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Ball Corporation's Fourth Quarter 2024 Financial Results

On February 4, 2025, Ball Corporation (NYSE: BALL) released its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2024, showcasing a notable performance despite recent challenges. The company's fourth quarter saw a diluted loss per share of 11 cents, contrasting with its strong full-year earnings, which totaled $4.01 billion, translating to a diluted earnings per share of $13.00. The year’s total sales reached approximately $11.80 billion. This strong financial outcome reflects the company’s strategic positioning and operational efficiencies amid fluctuating market conditions.

Full-Year Overview

In 2024, Ball Corporation achieved a full-year comparable diluted earnings per share of $3.17, up from $2.90 in 2023. This growth can be attributed to various factors, including a focus on cost management and operational improvements. Notably, the company returned $1.96 billion to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends, reinforcing its commitment to delivering long-term shareholder value.

Daniel W. Fisher, Ball’s chairman and CEO, stated, "We delivered strong full-year and fourth quarter results while returning nearly $2 billion to shareholders in 2024. Our focus on our core purpose of advancing the use of sustainable aluminum packaging remains a priority, and we are well-positioned to continue this growth trajectory in 2025."

Segment Performance

North and Central America Beverage Packaging

In this segment, Ball recorded comparable operating earnings of $747 million on sales of $5.62 billion throughout the year. However, the fourth quarter saw earnings drop to $142 million on $1.29 billion in sales, reflecting a combination of lower volume and pricing pressures alongside the pass-through of aluminum costs.

EMEA Beverage Packaging

The EMEA division showcased resilience with comparable operating earnings of $416 million on $3.47 billion in sales for the full year. The fourth quarter alone saw earnings rise to $90 million, aided by increased volume and favorable pricing.

South America Beverage Packaging

This segment reported an increase in comparable operating earnings to $296 million from $266 million year-over-year, despite a slight decrease in fourth quarter sales. The full-year sales were bolstered by favorable pricing dynamics.

Strategic Outlook

Looking ahead, Ball Corporation aims to enhance its sustainable packaging initiatives and is set to achieve more than 10 percent growth in comparable diluted earnings per share in 2025. The company’s focus on driving innovation, managing operational efficiencies, and launching sustainable packaging options aligns with market trends favoring environmentally friendly materials.

In the fourth quarter of 2024, Ball made significant changes, pursuing alternatives for its aluminum cup business in an effort to adapt to shifting market demands. The board also approved a $4 billion stock repurchase program and declared a cash dividend, reinforcing its strategy to generate shareholder returns while pursuing growth opportunities.

Fisher added: "Our global team is committed to executing our enterprise-wide strategy with purpose, advancing our sustainable packaging mission while ensuring high-quality results and products."

Conclusion

Ball’s fourth quarter results and strategic direction signal a company ready to tackle challenges while maximizing opportunities in the evolving landscape of sustainable packaging. With a strong outlook for 2025, Ball Corporation demonstrates its capability to generate value for stakeholders through innovative solutions and operational excellence.

For more details on Ball Corporation’s financial results, visit www.ball.com.