LyondellBasell Industries NV (LYB)

Return on total capital

Dec 31, 2024 Dec 31, 2023 Dec 31, 2022 Dec 31, 2021 Dec 31, 2020
Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) US$ in thousands 2,084,000 3,104,000 4,836,000 7,545,000 2,228,000
Long-term debt US$ in thousands
Total stockholders’ equity US$ in thousands 12,462,000 12,930,000 12,615,000 11,858,000 7,971,000
Return on total capital 16.72% 24.01% 38.34% 63.63% 27.95%

December 31, 2024 calculation

Return on total capital = EBIT ÷ (Long-term debt + Total stockholders’ equity)
= $2,084,000K ÷ ($—K + $12,462,000K)
= 16.72%

The return on total capital for LyondellBasell Industries NV has fluctuated over the years based on the provided data. In December 2020, the return on total capital was 27.95%, indicating the company generated $0.27 in profit for every $1 of total capital invested. This metric significantly improved to 63.63% by December 2021, showcasing a strong growth in profitability and efficient capital utilization. However, in December 2022, the return on total capital decreased to 38.34%, suggesting a slight decline in profitability compared to the previous year. Subsequently, by December 2023, the return on total capital further decreased to 24.01%, indicating a continued downturn in profitability and capital efficiency. In the latest data point from December 2024, the return on total capital stands at 16.72%, demonstrating a further decline in profitability and potential challenges in generating returns on invested capital. Overall, the company's return on total capital shows variability over the years, with periods of strong performance followed by declines in profitability.