Umicore

Earnings Release • Feb 5, 2016

FULL YEAR RESULTS 2015

Highlights

Revenues were well up (+11%) compared to 2014 with strong growth in Catalysis and Energy & Surface Technologies more than offsetting the impact of lower metal prices on the recycling activities. The revenue growth, which was in part driven by the ramp-up of recent growth investments, was the main factor behind the REBIT growth of 21%.

• Revenues of € 2.6 billion (+11%)
• Recurring EBITDA of € 505 million (+14%)
• Recurring EBIT of € 330 million (+21%)
• ROCE of 13.7% (versus 12.2% in 2014)
• Recurring net profit (Group share) of € 246 million (+27%)
• Recurring EPS of € 2.27 (+27%)
• Net debt at € 321 million corresponding to a gearing ratio of 15.3%

Non recurring elements amounted to a charge of € 63 million to net earnings relating primarily to restructuring measures and impairments of permanently tied-up metal inventories.

Growth investments are on or ahead of schedule and capital expenditures amounted to € 240 million. In Recycling major investments were successfully carried out as part of the program to increase capacity of the Hoboken plant by 40%.

The Board of Directors will propose a gross annual dividend of € 1.20 per share at the Annual General Meeting on 26 April 2016 of which € 0.50 was already paid out as an interim dividend in September 2015.

Outlook

Umicore expects significant volume increases in its strategic growth platforms of clean mobility and recycling in 2016. Sales of automotive catalysts are set to benefit from strengthening demand in both light and heavy duty applications while the accelerating trend towards vehicle electrification should drive sales of rechargeable battery materials higher. Processed volumes at the Hoboken recycling operations are also set to increase following the completion of the main investment wave in 2015.

Metal prices are currently at lower levels than the average of last year. Given the high level of market volatility it is too early to estimate what impact metal prices might have on the anticipated benefits from the strong volume growth.

Note: In accordance with IFRS 5 no depreciation charges were recognized for the discontinued operations in the second half of 2015. All comparisons are made with 2014, unless mentioned otherwise. All Group KPIs include the discontinued operations.

Umicore Group Communications

Naamloze vennootschap / Société anonyme phone: +32 2 227 71 11 VAT: BE0401 574 852 Broekstraat 31 Rue du Marais fax: +32 2 227 79 00 company number: 04001574852 B-1000 Brussels e-mail: info@umicore.com registered office: Broekstraat 31 Rue du Marais Belgium website: www.umicore.com B-1000 Brussels

Key figures (in million €)	H2 2014	H2 2015	2014	2015
Turnover*	4,473.1	5,000.4	8,828.5	10,441.9
Revenues (excluding metal)	1,165.4	1,293.4	2,366.5	2,629.0
Recurring EBITDA	221.0	244.7	442.2	504.7
Recurring EBIT	135.3	159.2	273.7	330.3
of which associates	15.1	5.6	28.3	14.3
Non-recurring EBIT	(12.2)	(45.1)	(21.6)	(74.9)
IAS 39 effect on EBIT	0.9	0.7	(2.7)	(2.7)
Total EBIT	124.0	114.8	249.3	252.7
Recurring EBIT margin	10.3%	11.9%	10.4%	12.0%
Average weighted net interest rate	1.92%	1.55%	1.56%	1.54%
Effective recurring tax rate	21.39%	18.61%	21.81%	21.41%
Recurring net profit, Group share	98.3	115.4	193.1	246.0
Net profit, Group share	89.1	79.1	170.6	169.2
R&D expenditure	69.5	71.5	143.3	144.5
Capital expenditure	130.2	140.3	202.4	240.3
Net cash flow before financing	21.3	74.6	139.9	119.0
Total assets, end of period	3,851.4	4,030.1	3,851.4	4,030.1
Group shareholders' equity, end of period	1,704.6	1,731.6	1,704.6	1,731.6
Consolidated net financial debt, end of period	298.3	321.3	298.3	321.3
Gearing ratio, end of period	14.6%	15.3%	14.6%	15.3%
Average net debt / recurring EBITDA	56.6%	64.9%	51.9%	61.8%
Capital employed, end of period	2,335.3	2,414.5	2,335.3	2,414.5
Capital employed, average	2,265.5	2,422.0	2,238.7	2,402.2
Return on capital employed (ROCE)	11.9%	13.1%	12.2%	13.7%
Workforce, end of period (fully consolidated)	10,368	10,429	10,368	10,429
Workforce, end of period (associates)	3,706	3,301	3,706	3,301
Accident frequency rate	1.77	2.63	2.16	2.66
Accident severity rate	0.08	0.09	0.94	0.12

* including the elimination of the transactions between continued and discontinued operations

Key figures per share (in €/share)	H2 2014	H2 2015	2014	2015
Total number of issued shares, end of period	112,000,000	112,000,000	112,000,000	112,000,000
of which shares outstanding	108,085,728	108,072,466	108,085,728	108,072,466
of which treasury shares	3,914,272	3,927,534	3,914,272	3,927,534
Average number of shares outstanding basic diluted	106,944,319 107,334,060	108,363,976 108,846,092	108,062,085 108,451,847	108,445,128 108,927,245
Recurring EPS	0.92	1.07	1.79	2.27
Basic EPS	0.83	0.73	1.58	1.56
Diluted EPS	0.83	0.73	1.57	1.55
Dividend	0.50	0.70	1.00	1.20
Net cash flow before financing, basic	0.21	0.69	1.29	1.10
Total assets, end of period	35.63	37.29	35.63	37.29
Group shareholders' equity, end of period	15.77	16.02	15.77	16.02

Catalysis

Catalysis key figures (in million €)	H2 2014	H2 2015	2014	2015
Total turnover	1,101.2	1,345.6	2,181.3	2,749.3
Total revenues (excluding metal)	450.0	544.6	917.1	1,093.7
Recurring EBITDA	61.9	87.4	124.9	172.3
Recurring EBIT	41.1	62.9	82.6	124.2
of which associates	4.0	3.7	7.0	8.8
Total EBIT	39.4	60.1	79.9	115.9
Recurring EBIT margin	8.3%	10.9%	8.2%	10.6%
R&D expenditure	40.6	45.6	83.2	91.1
Capital expenditure	35.2	45.3	59.8	78.8
Capital employed, end of period	851.4	968.2	851.4	968.2
Capital employed, average	821.8	958.8	811.4	929.6
Return on capital employed (ROCE)	10.0%	13.1%	10.2%	13.4%
Workforce, end of period (fully consolidated)	2,290	2,443	2,290	2,443
Workforce, end of period (associates)	167	168	167	168

Overview and outlook

Revenues and earnings for Catalysis were up 19% and 50% respectively, reflecting strong growth in Automotive Catalysts and -to a lesser extent- growth in the smaller Precious Metals Chemistry business unit.

Revenues are set to increase further in 2016 driven by volume growth and a supportive mix for catalysts for light duty vehicles as well as higher sales of heavy-duty diesel catalysts in Europe and Asia.

2015 Business Review

Revenues and earnings for Automotive Catalysts were up substantially year on year, reflecting strong demand and a more favourable product mix in light duty applications. The ramp up of heavy duty diesel catalyst sales in Europe and Asia further contributed to the positive evolution.

The global light duty vehicle market showed a moderate growth of 1%. The recovery in Europe and the continued growth in North America and China were largely offset by a decline in the Japanese and South American car markets. Umicore's sales volumes and revenues were well ahead of the car market, globally and in all regions.

In Europe, Umicore's volumes and revenues were significantly up, growing faster than car production, which was up 3.3%. The share of diesel catalyst in the sales mix increased following the introduction of Euro 6b compliant platforms. Sales volumes of gasoline catalysts were also higher due to the success of the platforms introduced in early 2015. Production at Umicore's new plant in Poland started up in the third quarter of 2015– ahead of the original schedule – and is ramping up.

In North America Umicore's growth was well ahead of the car market, which was up 2.7%, due to a favourable platform and customer mix. In South America, where car production levels saw a further dramatic decline, Umicore managed to grow its revenues as a result of the successful launch of new platforms.

Umicore outpaced the Chinese car market benefitting from a good platform mix and strong exposure to international car manufacturers. Car production in China grew 3%, picking up in the fourth quarter following the government's decision to cut the sales tax for vehicles with smaller engines. Umicore's revenues benefitted from a favourable product mix in South Korea, where the market showed a slight recovery. Construction of the technology development centre in Incheon City was completed and commissioning of the new facility has started. Umicore further increased its presence with Japanese OEMs globally. In India the car market grew strongly and Umicore is ramping-up production of light duty vehicle catalysts at its new production plant near Pune. Construction of the new catalyst plant in Thailand is progressing; commissioning is on schedule for the third quarter of 2016.

Revenues for Precious Metals Chemistry were well up year on year. This was mainly due to higher demand from the automotive industry for precursors used in catalytic applications, particularly in Europe. Sales of APIs (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients) continued to grow as a result of new business in the North American, European and Asia-Pacific markets. Order levels for organic compounds were also up and were driven primarily by growth in sales of materials for use in life science applications.

Energy & Surface Technologies

Energy & Surface Technologies
key figures	H2	H2
(in million €)	2014	2015	2014	2015
Total turnover	600.3	718.6	1,191.6	1,475.1
Total revenues (excluding metal)*	242.3	289.1	487.7	586.9
Recurring EBITDA	45.6	51.9	90.4	112.6
Recurring EBIT	26.7	30.3	54.1	70.2
of which associates	2.8	(2.9)	4.7	(3.5)
Total EBIT	30.5	10.9	53.4	37.3
Recurring EBIT margin	9.9%	11.5%	10.1%	12.6%
R&D expenditure	9.1	10.2	19.9	20.3
Capital expenditure	33.3	24.2	46.6	42.5
Capital employed, end of period	618.6	633.4	618.6	633.4
Capital employed, average	564.7	643.7	535.8	640.0
Return on capital employed (ROCE)	9.5%	9.4%	10.1%	11.0%
Workforce, end of period (fully consolidated)	2,181	2,258	2,181	2,258
Workforce, end of period (associates)	930	936	930	936

* Includes a revision of the definition of revenues for the distribution activities of Cobalt & Specialty Materials. Revenues for 2014 have been restated accordingly for reasons of comparability.

Overview and outlook

Revenues and earnings for Energy & Surface Technologies increased by 20% and 30% respectively, mainly as a result of strong volume growth in Rechargeable Battery Materials and higher revenues in Cobalt & Specialty Materials. The impact of higher revenues on earnings was partly offset by the negative impact of lower nickel and cobalt prices in Cobalt & Specialty Materials, particularly in the second half of the year. The segment results include costs related to the ongoing ITC litigation.

Revenues are expected to increase in 2016 driven primarily by volume growth in Rechargeable Battery Materials, in particular for automotive applications.

2015 Business Review

The Li-Ion battery market continued to grow strongly and Umicore's sales volumes and revenues for Rechargeable Battery Materials were up substantially year on year.

Global shipments of high-end portable devices remained solid in 2015, although first signs of stagnation were observed towards the end of the year leading to stock adjustments across the supply chain. Umicore successfully maintained its strong position in this market segment due to its broad customer base and proprietary High Energy LCO (lithium cobaltite) product offering.

Demand for Li-Ion cathode materials used in the transportation segment was boosted by the increasing number of electrified vehicle models. This was particularly the case in China, where sales of electrified vehicles are being supported by government incentives. In addition, newly introduced models have on average a larger battery size to fulfill the market demand for a longer driving range. Umicore, with its diversified customer base, is benefiting well from these trends in the transportation segment and recorded strong growth in demand for its wide range of NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) cathode materials. Significant efforts continued to go into product qualification schemes resulting in successful qualification for new platforms to be launched in the coming years and covering all degrees of electrification (EV, pHEV and HEV).

Capacity expansions in South Korea were completed, as planned, in the fourth quarter and current expansion investments in China will come on stream in 2016. Further capacity expansion projects in both countries are in a preparatory stage and will be initiated in the course of 2016 to support a further strong increase in demand which is expected in 2017.

Revenues for Cobalt & Specialty Materials were up year on year reflecting the contribution of the activities acquired in 2014 and increased sales volumes in several product groups. Earnings, however, were negatively impacted by lower nickel and cobalt prices as well as competitive price pressure in certain end markets.

Revenue growth in products for ceramics and chemical applications reflected the contribution of the European distribution activities which were acquired at the end of 2014. Strong demand for metal carboxylates used in various catalytic applications and higher order levels for nickel sulphate used as precursors for cathodes further added to the growth.

The revenue contribution from cobalt and nickel refining was also up. A key factor in this growth was the acquisition of CP Chemicals in the third quarter of 2014, which increased refining volumes of cobalt and nickel. Higher refining levels were recorded at the plant in Olen, Belgium.

Revenues and sales volumes in materials for tooling applications remained fairly stable in what is a highly competitive market.

Revenues for Electroplating were up year on year mainly due to the growing demand for rhodium, silver and gold products used in decorative and anti-tarnish applications. This was the case both in Asia and Europe. Sales of materials used in wear protection applications also increased. Sales of materials for use in the electronics industry were lower due to reduced demand from customers in Asia, although certain subsegments such as materials for reflective coatings in LEDs performed well.

Revenues for Electro-Optic Materials were up significantly reflecting a higher contribution from recycling and refining activities and increased sales volumes across product groups. Sales of substrates used in space photovoltaic (PV) applications were well up and the business unit successfully enhanced its position through a broadened product offering. Revenues in the infrared optics business benefited from the fastgrowing demand for finished optics. Higher sales volumes of high purity chemicals for use in fibre optics further added to the positive revenue evolution.

Thin Film Products recorded higher revenues year on year, driven mainly by growing demand for Umicore's indium tin oxide rotary targets used in the display segment, particularly in China. Revenues from products sold to the microelectronics industry were also up reflecting higher demand in Europe and Asia. The construction of the facility in China for the production and recycling of ITO targets is on track to be commissioned in the first half of 2016.

Recycling

Recycling key figures (in million €)	H2 2014	H2 2015	2014	2015
Total turnover	2,711.7	2,950.6	5,326.2	6,252.1
Total revenues (excluding metal)	335.8	320.1	678.4	662.9
Recurring EBITDA	106.8	97.6	208.7	204.3
Recurring EBIT	76.2	64.5	148.6	141.5
Total EBIT	73.1	66.8	141.2	132.5
Recurring EBIT margin	22.7%	20.2%	21.9%	21.3%
R&D expenditure	11.6	10.9	24.3	21.2
Capital expenditure	42.6	51.4	63.8	83.0
Capital employed, end of period	411.7	465.9	411.7	465.9
Capital employed, average	445.4	473.8	472.6	460.2
Return on capital employed (ROCE)	34.2%	27.2%	31.4%	30.7%
Workforce, end of period (fully consolidated)	3,302	3,211	3,302	3,211

Overview and outlook

Revenues and earnings for Recycling were down 2% and 5% respectively, reflecting the impact of lower metal prices and lower demand in certain end-markets of the Platinum Engineered Materials and Technical Materials business units.

The supply environment in Precious Metals Refining remains supportive and the increased throughput rate in the Hoboken plant should lead to higher processed volumes compared to 2015.

2015 Business Review

Revenues for Precious Metals Refining were stable year on year, despite declining metal prices. An improved supply mix both for industrial by-products and end-of-life materials helped offset the impact of the lower metal prices on revenues. As anticipated, the processed volumes were in line with those of the previous year. A higher throughput was achieved in the fourth quarter following the expansion investments which allowed the Hoboken plant to make up for the lost volumes caused by the two extended shutdowns during which the investment work was carried out.

The supply of materials was solid across segments, both in terms of volumes and quality. Supplies of end-oflife materials tended to be of a higher grade while in industrial by-products more PGM-rich material and complex residues were received from the non-ferrous metal mining and smelting industries.

The metal price environment was unsupportive with declining prices for most metals in the second half of the year and extremely low demand for certain specialty metals. Umicore mitigated the impact of lower spot prices for precious metals through previously secured pricing. Prices for specialty metals however cannot be hedged and had a significant impact on earnings especially in the second half of the year.

The Hoboken capacity expansion programme is on track. Two major investment waves were successfully carried out during the year resulting in an increased throughput rate. During 2016, further investments in auxiliary equipment will take place for which no prolonged downtime is anticipated.

Revenues for Jewellery & Industrial Metals were down due to a lower contribution from the recycling activity. While the refining volumes benefitted from a better availability of silver-containing residues, this was more than offset by the impact of lower metal prices. Revenues from the product businesses were up due to higher demand for investment products and particularly strong demand for silver coins from European and North American mint producers.

Revenues for Platinum Engineered Materials were down compared to the previous year. Order levels for platinum equipment used in glass manufacturing remained subdued as producers tend to use their platinum equipment longer, particularly in the display segment. Sales volumes for platinum gauzes used in the fertilizer industry were also lower. The business unit reduced its cost base in 2015 and is implementing further cost adjustments.

Precious Metals Management recorded higher demand for deliveries of physical metal. Demand for PGMs increased on the back of higher order levels from the automotive industry. Sales volumes for gold bars were somewhat higher as investor demand picked up in the second half of the year. The contribution from the trading activity was stable year on year.

Revenues for Technical Materials were down year on year reflecting lower sales volumes across the different product groups. In Europe the pressure from substitution and miniaturization persisted and demand in Brazil was significantly impacted by customer inventory adjustments in the fourth quarter. The first impact of the cost reduction measures that were undertaken in 2015 became visible towards the end of the period.

Corporate

Corporate key figures (in million €)	H2 2014	H2 2015	2014	2015
Recurring EBITDA	(9.2)	(11.6)	(18.7)	(24.0)
Recurring EBIT	(15.4)	(18.0)	(30.6)	(36.6)
of which associates	8.2	5.2	15.4	8.4
Total EBIT	(24.3)	(34.7)	(44.8)	(52.6)
R&D expenditure	6.4	3.5	12.6	9.0
Capital expenditure	6.2	4.1	10.9	8.5
Capital employed, end of period	189.4	147.7	189.4	147.7
Capital employed, average	174.1	154.5	169.1	164.9
Workforce, end of period (fully consolidated)	1,090	1,000	1,090	1,000
Workforce, end of period (associates)	2,108	1,689	2,108	1,689

Corporate Review

Overall corporate costs remained roughly at the same level as in 2014.

Revenues and earnings for Element Six Abrasives declined substantially year on year reflecting challenging trading conditions, particularly in the oil and gas drilling industry and, to a lesser extent, lower demand for materials used in the mining sector. The impact of lower revenues on earnings was partly offset by cost reductions and restructuring programmes throughout the organization. The previously announced closure of the production plant in Robertsfors, Sweden, was completed and the activities were consolidated in the upgraded plants in Springs, South Africa, and Shannon, Ireland.

The process which aims to divest the Zinc Chemicals and Building Products business units and assess strategic alliances in Thin Film Products is progressing well. For Electro-Optic Materials no partnership scenario currently offers an attractive value creation potential and therefore Umicore will continue to develop the business unit as a full part of the Group.

Research & development

R&D expenditure in fully consolidated companies including discontinued operations amounted to € 145 million, slightly up on the level of 2014. Higher expenditures in Catalysis were largely offset by lower R&D spending in Recycling as the expansion works in the Hoboken plant moved into a deployment phase. The R&D spend represented 5.5% of revenues and capitalized development costs accounted for € 12 million in the total amount.

People

The number of employees in the fully consolidated companies including in discontinued operations went up from 10,368 at the end of 2014 to 10,429 at the end of 2015. The workforce increased in Catalysis and Energy & Surface Technologies as a result of growth investments. The number of employees in associated companies decreased by 405 (from 3,706 at the end of 2014 to 3,301 at the end of 2015), largely due to restructuring in Element Six Abrasives.

The number of lost time accidents was 47 compared to 37 in 2014. This resulted in a frequency rate of 2.66 (compared to 2.16 in 2014) and a severity rate of 0.12 (compared to 0.94 in 2014). The main increase in accidents came in the Recycling segment.

Discontinued operations

Discontinued operations key
figures (in million €)	H2 2014	H2 2015	2014	2015
Total turnover	362.4	349.5	709.0	744.7
Total revenues (excluding metal)	139.5	143.3	288.1	291.8
Recurring EBITDA	16.0	19.5	36.9	39.6
Recurring EBIT*	6.7	19.5	19.1	31.0
of which associates	0.1	(0.4)	1.3	0.7
Total EBIT	5.3	11.7	19.7	19.6
Recurring EBIT margin	4.7%	13.9%	6.2%	10.4%
R&D expenditure	1.8	1.2	3.4	3.0
Capital expenditure	12.9	15.3	21.3	27.5
Capital employed, end of period	264.2	199.3	264.2	199.3
Capital employed, average	259.4	191.4	251.2	207.6
Return on capital employed (ROCE)	5.2%	20.3%	7.6%	14.9%
Workforce, end of period (fully consolidated)	1,505	1,517	1,505	1,517
Workforce, end of period (associates)	501	508	501	508

* In accordance with IFRS 5 no depreciation charges were recognized for discontinued operations in the second half of 2015.

2015 Business Review

Revenues and earnings for Building Products were down year on year. The European construction market remained sluggish, particularly in France which is the largest market for the business unit. In the markets outside of Europe the launch of several projects increased revenues without fully offsetting the lower sales volumes in Europe. The product mix improved somewhat with a larger share of higher added-value surface treated products. Product premiums, however, were impacted by severe competitive pressure. The implementation of significant cost reduction and productivity improvement programmes partially offset the impact of lower revenues on earnings.

Revenues and earnings for Zinc Chemicals were significantly higher year on year, with all product groups achieving higher sales volumes. The business unit benefited from a higher intake of zinc-containing residues from the galvanizing industry compared to 2014. The improved input mix more than offset the effect of the declining zinc price in the second half of the year resulting in higher recycling margins.

The growth in revenue was primarily driven by increased sales of fine zinc powders, which were in great demand in China for anti-corrosive paint used in infrastructure projects. Demand also increased for zinc oxides, especially for the feed grade industry. Revenue growth was further supported by higher order levels for zinc powders used in primary batteries, particularly in China, where the business unit gained market share.

The new state-of-the-art plant for the production of high grade zinc powders and the recycling of zinc residues in Changsha, China, was commissioned in the fourth quarter and production is ramping up. Further capacity expansion investments for Changsha are planned in 2016.

Financial review

Non-recurring items and IAS 39

Non–recurring items had a negative impact of € 75 million on EBIT. The main item consisted of impairments of permanently tied-up metal inventories across several business units due to lower metal prices and totalled € 26 million. Restructuring charges accounted for € 23 million, covering cost reduction measures and production footprint adjustments in specific business units such as Technical Materials as well as in the Element Six Abrasives joint venture. Environmental provisions of € 11 million were booked for the remediation of historical pollution. Other non-recurring expenses were amongst other linked to an impairment of Umicore's shareholding in Nyrstar. The book value of this holding was adjusted in line with IFRS toward Nyrstar's closing price on 31 December 2015 (€ 1.60). The impact of non-recurring charges on the net result (Group share) amounted to € 63 million.

IAS 39 accounting rules had a negative effect of € 3 million on EBIT and € 14 million on net result (Group share). The impact concerns timing differences imposed by IFRS that relate primarily to transactional and structural metal and currency hedges. All IAS 39 impacts are non-cash in nature.

Financial result and taxation

Net recurring financial charges totalled € 10 million, with positive foreign exchange results more than offsetting higher interest charges. The average weighted net interest rate remained stable at 1.54%.

The recurring tax charge for the period amounted to € 66 million corresponding to a stable recurring effective tax rate for the period of 21.4% (vs 21.8% in 2014).

Cashflows

Cashflow from operations was € 432 million. This included an increase of working capital of € 43 million as a result of the business expansion across the business groups which was tempered by a decrease of working capital in the discontinued operations.

Capital expenditures totalled € 240 million, of which the vast majority was related to Umicore's growth projects. In Recycling major investments linked to the capacity expansion in Hoboken were successfully carried out during the year. Investments in Catalysis were mainly linked to the construction of the production facilities in Poland and Thailand, as well as the construction of Ordeg's new technology development centre in South Korea. Capital expenditures in Energy & Surface Technologies were primarily related to the ongoing production capacity expansions for Rechargeable Battery Materials in China and South Korea.

Financial debt

Net financial debt at 31 December 2015 stood at € 321 million, slightly up from € 298 million at the start of the year, despite the significant investments over the period. Group shareholders' equity stood at € 1,732 million resulting in a net gearing ratio (net debt / net debt + equity) of 15.3%. The average net debt to recurring EBITDA ratio corresponded to 0.6x.

Dividend and shares

The Board of Directors will propose a gross annual dividend of € 1.20 per share at the Annual General Meeting on 26 April 2016. Taking into account the interim dividend of € 0.50 per share paid out on 3 September 2015 and subject to shareholder approval, a gross amount of € 0.70 per share would be paid out on 2 May 2016.

In the course of 2015, Umicore bought back 920,000 of its own shares. During the year 873,338 shares were used in the context of exercised stock options. On 4 February 2016 Umicore held 3,911,034 shares in treasury, representing 3.49% of the Group's outstanding shares.

Statutory auditor's note on the consolidated financial information for the year ended on 31 December 2015

The statutory auditor, PwC Reviseurs d'Entreprises SCCRL, represented by Marc Daelman, has confirmed that his audit work, which is substantially complete, has not to date revealed any significant matters requiring adjustments to the 2015 consolidated income statement, the consolidated statement of comprehensive income, the consolidated balance sheet, the consolidated statement of changes in the equity of the Group or consolidated cashflow statement included in this press release.

Sint-Stevens-Woluwe, 4 February 2016

PwC Bedrijfsrevisoren/Reviseurs d'Entreprises SCCRL Represented by

Marc Daelman Bedrijfsrevisor / Réviseur d'entreprises

Management responsibility statement

I hereby certify that, to the best of my knowledge, the Consolidated Financial Information of 2015 prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, as adopted by the European Union, and with the legal requirements applicable in Belgium, give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the Group and the undertakings included in the consolidation. The commentary on the overall performance of the Group from page 1 to 15 includes a fair review of the development and performance of the business and the position of the Group and its undertakings included in the consolidation.

Brussels, 4 February 2016

Marc Grynberg Chief Executive Officer

Consolidated financial information for the year ended on 31 December 2015

Consolidated income statement (in million €)	2014	2015
Turnover	8,125.3	9,697.7
Other operating income	46.7	58.0
Operating income	8,172.1	9,755.7
Raw materials and consumables	(6,890.3)	(8,316.3)
Payroll and related benefits	(603.3)	(640.4)
Depreciation and impairments	(162.3)	(218.8)
Other operating expenses	(316.1)	(354.3)
Operating expenses	(7,972.0)	(9,529.9)
Income (loss) from other financial assets	9.7	(2.6)
Result from operating activities	209.8	223.2
Financial income	4.0	4.1
Financial expenses	(19.1)	(16.6)
Foreign exchange gains and losses	(6.5)	(12.1)
Share in result of companies accounted for using the equity method	19.8	9.8
Profit (loss) before income tax	208.0	208.5
Income taxes	(44.4)	(47.7)
Profit (loss) from continuing operations	163.7	160.7
Profit (loss) from discontinued operations*	14.4	16.4
Profit (loss) of the period	178.1	177.2
of which minority share	7.5	7.9
of which Group share	170.6	169.2
(in € / share)
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations	1.45	1.41
Total basic earnings per share	1.58	1.56
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations	1.44	1.41
Total diluted earnings per share	1.57	1.55
Dividend per share	1.00	1.20

* Attributable to equityholders of these companies

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income
(in million €)	2014	2015
Profit (loss) of the period from continuing operations	163.7	160.7
Items in other comprehensive income that will not be reclassified to P&L Changes in post employment benefits,
arising from changes in actuarial assumptions	(55.8)	(16.4)
Changes in deferred taxes directly recognized in other comprehensive income Items in other comprehensive income that may be subsequently reclassified to P&L	16.6	2.9
Changes in available-for-sale financial assets reserves	15.0	(15.8)
Changes in cash flow hedge reserves	(14.6)	(13.1)
Changes in deferred taxes directly recognized in other comprehensive income	4.3	4.5
Changes in currency translation differences	67.6	(0.7)
Other comprehensive income from continuing operations	33.0	(38.6)
Total comprehensive income from discontinued operations	10.5	23.2
Total comprehensive income for the period	207.2	145.3
of which Group share	196.5	139.5
of which minority share	10.7	5.8

The deferred tax impact on the other comprehensive income is related to the cash flow hedge reserves for € 4.5 million and to post employment benefit reserves for € 2.9 million.

(in million €)	31/12/2014	31/12/2015
Non-current assets	1,710.5	1,614.2
Intangible assets	266.1	251.8
Property, plant and equipment	1,061.7	1,022.6
Investments accounted for using the equity method	208.8	189.8
Available-for-sale financial assets	50.3	29.2
Loans granted	1.2	1.5
Trade and other receivables	17.6	15.2
Deferred tax assets	104.8	104.1
Current assets	2,140.9	1,996.3
Loans granted	6.9	2.7
Inventories	1,182.9	1,053.7
Trade and other receivables	827.0	829.8
Income tax receivables	34.3	35.7
Cash and cash equivalents	89.8	74.5
Assets of discontinued operations	-	419.6
Total assets	3,851.4	4,030.1
Equity of the Group	1,750.1	1,785.0
Group shareholders' equity	1,694.4	1,698.7
Share capital and premiums	502.9	502.9
Retained earnings	1,458.3	1,501.3
Currency translation differences and other reserves	(136.0)	(175.5)
Treasury shares	(130.9)	(129.9)
Minority interest	45.3	52.6
Elements of comprehensive income of discontinued operations	10.5	33.7
Non-current liabilities	494.0	490.2
Provisions for employee benefits	331.7	312.4
Financial debt	22.6	71.3
Trade and other payables	21.5	24.7
Deferred tax liabilities	17.5	6.2
Provisions	100.7	75.7
Current liabilities	1,607.3	1,525.7
Financial debt	365.5	338.9
Trade and other payables	1,148.6	1,095.4
Income tax payable	64.0	54.9
Provisions	29.2	36.5
Liabilities of discontinued operations	-	229.2
Total equity & liabilities	3,851.4	4,030.1

Consolidated statement of changes in the equity of the Group (in million €)	Share capital & premiums	Reserves	Currency translation & other reserves	Treasury shares	Minority interest	Total for continuing operations	Elements of comprehensive income of discontinued operations	Total equity
Balance at the beginning of 2014	502.9	1,647.4	(167.4)	(305.7)	46.3	1,723.4	-	1,723.4
Result of the period	-	156.3	-	-	7.4	163.7	14.4	178.1
Other comprehensive income for the period	-	-	30.0	-	3.1	33.0	(4.0)	29.0
Total comprehensive income for the period	-	156.3	30.0	-	10.4	196.7	10.5	207.1
Changes in share-based payment reserves	-	-	3.6	-	-	3.6	-	3.6
Capital increase	-	-	-	-	(5.7)	(5.7)	-	(5.7)
Dividends	-	(108.7)	-	-	(7.1)	(115.7)	-	(115.7)
Transfers	-	(236.7)	(2.1)	238.7	-	-	-	-
Changes in treasury shares	-	-	-	(63.9)	-	(63.9)	-	(63.9)
Changes in scope	-	-	-	-	1.3	1.3	-	1.3
Balance at the end of 2014	502.9	1,458.3	(136.0)	(130.9)	45.3	1,739.7	10.5	1,750.1
Result of the period	-	153.2	-	-	7.5	160.7	16.4	177.2
Other comprehensive income for the period	-	-	(36.3)	-	(2.3)	(38.6)	6.8	(31.8)
Total comprehensive income for the period	-	153.2	(36.3)	-	5.2	122.1	23.2	145.3
Changes in share-based payment reserves	-	-	5.8	-	-	5.8	-	5.8
Capital increase	-	-	-	-	7.4	7.4		7.4
Dividends	-	(108.6)	-	-	(5.4)	(114.0)		(114.0)
Transfers	-	(1.7)	(9.1)	10.7	-	-		-
Changes in treasury shares	-	-	-	(9.8)	-	(9.8)		(9.8)
Balance at the end of 2015	502.9	1,501.3	(175.5)	(129.9)	52.6	1,751.3	33.7	1,785.0

Consolidated cashflow statement

(in million €)	2014	2015
Profit (loss) from continuing operations	163.7	160.7
Adjustments for profit of equity companies	(19.8)	(9.8)
Adjustment for non-cash transactions	147.5	234.6
Adjustments for items to disclose separately or under investing and financing cashflows	47.1	50.7
Change in working capital requirement	87.8	(113.1)
Cashflow generated from operations	426.2	323.1
Dividend received	15.1	23.9
Tax paid during the period	(53.3)	(80.9)
Government grants received	8.1	(1.0)
Net operating cashflow	396.1	265.1
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment	(169.5)	(204.5)
Acquisition of intangible assets	(24.1)	(20.9)
Acquisition of new subsidiaries, net of cash acquired	(35.2)	0.5
Acquisition of / capital increase in associates	(0.2)	(1.8)
Acquisition of financial assets New loans extended	(18.8) (2.1)	(0.1) (3.3)
Sub-total acquisitions	(249.9)	(230.0)
Disposal of property, plant and equipment	2.4	2.1
Disposal of intangible assets	0.6	1.7
Disposal of subsidiaries and associates, net of cash disposed	-	0.6
Capital decrease in associates	-	0.2
Disposal of financial fixed assets	5.1	-
Repayment of loans	-	3.4
Sub-total disposals	8.2	8.1
Net cashflow generated by (used in) investing activities	(241.8)	(221.9)
Capital increase (decrease) minority	(4.5)	3.5
Own shares	(63.9)	(9.8)
Interest received Interest paid	3.3 (6.5)	3.7 (9.3)
New loans and repayments	38.6	26.8
Dividends paid to Umicore shareholders	(107.9)	(108.6)
Dividends paid to minority shareholders	(7.1)	(5.4)
Net cashflow generated by (used in) financing activities	(148.0)	(99.1)
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations	(9.2)	(17.3)
Total net cashflow of the period	(2.8)	(73.2)
Net cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period for
continuing operations	105.8	102.9
Impact of final financing carved out entities	(0.0)	36.4
Net cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period for continuing operations	102.9	66.2
Cash for discontinued operations	(23.1)	37.9
of which cash and cash equivalents
of which bank overdrafts	89.8 (9.9)	112.4 (8.3)

Condensed segment information 2014 (in million €)	Catalysis	Energy & Surface Technologies	Recycling	Corporate	Eliminations	Discontinued operations	Total
Total segment turnover	2,181.3	1,191.6	5,326.2	31.2	(604.9)	709.0	8,834.3
of which external turnover	2,162.2	1,136.7	4,795.2	31.2	-	709.0	8,834.3
of which inter-segment turnover	19.2	54.9	530.9	-	(604.9)	-	-
Total segment revenues (excluding metal)	917.1	487.7	678.3	-	(4.8)	288.1	2,366.5
of which external revenues (excluding metal)	916.3	487.4	674.7	-	-	288.1	2,366.5
of which inter-segment revenues (excluding metal)	0.8	0.3	3.6	-	(4.8)	-	-
Recurring EBIT	82.6	54.1	148.6	(30.6)	-	19.1	273.7
of which from operating result	75.5	49.4	148.6	(46.0)	-	17.8	245.3
of which from equity method companies	7.0	4.7	-	15.4	-	1.3	28.3
Non-recurring EBIT	(2.1)	0.9	(7.2)	(13.4)	-	0.1	(21.6)
of which from operating result	(1.9)	0.9	(7.2)	(7.1)	-	(0.1)	(15.4)
of which from equity method companies	(0.2)	-	-	(6.3)	-	0.2	(6.3)
IAS 39 effect on EBIT	(0.5)	(1.7)	(0.3)	(0.8)	-	0.5	(2.7)
of which from operating result	(0.5)	(1.7)	(0.3)	-	-	0.5	(1.9)
of which from equity method companies	(0.0)	-	-	(0.8)	-	-	(0.8)
Total EBIT	79.9	53.4	141.2	(44.8)	-	19.7	249.3
of which from operating result	73.1	48.7	141.2	(53.1)	-	18.2	228.0
of which from equity method companies	6.8	4.7	-	8.3	-	1.5	21.3
Capital expenditure	59.8	46.6	63.8	10.9	-	21.3	202.4
Depreciation & amortization	43.2	36.2	60.2	11.9	-	17.8	169.3

Condensed segment information 2015 (in million €)	Catalysis	Energy & Surface Technologies	Recycling	Corporate	Eliminations	Discontinued operations	Total
Total segment turnover of which external turnover of which inter-segment turnover	2,749.3 2,728.3 21.0	1,475.1 1,422.1 53.1	6,252.1 5,521.2 730.9	26.2 26.2 -	(805.0) - (805.0)	744.7 744.7 -	10,442.4 10,442.4 -
Total segment revenues (excluding metal) of which external revenues (excluding metal) of which inter-segment revenues (excluding metal)	1,093.7 1,092.9 0.8	586.9 586.6 0.3	662.9 657.7 5.3	- - -	(6.3) - (6.3)	291.8 291.8 -	2,629.0 2,629.0 (0.0)
Recurring EBIT of which from operating result of which from equity method companies	124.2 115.4 8.8	70.2 73.7 (3.5)	141.5 141.5 -	(36.6) (45.0) 8.4	- - -	31.0 30.3 0.7	330.3 315.9 14.3
Non-recurring EBIT of which from operating result of which from equity method companies	(7.0) (5.0) (2.0)	(32.6) (32.6) -	(11.7) (11.7) -	(16.3) (14.3) (2.0)	- - -	(7.2) (6.9) (0.3)	(74.9) (70.6) (4.3)
IAS 39 effect on EBIT of which from operating result of which from equity method companies	(1.3) (1.2) (0.1)	(0.3) (0.3) -	2.7 2.7 -	0.3 - 0.3	- - -	(4.1) (4.1) -	(2.7) (2.9) 0.2
Total EBIT of which from operating result of which from equity method companies	115.9 109.2 6.7	37.3 40.8 (3.5)	132.5 132.5 -	(52.6) (59.3) 6.6	- - -	19.6 19.3 0.3	252.7 242.5 10.2
Capital expenditure Depreciation & amortization	78.8 48.2	42.5 42.3	83.0 62.8	8.5 12.6	- -	27.5 8.6	240.3 174.5

Non-recurring results and IAS 39 impact included in the results, including discontinued operations

Impact of IAS 39 & non-recurring elements		of which:	Non-	Effect
(in million €)	Total	recurring	recurring	IAS 39
2014
Profit from operations	228.0	245.3	(15.4)	(1.9)
of which income from other financial investments	9.8	0.4	9.4	-
Result of companies accounted for
using the equity method EBIT	21.3 249.3	28.3 273.7	(6.3) (21.6)	(0.8) (2.7)
Finance cost	(24.7)	(25.1)	(1.5)	1.9
Tax	(46.5)	(48.0)	1.4	0.2
Net result	178.1	200.6	(21.8)	(0.7)
of which minority share	7.5	7.4	0.1	(0.1)
of which Group share	170.6	193.1	(21.9)	(0.6)
2015
Profit from operations	242.5	315.9	(70.6)	(2.9)
of which income from other financial investments	(2.5)	(0.0)	(2.5)	-
Result of companies accounted for
using the equity method	10.2	14.3	(4.3)	0.2
EBIT	252.7	330.3	(74.9)	(2.7)
Finance cost	(26.5)	(9.6)	0.3	(17.2)
Tax	(49.1)	(65.6)	10.3	6.2
Net result	177.2	255.1	(64.2)	(13.7)
of which minority share	7.9	9.1	(1.1)	(0.1)
of which Group share	169.2	246.0	(63.1)	(13.7)

Contingencies, accounting estimates and adjusting events

In the course of the first half of 2015 the French Competition Authority issued a statement of objections relating to the business practices of the company's Building Products business unit with respect to its distributors. Umicore strongly disputes the allegations contained in the statement of objections. With reference to existing case law of the European Commission and the Bundeskartellamt, Umicore disputes among others the narrow market definition of the French Authority and hence the assertion that Umicore would have a dominant position in the relevant market.

On 20 February 2015, BASF Corp. and the University of Chicago Argonne filed two lawsuits against Umicore. One action was filed at the United States International Trade Commission (ITC). The other was filed in federal district court in Wilmington, Delaware, and was stayed. The ITC action relates to an alleged infringement of two U.S. patents related to materials used in battery cathodes. A hearing was held in October 2015 and an initial determination will be issued on 29 February 2016, followed by a final decision of the ITC Commission on 30 June. In parallel, Umicore is challenging the validity of the patents at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

Discontinued operations

Condensed income statement of discontinued operations
(in million €)	2014	2015
Operating income Operating expenses Result from operating activities	713.0 (694.9) 18.2	748.4 (729.2) 19.3
Finance cost - Net Share in result of companies accounted for using the equity method	(3.1) 1.5	(1.9) 0.3
Profit (loss) before income tax	16.6	17.7
Income taxes	(2.2)	(1.3)
Profit (loss) of the period	14.4	16.4
(in € / share)
Basic earnings per share from discontinued operations Diluted earnings per share from discontinued operations	0.13 0.13	0.15 0.15

Assets and liabilities of discontinued operations
(in million €)	31/12/2015
Non-current assets	163.6
Property, plant and equipment	116.5
Investments accounted for using the equity method	22.9
Other non-current assets	24.2
Current assets	256.0
Inventories	124.9
Trade and other receivables	91.5
Cash and cash equivalents	37.9
Other current assets	1.7
Total assets	419.6
Non-current liabilities	44.1
Provisions for employee benefits	36.6
Financial debt	0.8
Other non-current liabilities	6.7
Current liabilities	185.1
Financial debt	22.7
Trade and other payables	157.6
Other current liabilities	4.7
Total liabilities	229.2

Condensed cashflow statement of the discontinued operations
(in million €)	2014	2015
Net operating cashflow	4.9	108.8
Net cashflow generated by (used in) investing activities	(20.9)	(26.0)
Net cashflow generated by (used in) financing activities	1.5	15.2
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations	(1.2)	(0.6)
Total net cashflow of the period	(15.6)	97.3
Net cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period for discontinued
operations	(7.5)	(23.1)
Impact of final financing carved out entities	0.0	(36.4)
Net cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period for discontinued
operations	(23.1)	37.9

Forward looking statements

This document contains forward-looking information that involves risks and uncertainties, including statements about Umicore's plans, objectives, expectations and intentions. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements include known and unknown risks and are subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the control of Umicore. Should one or more of these risks, uncertainties or contingencies materialize, or should any underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could vary materially from those anticipated, expected, estimated or projected. As a result, neither Umicore nor any other person assumes any responsibility for the accuracy of these forward-looking statements.

Glossary

For a glossary of used financial and technical terms please refer to: http://www.umicore.com/en/investors/financial-data/glossary/

For more information

Investor Relations
Evelien Goovaerts	+32 2 227 78 38	evelien.goovaerts@umicore.com
Media Relations
Tim Weekes	+32 2 227 73 98	tim.weekes@umicore.com
Financial calendar
26 April 2016	2016 first quarter trading update
26 April 2016	Annual General Meeting

28 April 2016	Ex-dividend trading date
29 April 2016	Record date for dividend
02 May 2016	Payment date for dividend
29 July 2016	Half Year Results 2016
21 October 2016	2016 third quarter trading update
10 February 2017	Full Year Results 2016

Umicore profile

Umicore is a global materials technology and recycling group. It focuses on application areas where its expertise in materials science, chemistry and metallurgy makes a real difference. Its activities are organised in three business groups: Catalysis, Energy & Surface Technologies and Recycling. Each business group is divided into market-focused business units offering materials and solutions that are at the cutting edge of new technological developments and essential to everyday life.

Umicore generates the majority of its revenues and dedicates most of its R&D efforts to clean technologies, such as emission control catalysts, materials for rechargeable batteries and recycling. Umicore's overriding goal of sustainable value creation is based on an ambition to develop, produce and recycle materials in a way that fulfils its mission: materials for a better life.

The Umicore Group has industrial operations on all continents and serves a global customer base; it generated a turnover of € 10.4 billion (€ 2.6 billion excluding metal) in 2015 and currently employs 10,400 people.

A conference call and audio webcast will take place today at 09:30 CET in Brussels. Please visit: http://www.umicore.com/en/investors/news-results/press-releases/20160122CalendarFYR2015EN/