Table of Contents
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2026
OR
☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
For the transition period from to
Commission file number 1-31763
KRONOS WORLDWIDE, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
DELAWARE
76-0294959
(State or other jurisdiction ofincorporation or organization)
(IRS Employer Identification No.)
5430 LBJ Freeway, Suite 1700
Dallas, Texas 75240-2620
(Address of principal executive offices)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (972) 233-1700
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
Trading Symbol(s)
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common stock
KRO
NYSE
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
☐
Accelerated filer
☒
Non-accelerated filer
Smaller reporting company
Emerging growth company
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes ☐ No ☒
Number of shares of the registrant’s common stock, $.01 par value per share, outstanding on May 1, 2026: 115,053,116
KRONOS WORLDWIDE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
INDEX
Pagenumber
Part I.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.
Financial Statements
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - December 31, 2025 and March 31, 2026 (unaudited)
3
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (unaudited) - Three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2026
5
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (unaudited) - Three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2026
6
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity (unaudited) - Three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2026
7
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited) - Three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2026
8
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)
9
Item 2.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
16
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk
25
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
Part II.
OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
Item 6.
Exhibits
26
Items 2, 3, 4 and 5 of Part II are omitted because there is no information to report.
2
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In millions)
ASSETS
December 31,
March 31,
2025
2026
(unaudited)
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
$
33.2
25.7
Restricted cash
3.8
2.5
Accounts and other receivables, net
287.8
374.4
Inventories, net
628.6
549.3
Prepaid expenses and other
41.1
36.6
Total current assets
994.5
988.5
Other assets:
5.5
5.4
Marketable securities
1.8
2.1
Operating lease right-of-use assets
19.9
19.0
Deferred income taxes
35.8
32.8
Goodwill
2.6
Other
32.4
35.3
Total other assets
98.0
97.2
Property and equipment:
Land
79.3
78.6
Buildings
279.8
274.5
Equipment
1,459.1
1,439.3
Mining properties
134.2
138.6
Construction in progress
44.5
48.5
1,996.9
1,979.5
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization
1,272.6
1,266.9
Net property and equipment
724.3
712.6
Total assets
1,816.8
1,798.3
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (CONTINUED)
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
354.4
296.8
Income taxes
14.4
14.2
Total current liabilities
368.8
311.0
Noncurrent liabilities:
Long-term debt
557.4
602.7
Accrued pension costs
80.9
76.4
Operating lease liabilities
15.7
14.9
15.2
15.4
27.7
32.9
Total noncurrent liabilities
696.9
742.3
Stockholders’ equity:
1.2
Additional paid-in capital
1,390.4
Retained deficit
(344.9)
(355.5)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(295.6)
(291.1)
Total stockholders’ equity
751.1
745.0
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 11 and 13)
See accompanying notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
4
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In millions, except per share data)
Three months ended
Net sales
489.8
509.8
Cost of sales
383.0
426.5
Gross margin
106.8
83.3
Selling, general and administrative expense
61.6
63.6
Other operating expense:
Currency transactions, net
(4.3)
(5.4)
Other operating expense, net
(2.5)
(1.7)
Income from operations
38.4
12.6
Other income (expense):
Interest and dividend income
.4
.2
Marketable equity securities
(1.0)
.3
Other components of net periodic pension and OPEB cost
(.5)
(.8)
Interest expense
(11.6)
(14.3)
Income (loss) before income taxes
(2.0)
Income tax expense
7.6
2.8
Net income (loss)
18.1
(4.8)
Net income (loss) per basic and diluted share
.16
(.04)
Weighted average shares used in the calculation of net income (loss) per share
115.0
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Currency translation
17.3
4.2
Defined benefit pension plans
Total other comprehensive income, net
17.7
4.5
Comprehensive income (loss)
(.3)
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2026 (unaudited)
Accumulated
Additional
other
Common
paid-in
Retained
comprehensive
stock
capital
deficit
loss
Total
Balance at December 31, 2024
1,390.3
(211.0)
(363.5)
817.0
Net income
-
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
Dividends paid - $.05 per share
(5.8)
Balance at March 31, 2025
(198.7)
(345.8)
847.0
Balance at December 31, 2025
Net loss
Balance at March 31, 2026
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Cash flows from operating activities:
Depreciation
13.9
Amortization of operating lease right-of-use assets
1.0
1.5
2.7
Benefit plan expense (less) greater than cash funding
(2.9)
Other, net
Change in assets and liabilities:
(53.7)
(92.1)
(27.2)
72.5
Prepaid expenses
1.3
3.7
(62.2)
(55.2)
2.0
Accounts with affiliates
5.2
5.9
.6
(2.2)
Net cash used in operating activities
(102.4)
(51.3)
Cash flows from investing activities - capital expenditures
(12.0)
(10.2)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Revolving credit facility:
Borrowings
145.0
158.1
Payments
(112.1)
(99.2)
Dividends paid
Net cash provided by financing activities
27.1
53.1
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash - net change from:
Operating, investing and financing activities
(87.3)
(8.4)
Effect of currency exchange rate changes on cash
Balance at beginning of period
114.7
42.5
Balance at end of period
28.6
33.6
Supplemental disclosures:
Cash paid for:
Interest, net of amount capitalized
19.6
26.1
2.2
1.1
Accrual for capital expenditures
3.2
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
March 31, 2026
Note 1 - Organization and basis of presentation:
Organization - At March 31, 2026 Valhi, Inc. (NYSE: VHI) held approximately 50% of our outstanding common stock and a wholly-owned subsidiary of NL Industries, Inc. (NYSE: NL) held approximately 31% of our common stock. Valhi owned approximately 83% of NL’s outstanding common stock and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Contran Corporation held approximately 91% of Valhi’s outstanding common stock. A majority of Contran’s outstanding voting stock is held directly by Lisa K. Simmons and by family stockholders (Thomas C. Connelly (the husband of Ms. Simmons’ late sister), a family-owned entity and various family trusts established for the benefit of Ms. Simmons, Mr. Connelly and their children) who are required to vote their shares of Contran voting stock in the same manner as Ms. Simmons. Such voting rights are personal to Ms. Simmons and last through April 22, 2030. The remainder of Contran’s outstanding voting stock is held by another trust (the “Family Trust”), which was established for the benefit of Ms. Simmons and her late sister and their children and for which a third-party financial institution serves as trustee. Consequently, at March 31, 2026, Ms. Simmons and the Family Trust may be deemed to control Contran, and therefore may be deemed to indirectly control the wholly-owned subsidiary of Contran, Valhi, NL and us.
Basis of presentation - The unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements contained in this Quarterly Report have been prepared on the same basis as the audited Consolidated Financial Statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 that we filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 9, 2026 (“2025 Annual Report”). In our opinion, we have made all necessary adjustments (which include only normal recurring adjustments), in order to state fairly, in all material respects, our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows as of the dates and for the periods presented. We have condensed the Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2025 contained in this Quarterly Report as compared to our audited Consolidated Financial Statements at that date, and we have omitted certain information and footnote disclosures (including those related to the Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2025) normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). Our results of operations for the interim period ended March 31, 2026 may not be indicative of our operating results for the full year. The Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements contained in this Quarterly Report should be read in conjunction with our 2025 Consolidated Financial Statements contained in our 2025 Annual Report.
Unless otherwise indicated, references in this report to “we,” “us” or “our” refer to Kronos Worldwide, Inc. and its subsidiaries (NYSE: KRO) taken as a whole.
Note 2 - TiO2 segment information:
Our chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) evaluates the TiO2 segment’s operating performance based on net income (loss) and segment profit (a non-GAAP measure), which we define as net income (loss) before income tax expense and certain general corporate items. These general corporate items include corporate expense and the components of other income (expense) except for trade interest income. Differences between segment profit and the amounts included in consolidated net income (loss) are shown in the table below. Trade interest income included in the calculation of segment profit is not significant for the three months ended March 31, 2025 or 2026. Substantially all depreciation expense is included in the calculation of segment profit for the three months ended March 31, 2026.
Segment profit
41.6
15.1
Corporate expenses
(3.0)
(2.4)
Corporate interest and dividend income
.1
Other components of net periodic pension
and OPEB cost
(7.6)
(2.8)
Note 3 - Accounts and other receivables, net:
Trade receivables
270.7
357.9
Recoverable VAT and other receivables
16.4
16.0
Receivables from affiliates
Income taxes receivable from Valhi
.7
Refundable income taxes
Allowance for doubtful accounts
(3.9)
(3.8)
Note 4 - Inventories, net:
Raw materials
179.7
145.3
Work in process
47.3
47.0
Finished products
267.9
224.9
Supplies
133.7
132.1
Note 5 - Marketable securities:
Our marketable securities consist of investments in the publicly-traded shares of our related party, Valhi. Our marketable securities are accounted for as available-for-sale securities, which are carried at fair value using quoted market prices in active markets for each marketable security and represent a Level 1 input within the fair value hierarchy. Unrealized gains or losses on equity securities are recognized in other income (expense) - marketable equity securities on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.
10
Fair value
measurement
Market
Cost
Unrealized
Marketable security
level
value
basis
December 31, 2025:
Valhi common stock
1
(1.4)
March 31, 2026:
(1.1)
At December 31, 2025 and March 31, 2026, we held approximately 144,000 shares of Valhi’s common stock. At December 31, 2025 and March 31, 2026, the per share quoted market price of Valhi’s common stock was $12.05 and $14.30, respectively.
The Valhi common stock we own is subject to the restrictions on resale pursuant to certain provisions of the SEC Rule 144. In addition, as a majority-owned subsidiary of Valhi we cannot vote our shares of Valhi common stock under Delaware General Corporation Law, but we do receive dividends from Valhi on these shares when declared and paid.
Note 6 - Long-term debt:
Kronos International, Inc. 9.50% Senior Secured Notes due 2029
503.7
490.9
Subordinated, Unsecured Term Loan from Contran
53.7
Revolving credit facility
58.1
Total debt
Less current maturities
Total long-term debt
9.50% Senior Secured Notes due 2029 - At March 31, 2026, the carrying value of the 9.50% Senior Secured Notes due 2029 (€426.174 million aggregate principal amount outstanding) is stated net of $8.4 million of unamortized premium and $6.2 million of unamortized debt issuance costs (at December 31, 2025 the amounts were $9.0 million and $6.9 million, respectively).
Revolving credit facility (the “Global Revolver”) - During the first three months of 2026, we borrowed $155.9 million and repaid $97.8 million under our $350 million Global Revolver. The average interest rate on outstanding borrowings under this facility during the three months ended March 31, 2026 was 4.5%. At March 31, 2026, the average interest rate on outstanding borrowings was 4.5% and we had borrowing availability of approximately $287 million less any amounts outstanding under this facility.
Other - We are in compliance with all of our debt covenants at March 31, 2026.
Note 7 - Accounts payable and accrued liabilities:
Accounts payable
224.0
201.3
Accrued sales discounts and rebates
25.1
8.4
Employee benefits
26.0
21.9
Payables to affiliates:
Contran
Accrued severance costs
8.8
7.1
3.9
65.0
52.9
See Note 15 for additional information related to accrued severance costs.
11
Note 8 - Other noncurrent liabilities:
Asset retirement obligations
14.7
Accrued postretirement benefits
5.7
5.6
4.6
4.4
8.2
Note 9 - Revenue recognition:
The following table disaggregates our net sales by place of manufacture (point of origin) and to the location of the customer (point of destination), which are the categories that depict how the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows are affected by economic factors.
Net sales - point of origin:
United States
322.4
357.7
Germany
216.8
226.6
Canada
110.8
87.9
Norway
70.5
66.1
Belgium
65.7
64.2
Eliminations
(296.4)
(292.7)
Net sales - point of destination:
Europe
228.5
243.1
North America
190.2
186.2
71.1
80.5
Note 10 - Employee benefit plans:
The components of net periodic defined benefit pension cost are presented in the table below.
Net periodic pension cost (income):
Service cost
1.4
Interest cost
4.9
Expected return on plan assets
(5.3)
Recognized actuarial losses
We expect our 2026 contributions for our pension plans to be approximately $17 million.
12
Note 11 - Income taxes:
The provision for income taxes and the difference between such provision for income taxes and the amount that would be expected using the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate of 21% are presented below.
U.S. federal statutory tax rate
(.4)
Foreign tax effects:
.9
Belgium:
Changes in valuation allowances
.5
Other foreign jurisdictions
Effect of cross-border tax laws:
Net controlled-foreign-corporation tested income
Incremental tax benefit on losses of subsidiary
(1.6)
(.1)
Changes in unrecognized tax benefits
The amount shown in the preceding table of our income tax rate reconciliation for incremental tax benefit on losses of subsidiary represents current and deferred U.S. income tax benefits attributable to one of our non-U.S. subsidiaries which is treated as a dual resident for U.S. income tax purposes.
On July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed into law in the United States. It did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
Tax authorities are examining certain of our U.S. and non-U.S. tax returns and may propose tax deficiencies, including penalties and interest. In March 2026, we received notices of assessment from the German tax authorities for tax years 2019 through 2021. We disagree with the assessments and have filed notice of appeal. However, due to the uncertainty of the appeal and the complexity of the appeal process, during the first quarter of 2026 we recorded net income tax expense of $2.0 million to establish an uncertain tax position, net of amounts expected to be received from other taxing jurisdictions.
We believe we have adequate accruals for additional taxes and related interest expense which could ultimately result from tax examinations. We believe the ultimate disposition of tax examinations should not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
13
Note 12 - Stockholders’ equity:
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss are presented in the table below. See Note 10 for discussion of our defined benefit pension plans.
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax:
Currency translation:
(300.0)
(267.3)
Other comprehensive income
(282.7)
(263.1)
Defined benefit pension plans:
(63.8)
(29.0)
Other comprehensive income - amortization of prior service cost and net losses included in net periodic pension cost
(63.4)
(28.7)
OPEB plans:
Balance at beginning and end of period
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Note 13 - Commitments and contingencies:
We are involved in various environmental, contractual, product liability, patent (or intellectual property), employment and other claims and disputes incidental to our business. At least quarterly our management discusses and evaluates the status of any pending litigation to which we are a party. The factors considered in such evaluation include, among other things, the nature of such pending cases, the status of such pending cases, the advice of legal counsel and our experience in similar cases (if any). Based on such evaluation, we make a determination as to whether we believe (i) it is probable a loss has been incurred, and if so if the amount of such loss (or a range of loss) is reasonably estimable, or (ii) it is reasonably possible but not probable a loss has been incurred, and if so if the amount of such loss (or a range of loss) is reasonably estimable, or (iii) the probability a loss has been incurred is remote. We have not accrued any amounts for litigation matters because it is not reasonably possible, we have incurred a loss that would be material to our consolidated financial statements, results of operations or liquidity.
14
Note 14 - Financial instruments:
See Note 5 for information on how we determine fair value of our marketable securities.
The following table presents the financial instruments that are not carried at fair value but which require fair value disclosure:
December 31, 2025
Carrying
Fair
amount
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
Long-term debt:
Fixed rate 9.50% Senior Secured Notes due 2029
469.9
416.7
At December 31, 2025 and March 31, 2026, the estimated market price of our 9.50% Senior Secured Notes due 2029 was €937 and €853 per €1,000 principal amount, respectively. The fair value of our Senior Secured Notes due 2029 was based on quoted market prices; however, these prices represented Level 2 inputs because the market in which the notes trade was not active. Due to the variable interest rate, the carrying amount of our revolving credit facility is deemed to approximate fair value. Due to their near-term maturities, the carrying amounts of accounts receivable and accounts payable are considered equivalent to fair value. See Notes 3 and 7.
Note 15 – Restructuring costs:
In the fourth quarter of 2025, we initiated a restructuring plan through workforce reductions which is supporting an improved current and longer-term cost structure. These workforce reductions impacted approximately 226 positions with a substantial portion of such reductions accomplished through involuntary programs. A portion of the reductions was also accomplished through voluntary programs, for which eligible workforce reduction costs were recognized at the time both the employee and employer were irrevocably committed to the terms of the separation. During the fourth quarter of 2025, we recognized an aggregate $10.3 million charge related to these workforce reductions. Accrued severance costs remaining at March 31, 2026 are expected to be substantially paid in 2026 and are included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities – other on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet, see Note 7. We do not expect to accrue any further material amounts for the workforce reductions.
A summary of the activity in our accrued restructuring costs for the first three months of 2026 is shown in the table below:
Amount
(in millions)
Accrued workforce reduction costs at December 31, 2025
Workforce reduction costs accrued
Workforce reduction costs paid
(1.5)
Currency translation adjustments, net
(.2)
Current liability at March 31, 2026
Note 16 - Recent accounting pronouncements:
In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU No. 2024-03, Reporting Comprehensive Income - Expense Disaggregation Disclosures. The ASU requires additional information about specific expense categories in the notes to financial statements for both interim and annual reporting periods. The ASU is effective for us beginning with our 2027 Annual Report, and for interim reporting, in the first quarter of 2028, with early adoption permitted. We are in the process of evaluating the additional disclosure requirements.
15
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Business overview
We are a leading global producer and marketer of value-added titanium dioxide pigments (“TiO2”). TiO2 is used for a variety of manufacturing applications, including paints, plastics, paper and other industrial and specialty products. For the three months ended March 31, 2026, approximately 40% of our sales volumes were sold into European markets. Our production facilities are located in Europe and North America.
We consider TiO2 to be a “quality of life” product, with demand affected by gross domestic product, or GDP, and overall economic conditions in our markets located in various regions of the world. Over the long-term, we expect demand for TiO2 will grow by 2% to 3% per year, consistent with our expectations for the long-term growth in GDP. However, even if we and our competitors maintain consistent shares of the worldwide market, demand for TiO2 in any interim or annual period may not change in the same proportion as the change in GDP, in part due to relative changes in the TiO2 inventory levels of our customers. We believe our customers’ inventory levels are influenced in part by their expectation for future changes in TiO2 selling prices as well as their expectation for future availability of product. Although certain of our TiO2 grades are considered specialty pigments, the majority of our grades and substantially all of our production are considered commodity pigment products with price and availability being the most significant competitive factors along with product quality and customer and technical support services.
The factors having the most impact on our reported operating results are:
Our key performance indicators are our TiO2 average selling prices, our level of TiO2 sales and production volumes and the cost of titanium-containing feedstock purchased from third parties. TiO2 selling prices generally follow industry trends, and selling prices will increase or decrease generally as a result of competitive market pressures.
Executive summary
We reported a net loss of $4.8 million, or $.04 per share, in the first quarter of 2026 compared to net income of $18.1 million, or $.16 per share, in the first quarter of 2025. Net income decreased in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the prior year period primarily due to lower income from operations as a result of lower average TiO2 selling prices and lower production volumes, partially offset by higher sales volumes and lower production costs driven primarily by cost reduction initiatives implemented in the fourth quarter of 2025 to structurally realign our operations, as well as lower raw material and energy costs. Comparability of our results was also impacted by the effects of changes in currency exchange rates.
Our net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2026 includes an income tax expense of $2.0 million ($.02 per share) to recognize an uncertain tax position related to a German tax audit.
Forward-looking information
This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q that are not historical facts are forward-looking in nature and represent management’s beliefs and assumptions based on currently available information. In some cases you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as “believes,” “intends,” “may,” “should,” “could,” “anticipates,” “expects” or comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategies or trends. Although we believe the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, we do not know if these expectations will be correct. Such statements by their nature involve substantial risks and uncertainties that could significantly impact expected results. Actual future results could differ materially from those predicted. The factors that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those described herein are the risks and uncertainties discussed
in this Quarterly Report and those described from time to time in our other filings with the SEC and include, but are not limited to, the following:
17
Should one or more of these risks materialize (or the consequences of such a development worsen), or should the underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from those forecasted or expected. We disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of changes in information, future events or otherwise.
Results of operations
Current industry conditions
We started 2026 with average TiO2 selling prices lower than at the beginning of 2025; however, our average TiO2 selling prices increased 2% during the first quarter of 2026. Our average TiO2 selling prices in the first quarter of 2026 were 6% lower than average TiO2 selling prices during the first quarter of 2025. Overall, our sales volumes increased in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025 due to higher overall sales volumes in the North American, Latin American and export markets partially offset by lower sales volumes in our European market.
During the fourth quarter of 2025, we implemented cost reduction initiatives, including workforce reductions and other measures, to permanently improve our cost structure and enable more efficient operation of our facilities at lower production rates for extended periods. As a result, beginning in the first quarter of 2026, our normal production capacity range has been adjusted to reflect our production capabilities under this new cost structure.
Excluding the effect of changes in currency exchange rates, our cost of sales per metric ton of TiO2 sold in the first quarter of 2026 was lower as compared to the first quarter of 2025 due to decreases in per metric ton production costs driven primarily by the cost reduction initiatives discussed above, as well as lower raw material and energy costs.
18
Quarter ended March 31, 2026 compared to the quarter ended March 31, 2025
Three months ended March 31,
(Dollars in millions)
100
%
78
84
22
Corporate expense and trade interest income, net
Segment profit (1)
% Change
TiO2 operating statistics:
Sales volumes*
136
142
Production volumes*
143
128
(10)
Percentage change in net sales:
TiO2 sales volumes
TiO2 product pricing
(6)
TiO2 product mix/other
Changes in currency exchange rates
*
Thousands of metric tons
(1) We use segment profit to assess the performance of our TiO2 operations. Segment profit is defined as net income (loss) before income tax expense and certain general corporate items. The general corporate items include corporate expense and the components of other income (expense) except for trade interest income.
Net sales - Net sales in the first quarter of 2026 increased 4%, or $20.0 million, compared to the first quarter of 2025 primarily due to the effects of a 4% increase in sales volumes (which increased net sales by approximately $20 million) and the favorable impact of changes in currency exchange rates (primarily the euro) which we estimate increased our net sales by approximately $30 million. These increases were partially offset by a 6% decrease in average TiO2 selling prices (which decreased net sales by approximately $30 million). TiO2 selling prices will increase or decrease generally as a result of competitive market pressures, changes in the relative level of supply and demand as well as changes in raw material and other manufacturing costs.
Our sales volumes increased 4% in the first quarter of 2026 as compared to the first quarter of 2025 primarily due to higher sales volumes in our North American, Latin American and export markets partially offset by lower sales volumes in our European market. The incremental market share gains we achieved in our European market during the second half of 2025, primarily as a result of competitor plant closures, continued into the first quarter of 2026. However, gains were not sufficient to offset the underlying decline in overall European demand.
Cost of sales and gross margin - Cost of sales increased by $43.5 million, or 11%, in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the first quarter of 2025 due to the effects of a 4% increase in sales volumes and the unfavorable impact from changes in currency exchange rates, partially offset by lower production costs driven primarily by the cost reduction initiatives as well as lower raw material and energy costs. In addition, unabsorbed fixed costs were not material in the first quarter of 2026 compared to $10 million of unabsorbed fixed costs in the first quarter of 2025.
Our cost of sales as a percentage of net sales increased to 84% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to 78% in the same period of 2025, as the unfavorable impact of lower average TiO2 selling prices more than offset the favorable effects of lower production costs.
Gross margin as a percentage of net sales decreased to 16% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to 22% in the first quarter of 2025. As discussed and quantified above, our gross margin as a percentage of net sales decreased primarily due to the net effects of higher sales volumes, lower average TiO2 selling prices, lower production costs and changes in currency exchange rates.
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Selling, general and administrative expense - Selling, general and administrative expense increased $2.0 million, or 3%, in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the first quarter of 2025 as the negative impact of currency exchange rates exceeded the benefits of lower costs during the quarter. Excluding the effects of currency exchange rates, we realized lower selling, general and administrative expenses as a result of (i) realization of cost savings as a result of the fourth quarter of 2025 restructuring, (ii) lower warehousing costs due to lower average finished products inventory volumes and (iii) non-recurring distribution costs incurred in the first quarter of 2025 associated with tariff mitigation strategies. Selling, general and administrative expense as a percentage of net sales decreased to 12% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to 13% in the first quarter of 2025 due to the effects of higher sales.
Segment profit - Segment profit decreased by $26.5 million to $15.1 million in the first quarter of 2026 compared to $41.6 million in the first quarter of 2025, primarily as a result of the factors impacting gross margin discussed above. We estimate that changes in currency exchange rates decreased segment profit by approximately $6 million in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, as discussed in the effects of currency exchange rates section below.
Other non-operating income (expense) - Interest expense in the first quarter of 2026 increased by $2.7 million compared to the first quarter of 2025 primarily due to higher average debt balances and higher interest rates. See Note 6 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. We recognized an unrealized gain of $.3 million in the first quarter of 2026 related to the change in marketable equity securities compared to an unrealized loss of $1.0 million in the same period of 2025.
Income tax expense - We recognized income tax expense of $2.8 million in the first quarter of 2026 compared to income tax expense of $7.6 million in the first quarter of 2025. The decrease is primarily due to lower earnings in the first quarter of 2026 and the jurisdictional mix of such earnings somewhat offset by a net uncertain tax position of $2.0 million recognized in the first quarter of 2026. Our earnings and losses are subject to income tax in various U.S. and non-U.S. jurisdictions, and the income tax rates applicable to the pre-tax earnings (losses) of our non-U.S. operations are generally higher than the income tax rates applicable to our U.S. operations. We would generally expect our overall effective tax rate, excluding the effect of any increase or decrease in our deferred income tax asset valuation allowance, changes in our reserve for uncertain tax positions, or tax rate changes to be higher than the U.S. federal statutory tax rate of 21% primarily because of our sizeable non-U.S. operations. See Note 11 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Effects of currency exchange rates
We have substantial operations and assets located outside the United States (primarily in Germany, Belgium, Norway and Canada). The majority of our sales from non-U.S. operations are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar, principally the euro, other major European currencies and the Canadian dollar. A portion of our sales generated from our non-U.S. operations is denominated in the U.S. dollar (and consequently our non-U.S. operations will generally hold U.S. dollars from time to time). Certain raw materials used in all our production facilities, primarily titanium-containing feedstocks, are purchased primarily in U.S. dollars, while labor and other production and administrative costs are incurred primarily in local currencies. Consequently, the translated U.S. dollar value of our non-U.S. sales and operating results are subject to currency exchange rate fluctuations which may favorably or unfavorably impact reported earnings and may affect the comparability of period-to-period operating results. In addition to the impact of the translation of sales and expenses over time, our non-U.S. operations also generate currency transaction gains and losses which primarily relate to (i) the difference between the currency exchange rates in effect when non-local currency sales or operating costs (primarily U.S. dollar denominated) are initially accrued and when such amounts are settled with the non-local currency, (ii) changes in currency exchange rates during time periods when our non-U.S. operations are holding non-local currency (primarily U.S. dollars), and (iii) relative changes in the aggregate fair value of currency forward contracts held from time to time. We periodically use currency forward contracts to manage a portion of our currency exchange risk, and relative changes in the aggregate fair value of any currency forward contracts we hold from time to time serves in part to mitigate the currency transaction gains or losses we would recognize from the first two items described above.
Fluctuations in currency exchange rates had the following effects on our sales and income from operations for the periods indicated.
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Impact of changes in currency exchange rates
Three months ended March 31, 2026 vs March 31, 2025
Translation
Gains/(losses) -
currency
Transaction losses recognized
impact of
impact
Change
rate changes
2026 vs 2025
Impact on:
30
(4)
(5)
(1)
The $30 million increase in net sales (translation gains) was caused primarily by a weakening of the U.S. dollar relative to the euro, as our euro-denominated sales were translated into more U.S. dollars in 2026 as compared to 2025. The weakening of the U.S. dollar relative to the Canadian dollar and the Norwegian krone in 2026 did not have a significant effect on our net sales, as a substantial portion of the sales generated by our Canadian and Norwegian operations is denominated in the U.S. dollar.
The $6 million decrease in income from operations was comprised of the following:
Outlook
During the first quarter of 2026, sales volumes improved compared to the same period in 2025, primarily driven by higher sales volumes in our North American, Latin American, and export markets. While we gained market share in Europe as a result of competitor capacity reductions in 2025, these gains were not sufficient to offset further weakening end-market demand in the region. Although customers remain reluctant to build inventory, order lead times have increased, which provides us with greater flexibility in near- and intermediate-term production planning. Our order backlog at the beginning of 2026 was generally higher than the comparable prior-year period and has continued to show positive trends entering the second quarter. However, overall demand remains below historical levels, and the timing and sustainability of a broader market recovery remain uncertain. We implemented price increases during the first quarter of 2026; however, selling prices remain below 2025 levels, and additional price increases will be required to improve our operating margins.
During the fourth quarter of 2025, we implemented cost reduction initiatives, including workforce reductions and other measures, to permanently improve our cost structure and enable more efficient operation of our facilities at lower production rates for extended periods. We operated our facilities slightly below normal capacity during the first quarter of 2026. Our operating model balances improved cost efficiency with flexibility to respond to changes in demand. During the first quarter of 2026, we sold through higher cost inventory produced in the fourth quarter of 2025 and expect gross margin to improve as we realize the benefit of lower cost inventory produced during 2026.
Industry supply conditions tightened during the first quarter of 2026 due to the recent geopolitical conflict in the Middle East and related supply chain disruptions, including sulfuric acid pricing pressures, and higher energy costs, particularly in Europe. As a result, we are beginning to experience higher shipping and production costs driven primarily by increased energy, utility and raw material costs, especially in Europe. These cost pressures are expected to persist as long as uncertainty related to the conflict in the Middle East and broader global conditions continue. In response to rising costs, we implemented surcharges in most major markets and announced
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price increases effective in the second quarter of 2026. We expect TiO₂ selling prices to continue to rise during 2026, which would help mitigate increases in distribution, raw material, energy, and other production costs, although margins will remain below historical levels.
We are focused on improving operating margins through pricing actions, disciplined cost management, and continued execution of our operating cost structural realignment initiatives. We are also continuing to pursue targeted market share opportunities in regions and markets impacted by competitor curtailments, closures, logistical disruptions, or trade measures such as tariffs or duties that have reduced the competitiveness of low-cost imports. These actions are intended to support improved operating performance while maintaining flexibility in the event of continued demand volatility.
Liquidity and capital resources remain sufficient to support our operations and planned capital investments. While we typically experience significant seasonal cash usage in the first quarter, we expect cash on hand to improve over the remainder of the year. We will continue to actively manage working capital, including inventories and receivables, to bolster operating cash flows and maintain financial flexibility. We believe our revolver availability, combined with the absence of near-term debt maturities and improved operating cash flows, will provide adequate liquidity for expected working capital needs and capital allocation requirements.
Our expectations for the TiO2 industry and our operations are based on a number of factors outside our control. Our operations are affected by global and regional economic, political and regulatory factors, and we have experienced global market disruptions. Future impacts on our operations will depend on, among other things, future energy costs, the effect of newly enacted tariffs in jurisdictions where we or our customers and suppliers operate, our success in implementing mitigation strategies, and the impact of economic conditions, consumer confidence, and geopolitical events on our operations or our customers’ and suppliers’ operations, all of which remain uncertain and cannot be predicted.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Consolidated cash flows
Operating activities
Trends in cash flows as a result of our operating activities (excluding the impact of significant asset dispositions and relative changes in assets and liabilities) are generally similar to trends in our earnings. In addition to the impact of the operating, investing and financing cash flows discussed below, changes in the amount of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash we report from period to period can be impacted by changes in currency exchange rates, since a portion of our cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash is held by our non-U.S. subsidiaries.
Cash used in operating activities was $51.3 million in the first three months of 2026 compared to cash used of $102.4 million in the first three months of 2025. This $51.1 million decrease in the amount of cash used in operating activities was primarily due to the net effect of the following:
Changes in working capital were affected by accounts receivable and inventory changes. As shown below:
December 31, 2024
March 31, 2025
DSO
62 days
65 days
61 days
DSI
82 days
86 days
57 days
47 days
Investing activities
Our capital expenditures of $10.2 million and $12.0 million in the first three months of 2026 and 2025, respectively, were primarily to maintain and improve the cost effectiveness of our manufacturing facilities.
Financing activities
During the first three months of 2026 and 2025, we paid dividends of $.05 per share to stockholders aggregating $5.8 million each period.
During the first three months of 2026 and 2025, we had net borrowings of $58.9 million and $32.9 million, respectively, on our revolving credit facility.
Outstanding debt obligations
At March 31, 2026, our consolidated debt comprised:
Availability under the Global Revolver is subject to a borrowing base calculation, as defined in the agreement. The borrowing base calculated for the period ended March 31, 2026 was approximately $287 million.
Our Senior Secured Notes, the Contran Term Loan and our Global Revolver contain a number of covenants and restrictions which, among other things, restrict our ability to incur or guarantee additional debt, incur liens, pay dividends or make other restricted payments, or merge or consolidate with, or sell or transfer substantially all of our assets to, another entity, and contain other provisions and restrictive covenants customary in lending transactions of these types. Our credit agreements contain provisions which could result in the acceleration of indebtedness prior to their stated maturity for reasons other than defaults for failure to comply with typical financial or payment covenants. For example, the credit agreements allow the lender to accelerate the maturity of the indebtedness upon a change of control (as defined in the agreement) of the borrower. In addition, the credit agreements could result in the acceleration of all or a portion of the indebtedness following a sale of assets outside the ordinary course of business. The terms of all of our debt instruments are discussed in Note 8 to our Consolidated Financial Statements included in our 2025 Annual Report. We are in compliance with all of our debt covenants at March 31, 2026. We believe we will be able to continue to comply with the financial covenants contained in our credit facility through its maturity; however, if future operating results differ materially from our expectations we may be unable to maintain compliance.
Our assets consist primarily of investments in operating subsidiaries, and our ability to service our obligations, including the Senior Secured Notes and the Contran Term Loan, depends in part upon the distribution of earnings of our subsidiaries, whether in the form of dividends, advances or payments on account of intercompany obligations or otherwise. Our Senior Secured Notes are collateralized by, among other things, a first priority lien on (i) 100% of the common stock or other ownership interests of each existing and future direct domestic subsidiary of KII and the guarantors, and (ii) 65% of the voting common stock or other ownership interests and 100% of the non-voting common stock or other ownership interests of each non-U.S. subsidiary that is directly owned by KII or any guarantor. Our Global Revolver is collateralized by, among other things, a first priority lien on the borrower’s trade receivables and inventories. See Note 6 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Future cash requirements
Liquidity
Our primary source of liquidity on an ongoing basis is cash flows from operating activities which is generally used to (i) fund capital expenditures, (ii) repay any short-term indebtedness incurred for working capital purposes, (iii) provide for the payment of dividends and (iv) fund purchases of shares of our common stock under our stock repurchase program. From time-to-time we will incur indebtedness, generally to (i) fund short-term working capital needs, (ii) refinance existing indebtedness or (iii) fund major capital expenditures or the acquisition of other assets outside the ordinary course of business. We will also from time-to-time sell assets outside the ordinary course of business and use the proceeds to (i) repay existing indebtedness, (ii) make investments in marketable and other
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securities, (iii) fund major capital expenditures or the acquisition of other assets outside the ordinary course of business or (iv) pay dividends.
The TiO2 industry is cyclical, and changes in industry economic conditions significantly impact earnings and operating cash flows. Changes in TiO2 pricing, production volumes and customer demand, among other things, could significantly affect our liquidity.
We routinely evaluate our liquidity requirements, alternative uses of capital, capital needs and availability of resources in view of, among other things, our dividend policy, our debt service, our capital expenditure requirements and estimated future operating cash flows. As a result of this process, we have in the past and may in the future seek to reduce, refinance, repurchase or restructure indebtedness, raise additional capital, repurchase shares of our common stock, modify our dividend policy, restructure ownership interests, sell interests in our subsidiaries or other assets, or take a combination of these steps or other steps to manage our liquidity and capital resources. Such activities have in the past and may in the future involve related companies. We may also from time to time engage in preliminary discussions with existing or potential investors regarding the timing or terms of any such refinancing or other potential transaction. In the normal course of our business, we may investigate, evaluate, discuss and engage in acquisition, joint venture, strategic relationship and other business combination opportunities in the TiO2 industry. In the event of any future acquisition or joint venture opportunity, we may consider using then-available liquidity, issuing our equity securities or incurring additional indebtedness.
At March 31, 2026, we had aggregate cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash on hand of $33.6 million, of which $23.7 million was held by non-U.S. subsidiaries. Following implementation of a territorial tax system under the 2017 Tax Act, repatriation of any cash and cash equivalents held by our non-U.S. subsidiaries would not be expected to result in any material income tax liability as a result of such repatriation. Based upon our expectations of our operating performance and the anticipated demands on our cash resources, we expect to have sufficient liquidity to meet our short-term obligations (defined as the twelve-month period ending March 31, 2027) and our long-term obligations (defined as the five-year period ending March 31, 2031, our time period for long-term budgeting). Our Global Revolver matures in July 2029, and at March 31, 2026, we had total availability for borrowing of approximately $287 million less any amounts outstanding under this facility. The borrowing base is calculated at least quarterly, and the amount available for borrowing may change based on applicable period end balances. See Note 6 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Capital expenditures
We intend to invest approximately $60 million in capital expenditures primarily to maintain and improve our existing facilities during 2026, including $10.2 million in expenditures through March 31, 2026. It is possible we will delay planned capital projects based on market conditions including but not limited to expected demand and the general availability of materials, equipment and supplies necessary to complete such projects.
Stock repurchase program
At March 31, 2026, we have 1,017,518 shares available for repurchase under a stock repurchase program authorized by our board of directors.
Commitments and contingencies
See Notes 11 and 13 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of certain income tax contingencies and certain legal proceedings.
Recent accounting pronouncements
See Note 16 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Critical accounting policies
For a discussion of our critical accounting policies, refer to Part I, Item 7 - “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our 2025 Annual Report. There have been no changes in our critical accounting policies during the first three months of 2026.
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ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK
General
We are exposed to market risk, including currency exchange rates, interest rates, equity security and raw material prices. There have been no material changes in these market risks since we filed our 2025 Annual Report. See also Part I, Item 7A. - “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk” in our 2025 Annual Report and Note 14 to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures which, as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e), means controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit to the SEC under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Act”), is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information we are required to disclose in the reports we file or submit to the SEC under the Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive officer and our principal financial officer, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate to allow timely decisions to be made regarding required disclosure. Each of Brian W. Christian, our President and Chief Executive Officer and Bradley E. Troutman, our Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the design and effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of March 31, 2026. Based upon their evaluation, these executive officers have concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of the date of such evaluation.
Internal control over financial reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting which, as defined by Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f) means a process designed by, or under the supervision of, our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the board of directors, management and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and includes those policies and procedures that:
Changes in internal control over financial reporting
There has been no change to our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended March 31, 2026 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Part II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1A. Risk Factors
For a discussion of the risk factors related to our businesses, refer to Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” in our 2025 Annual Report.
Item 6.Exhibits
10.1*
Restated and Amended Richards Bay Chloride Slag Sales Agreement by and between Richards Bay Titanium (Proprietary) Limited (acting through its sales agent) and Kronos (US), Inc. effective January 1, 2016, as amended through Amendment dated February 13, 2026 (and effective January 1, 2026) between Richards Bay Titanium (Proprietary) Limited (acting through its sales agent Rio Tinto Iron and Titanium Canada Inc.) and Kronos (US), Inc.
31.1
Certification
31.2
32.1
101.INS
Inline XBRL Instance - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document.
101.SCH
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
101.CAL
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
101.DEF
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase
101.LAB
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
101.PRE
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase
104
Cover page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)
_______________
* Certain portions of this exhibit have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(b)(10)(iv) of Regulation S-K.
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.
Kronos Worldwide, Inc.
(Registrant)
Date: May 6, 2026
/s/ Bradley E. Troutman
Bradley E. Troutman
(Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer)
/s/ Bryan S. Bell
Bryan S. Bell
(Vice President and Controller, Global Finance)
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