DoD tests AI models that make it easy to switch from vendors like Palantir
NORTHBROOK, Ill. - Edward J. Wehmer has announced his retirement from the Board of Directors of Stepan Company (NYSE: NYSE:SCL), effective April 29, 2025, the date of the company’s next annual meeting of stockholders. Wehmer, who has been a member of the Board since 2003 and served as Lead Independent (LON:IOG) Director since 2016, will continue his duties until his retirement. The company, currently valued at $1.45 billion, has maintained strong financial discipline with a healthy current ratio of 1.21 and moderate debt-to-equity of 0.53.
During his tenure, Wehmer played a significant role in guiding the company’s strategic direction and growth, with a particular focus on shareholder value. Under his leadership, Stepan has demonstrated remarkable consistency in shareholder returns, with InvestingPro data showing the company has raised its dividend for 54 consecutive years. F. Quinn Stepan, Jr., Chairman of the Stepan Company Board, acknowledged Wehmer’s contributions, highlighting his financial expertise, leadership, and insightful handling of complex issues over his 22-year service. The stock currently trades near its 52-week low of $59.55, potentially presenting an opportunity for value investors.
Upon Wehmer’s retirement, the Board will decrease in size from eight to seven directors. Randall S. Dearth is set to take over as Lead Independent Director. For detailed analysis of Stepan’s governance and financial health metrics, investors can access comprehensive research through InvestingPro, which offers exclusive insights and valuation models for over 1,400 US stocks.
Stepan Company, headquartered in Northbrook, Illinois, is a leading manufacturer of specialty and intermediate chemicals used in various industries, including consumer and industrial cleaning, agriculture, oilfield solutions, and the production of polyurethane polyols for thermal insulation and CASE industries. The company operates a global network of production facilities across the Americas, Europe, and Asia, generating annual revenues of $2.18 billion with an EBITDA of $186.6 million in the last twelve months.
The information regarding Wehmer’s retirement is based on a press release statement from Stepan Company. It is important to note that forward-looking statements in the press release involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially from those projected. The company has emphasized that it does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements.
In other recent news, Stepan Company reported its fourth-quarter 2024 earnings, revealing an earnings per share (EPS) of $0.12, which fell short of the forecasted $0.45. The company’s revenue for the quarter was $525.6 million, also below the expected $533.41 million. Despite these misses, the company remains optimistic about its future growth, particularly in its agricultural and oilfield markets. Stepan’s strategic investments in new facilities and products are anticipated to drive performance improvements. The company’s adjusted EBITDA for the full year increased by 4% to $187 million, although the fourth quarter saw a 7% year-over-year decrease to $35 million. During the earnings call, executives highlighted the upcoming startup of a new production facility in Pasadena, Texas, expected to contribute to volume growth in 2025. Analysts from firms like Stonegate and Seaport Research Partners discussed the company’s challenges and growth areas, particularly in the surfactant and polymer segments. Despite the earnings miss, the company’s stock experienced a positive reaction, reflecting investor confidence in its long-term strategy.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.