non-cash interest related to the amortization of transaction costs for the 2025 Notes of $0.4 million and $1.1 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively, all of which was capitalized. The Company recorded $2.5 million and $7.5 million of accrued interest expense related to the principal amount for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively, all of which was capitalized.
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, (the "Revolving Credit Facility")
On January 4, 2024, Livent Corporation, Livent USA Corp., the Company, Arcadium Lithium Financing IRL Limited ("FinCo") and Irish IntermediateCo (collectively, the "Borrowers" and, each, a "Borrower"), the guarantors party thereto from time to time (the "Guarantors"), the lenders party thereto (the "Lenders") and issuing banks party thereto and Citibank, N.A., as administrative agent (the "Administrative Agent") for the Lenders, entered into a Joinder and First Amendment (the "Credit Agreement Amendment") to that certain Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of September 1, 2022, among Livent, Livent USA Corp., the guarantors party thereto from time to time, the lenders party thereto from time to time and the Administrative Agent (the "Credit Agreement" and as amended by the Credit Agreement Amendment, the Amended Credit Agreement").
The Credit Agreement Amendment provided for, among other things, (i) the addition of Arcadium, Irish IntermediateCo and FinCo as borrowers and obligors under the Amended Credit Agreement and (ii) the assignment of certain of Livent Corporation's rights and obligations (including information reporting obligations) under the Amended Credit Agreement to Arcadium.
The Revolving Credit Facility provides for a $500 million senior secured revolving credit facility, $50 million of which is available for the issuance of letters of credit for the account of the Borrowers, with an option to request, and subject to each Lender’s sole discretion, that the aggregate revolving credit commitments be increased to up to $700 million. The issuance of letters of credit and the proceeds of revolving credit loans made pursuant to the Revolving Credit Facility may be used for general corporate purposes, including capital expenditures and permitted acquisitions.
Revolving loans under the Revolving Credit Facility will bear interest at a floating rate, which will be (i) a base rate, (ii) Adjusted Term Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR") (defined as the forward-looking SOFR term rate published by
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) — (Continued)
CME Group Benchmark Administration Limited plus 0.10% per annum subject to a floor of zero) or (iii) Euro Interbank Offered Rate ("EURIBOR"), plus, in each case, an applicable margin, as determined in accordance with the provisions of the Revolving Credit Facility. The Revolving Credit Facility includes a quarterly commitment fee on the average daily unused amount of each Lender’s revolving credit commitment at a rate equal to an applicable percentage based on the Company’s first lien leverage ratio. The initial commitment fee is 0.25% per annum. Amounts under the Revolving Credit Facility may be borrowed, repaid and re-borrowed from time to time until the final maturity date on September 1, 2027. Voluntary prepayments and commitment reductions are permitted at any time without payment of any prepayment fee upon proper notice and subject to minimum dollar amounts. Certain of the Borrowers’ domestic subsidiaries (the "Guarantors") guarantee the obligations of the Borrowers under the Revolving Credit Facility. The obligations of the Borrower and the Guarantors are secured by all of the assets of the Borrowers and the Guarantors, including the Borrowers’ facility and real estate in Bessemer City, North Carolina, subject to certain exceptions and exclusions.
We recorded $0.8 million of incremental deferred financing costs in the condensed consolidated balance sheets for the Revolving Credit Facility commitment and legal fees and a zero and $0.2 million loss on debt extinguishment in the condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, respectively, for the write off of existing deferred financing costs to recognize a partial change in syndication related to the Revolving Credit Facility. The carrying value of our deferred financing costs was $2.3 million as of September 30, 2024 and is recorded to Other assets in our condensed consolidated balance sheet.
Covenants
The Credit Agreement contains certain affirmative and negative covenants that are binding on us and our subsidiary, Livent USA Corp., as borrowers (the "Borrowers") and their subsidiaries, including, among others, restrictions (subject to exceptions and qualifications) on the ability of the Borrowers and their subsidiaries to create liens, to undertake fundamental changes, to incur debt, to sell or dispose of assets, to make investments, to make restricted payments such as dividends, distributions or equity repurchases, to change the nature of their businesses, to enter into transactions with affiliates and to enter into certain restrictive agreements. Furthermore, the Borrowers are subject to financial covenants regarding leverage (measured as the ratio of debt to adjusted earnings) and interest coverage (measured as the ratio of adjusted earnings to interest expense). Our maximum allowable first lien leverage ratio is 3.5 as of September 30, 2024. Our minimum allowable interest coverage ratio is 3.5. We were in compliance with all requirements of the covenants as of September 30, 2024.
Debt assumed as a result of Allkem Livent Merger
The following is a summary of Allkem's indebtedness that Arcadium Lithium assumed as a result of the Allkem Livent Merger.
Project Financing Facility
Galaxy Lithium (SAL DE VIDA) S.A. ("SDV"), which is owned 100% by Arcadium, entered into a project financing facility with the International Finance Corporation related to the Sal de Vida development project ("Sal de Vida") in Argentina (the "Project Financing Facility"). The Project Financing Facility originally provided for a total of $180.0 million in limited recourse, sustainability-linked green project financing maturing in March 2033. On May 30, 2024, SDV paid the lender the outstanding principal balance of $47.0 million, a prepayment fee of $0.9 million and accrued interest and commitment fees of $1.3 million to repay the Project Financing Facility in its entirety.
Project Loan Facility
SDJ has a project loan facility with Mizuho Bank related to the Olaroz Plant (the "Project Loan Facility"):
•On September 10, 2024, SDJ paid the lender the outstanding principal balance of $9.1 million, to repay the Project Loan Facility for Stage 1 of the Olaroz Plant in its entirety.
•The Project Loan Facility for Stage 2 of the Olaroz project had an outstanding balance of $135.0 million as of September 30, 2024. The interest rate for the Stage 2 loan is a fixed rate of 2.6119% per annum until expiry in March 2029.
As of September 30, 2024, Arcadium had restricted cash of $18.1 million on deposit with Mizuho as collateral for the Project Loan Facility and classified within Other non-current assets in its condensed consolidated balance sheet.
As of September 30, 2024, Arcadium is also required to reserve $101.3 million of its cash and cash equivalents in support of a guarantee to TTC associated with the Stage 2 Project Loan Facility for the Olaroz Plant. Arcadium would incur a 2.5% fee for permitted reductions to this reserve.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) — (Continued)
Affiliate Loans With TTC
SDJ has eleven loans with TTC related to the Olaroz Plant originally providing for a total of $93.0 million in principal. As of September 30, 2024, the loans have an outstanding principal balance of $81.5 million and are payable ranging from July 2024 until March 2030.
Note 16: Share-based Compensation
Arcadium Lithium plc Omnibus Incentive Plan (the "Arcadium Plan")
As of September 30, 2024, there were 64,548,000 Arcadium ordinary shares authorized for issuance under the Arcadium Plan. The Arcadium Plan provides for the grant of a variety of cash and equity awards to officers, directors, employees and consultants, including share options, restricted shares, restricted share units (including performance units), share appreciation rights, and management incentive awards. The Compensation Committee of the Arcadium Board of Directors (the "Arcadium Committee") has the authority to amend the Arcadium Plan at any time, approve financial targets, award grants, establish performance objectives and conditions and the times and conditions for payment of awards.
Share options granted under the Arcadium Plan may be incentive or non-qualified share options. The exercise price for share options may not be less than the fair market value of the share at the date of grant. Awards granted under the Arcadium Plan vest or become exercisable or payable at the time designated by the Arcadium Committee. The options granted in 2024 will vest on the first, second and third anniversaries of the date of grant, subject generally to continued employment, and cost is recognized over the vesting period. Incentive and non-qualified options granted under the Arcadium Plan expire not later than 10 years from the grant date.
Under the Arcadium Plan, awards of restricted share units ("RSUs") vest over periods designated by the Arcadium Committee. The RSUs granted in 2024 to employees will vest equally on the first, second and third anniversaries of the grant date, subject generally to continued employment, and cost is recognized over the vesting period. The RSUs granted to non-employee directors in 2024 vest at the Company's next annual meeting of shareholders following the grant date. Compensation cost is recognized over the vesting periods based on the market value of Arcadium ordinary shares on the grant date of the award.
Allkem Replacement Awards
Pursuant to the Allkem Transaction Agreement, the equity awards of Allkem (including performance rights) outstanding as of immediately prior to the closing of the Allkem Livent Merger were converted into equity awards denominated in shares of Arcadium ordinary shares. The Company issued time-based vesting restricted shares in connection with the conversion of such awards. The estimated fair value of the portion of the Allkem equity awards for which the required service period had been completed at the time of the closing of the Allkem Livent Merger was treated as purchase consideration. The remaining estimated fair value is recorded as compensation expense over the remainder of the service period associated with the awards. The Allkem Replacement Awards are authorized for issuance under the Arcadium Plan.
Treatment of Equity Awards in the Rio Tinto Transaction
At the completion of the Rio Tinto Transaction, the Company’s outstanding equity awards will be treated as follows:
•Restricted Stock Units: Each outstanding RSU that is held by a non-employee director will be cancelled and converted into the right to receive an amount in cash, without interest, equal to $5.85 per Company share. Each other outstanding RSU will be cancelled and exchanged for an award of restricted stock units with respect to a number of ordinary shares of either Rio Tinto plc or Rio Tinto Limited (each, a "Listed Share"), determined by multiplying the number of Company shares subject to such RSU by the Equity Award Conversion Ratio (as defined in the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement).
•Restricted Share Rights (or "Allkem Replacement Awards" per the Allkem Transaction Agreement): Each outstanding restricted share right with respect to Company shares, whether vested or unvested (each, a "Restricted Share Right"), will be cancelled and exchanged for an award of restricted share rights with respect to a number of Listed Shares, determined by multiplying the number of Company shares subject to such Restricted Share Right by the Equity Award Conversion Ratio.
•Stock Options: Each outstanding stock option with respect to the Company’s shares, whether vested or unvested (each, a "Company Stock Option"), will be cancelled and exchanged for an option to purchase a number of applicable Listed Shares determined by multiplying (i) the number of Company shares subject to such Company Stock Option by (ii) the Equity Award Conversion Ratio, rounded down to the nearest whole share. Such stock option will have a per-share exercise price determined by dividing (i) the exercise price per Company share at which such Company Stock Option
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) — (Continued)
was exercisable immediately prior to the closing by (ii) the Equity Award Conversion Ratio, rounded up to the nearest whole cent.
Legacy Livent Awards
As of September 30, 2024, there were 6,579,305 Arcadium ordinary shares authorized for issuance upon the exercise or settlement of the Legacy Livent Awards.
Share Compensation
We recognized the following share compensation expense for Legacy Livent Awards and awards under the Arcadium Plan:
Three Months Ended September 30,
Nine Months Ended September 30,
(in Millions)
2024
Share Option Expense, net of taxes of $0.1 and $0.3
$
0.7
$
1.9
Restricted Share Expense, net of taxes of $0.1 and $1.2
2.8
19.8
Performance-Based Restricted Share Expense, net of taxes of zero and zero
—
0.4
Total Share Compensation Expense, net of taxes of $0.2 and $1.5(1)
$
3.5
$
22.1
____________________
(1) Gross share compensation charges of $3.4 million and $0.5 million were recorded to Selling, general and administrative expenses and Restructuring and other charges, respectively, in our condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended September 30, 2024. Gross share compensation charges of $9.1 million and $14.5 million were recorded to Selling, general and administrative expenses and Restructuring and other charges, respectively, in our condensed consolidated statements of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2024.
Share Options
The grant date fair values of the share options granted in the nine months ended September 30, 2024, were estimated using the Black-Scholes option valuation model, the key assumptions for which are listed in the table below. The expected volatility assumption is based on the historical volatility of a group of ten of our publicly traded peers that operate in the specialty chemical sector. The expected life represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The risk-free interest rate is based on U.S. Treasury securities with terms equal to the expected timing of share option exercises as of the grant date. The dividend yield assumption reflects anticipated dividends on Arcadium's ordinary shares. Arcadium share options granted in the nine months ended September 30, 2024 will vest equally on the first, second and third anniversaries of the grant date and expire ten years from the date of grant.
The following summary shows Black Scholes valuation assumptions for Arcadium Plan share options granted in 2024:
Nine months ended September 30, 2024
Grant date
3/6/2024
5/14/2024
6/28/2024
7/30/2024
9/1/2024
Expected dividend yield
—%
—%
—%
—%
—%
Expected volatility
31.18%
31.97%
33.00%
33.22%
35.06%
Expected life (in years)
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
Risk-free interest rate
4.08%
4.41%
4.28%
4.00%
3.72%
The weighted-average grant date fair value of share options granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was $1.89 per share.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) — (Continued)
The following summary shows share option activity for the Allkem Livent Merger and the Arcadium Plan for the nine months ended September 30, 2024:
Number of Options Granted But Not Exercised
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life (in Years)
Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in Millions)
Outstanding December 31, 2023
5,060,687
5.6
$
6.73
$
6.5
Granted
4,058,953
$
4.82
Exercised
(53,056)
$
4.05
$
—
Forfeited
(106,548)
$
5.67
Outstanding at September 30, 2024
8,960,036
6.9
$
5.90
$
0.1
Exercisable at September 30, 2024
4,118,374
4.3
$
6.24
$
—
As of September 30, 2024, we had total remaining unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested share options of $7.2 million which will be amortized over the weighted-average remaining requisite service period of approximately 2.4 years.
Restricted Share Unit Awards
The grant date fair value of RSUs under the Arcadium Plan is based on the market price per share of Arcadium's ordinary shares on the date of grant, and the related compensation cost is amortized to expense on a straight-line basis over the vesting period during which the employees perform related services, which for the RSUs granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2024, will vest equally on the first, second and third anniversaries of the grant date.
Pursuant to the Allkem Transaction Agreement, on the Acquisition Date, 927,510 employee RSUs vested on an accelerated pro rata basis. The following table shows RSU activity for the Allkem Livent Merger and the Arcadium Plan for the nine months ended September 30, 2024:
Restricted Share Units
Number of awards
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in Millions)
Nonvested December 31, 2023
2,287,088
$
7.83
$
17.1
Granted (1)
5,084,720
$
4.90
Vested (2)
(2,171,932)
$
7.01
Forfeited
(164,009)
$
5.62
Nonvested September 30, 2024
5,035,867
$
5.30
$
14.4
___________________
1.The Company granted 1,080,825 Allkem Replacement Awards on January 12, 2024 pursuant to the Allkem Transaction Agreement.
2.Immediately prior to the Acquisition Date, 768,440 non-employee Director RSUs vested and were paid out in cash of $5.3 million pursuant to the Allkem Transaction Agreement.
As of September 30, 2024, the Arcadium Plan had total remaining unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested RSUs of $18.6 million which will be amortized over the weighted-average remaining requisite service period of approximately 2.2 years.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) — (Continued)
Performance-Based Restricted Share Unit ("PRSU") Awards
Pursuant to the Allkem Transaction Agreement, on the Acquisition Date, 96,885 employee PRSUs vested on an accelerated basis at the higher of the PRSU payout on the accelerated vest date, which was —%, or 100%. The following table shows PRSU activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2024.
Performance-Based Restricted Share Units
Number of awards
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in Millions)
Nonvested as of December 31, 2023
96,885
$
9.42
$
0.7
Vested
(96,885)
$
9.42
Nonvested as of September 30, 2024
—
$
—
$
—
Note 17: Equity
After the closing of the Allkem Livent Merger on January 4, 2024 and as of September 30, 2024, we had 5 billion ordinary shares of $1.00 par value each and 125 million preferred shares of $1.00 par value each authorized. The following is a summary of Arcadium's ordinary shares issued and outstanding:
Issued
Treasury
Outstanding
Balance as of December 31, 2023 (1)
433,059,946
(263,669)
432,796,277
Issued to Allkem shareholders - Allkem Livent Merger
641,337,840
—
641,337,840
PRSU and RSU awards accelerated - Allkem Livent Merger
648,969
—
648,969
Arcadium RSU awards
371,750
—
371,750
Arcadium share option awards
8,497
—
8,497
Net sales of treasury shares - Arcadium NQSP
—
1,154
1,154
Balance as of September 30, 2024
1,075,427,002
(262,515)
1,075,164,487
_____________________
1.Balances outstanding as of December 31, 2023, representing predecessor Livent, have been adjusted to reflect the 2.406 Exchange Ratio.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) — (Continued)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Summarized below is the roll forward of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax.
(in Millions)
Foreign currency adjustments
Derivative Instruments
Total
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax as of December 31, 2023
$
(49.8)
$
—
$
(49.8)
Other comprehensive (losses)/income before reclassifications
(17.1)
0.2
(16.9)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss
—
0.1
0.1
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax as of September 30, 2024
$
(66.9)
$
0.3
$
(66.6)
(in Millions)
Foreign currency adjustments
Derivative Instruments
Total
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax as of December 31, 2022
$
(51.0)
$
—
$
(51.0)
Other comprehensive income before reclassifications
(1.3)
—
(1.3)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss
—
0.2
0.2
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax as of September 30, 2023
$
(52.3)
$
0.2
$
(52.1)
Dividends
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, we paid no dividends. We do not expect to pay any dividends in the foreseeable future.
Note 18: Earnings Per Share
Earnings per ordinary share ("EPS") is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period on a basic and diluted basis.
Our potentially dilutive securities include potential ordinary shares related to our share options, restricted share units and 2025 Notes. See Note 12 to our consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information. Diluted earnings per share ("Diluted EPS") considers the impact of potentially dilutive securities except in periods in which there is a loss because the inclusion of the potential ordinary shares would have an anti-dilutive effect. Diluted EPS excludes the impact of potential ordinary shares related to our share options in periods in which the option exercise price is greater than the average market price of our ordinary shares for the period. We use the if-converted method when calculating the potential dilutive effect, if any, of our 2025 Notes.
Earnings applicable to ordinary shares and ordinary shares used in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share are as follows:
(in Millions, Except Share and Per Share Data)
Three Months Ended September 30,
Nine Months Ended September 30,
2024
2023 (1)
2024
2023 (1)
Numerator:
Net income attributable to Arcadium Lithium plc
$
16.1
$
87.4
$
117.4
$
292.4
Denominator:
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - basic
1,075.1
432.4
1,067.8
432.3
Dilutive share equivalents from share-based plans
0.8
3.5
0.9
3.5
Dilutive share equivalents from 2025 Notes
67.7
67.7
67.7
67.7
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - diluted
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) — (Continued)
1.For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - basic and diluted, dilutive share equivalents and basic and diluted earnings per ordinary share amounts represent predecessor Livent and have been adjusted to reflect the 2.406 Exchange Ratio.
Anti-dilutive share options
For the three months ended September 30, 2024, options to purchase 9,163,458 shares of our ordinary shares, at an average exercise price of $5.90 per share, were anti-dilutive and not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the exercise price of the options was greater than the average market price of the ordinary shares for the period. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, options to purchase 8,211,667 shares of our ordinary shares, at an average exercise price of $6.19 per share, were anti-dilutive and not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the exercise price of the options was greater than the average market price of the ordinary shares for the period. For the three months ended September 30, 2023, options to purchase 435,544 shares of our ordinary shares, at an average exercise price of $9.70 per share were anti-dilutive and not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the exercise price of the options was greater than the average market price of the ordinary shares for the period. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, options to purchase 353,128 shares of our ordinary shares, at an average exercise price of $9.70 per share were anti-dilutive and not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the exercise price of the options was greater than the average market price of the ordinary shares for the period.
Note 19: Financial Instruments, Risk Management and Fair Value Measurements
Our financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, trade receivables, other current assets, investments held in trust fund, trade payables, derivatives and amounts included in accruals meeting the definition of financial instruments. Investments in the Arcadium NQSP deferred compensation plan trust fund are considered Level 1 investments based on readily available quoted prices in active markets for identical assets. The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, trade receivables, other current assets, and trade payables approximates their fair value due to their short-term nature and are considered Level 1 investments. Our other financial instruments include the following:
Financial Instrument
Valuation Method
Foreign exchange forward contracts
Estimated amounts that would be received or paid to terminate the contracts at the reporting date based on current market prices for applicable currencies.
The estimated fair value of our foreign exchange forward contracts has been determined using standard pricing models which take into account the present value of expected future cash flows discounted to the balance sheet date. These standard pricing models utilize inputs derived from, or corroborated by, observable market data such as currency and commodity spot and forward rates.
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (exit price). The inputs used to measure fair value are classified into the following hierarchy:
Level 1 - Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2 - Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities, or unadjusted quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, or inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability.
Level 3 - Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.
The estimated fair value and the carrying amount of debt were $772.9 million and $724.4 million, respectively, as of September 30, 2024. Our 2025 Notes are classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.
Use of Derivative Financial Instruments to Manage Risk
We mitigate certain financial exposures connected to currency risk through a program of risk management that includes the use of derivative financial instruments. We enter into foreign exchange forward contracts to reduce the effects of fluctuating foreign currency exchange rates.
In addition to the legal proceedings noted below, we have certain contingent liabilities arising in the ordinary course of business. Some of these contingencies are known but are so preliminary that the merits cannot be determined, or if more advanced, are not deemed material based on current knowledge; and some are unknown - for example, claims with respect to which we have no notice or claims which may arise in the future from products sold, guarantees or warranties made, or indemnities provided. Therefore, we are unable to develop a reasonable estimate of our potential exposure of loss for these contingencies, either individually or in the aggregate, at this time. There can be no assurance that the outcome of these contingencies will be favorable, and adverse results in certain of these contingencies could have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position, results of operations in any one reporting period, or liquidity.
Argentine Customs & Tax Authority Matters
Minera del Altiplano SA, our subsidiary in Argentina ("MdA"), has received notices from the Argentine Customs Authorities that they are conducting customs audits in Salta (for 2015 to 2019, 2021 and 2022), Rosario (for 2016 and 2017), Buenos Aires and Ezeiza (for 2018, 2019, 2021 and 2022) regarding the export of lithium carbonate by MdA from each of those locations. See Note 21 for more information about the payment the Company made in June 2023 for export duties and interest claimed by the Customs Authorities of Buenos Aires, Ezeiza and Salta related to exports made between the years 2018 – 2022.
Sales de Jujuy S.A., our subsidiary in Argentina ("SDJ") has received a notice from the Argentine Customs Authority regarding custom duties for the export of lithium carbonate by SDJ from January 2022 through August 2023.
SDJ also received notification from Jujuy provincial tax authority regarding a royalty adjustment in favor of the Province for the periods 2021 and 2022.
A range of reasonably possible liabilities, if any, cannot be currently estimated by the Company.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) — (Continued)
MdA was also notified from the Argentine Tax Authority of the start of transfer pricing audits for the periods 2017 and 2018. SDJ was also notified by the Argentine Tax Authority of the start of a transfer pricing audit for the period of 2018.
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) — (Continued)
Note 21: Supplemental Information
The following tables present details of prepaid and other current assets, other assets, accrued and other current liabilities, and other long-term liabilities as presented on the condensed consolidated balance sheets:
Generally, the global economy and business environment in the diverse group of markets we serve present us with various opportunities and challenges. The long-term demand for lithium products remains strong, driven by the increased adoption of EVs and other energy storage applications, providing us with the opportunity to continue to develop high performance lithium compound products and maintain our position as a leading global producer of butyllithium and high purity lithium metal. However, the current lithium market is characterized by overcapacity and overproduction, a slower rate of demand growth than in the recent past, strong competition, vertical integration by end users, geopolitical tensions over supply chains, and certain macroeconomic headwinds, resulting in lower pricing. Nevertheless, we believe our business fundamentals are sound and that we can manage the impact on our business of fluctuating lithium prices, inflation, high energy costs and shortages, supply chain disruptions, various global conflicts and regional challenges, higher interest rates, the strength of the U.S. dollar, and the corresponding weakening of foreign currencies. Given our extensive global capabilities, vast experience in the markets we serve, and deep customer relationships, we believe we are well positioned to capitalize on future business opportunities and the accelerating trend of electrification.
Customers in the EV manufacturing industry are positioning their businesses for continued expected growth in electrification, although at different rates around the globe. During the first three quarters of 2024, China EV adoption as evidenced by new car sales was at record levels, and battery installations exceeded many analysts’ expectations. In China, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cathode-based batteries and plug-in electric hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) have increased their share in the chemistry and EV mix in recent quarters. EV sales in the European Union and the United States were below analysts' expectations during the first three quarters of 2024, but automakers expect to launch new attractive EV models during the fourth quarter of 2024 and in 2025, and expect support from lower battery prices. Globally, EV price reductions, particularly those of a few leading automakers, will likely continue to put commercial and financial pressures on several other automakers in the world's major EV markets. The rate of transition to electric drivetrains varies across automakers with several of them recently withdrawing their prior targets related to electrification, whereas others are fully committed to their prior electrification plans.
The following Management Discussion and Analysis includes the results of predecessor Livent’s operations for three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 and as of December 31, 2023, which do not include the financial position or operations of Allkem.
c.We continually perform strategic reviews and assess the return on our business. This sometimes results in management changes or in a plan to restructure the operations of our business. As part of these restructuring plans, demolition costs and write-downs of long-lived assets may occur. The three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 include costs related to the Allkem Livent Merger of $12.2 million and $13.6 million, respectively. The nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 include costs related to the Allkem Livent Merger of $99.0 million and $32.3 million, respectively. The nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023 includes severance-related costs of $14.7 million and $2.4 million, respectively (see Note 11 for more information).
d.The nine months ended September 30, 2024 includes a $0.9 million prepayment fee incurred when the Sal de Vida Project Financing Facility was repaid in its entirety by SDJ on May 30, 2024 and $0.2 million for the partial write-off of deferred financing costs for amendments to the Revolving Credit Facility. The debt extinguishment losses are excluded from our calculation of Adjusted EBITDA because the loss is nonrecurring.
e.Relates to the step-up in inventory recorded for Allkem Livent Merger for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 as a result of purchase accounting, excluded from Adjusted EBITDA as the step-up is considered a one-time, non-recurring cost.
f.The three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 primarily represents foreign currency remeasurement gains related to U.S. dollar-denominated cash balances temporarily held at a foreign currency-functional subsidiary. The three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, prior to consolidation of Nemaska Lithium Inc. ("NLI") on October 18, 2023, represents our 50% ownership interest in costs incurred for certain project-related costs to align NLI's reported results with Arcadium's capitalization policies and interest expense incurred by NLI, all included in Equity in net loss of unconsolidated affiliate in our condensed consolidated statements of operations. The Company consolidates NLI on a one-quarter lag basis and prior to October 18, 2023, accounted for its equity method investment in NLI on a one-quarter lag basis (see Note 9 for more information).
Revenue of $718.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 (the "2024 YTD") increased by approximately 2.6%, or $18.1 million, compared to $700.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023 (the "2023 YTD") primarily due to revenues contributed by Allkem post-merger of $242.9 million, partially offset by lower pricing across all legacy Livent products of $213.1 million and lower volumes of $11.7 million primarily driven by lithium hydroxide volumes.
Gross margin
Gross margin of $243.0 million for the 2024 YTD decreased by $199.3 million, or approximately 45%, versus $442.3 million for the 2023 YTD. The decrease in gross margin was primarily due to the impact of lower pricing across all legacy Livent products of $213.1 million as well as higher operating costs of $33.1 million, partially offset by volumes mix of $6.4 million and impact from Allkem post-merger of $40.4 million.
Impairment charges
Impairment charges of $51.7 million for the 2024 YTD were due to the impairment of long-lived assets resulting from the plan by the Company to place the Mt Cattlin spodumene operation into care and maintenance by the end of the first half of 2025 after it completes Stage 3 mining and ore processing. See Note 10 for details. No impairment charges were recorded in the 2023 YTD.
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Selling, general and administrative expenses of $95.1 million for the 2024 YTD increased by $48.0 million, or approximately 101.9% versus $47.1 million for the 2023 YTD. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses was primarily due to impact from Allkem post-merger of $35.4 million and $13.2 million related to consolidation of Nemaska Lithium on a one-quarter lag basis in the 2024 Quarter.
Restructuring and other charges
Restructuring and other charges of $111.4 million for the 2024 YTD increased by $76.4 million versus $35.0 million for the 2023 YTD. Restructuring and other charges for the 2024 YTD primarily consisted of $99.0 million of costs related to the Allkem Livent Merger, and $14.7 million severance related charges. 2023 YTD Restructuring and other charges consisted primarily of costs related to the Allkem Livent Merger of $32.3 million and the Bessemer City plant fire insurance recovery gain of $5.0 million (see Note 11 for details).
Equity in net loss of unconsolidated affiliate
Equity in net loss of unconsolidated affiliate of $5.9 million for the 2024 YTD arises out of our economic interest in TLC, which operates the Naraha plant and is accounted for as an equity method investment. Equity in net loss of unconsolidated affiliate of $22.0 million for the 2023 YTD arises out of our ownership interest in the Nemaska Lithium Project, which is 50% and was accounted for as an equity method investment for the 2023 YTD, representing Arcadium's 50% share of project-related costs incurred by the Nemaska Lithium Project for continuing construction of the lithium hydroxide conversion plant in Bécancour, Québec (see Note 9 for details). Nemaska Lithium was consolidated on a one-quarter lag basis for the 2024 YTD.
Income tax expense
The income tax expense for the 2024 YTD is $55.7 million resulting in an effective tax rate of 28.6%, compared to the income tax expense of $47.8 million resulting in an effective tax rate of 14.1% for the 2023 YTD.The income tax expense increased for the 2024 YTD due to an increase in fluctuations in foreign currency impacts in Argentina of $113.4 million and $(12.0) million for the 2024 YTD and 2023 YTD, respectively. In addition, the increase in income tax expense is due to changes in forecasted jurisdictional mix of earnings where the statutory rate differs from the U.S. federal statutory rate.The increase in income tax expense was offset by the impact of the decrease in income from operations, along with changes in
55
valuation allowance on the net deferred tax assets in Argentina of $(77.2) million, primarily relating to the fluctuations in foreign currency impacts in Argentina.Additionally, a tax benefit of $15.5 million was recorded on the impairment charge for the Mt. Cattlin spodumene operation in the 2024 YTD.See Note 10 for details.
Net income
Net income of $139.1 million for the 2024 YTD decreased $153.3 million, or approximately 52%, versus $292.4 million for the 2023 YTD. The decrease was primarily due to lower gross margin of $199.3 million, higher Restructuring and other charges of $76.4 million and higher selling general and administrative expenses of $48.0 million, partially offset by foreign currency remeasurement gains and gain from our sale of Argentina Sovereign U.S. dollar-denominated bonds, interest income, net in the 2024 YTD and $22.0 million equity in net loss of unconsolidated affiliate in the 2023 YTD compared to $5.9 million in the 2024 YTD.
Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA of $250.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 decreased $160.7 million, compared to $411.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, primarily due to lower revenues due to lower pricing of $213.1 million across all legacy Livent products and higher cost of $15.2 million excluding depreciation, partially offset by favorable volumes mix of $6.4 million and the impact from Allkem post-merger contribution of $61.1 million.
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LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Our prospective success in funding our cash needs will depend on the strength of the lithium market and our continued ability to generate cash from operations and raise capital from other sources. Our primary sources of cash are currently generated from operations and borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility. Pursuant to the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement, while the Rio Tinto Transaction is pending, we are restricted or prohibited from certain non-ordinary course capital expenditures without the consent of Rio Tinto. Additionally, during that same time, we are subject to various restrictions under the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement on raising additional capital, issuing additional equity or debt, and pursuing certain activities that could use significant amounts of our liquidity, including assuming or incurring additional debt, repurchasing equity, and entering into certain acquisition and disposition transactions, among other restrictions without the consent of Rio Tinto, which is not to be unreasonably withheld. We are permitted to continue to borrow under our Revolving Credit Facility, under existing project financing arrangements, and in connection with letters of credit entered into in the ordinary course of business. Rio Tinto has agreed to cooperate with the Company to facilitate any necessary or appropriate actions and arrangements with respect to the Company's indebtedness in anticipation of the Rio Tinto Transaction, including potentially providing new financing or otherwise.
Arcadium's cash and cash equivalents as of September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, were $137.9 million and $237.6 million, respectively. The balance as of December 31, 2023 represents only predecessor Livent cash and cash equivalents. Of the cash and cash equivalents balance as of September 30, 2024, $126.2 million were held by our foreign subsidiaries, including $84.6 million at partially-owned subsidiaries. The cash held by foreign subsidiaries for permanent reinvestment is generally used to finance the subsidiaries’ operating activities and future foreign investments. We have not provided additional income taxes for any additional outside basis differences inherent in our investments in subsidiaries that are considered permanently reinvested. For those earnings that are not considered permanently reinvested, we have recorded the associated tax expense related to the repatriation of those earnings, where appropriate. See Note 11, Part II, Item 8 of our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information.
Statement of Cash Flows
Cash (used in)/provided by operating activities was $(158.9) million and $261.8 million for the 2024 YTD and 2023 YTD, respectively.
The decrease from cash used in operating activities for the 2024 YTD as compared to the cash provided by operating activities for the 2023 YTD was primarily driven by a decrease in net income, an increase in inventories and an increase in cash tax payments for income taxes, net of refunds.
Cash used in investing activities was $129.8 million and $315.5 million for the 2024 YTD and 2023 YTD, respectively.
The decrease in cash used in investing activities for the 2024 YTD compared to the 2023 YTD is primarily due to the $682 million cash acquired in the Allkem Livent Merger and $64.9 million in net cash proceeds from the Blue Chip Swap trades in 2024 YTD compared to $21.4 million for the 2023 YTD, partially offset by an increase in capital expenditures due to the consolidation of Nemaska Lithium and increased spend on expansion projects due to the Allkem Livent Merger in the 2024 YTD.
Cash provided by/(used in) financing activities was $203.1 million and $(21.5) million for the 2024 YTD and 2023 YTD, respectively.
The increase from cash provided by financing activities for the 2024 YTD compared to cash used in financing activities for the 2023 YTD is primarily due to the receipt of a customer prepayment of $150 million related to the Nemaska customer supply agreement (see Note 9 for details), an increase in net proceeds from the Company's Revolving Credit Facility of $99 million in 2024 YTD and cash contributions of $39.1 million from the noncontrolling interest in Nemaska Lithium, on a one-quarter lag, in 2024 YTD (see Note 9 for details), partially offset by $83.2 million for repayment of the SDV Project Financing Facility in its entirety and partial repayment of the Olaroz Plant Project Loan Facility in 2024 YTD and the net impact of a $21.7 million payment of deposit to Argentina Customs Authorities in 2023 YTD.
Other potential liquidity needs
We plan to meet our liquidity needs, including those related to the consummation of the Rio Tinto Transaction, through available cash, cash generated from operations, borrowings under the committed Revolving Credit Facility, and other potential financing strategies that may be available to us. Broadly, we are attempting to have our expansion activities be supported by the cash generated from our operations over time, although this may not be possible in the short-term, particularly in light of current lithium pricing. We have decided to reduce our capital spending plan to better align it with our anticipated cash generation. See "Capital spending and capacity expansions" for additional detail. As of September 30, 2024, our remaining borrowing capacity under our Revolving Credit Facility, subject to meeting our debt covenants, is $380.3 million, including letters of credit utilization.
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We repaid the $9.1 million outstanding principal balance on Stage 1 of the Olaroz Plan Project Loan Facility in its entirety in the third quarter of 2024. We repaid the $47.0 million outstanding principal balance of the SDV Project Financing Facility in the second quarter of 2024.
Our net leverage ratio under our Revolving Credit Facility is determined, in large part, by our ability to manage the timing and amount of our capital expenditures, which is within our control. It is also determined by our ability to achieve forecasted operating results and to pursue other working capital financing strategies that may be available to us, which is less certain and outside our control.
There continue to be challenges relating to expansion projects impacting both Argentina and Canada, including design and timeline modifications, labor constraints, and material shortages due to supply chain issues. This has the potential to increase costs, extend delivery times versus expectations, and reduce expected merger synergies.
We will look to various sources of financing for development of the Nemaska Lithium Project, in which we have a 50% economic interest, including, but not limited to third-party debt financing, government funding, financing or prepayments from customers and contribution from existing shareholders.
We expect the potential economic and geopolitical consequences of various global conflicts, volatile energy costs and shortages, inflation, high interest rates, and currency fluctuations to continue in the second half of 2024. The Company remains focused on maintaining its financial flexibility and will continue to manage its cash flow and capital allocation decisions to navigate through this challenging environment.
We believe that our available cash and cash from operations, together with our borrowing availability under the Revolving Credit Facility and other potential financing strategies that may be available to us, will provide adequate liquidity for the next 12 months. Access to capital and the availability of financing on acceptable terms in the future will be affected by many factors, including our credit rating, economic conditions and the overall liquidity of capital markets and cannot be guaranteed.
The following table provides a reconciliation of Arcadium Lithium's Cash and cash equivalents (GAAP) to Adjusted cash and deposits (Non-GAAP), on an unaudited basis for illustrative purposes. We define Adjusted cash and deposits (Non-GAAP) as Cash and cash equivalents, plus restricted cash in Other non-current assets, less Nemaska Lithium Cash and cash equivalents consolidated by Arcadium on a one-quarter lag, plus Nemaska Lithium Cash and cash equivalents not on a one-quarter lag. Our management believes that this measure provides useful information about the Company's balances and liquidity to investors and securities analysts. Such measure may not be comparable to similar measures disclosed by other companies because of differing methods used by other companies in calculating Adjusted cash and deposits. These measures should not be considered as a substitute for Cash and cash equivalents or other measures of liquidity reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
Project Financing Facility guarantee - Sal de Vida (SDV) (2)
—
32.5
Other
5.2
5.0
Less:
Nemaska Lithium Cash and cash equivalents as of June 30, 2024 and October 18, 2023, respectively, consolidated by Arcadium on a one-quarter lag
(42.0)
(133.5)
Arcadium Lithium, excluding Nemaska Lithium
119.2
847.6
Nemaska Lithium Cash and cash equivalents not on a one-quarter lag (3)
12.2
44.2
Adjusted cash and deposits (Non-GAAP) (4)
$
131.4
$
891.8
______________
1.This unaudited information of the combined company as of December 31, 2023 is for illustrative purposes and was derived from the historical consolidated financial information of Livent, Allkem and Nemaska Lithium.
2.On May 30, 2024, SDV paid the outstanding principal balance of $47.0 million, a prepayment fee of $0.9 million and accrued interest and commitment fees of $1.3 million to repay the Project Financing Facility in its entirety.
3.The presentation reflects NLI's actual balance at that date, not on a one-quarter lag. This differs from Nemaska Lithium cash and
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cash equivalents included in Arcadium Lithium's condensed consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2024 of $42 million, representing NLI's balance as of June 30, 2024 as we consolidate NLI on a one-quarter lag. In the third quarter of 2024, the Company contributed cash of $43.9 million to Nemaska Lithium which, due to one-quarter lag reporting, is not yet recorded in our consolidation of Nemaska. The balance is recorded to Other assets - noncurrent because the cash is expected to be used by Nemaska primarily for capital expenditures. IQ contemporaneously made an equal contribution in the third quarter of 2024 which, due to one-quarter lag reporting, is not recorded in our consolidation of Nemaska. See Note 9 for details. On March 28, 2024, Nemaska Lithium received cash of $150 million related to a second advance payment in connection with a customer supply agreement repayable in equal quarterly installments beginning in January 2027 and ending in October 2031.
4.$124.6 million and $176.9 million is required to be reserved or restricted at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, to provide collateral or cash backing for guarantees primarily on Allkem debt facilities, including $23.3 million and $62.1 million at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, in Other non-current assets in our condensed consolidated balance sheet. See Note 15 for details.
Commitments and Contingencies
See Note 20 to the condensed consolidated financial statements included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments
Information related to predecessor Livent contractual commitments as of December 31, 2023 can be found in a table included within Part II, Item 7, Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations within our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Arcadium's significant commitments assumed on the Acquisition Date related to the Allkem Livent Merger include payments of $1.3 million for the remainder of 2024 and $0.9 million for each of the years 2025 through 2028 for exploration and payments of $4.9 million, $13.0 million, $12.6 million and $5.8 million for raw materials and other operating contracts in the ordinary course of business for the remainder of 2024, 2025, 2026 and 2027, respectively.
Climate Change
A detailed discussion related to climate change can be found in Part II, Item 7 of our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources that are material to investors.
Critical Accounting Estimates
In addition to those described in Item 7 of our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K, we have identified "Resources", "Inventory", "Depreciation and amortization" and "Goodwill" as Critical Accounting Estimates following the Allkem Livent Merger.
Resources
We report resources in accordance with the SEC's definition set forth in Subpart 1300 of Regulation S-K. As such, our resources are the concentration or occurrence of lithium in such form, grade or quality, and quantity that there are reasonable prospects for economic extraction. Our mineral resource estimates provide a reasonable estimate of mineralization, taking into account relevant factors such as cut-off grade, likely mining dimensions, location or continuity, that, with the assumed and justifiable technical and economic conditions, is likely to, in whole or in part, become economically extractable. The determination of resources includes estimates and assumptions about a range of geological, technical and economic factors, including: quantities, grades, production techniques, recovery rates, production costs, transport costs, commodity demand, commodity prices and exchange rates. Changes in resources impact the assessment of recoverability of exploration and evaluation assets, property, plant and equipment, the carrying amount of assets depreciated on a units of production basis, provision for site restoration and the recognition of deferred tax assets, including tax losses. Estimating the quantity and/or grade of resources requires the size, shape and depth of ore or brine bodies to be determined by analyzing geological data. This process requires complex and difficult geological judgements to interpret the data. Additional information on the Arcadium’s reserves and resources are found in Item 2, Mineral Properties, of our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Estimates of resources may change from period to period as the economic assumptions used to estimate resource change and additional geological data is generated during the course of operations. Changes in resources may affect the Company’s financial results and financial position in a number of ways, including:
•asset carrying values may be affected due to changes in estimated future production levels,
•depreciation, depletion and amortization charged in the statement of operations may change where such charges are determined on the units of production basis, or where the useful economic lives of assets change,
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•decommissioning, site restoration and environmental provisions may change where changes in estimated resources affect expectations about the timing or cost of these activities,
•the carrying amount of deferred tax assets may change due to changes in estimates of the likely recovery of the tax benefits.
Inventory
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Determination of the brine pond volumes and spodumene stockpiles is based on surveys, assays and technical studies using industry, engineering and scientific data. A degree of judgment is involved in determining assumptions and estimates.
Depreciation and amortization
Costs incurred to develop new properties are capitalized as incurred where the property can be economically developed based on proven and probable reserves. For properties which employ surface mining techniques, this includes the costs to delineate ore bodies and remove over burden to initially expose the ore body prior to the commencement of commercial production. After the commencement of commercial production, costs of major mine development that benefit the entire ore body are capitalized and amortized over the proven and probable reserves of the entire ore body. If costs relate to access specific pits, they are capitalized and amortized over the proven and probable reserves specific to that pit.
The calculation of the units of production rate of amortization could be impacted if actual production in the future is different from current production forecast based on proven and probable reserves. This may occur if there were significant changes in the reserves driven by changes in commodity price assumptions, production costs, ore grades, foreign currency exchange rates and potential expansion of the reserves and resources through exploration activities. If reserves increased, the amortization charge per unit would decrease and if reserves decreased the amortization charge per unit would increase.
Impairments and valuation of long-lived assets and equity method investments
Our long-lived assets primarily include property, plant and equipment and intangible assets. We periodically evaluate whether events or circumstances ("triggering events") indicate that the net book value of our property, plant and equipment may not be recoverable. In addition, we periodically evaluate if facts and circumstances indicate that a decrease in value of our equity method investments has occurred that is other than temporary. We exercise significant judgment in performing these evaluations, considering factors such as general market outlooks, company-specific historical results as well as future forecasts for production, operating income and cash flows.
In the third quarter of 2024, as a result of the plan to place Mt Cattlin spodumene operations into care and maintenance, the Company determined that there were indicators of impairment and upon evaluation using the income approach, the Company determined the undiscounted cash flows of Mt Cattlin's assets were not greater than their carrying value, resulting in a non-cash charge of $51.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, recorded to Impairment charges in the condensed consolidated statement of operations. See Note 10 for details.
Goodwill
We account for goodwill acquired in a business combination in conformity with current accounting guidance, which requires goodwill not be amortized.
Under that guidance, goodwill is tested for impairment by comparing the estimated fair value of reporting units to the related carrying value. Reporting units are either operating business segment or one level below operating business segments for which discrete financial information is available and for which operating results are regularly reviewed by the business management. Judgment is required to determine reporting units. In applying the goodwill impairment test, a qualitative test ("Step 0") is initially performed, where qualitative factors are first assessed to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value. Qualitative factors may include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, industry and market considerations, cost factors, overall financial performance of the reporting units and other entity and reporting unit specific events. If after assessing these qualitative factors it is "more-likely-than-not" that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying value, a quantitative test ("Step 1") is performed. During Step 1, the fair value is estimated using a discounted cash flow model. Future cash flows for all reporting units include assumptions about revenue growth rates, adjusted EBITDA margins, discount rate as well as other economic or industry-related factors. Significant management judgment is involved in estimating these variables and they include inherent uncertainties since they are forecasting future events. The Company tests its recorded goodwill for impairment in the fourth quarter of each year or upon the occurrence of events or changes in circumstances that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of its reporting units below their carrying amounts.
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DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND MARKET RISKS
Our earnings, cash flows and financial position are exposed to market risks relating to fluctuations in commodity prices, interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates. Our policy is to minimize exposure to our cash flow over time caused by changes in interest and currency exchange rates. To accomplish this, we have implemented a controlled program of risk management consisting of appropriate derivative contracts entered into with major financial institutions.
The analysis below presents the sensitivity of the market value of our financial instruments to selected changes in market rates and prices. The range of changes chosen reflects our view of changes that are reasonably possible over a one-year period. Market value estimates are based on the present value of projected future cash flows considering the market rates and prices chosen.
As of September 30, 2024, our net derivative financial instrument position was a net asset of $0.4 million. In the first half of 2024, we placed foreign currency hedges for 2024 projected exposure.
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk
Our worldwide operations expose us to currency risk from sales, purchases, expenses and intercompany loans denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar, our functional currency. The primary currencies for which we have exchange rate exposure are the Euro, the British pound, the Chinese yuan, the Argentine peso, the Australian dollar, the Canadian dollar and the Japanese yen. Foreign currency debt and foreign exchange forward contracts are used in countries where we do business, thereby reducing our net asset exposure. Foreign exchange forward contracts are also used to hedge firm and highly anticipated foreign currency cash flows. We currently do not hedge foreign currency risks associated with the Argentine peso due to the limited availability and the high cost of suitable derivative instruments.
To analyze the effects of changing foreign currency rates, we have performed a sensitivity analysis in which we assume an instantaneous 10% change in the foreign currency exchange rates from their levels as of September 30, 2024 with all other variables (including interest rates) held constant.
Hedged Currency vs. Functional Currency
(in Millions)
Net asset position on condensed consolidated balance sheets
Net liability position with 10% strengthening
Net asset position with 10% weakening
Net asset/(liability) position as of September 30, 2024
$
0.4
$
(0.7)
$
1.3
Interest Rate Risk
One of the strategies that we can use to manage interest rate exposure is to enter into interest rate swap agreements. In these agreements, we agree to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between fixed and variable interest amounts calculated on an agreed-upon notional principal amount. As of September 30, 2024, we had no material interest rate swap agreements.
Our debt portfolio as of September 30, 2024 is composed of fixed-rate and variable-rate debt, consisting of borrowings under our 2025 Notes, Revolving Credit Facility and two project level debt facilities and eleven affiliate loans assumed in the Allkem Livent Merger. Changes in interest rates affect different portions of our variable-rate debt portfolio in different ways. As of September 30, 2024, we had $99.0 million in outstanding balances under the Revolving Credit Facility.
Based on the variable-rate debt in our debt portfolio at September 30, 2024, a one percentage point increase or decrease in interest rates would have increased or decreased, respectively, gross interest expense by $0.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024.
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ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
The information required by this item is provided in "Derivative Financial Instruments and Market Risks," under Item 2 - Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
(a) Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures. Based on management’s evaluation (with the participation of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer), the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of September 30, 2024, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) are effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports filed or submitted under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and is accumulated and communicated to management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
(b) Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Except as noted below, there were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Effective January 4, 2024, we completed the Allkem Livent Merger. We are in the process of integrating Allkem’s processes and controls over financial reporting. In accordance with our integration efforts, we plan to incorporate Allkem’s operations into our internal control over financial reporting program within the time provided by the applicable rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
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PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We are involved in legal proceedings from time to time in the ordinary course of our business, including with respect to workers’ compensation matters.Based on information currently available and established reserves, we have no reason to believe that the ultimate resolution of any known legal proceeding will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, liquidity or results of operations. However, there can be no assurance that the outcome of any such legal proceeding will be favorable, and adverse results in certain of these legal proceedings could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations in any one reporting period, or liquidity. Except as set forth in Note 20 to our condensed consolidated financial statements, which is incorporated herein by reference to the extent applicable, there are no material changes from the legal proceedings previously disclosed in our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
In addition to the other information set forth in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should carefully consider the risk factors discussed in Part I, Item 1A of our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K, which is available at www.sec.gov and on our website at www.arcadiumlithium.com. Other than the risk factors set forth below, we do not believe that there have been material changes in the risk factors set forth in our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may adversely affect our business, financial condition or future results.
Risks Relating to the Rio Tinto Transaction:
The completion of the Rio Tinto Transaction contemplated by the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement is subject to a number of conditions, and the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement may be terminated in accordance with its terms. As a result, the timing surrounding the closing of the Rio Tinto Transaction is uncertain and there is a risk that the Rio Tinto Transaction may not be completed.
On October 9, 2024, we entered into the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement with Rio Tinto. The Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement provides that pursuant to the Scheme under the Companies (Jersey) Law 1991, at the effective time, all of our ordinary shares, par value $1.00 per share (the "Company Shares"), including the Company Shares represented by CHESS depositary interests issued by us and listed on the securities exchange operated by ASX Limited, then outstanding will be transferred from our shareholders to Buyer (or an affiliate of Buyer designated by Buyer in accordance with the terms of the Scheme) in exchange for the right to receive an amount in cash, without interest, equal to $5.85 per Company Share.
The completion of the Rio Tinto Transaction is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of a number of conditions as set forth in the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement, including, among others: the approval of the Scheme by the our shareholders; all applicable governmental consents under specified antitrust and investment screening laws having been obtained and remaining in full force and effect and all applicable waiting periods having expired, lapsed or been terminated (as applicable); no governmental entity of a competent jurisdiction having issued any order that is in effect and restrains, enjoins or otherwise prohibits the consummation of the Rio Tinto Transaction and no governmental entity having jurisdiction over any party having adopted any law that is in effect and makes consummation of the Rio Tinto Transaction illegal or otherwise prohibited; the representations and warranties of each of the Company and Parent being true and correct to the extent required by, and subject to the applicable materiality standards set forth in, the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement; each of the Company, Parent and Buyer having in all material respects performed the obligations and complied with the covenants required to be performed or complied with by it under the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement; and there having been no material adverse effect (as defined in the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement). The timing surrounding whether these conditions will be satisfied or waived, if at all, is uncertain. Additionally, other events could intervene to delay or result in the failure to close the Rio Tinto Transaction.
If the Rio Tinto Transaction has not closed by October 9, 2025 (subject to extension until April 9, 2026 in order to obtain antitrust or investment screening law or other regulatory approvals), either we or Parent may choose to terminate the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement. However, this right to terminate the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement will not be available to us or Parent if such party has materially breached the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement and the breach is the principal cause of the failure of the closing to have occurred prior to such date. We or Parent may elect to terminate the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement in certain other circumstances, including if our shareholders fail to approve the Rio Tinto Transaction at the shareholder meeting, and we and Parent can mutually decide to terminate the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement at any time prior to the closing, before or after the required approval by our shareholders.
The termination of the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement could negatively impact us and, in certain circumstances, could require us to pay a termination fee to Rio Tinto.
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If the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement is terminated in accordance with its terms and the Rio Tinto Transaction is not completed, our ongoing business may be adversely affected by a variety of factors, including the failure to pursue other beneficial opportunities during the pendency of the Rio Tinto Transaction, the failure to obtain the anticipated benefits of completing the Rio Tinto Transaction, the payment of certain costs relating to the Rio Tinto Transaction and the focus of our management on the Rio Tinto Transaction for an extended period of time rather than on ongoing business matters or other opportunities or issues. Our stock price may fall as a result of any such termination, to the extent that the current price of our shares reflects a market assumption that the Rio Tinto Transaction will be completed (although this is difficult to predict with any certainty). In addition, the failure to complete the Rio Tinto Transaction may result in negative publicity or a negative impression of us in the investment community and may affect our relationship with employees, customers, suppliers, vendors and other partners.
We may be required to pay Rio Tinto a termination fee equal to $200 million if the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement is terminated under certain circumstances specified in the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement relating to, among other things, if our board of directors changes its recommendation that our shareholders vote in favor of the Rio Tinto Transaction or if there is an intentional and material breach of certain provisions of the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement by us. Further, we will also be required to pay Rio Tinto the $200 million termination fee if the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement is terminated under certain circumstances specified in the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement after we receive a competing transaction proposal, and, within 12 months after the date of termination, we enter into a definitive agreement with respect to, or consummate, a change of control transaction with any party. If the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement is terminated and we determine to seek another business combination or strategic opportunity, we may not be able to negotiate a transaction with another party on terms comparable to, or better than, the terms of the Rio Tinto Transaction.
The pendency of the Rio Tinto Transaction could adversely affect our business, results of operations, and financial condition.
The pendency of the Rio Tinto Transaction could cause disruptions in and create uncertainty surrounding our business, including by affecting our relationships with our existing and future customers, suppliers, vendors, partners, and employees, and our standing with local communities, regulators, and other government officials. This could have an adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition, as well as the market price of our shares, regardless of whether the Rio Tinto Transaction is completed. In particular, we could potentially lose important personnel who decide to pursue other opportunities as a result of the Rio Tinto Transaction. Any adverse effect could be exacerbated by a prolonged delay in completing the Rio Tinto Transaction. We could also potentially lose customers, suppliers or vendors, existing customers, suppliers or vendors may seek to change their existing business relationships or renegotiate their contracts with us or defer decisions concerning us and potential customers, suppliers, or vendors could defer entering into contracts with us, each as a result of uncertainty relating to the Rio Tinto Transaction. In addition, in an effort to complete the Rio Tinto Transaction, we have expended, and will continue to expend, significant management resources on matters relating to the Rio Tinto Transaction, which are being diverted from our day-to-day operations, and significant demands are being, and will continue to be, placed on our managerial, operational and financial personnel and systems in connection with efforts to complete the Rio Tinto Transaction.
While the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement is in effect, we are subject to restrictions on our conduct and business activities, which could adversely affect our business, financial results, financial condition or share price.
Under the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement, we are subject to a range of restrictions on the conduct of our business and generally must operate our business in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice prior to completing the Rio Tinto Transaction. These restrictions may constrain our ability to pursue certain business strategies. The restrictions may also prevent us from pursuing otherwise attractive business opportunities, making acquisitions and investments or making other changes to our business prior to the completion of the Rio Tinto Transaction or the termination of the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement. Any such lost opportunities may reduce our competitiveness or efficiency and could lead to an adverse effect on our business, financial results, financial condition or our share price.
The Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement contains restrictions on our ability to pursue alternatives to the Rio Titno Transaction, which may limit the value that our shareholders could receive from a transaction.
The Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement generally prohibits us, subject to certain exceptions, from initiating, soliciting, knowingly encouraging or otherwise knowingly facilitating any inquiries or the making of any contract, proposal, offer or indication of interest that constitute or would reasonably be expected to lead to any competing transaction proposal.
Further, subject to limited exceptions and consistent with applicable law, the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement probits our board of directors from changing, withholding, withdrawing, qualifying or modifying, in a manner adverse to the Parent, its recommendation that our shareholders approve the Rio Tinto Transaction and, in specified circumstances, the Parent and Buyer
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have a right to negotiate with us in order to match any competing transaction proposal that may be made. Although our board of directors is permitted to take certain actions in response to a superior transaction proposal or a competing transaction proposal that would reasonably be expected to result in a superior transaction proposal if it determines that the failure to do so would likely breach its statutory and fiduciary duties under applicable law, in specified situations, we may still be required to pay Rio Tinto a termination fee of $200 million. These provisions may limit our ability to pursue offers from third parties that could result in greater value to our shareholders than they would receive in the Rio Tinto Transaction. The $200 million termination fee may also discourage third parties from pursuing an acquisition proposal with respect to us.
There may be shareholder class actions or derivative actions, which could result in substantial costs and may delay or prevent the Rio Tinto Transaction from being completed.
Shareholder class action lawsuits or derivative lawsuits are often brought against companies that have entered into transaction agreements. Such litigation can be costly and time consuming and can create uncertainty. Even if the lawsuits are without merit, defending against these claims can result in substantial costs and divert management time and resources. Additionally, if a plaintiff is successful in obtaining an injunction prohibiting consummation of the Rio Tinto Transaction, then that injunction may delay or prevent the Rio Tinto Transaction from being completed.
One of the conditions to consummating the Rio Tinto Transaction is that no governmental entity has enacted any law or issued any order restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting the consummation of the Rio Tinto Transaction. Consequently, if a party secures injunctive or other relief prohibiting, delaying or otherwise adversely affecting our, Parent’s or Buyer’s ability to complete the Rio Tinto Transaction on the terms contemplated by the Rio Tinto Transaction Agreement, then such law or injunctive or other relief may prevent consummation of the Rio Tinto Transaction in a timely manner or at all. These lawsuits also have the potential to negatively impact our reputation.
Forward-Looking Information
We wish to caution readers not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements contained herein, which speak only as of the date made. We specifically decline to undertake any obligation to publicly revise any forward-looking statements that have been made to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
Repurchases of Ordinary Shares
There were no repurchases of Arcadium's ordinary shares for the three months ended September 30, 2024. We have no publicly announced share repurchase programs.
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ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
N/A
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES
N/A
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION
10b-5(1) Trading Plans
During the three months ended September 30, 2024, none of our directors or officers (as defined in Rule 16a-1(f) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) adopted or terminated a Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement or non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement (as such terms are defined in Item 408 of Regulation S-K of the Securities Act of 1933).
The cover page from Arcadium Lithium plc’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, formatted in Inline XBRL.
* Incorporated by reference.
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
ARCADIUM LITHIUM PLC (Registrant)
By:
/s/ GILBERTO ANTONIAZZI
Gilberto Antoniazzi, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
(signing on behalf of the registrant and as principal financial officer)