The ethylene segment is benefiting from good demand and positive price momentum, although high and volatile crude oil prices continue to present a challenge. The propylene oxide segment has realized continued steady performance of the chemical products, while fuel products are responding to strong gasoline markets.
"Our outlook for our chemical and fuel businesses continues to be very positive. The prospects for the summer months are shaping up well, and our businesses are well positioned as we enter what appears to be another strong season in the fuels markets."
"As a result, our portfolio should demonstrate its strong earnings- and cash-generating capabilities," said Smith. "Additionally, the pending sale of the inorganic chemicals business will significantly accelerate our debt reduction and balance sheet improvement."
Lyondell operates in three segments: 1) Ethylene, co-products and derivatives; 2) Propylene oxide (PO) and related products; and 3) Refining. Inorganic chemicals is presented as a discontinued operation due to the pending sale of this business.
Lyondell Chemical Company