1. Kosmo New Materials H1 2025 Performance: Red Flags in the Battery Business
Kosmo New Materials reported KRW 234.008 billion in revenue for H1 2025, a 58.9% decrease year-over-year. Operating profit and net income also plummeted by 93.7% and 76.2% respectively, painting a grim picture of the company’s performance. The sharp decline in sales and low operating rates within the secondary battery cathode materials division are identified as the primary causes. The functional films and toner segments also experienced revenue declines due to sluggish IT demand and the ongoing digital transition. Preliminary earnings further missed market expectations, clouding the short-term outlook.
2. What Went Wrong? – Battery Market Slump and Intensified Competition
The overall slowdown in the secondary battery market, coupled with inventory adjustments and intensified competition, dealt a significant blow to Kosmo’s battery materials business. Low operating rates exacerbated the situation by increasing fixed cost burdens and further eroding profitability. The functional films segment also suffered from the ripple effects of declining demand in the upstream IT device market.
3. What’s Next? – Short-Term Uncertainty, Long-Term Opportunities
A slow recovery in the battery market is anticipated in the short term, making a swift turnaround for Kosmo unlikely. However, the long-term outlook remains positive, with the expected growth of the electric vehicle market driving increased demand for secondary battery cathode materials. Specifically, if Kosmo’s Mid-Ni and High-Ni cathode materials under development achieve market success, they could provide a new growth engine. The growth potential of the functional film business, spurred by the expansion of the AI market, also presents a positive factor.
4. Investor Action Plan – Short-Term Caution, Long-Term Consideration of DCA
- Short-term investors: A cautious approach is recommended until the uncertainties surrounding the battery sector subside. Closely monitor the growth momentum of the functional film business and any signs of recovery in the battery segment.
- Long-term investors: Focus on the long-term growth potential linked to the expanding EV market, and consider a dollar-cost averaging (DCA) strategy. Continuous monitoring of Kosmo’s technological advancements and client acquisition progress is crucial.
Q: What are Kosmo New Materials’ primary business segments?
A: Kosmo New Materials manufactures secondary battery cathode materials, functional films (MLCC release films), and toner.
Q: What are the main reasons for Kosmo New Materials’ weak H1 2025 performance?
A: The significant decline in sales and low operating rates in the secondary battery cathode materials segment are the main reasons. These were impacted by a slowdown in downstream demand, inventory adjustments, and increased competition.
Q: What is the outlook for Kosmo New Materials?
A: While short-term uncertainties persist due to the battery market, the long-term outlook appears positive, with a potential recovery linked to the growth of the EV market. The growth potential of the functional film business is also a positive factor.