Near term outlook
Source: Interim report January–June 2024
The demand situation for fresh fibre paperboards is expected to remain stable in the third quarter. The overall demand for consumer products will continue to be influenced by the trend in consumers’ purchasing power and general purchasing behaviour.
Metsä Board’s paperboard delivery volumes are expected to increase slightly in July–September compared to the previous quarter (4–6/2024: 377,000 tonnes). The sales prices in local currencies are expected to remain stable.
More annual maintenance shutdowns will take place at the mills in July–September than in the previous quarter. Total costs, excluding pulp costs, are expected to remain stable.
Average pulp prices are expected to remain stable. The global market situation for long-fibre pulp will gradually return to normal following an increase in supply. The demand and price situation for sawn timber is expected to remain stable.
In July–September 2024, exchange rate fluctuations, including the impact of hedges, will have a negative impact on the operating result compared to April–June 2024 and a negative impact compared to July–September 2023.
The claim settlement process to compensate Metsä Board’s financial losses from the gas explosion at the Kemi bioproduct mill has been initiated with the insurance consortium. Compensation is not included in the previously reported financial losses caused by the explosion. The company will report on the progress of discussions and the size of compensation and the time of its payment in future interim reports and in separate releases if required.
Result guidance for July–September 2024
Metsä Board’s comparable operating result in July–September 2024 is expected to improve from April–June 2024 (4–6/2024: EUR -0.8 million).