Akzo Nobel N.V. — Earnings Release 2015

Jul 21, 2015

Mediabericht

21 juli 2015

AkzoNobel publiceert resultaten tweede kwartaal 2015

AkzoNobel laat opnieuw verbetering zien in resultaten

• Bedrijfsresultaat steeg met 38 procent tot €486 miljoen (2014: €353 miljoen)
• Omzet steeg 6 procent tot €3,9 miljard, voornamelijk als gevolg van gunstige valuta-effecten
• Verbeterde prestaties met rendement op verkopen (ROS) van 12,3 procent (2014: 9,5 procent); en rendement op investeringen (ROI) van 11,7 procent (2014: 10,1 procent)
• Nettoresultaat voor aandeelhouders steeg 61 procent tot €331 miljoen (2014: € 205 miljoen)
• Aangepaste winst per aandeel (EPS) steeg 37 procent tot €1,30 (2014: €0,95)
• Netto kasinstroom uit operationele activiteiten was €407 miljoen (2014: €393 miljoen)
• Desinvestering van Paper Chemicals afgerond
• Driejaarlijkse herziening ICI Pension Fund (UK) voltooid in juli 2015
• Op koers om de doelstellingen voor 2015 te behalen

Akzo Nobel N.V. (AKZA.AS; AKZOY) maakte vandaag een tweede kwartaal bekend met positieve winstontwikkelingen bij alle drie de bedrijfsonderdelen, ondanks een uitdagende marktomgeving.

Het bedrijfsresultaat in het tweede kwartaal steeg met 38 procent tot €486 miljoen, als gevolg van positieve effecten van efficiëntieprogramma's, lagere kosten, verminderde herstructureringsuitgaven, resultaten van desinvesteringen en gunstige valuta-effecten. De omzet van €3.949 miljoen steeg met 6 procent vergeleken met dezelfde periode vorig jaar als gevolg van gunstige valutakoersen, geneutraliseerd door desinvesteringen en lagere volumes op sommige gebieden. De desinvestering van Paper Chemicals werd afgerond in lijn met de strategie om de portfolio verder te stroomlijnen. De driejaarlijkse herziening van het ICI Pension Fund (UK) werd succesvol afgerond in juli 2015. Markttrends in Noord-Amerika bleven positief waarbij Europa niet verbeterde. In veel landen blijven de marktomstandigheden uitdagend, waaronder in Rusland, Brazilië en China. Rendement op verkopen steeg naar 12,3 procent en rendement op investeringen verbeterde met als resultaat 11,7 procent. AkzoNobel blijft op koers om de doelstellingen voor 2015 te behalen.

CEO Ton Büchner:

"We blijven voordurend werken aan het het verbeteren van onze prestaties. Dit positioneert ons om maximaal te profiteren van toekomstige kansen en groei. Het tweede kwartaal liet wederom het positieve effect zien van onze focus op winstgevendheid en leidende positie in duurzaamheid. De wereldeconomie blijft uitdagend en toont een zeer gemengd beeld met een dynamiek die per regio en klantsegment verschilt. We blijven op koers om onze doelstellingen voor 2015 te realiseren."

2e kwartaal 2015 in € miljoen

	Q2 2014	Q2 2015	Δ %
Omzet	3.710	3.949	6
Bedrijfsresultaat	353	486	38
Rendement op verkopen (ROS) %	9,5	12,3
EBITDA	509	610	20
Nettoresultaat voor aandeelhouders	205	331	61

1e halfjaar 2015 in € miljoen

	H1 2014	H1 2015	Δ %
Omzet	7.093	7.540	6
Bedrijfsresultaat	569	792	39
Rendement op verkopen (ROS) %	8,0	10,5
EBITDA	873	1.072	23
Nettoresultaat voor aandeelhouders	334	491	47

Strawinskylaan 2555 T +31 20 502 7833 1070 AS Amsterdam The Netherlands

P.O. Box 75730 E media.relations@akzonobel.com

Decorative Paints realiseerde een solide groei in winstgevendheid, met een 25 procent hoger bedrijfsresultaat en een 6 procent hogere omzet. Het bedrijfsresultaat steeg met 25 procent als gevolg van een nieuw operationeel model, lagere kosten, verminderde herstructureringsuitgaven, strikte kostenbeheersing en gunstige valuta-ontwikkelingen. De omzet steeg met 6 procent, voornamelijk als gevolg van gunstige valuta-effecten. De volumes in het tweede kwartaal stegen in Azië, maar daalden in Europa en Latijns-Amerika.

Performance Coatings profiteerde van kostenbesparingen als gevolg van initiatieven voor prestatieverbetering, margebeheer, productiviteit en gunstige valuta's, resulterend in een 24 procent hoger bedrijfsresultaat. De omzet steeg met 8 procent en was hoger bij alle rapporterende onderdelen, waarbij werd geprofiteerd van gunstige valuta's en een grotere vraag naar premiumproducten. De volumes daalden als gevolg van lagere kapitaal- en onderhoudsuitgaven in de olie- en gasindustrie. Rusland, Brazilië en China blijven uitdagend.

Bij Specialty Chemicals steeg het bedrijfsresultaat met 55 procent (31 procent exclusief incidentele posten in verband met de desinvestering van Paper Chemicals). De resultaten werden ondersteund door de productiestijging bij de nieuwe fabriek in Frankfurt, operationele efficiëntie binnen de hele organisatie en gunstige valuta-ontwikkelingen. De omzet steeg met 5 procent als gevolg van doorlopend gunstige valuta-effecten, deels geneutraliseerd door de gevolgen van de desinvestering van Paper Chemicals. De algehele volumes waren vlak. De groei in sommige segmenten compenseerde een lagere vraag in het segment olieboringen. De trend in Noord-Amerika bleef positief terwijl de groei in Azië ingetogen was en de vraag in Europa en Zuid-Amerika zwak bleef.

Vooruitzichten

Wisselkoersschommelingen, positieve markttrends in Noord-Amerika en het uitblijven van een algehele verbetering in Europa, alsmede lagere groeicijfers in veel landen, waaronder Rusland, Brazilië en China, bepalen de dynamiek voor 2015. De in recente jaren ondernomen acties vormen een gezonde basis voor verdere verbeterde prestaties. We liggen op koers om onze doelstellingen voor 2015* te realiseren.

Hoogtepunten per bedrijfsonderdeel in € miljoen

Decorative Paints
Q2 2014	Q2 2015	Δ%		H1 2014	H1 2015	Δ%
1.074	1.134	6	Omzet	1.939	2.024	4
102	128	25	Bedrijfsresultaat	119	178	50
9,5	11,3		ROS %	6,1	8,8
141	165	17	EBITDA	197	253	28
Performance Coatings
Q2 2014	Q2 2015	Δ%		H1 2014	H1 2015	Δ%
1.434	1.550	8	Omzet	2.753	2.980	8
178	220	24	Bedrijfsresultaat	304	390	28
12,4	14,2		ROS %	11,0	13,1
212	257	21	EBITDA	375	463	23
Specialty Chemicals
Q2 2014	Q2 2015	Δ%		H1 2014	H1 2015	Δ%
1.228	1.290	5	Omzet	2.450	2.586	6
124	192	55	Bedrijfsresultaat	259	355	37
10,1	14,9		ROS %	10,6	13,7
204	243	19	EBITDA	408	485	19

* Algehele doelstellingen voor geheel 2015 zijn 9,0 procent rendement op verkopen en 14,0 procent rendement op investeringen

Het rapport van het 2e kwartaal 2015 kan worden gedownload via de AkzoNobel Report iPad app http://bit.ly/obljrfof online worden gelezen op www.akzonobel.com/quarterlyresults.

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AkzoNobel is een internationaal vooraanstaande verf- en coatings onderneming en een belangrijk producent van specialistische chemicaliën.Vanuit een eeuwenlange expertise voorzien wij industrie en consumenten wereldwijd van innovatieve producten en duurzame technologieën om te voldoen aan de groeiende behoeften van onze snel veranderende planeet. Ons hoofdkantoor staat in Amsterdam en we hebben circa 46.000 medewerkers verspreid over 80 landen. Tot onze merken behoren bekende namen als Dulux, Sikkens, International, Interpon en Eka. We hebben een permanente leiderschapspositie op het gebied van duurzaamheid van waaruit we ons inzetten voor een hogere kwaliteit van leven en betere leefbaarheid in steden.

Niet voor publicatie – voor meer informatie

T +31 (0)20 – 502 7833 T +31 (0)20 – 502 7854

Corporate Media Relations Corporate Investor Relations Contact: Diana Abrahams Contact: Lloyd Midwinter

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains statements which address key issues such as AkzoNobel's growth strategy, future financial results, market positions, product development, products in the pipeline and product approvals. Such statements should be carefully considered, and it should be understood that many factors could cause forecasted and actual results to differ from these statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, price fluctuations, currency fluctuations, developments in raw material and personnel costs, pensions, physical and environmental risks, legal issues, and legislative, fiscal, and other regulatory measures. Stated competitive positions are based on management estimates supported by information provided by specialized external agencies. For a more comprehensive discussion of the risk factors affecting our business please see our latest annual report, a copy of which can be found on our website www.akzonobel.com

Half-yearly report & report for the second quarter

Making cities more livable

AkzoNobel partnered with Monocle magazines' 'Quality top 25 world's most livable cities. of Life' Survey. Portland, US, pictured here, is one of the 15

(44 percent in high growth markets) AkzoNobel around the world Revenue by destination

		%		F
	A North America	15	E		A
	B Emerging Europe	8			B
C	Mature Europe	37
D	Asia Pacific	26	D
E	Latin America	10
F	Other regions	4			C
		100

(Based on the full year 2014)

Our results at a glance

Q2:

• Revenue up 6 percent to €3.9 billion, due to 9 percent favorable currency effects, offset by divestments and lower volume
• Operating income up 38 percent at €486 million (2014: €353 million), reflecting the positive effects of process optimization, lower costs, reduced restructuring expenses, divestment results and favorable currency developments
• ROS improved to 12.3 percent (2014: 9.5 percent); excluding incidental items, ROS was 11.4 percent (2014: 9.5 percent); ROI improved to 11.7 percent (2014: 10.1 percent)
• Net income attributable to shareholders up 61 percent at €331 million (2014: €205 million)
• Adjusted EPS up 37 percent at €1.30 (2014: €0.95)
• Net cash inflow from operating activities €407 million (2014: €393 million)
• Divestment of the Paper Chemicals business completed

Outlook:

• The market trend in North America continues to be positive with Europe not improving. Conditions remain challenging in many other countries, including Russia, Brazil and China
• On track to deliver 2015 targets

Financial highlights

Summary of financial outcomes

Second quarter				January-June
2014	2015	∆% in € millions	2014	2015	∆%
3,710	3,949	6 Revenue	7,093	7,540	6
353	486	38 Operating income	569	792	39
353	452	28 Operating income excluding incidental items	569	758	33
9.5	12.3	ROS%	8.0	10.5
9.5	11.4	ROS excl. incidental items (in %)	8.0	10.1
		Average invested capital	9,784	10,365
		Moving average ROI (in %)	10.1	11.7
509	610	20 EBITDA	873	1,072	23
150	137	Capital expenditures	265	260
393	407	Net cash from operating activities	(159)	(215)
		Net debt	2,129	2,138
206	332	61 Net income from continuing operations	332	495	49
(1)	(1)	Net income from discontinued operations	2	(4)
205	331	61 Net income attributable to shareholders	334	491	47
0.84	1.34	Earnings per share from total operations (in €)	1.37	1.99
0.95	1.30	37 Adjusted earnings per share (in €)	1.56	2.07	33
		Number of employees	48,400	46,000

Overall targets for the full year 2015 are 9.0 percent return on sales and 14.0 percent return on investment

Financial highlights

Revenue was up 6 percent in Q2, due to 9 percent favorable currency effects offset by divestments and lower volume. Operating income was €486 million (2014: €353 million); up 38 percent, reflecting the positive effects of process optimization, lower costs, reduced restructuring expenses, divestment results and favorable currency developments. ROS improved to 12.3 percent (2014: 9.5 percent) and ROI improved to 11.7 percent (2014: 10.1 percent). Net cash inflow from operating activities was €407 million (2014: €393 million).

The market trend in North America continued to be positive with Europe not improving. Conditions remained challenging in many other countries, including Russia, Brazil and China.

Revenue

• Revenue in Decorative Paints was up 6 percent, mainly driven by favorable currency effects. Volumes for the second quarter were up in Asia, while volumes were down for Europe and Latin America
• Revenue in Performance Coatings was up 8 percent across the reporting units, benefiting from favorable currencies and higher demand for premium products. Volumes declined in the quarter mainly due to lower capital and maintenance spending in the global oil and gas industry. Russia, Brazil and China remain challenging
• Revenue in Specialty Chemicals was up 5 percent due to continued favorable currency effects, partly offset by the impact of the divestment of the Paper Chemicals business, which was completed early May. Volumes were flat. Growth in some segments compensated for lower demand in oil and gas drilling segments. North America continued to show a positive trend, while growth in Asia was subdued and demand remained weak in Europe and South America

Acquisitions and divestments

• Specialty Chemicals completed the sale of its Paper Chemicals business for €153 million. The business was part of Pulp and Performance Chemicals

Revenue

Second quarter				January-June
2014	2015	∆% in € millions	2014	2015	∆%
1,074	1,134	6 Decorative Paints	1,939	2,024	4
1,434	1,550	8 Performance Coatings	2,753	2,980	8
1,228	1,290	5 Specialty Chemicals	2,450	2,586	6
(26)	(25)	Other activities/eliminations	(49)	(50)
3,710	3,949	6 Total	7,093	7,540	6

Revenue development Q2 2015

Increase Decrease

8
6	9%	6%
4
2
-2% 0% -1% 0
-2		Total
-4

			divestments	Exchange rates
in % versus 2014	Volume	Price/mix	Divestments	rates	Total
Decorative Paints	(1)	–	–	7	6
Performance Coatings	(3)	–	–	11	8
Specialty Chemicals	–	(1)	(2)	8	5
Total	(2)	–	(1)	9	6

Volume development per quarter

(year-on-year)	Q2 14	Q3 14	Q4 14	Q1 15	Q2 15
Decorative Paints	3	–	(2)	(3)	(1)
Performance Coatings	1	2	–	(3)	(3)
Specialty Chemicals	4	–	(1)	–	–
Total	3	1	(1)	(2)	(2)

Price/mix development per quarter

(year-on-year)	Q2 14	Q3 14	Q4 14	Q1 15	Q2 15
Decorative Paints	(3)	(3)	–	(1)	–
Performance Coatings	2	(1)	1	1	–
Specialty Chemicals	(1)	1	–	–	(1)
Total	(1)	(1)	–	–	–

Operating income

• In Decorative Paints, operating income was up 25 percent due to the new operating model, lower costs, reduced restructuring expenses, strict cost containment and favorable currency developments
• In Performance Coatings, operating income was up 24 percent driven by cost reductions from performance improvement initiatives, margin management activities, manufacturing productivity, and favorable currencies
• In Specialty Chemicals, operating income was up 55 percent (31 percent excluding incidental items related to the divestment of the Paper Chemicals business). Results were supported by the increase of production at the new Frankfurt plant, operational efficiencies throughout the business and favorable currency developments

Total restructuring charges in the second quarter amounted to €24 million (2014: €45 million), excluding restructuring charges linked to the divestment of the Paper Chemicals business included in incidental items.

Raw material prices were lower, although in certain regions foreign currency effects have adversely impacted raw material costs in local currencies.

Operating income in other activities

Operating income in other activities was lower than the previous year. Corporate costs were higher due to planned functional transformation projects. Pension costs were impacted by de-risking initiatives.

Net financing expenses

Net financing expenses decreased due to lower external interest expenses and reduced interest on provisions.

Tax

The year-to-date effective tax rate was 26 percent (2014: 26 percent). The tax rate was positively impacted by favorable one-time adjustments and the tax effect of the divestment. Excluding one-off items the effective tax rate was 28 percent (2014: 28 percent).

Operating income

Second quarter					January-June
2014	2015	∆% in € millions	2014	2015	∆%
102	128	25 Decorative Paints	119	178	50
178	220	24 Performance Coatings	304	390	28
124	192	55 Specialty Chemicals	259	355	37
(51)	(54)	Other activities/eliminations	(113)	(131)
353	486	38 Total	569	792	39

Operating income in other activities

Second quarter			January-June
2014	2015 in € millions	2014	2015
(41)	(45) Corporate costs	(85)	(92)
(3)	(6) Pensions	(9)	(13)
5	7 Insurances	8	(2)
(12)	(10) Other	(27)	(24)
(51)	(54) Operating income in other activities	(113)	(131)

Operating income to net income

Second quarter			January-June
2014	2015 in € millions	2014	2015
353	486 Operating income	569	792
(40)	(27) Net financing expenses	(77)	(68)
6	8 Results from associates and joint ventures	12	6
319	467 Profit before tax	504	730
(89)	(108) Income tax	(132)	(190)
230	359 Profit from continuing operations	372	540
(1)	(1) Profit from discontinued operations	2	(4)
229	358 Profit for the period	374	536
(24)	(27) Non-controlling interests	(40)	(45)
205	331 Net income	334	491

Decorative Paints

• Revenue up 6 percent in Q2, mainly driven by favorable currency effects
• Operating income up 25 percent, due to the new operating model, lower costs, reduced restructuring expenses, cost containment and favorable currencies
• ROS increased to 11.3 percent (2014: 9.5 percent); ROI increased to 10.4 percent (2014: 6.2 percent on a comparable basis)

Revenue increased 6 percent, mainly driven by favorable currency effects. Volumes were up in Asia, while volumes were down for Europe and Latin America.

Operating income improved by 25 percent due to the new operating model, lower costs, reduced restructuring expenses, strict cost containment and favorable currency developments.

Europe, Middle East and Africa

Revenue was flat. Volumes were slightly lower due to varying market dynamics and challenging environments in Eastern Europe, in particular Russia, compensated by positive price/mix and favorable currency effects. Various operational efficiency improvement programs and the new operating model led to a lower cost base.

Latin America

Revenue increased by 7 percent due to positive price/ mix, partly offset by unfavorable currency effects and lower volumes. Margin management offset the adverse currency impact on the cost of raw materials. Improvement actions and strict cost control continued to be a focus in the region.

Asia

Despite challenging conditions in the Chinese construction market, revenue in Asia increased by 17 percent due to higher volumes and favorable currency effects, partly offset by adverse price/mix.

		2014	2015	∆%
		1,194	1,177	(1)
		240	271	13
		505	576	14
–	Other/intragroup eliminations	–	–
		1,939	2,024	4
		119	178	50
	ROS%	6.1	8.8
	Moving average ROI (in %) *	13.4	10.4
				28
	Number of employees	15,600	15,200
	2015 665 133 336 1,134 128 11.3 165 39	∆% in € millions – Deco Europe, Middle East and Africa 7 Decorative Paints Latin America 17 Decorative Paints Asia 6 Total 25 Operating income Average invested capital 17 EBITDA Capital expenditures	2,776 197 66	January - June 2,953 253 76

* On a comparable basis: 2014 (excluding incidental items): 6.2 percent.

Revenue development Q2 2015

Increase Decrease

Performance Coatings

• Revenue up 8 percent in Q2, due to currency effects more than offsetting lower volumes
• Operating income up 24 percent, driven by cost reductions from performance improvement initiatives, margin management activities, manufacturing productivity and currencies
• ROS increased to 14.2 percent (2014: 12.4 percent); ROI increased to 23.9 percent (2014: 22.1 percent)

Revenue was up across the reporting units, benefiting from favorable currencies and higher demand for premium products. Volumes declined in the quarter mainly due to lower capital and maintenance spending in the global oil and gas industry. Russia, Brazil and China remain challenging.

Operating income increased 24 percent driven by cost reductions from performance improvement initiatives (including management de-layering, manufacturing site closures, and general spend reductions), margin management activities, manufacturing productivity and currencies.

Marine and Protective Coatings

Revenue was up 15 percent, due to favorable currencies and positive volume development within Marine Coatings, partially offset by weaker demand in Protective Coatings due to lower capital spending and delayed projects in the global oil and gas industries. Marine volumes were driven by strong demand from projects in Europe and Asia, tempered by continued weakness in the Chinese shipbuilding industry.

Automotive and Specialty Coatings

Revenue was up 7 percent, mostly due to favorable currencies and price/mix. Aerospace volumes improved due to continued favorable market conditions. Growth in consumer electronics slowed.

Industrial and Powder Coatings

Revenue was up 5 percent, due to favorable currencies and price/mix, partially offset by weaker markets, most notably in the Chinese construction industries. Several segments benefited from strength of the construction industries in North America. In Europe, Packaging volume development was positive while coated steel production declined. Volumes were impacted by the expiry of resin supply agreements related to the 2013

Revenue *
-----------	--

Second quarter				January - June
2014	2015	∆% in € millions	2014	2015	∆%
362	418	15 Marine and Protective Coatings	685	771	13
365	389	7 Automotive and Specialty Coatings	708	777	10
715	750	5 Industrial and Powder Coatings	1,375	1,445	5
(8)	(7)	Other/intragroup eliminations	(15)	(13)
1,434	1,550	8 Total	2,753	2,980	8
178	220	24 Operating income	304	390	28
12.4	14.2	ROS%	11.0	13.1
		Average invested capital	2,432	2,643
		Moving average ROI (in %)	22.1	23.9
212	257	21 EBITDA	375	463	23
37	35	Capital expenditures	63	64
		Number of employees	21,200	19,700

* Segment reporting following change in business structure.

For more details, please see the Investor update presentation on www.akzonobel.com

Revenue development Q2 2015

Increase Decrease

divestment of AkzoNobel's Decorative Paints business in North America.

Specialty Chemicals

• Revenue up 5 percent in Q2, mainly due to favorable currency effects, while volumes were flat
• Operating income up 55 percent (31 percent excluding incidental items related to the divestment of the Paper Chemicals business), supported by the increase of production at the new Frankfurt plant and operational efficiencies throughout the business
• ROS increased to 14.9 percent (2014: 10.1 percent); excluding incidental items ROS was 12.6 percent; ROI increased to 17.0 percent (2014: 9.6 percent)
• Divestment of Paper Chemicals business was closed in May; book profit net of related costs was €30 million included in operating income

Revenue was up 5 percent due to continued favorable currency effects, partly offset by the impact of the divestment of the Paper Chemicals business, which was completed early May. Volumes were flat. Growth in some segments compensated for lower demand in oil and gas drilling segments. North America continued to show a positive trend, while growth in Asia was subdued and demand remained weak in Europe and South America.

Operating income increased 55 percent (31 percent excluding incidental items related to the divestment of the Paper Chemicals business). Results were supported by the increase of production at the new Frankfurt plant, operational efficiencies throughout the business and favorable currency developments.

Functional Chemicals

Revenue was up 11 percent mainly due to positive volume developments for chelates and cellulosic specialties and favorable currency effects.

Industrial Chemicals

Revenue was down 7 percent, due to a scheduled maintenance stop. Product availability improved due to an increase of production at the new chlorine plant in Frankfurt, which is now fully on-stream.

Surface Chemistry

Revenue was up 10 percent due to positive currency effects. Higher volumes from several growing segments were more than compensated by the volume decrease in oil drilling segments.

Pulp and Performance Chemicals

Revenue was up 1 percent. Positive volume development in the pulp segment, especially in North and South America, as well as in growth products, was offset by the impact of

Revenue
Second quarter				January - June
2014	2015	∆% in € millions	2014	2015	∆%
447	497	11 Functional Chemicals *	887	961	8
305	284	(7) Industrial Chemicals *	627	592	(6)
256	282	10 Surface Chemistry	506	559	10
250	252	1 Pulp and Performance Chemicals	493	525	6
(30)	(25)	Other/intragroup eliminations	(63)	(51)
1,228	1,290	5 Total	2,450	2,586	6
124	192	55 Operating income	259	355	37
124	162	31 Operating income excl. incidental items	259	325	25
10.1	14.9	ROS%	10.6	13.7
10.1	12.6	ROS excl. incidental items (in %)	10.6	12.6
		Average invested capital	3,492	3,557
		Moving average ROI (in %) **	9.6	17.0
204	243	19 EBITDA	408	485	19
72	59	Capital expenditures	133	115
		Number of employees	10,000	9,200

* Adjusted to the new business structure.

** On a comparable basis: 2015: 16.2 percent; 2014: 13.6 percent.

Revenue development Q2 2015

Increase Decrease

the divested Paper Chemicals business. The divestment has an annual revenue impact of around €150 million. The deal includes tolling agreements that will expire over time.

Condensed financial statements

Consolidated statement of income

Second quarter			January-June
2014	2015 in € millions	2014	2015
Continuing operations
3,710	3,949 Revenue	7,093	7,540
(2,228)	(2,313) Cost of sales	(4,304)	(4,459)
1,482	1,636 Gross profit	2,789	3,081
(1,129)	(1,150) SG&A costs	(2,220)	(2,289)
353	486 Operating income	569	792
(40)	(27) Net financing expenses	(77)	(68)
6	8 Results from associates and joint ventures	12	6
319	467 Profit before tax	504	730
(89)	(108) Income tax	(132)	(190)
230	359 Profit for the period from continuing operations	372	540
Discontinued operations
(1)	(1) Profit for the period from discontinued operations	2	(4)
229	358 Profit for the period	374	536
Attributable to
205	331 Shareholders of the company	334	491
24	27 Non-controlling interests	40	45
229	358 Profit for the period	374	536

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income Second quarter January-June 2014 2015 in € millions 2014 2015 229 358 Profit for the period 374 536 Other comprehensive income 97 (176) Exchange differences arising on translation of foreign operations 83 414 12 (4) Cash flow hedges (8) (5) (112) (338) Post-retirement benefits (851) (638) 10 (6) Tax relating to components of other comprehensive income 28 – 7 (524) Other comprehensive income for the period (net of tax) (748) (229) 236 (166) Comprehensive income for the period (374) 307 Comprehensive income for the period attributable to 210 (169) Shareholders of the company (418) 231 26 3 Non-controlling interests 44 76 236 (166) Comprehensive income for the period (374) 307

Condensed consolidated balance sheet

in € millions	December 31, 2014	June 30, 2015
Assets
Non-current assets
Intangible assets	4,142	4,296
Property, plant and equipment	3,835	3,995
Other financial non-current assets	2,148	1,893
Total non-current assets	10,125	10,184
Current assets
Inventories	1,545	1,644
Trade and other receivables	2,743	3,322
Cash and cash equivalents	1,732	1,008
Other current assets	88	83
Assets held for sale	66	10
Total current assets	6,174	6,067
Total assets	16,299	16,251
Equity and liabilities
Total equity	6,267	6,381
Non-current liabilities
Provisions and deferred tax liabilities	2,555	2,535
Long-term borrowings	2,527	2,182
Total non-current liabilities	5,082	4,717
Current liabilities
Short-term borrowings	811	964
Trade and other payables	3,407	3,480
Other short-term liabilities	721	707
Liabilities held for sale	11	2
Total current liabilities	4,950	5,153
Total equity and liabilities	16,299	16,251

Shareholders' equity

Shareholders' equity increased from €5.8 billion at year-end 2014 to €5.9 billion at the end of June 2015, mainly due to:

• Positive currency effects €396 million
• Net income of €491 million Offset by:
• Actuarial impact of €652 million reported in Other comprehensive income, including €321 million for de-risking of pension liabilities
• Dividend payments of €170 million

Changes in equity

in € millions	Subscribed share capital	Additional paid-in capital	Cashflow hedge reserve	Cumulative translation reserves Other reserves		Shareholders' equity	Non-controlling interests	Group equity
Balance at January 1, 2014	485	319	(19)	(417)	5,226	5,594	427	6,021
Profit for the period	–	–	–	–	334	334	40	374
Other comprehensive income	–	–	(6)	76	(822)	(752)	4	(748)
Comprehensive income for the period	–	–	(6)	76	(488)	(418)	44	(374)
Dividend paid	4	106	–	–	(273)	(163)	(14)	(177)
Equity-settled transactions	–	–	–	–	17	17	–	17
Issue of common shares	2	7	–	–	–	9	–	9
Balance at June 30, 2014	491	432	(25)	(341)	4,482	5,039	457	5,496
Balance at January 1, 2015	492	463	(19)	(43)	4,897	5,790	477	6,267
Profit for the period	–	–	–	–	491	491	45	536
Other comprehensive income	–	–	(4)	396	(652)	(260)	31	(229)
Comprehensive income for the period	–	–	(4)	396	(161)	231	76	307
Dividend paid	3	103	–	–	(276)	(170)	(37)	(207)
Equity-settled transactions	–	–	–	–	14	14	–	14
Issue of common shares	2	(2)	–	–	–	–	2	2
Acquisitions and divestments	–	–	–	–	(3)	(3)	1	(2)
Balance at June 30, 2015	497	564	(23)	353	4,471	5,862	519	6,381

Invested capital

Invested capital at the end of Q2 2015 totaled €10.7 billion, up €0.8 billion on year-end 2014. Invested capital was primarily impacted by currency variation and seasonal increase of operating working capital of €0.6 billion. Performance Coatings continued to accommodate a temporary and planned inventory increase as part of the scheduled footprint optimization.

Pensions

The net balance sheet position of the pension plans at the end of June 2015 was an IFRS deficit of €1.1 billion (year-end 2014: €0.8 billion). This was the result of the net effect of:

• Lower asset returns
• Higher inflation in the UK
• Further de-risking of pension liabilities of £1.5 billion (€2.0 billion) in the first half of the year related to the ICI Pension Fund in the UK, by way of three additional non-cash buy-in transactions, together giving rise to an adverse impact of €321 million in Other comprehensive income Offset by:
• Top-up payments of €339 million, paid in Q1, into certain UK defined benefit pension plans
• Higher discount rates in the key countries

The triennial review of the ICI Pension Fund was completed in July 2015, a new valuation and payment schedule was agreed with the Trustees.

Workforce

At June 30, 2015, we employed 46,000 staff (year-end 2014: 47,200 employees).

Invested capital

in € millions	June 30, 2014	December 31, 2014	June 30, 2015
Trade receivables	2,456	2,246	2,806
Inventories	1,541	1,545	1,644
Trade payables	(2,209)	(2,373)	(2,433)
Operating working capital	1,788	1,418	2,017
Other working capital items	(626)	(676)	(721)
Non-current assets	9,418	10,125	10,184
Less investments in associates and joint ventures	(179)	(183)	(163)
Less pension assets	(60)	(409)	(146)
Deferred tax liabilities	(402)	(412)	(434)
Invested capital	9,939	9,863	10,737

Operating working capital

In % of revenue

Operating working capital

in € millions, % of revenue		June 30, 2014	December 31, 2014		June 30, 2015
Decorative Paints	373	8.7	202	5.5	386	8.5
Performance Coatings	843	14.7	733	12.9	973	15.7
Specialty Chemicals	655	13.3	587	12.3	723	14.0
Other activities	(83)		(104)		(65)
Total	1,788	12.1	1,418	10.1	2,017	12.8

Condensed consolidated statement of cash flows

Second quarter

Second quarter			January-June
2014	2015 in € millions	2014	2015
879	947 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	2,020	1,649
	Adjustments to reconcile earnings to cash generated from operating activities
230	359 Profit for the period from continuing operations	372	540
156	158 Amortization and depreciation	304	314
(2)	(40) Changes in working capital	(473)	(616)
(60)	(85) Changes in provisions	(354)	(495)
69	15 Other changes	(8)	42
393	407 Net cash from operating activities	(159)	(215)
(150)	(137) Capital expenditures	(265)	(260)
–	114 Acquisitions and divestments net of cash acquired	–	112
3	(14) Other changes	21	(20)
(147)	(37) Net cash from investing activities	(244)	(168)
(22)	(175) Changes from borrowings	(514)	(189)
(175)	(184) Dividends	(177)	(205)
–	(2) Other changes	9	(2)
(197)	(361) Net cash from financing activities	(682)	(396)
49	9 Net cash used for continuing operations	(1,085)	(779)
(11)	(1) Cash flows from discontinued operations	(14)	(2)
38	8 Net change in cash and cash equivalents of total operations	(1,099)	(781)
9	(33) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	5	54
926	922 Cash and cash equivalents at June 30	926	922

Cash flows and net debt

Operating activities in Q2 2015 resulted in a cash inflow of €407 million (2014: €393 million). The increased profit from continuing operations was partly offset by changes in working capital and provisions.

Net debt in Q2 decreased to €2,138 million (Q1 2015: €2,278 million).

Outlook and 2015 targets

Exchange rate movements, positive market trends in North America and no improvement for Europe overall, as well as lower growth rates in many countries, including Russia, Brazil and China, are determining the dynamics of 2015. The significant actions taken in recent years form a sound basis for further improved performance. We are on track to deliver our targets for 2015. Please refer to our website for more information on our ambitions and the strategic focus areas.

Quarterly statistics
				2014				2015
Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4		year in € millions	Q1	Q2	year-to-date
Revenue
865	1,074	1,050	920		3,909 Decorative Paints	890	1,134	2,024
1,319	1,434	1,420	1,416		5,589 Performance Coatings	1,430	1,550	2,980
1,222	1,228	1,239	1,194		4,883 Specialty Chemicals	1,296	1,290	2,586
(23)	(26)	(23)	(13)		(85) Other activities/eliminations	(25)	(25)	(50)
3,383	3,710	3,686	3,517	14,296 Total		3,591	3,949	7,540
EBITDA
56	141	150	58		405 Decorative Paints	88	165	253
163	212	170	142		687 Performance Coatings	206	257	463
204	204	232	175		815 Specialty Chemicals	242	243	485
(59)	(48)	(65)	(45)		(217) Other activities/eliminations	(74)	(55)	(129)
364	509	487	330	1,690 Total		462	610	1,072
10.8	13.7	13.2	9.4		11.8 EBITDA margin (in %)	12.9	15.4	14.2
Depreciation
(27)	(26)	(27)	(29)		(109) Decorative Paints	(26)	(26)	(52)
(27)	(24)	(25)	(25)		(101) Performance Coatings	(25)	(26)	(51)
(60)	(64)	(64)	(68)		(256) Specialty Chemicals	(66)	(68)	(134)
(3)	(3)	(3)	(2)		(11) Other activities/eliminations	(3)	(3)	(6)
(117)	(117)	(119)	(124)	(477) Total		(120)	(123)	(243)
Amortization
(12)	(13)	(10)	(13)		(48) Decorative Paints	(12)	(11)	(23)
(10)	(10)	(10)	(11)		(41) Performance Coatings	(11)	(11)	(22)
(9)	(16)	(12)	(14)		(51) Specialty Chemicals	(13)	(13)	(26)
–	–	(1)	–		(1) Other activities/eliminations	–	–	–
(31)	(39)	(33)	(38)	(141) Total		(36)	(35)	(71)
Operating income excluding incidentals
17	102	113	16		248 Decorative Paints	50	128	178
126	178	135	106		545 Performance Coatings	170	220	390
135	124	156	93		508 Specialty Chemicals	163	162	325
(62)	(51)	(69)	(47)		(229) Other activities/eliminations	(77)	(58)	(135)
216	353	335	168	1,072 Total		306	452	758
Operating income
17	102	113	16		248 Decorative Paints	50	128	178
126	178	135	106		545 Performance Coatings	170	220	390
135	124	156	93		508 Specialty Chemicals	163	192	355
(62)	(51)	(69)	(132)		(314) Other activities/eliminations	(77)	(54)	(131)
216	353	335	83		987 Total	306	486	792

6.4 9.5 9.1 2.4 6.9 ROS (in %) 8.5 12.3 10.5

Quarterly statistics

				2014				2015
Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4		year in € millions	Q1	Q2	year-to-date
	Incidentals per Business Area
–	–	–	–		– Decorative Paints	–	–	–
–	–	–	–		– Performance Coatings	–	–	–
–	–	–	–		– Specialty Chemicals	–	30	30
–	–	–	(85)		(85) Other activities/eliminations	–	4	4
–	–	–	(85)		(85) Total	–	34	34
	Reconciliation net financing expense
12	9	9	12		42 Financing income	10	4	14
(44)	(37)	(36)	(40)		(157) Financing expenses	(38)	(31)	(69)
(32)	(28)	(27)	(28)		(115) Net interest on net debt	(28)	(27)	(55)
Other interest movements
(5)	(4)	(4)	(5)		(18) Financing expenses related to pensions	(4)	(3)	(7)
(4)	(11)	(8)	(9)		(32) Interest on provisions	(9)	(1)	(10)
4	3	1	1		9 Other items	–	4	4
(5)	(12)	(11)	(13)		(41) Net other financing charges	(13)	–	(13)
(37)	(40)	(38)	(41)		(156) Net financing expenses	(41)	(27)	(68)
	Quarterly net income analysis
6	6	6	3		21 Results from associates and joint ventures	(2)	8	6
(16)	(24)	(16)	(16)		(72) Profit attributable to non-controlling interests	(18)	(27)	(45)
185	319	303	45		852 Profit before tax	263	467	730
(43)	(89)	(84)	(36)		(252) Income tax	(82)	(108)	(190)
142	230	219	9		600 Profit for the period from continuing operations	181	359	540
23	28	28	80		30 Effective tax rate (in %)	31	23	26

				2014				2015
Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4	year		Q1	Q2	year-to-date
Earnings per share from continuing operations (in €)
0.52	0.84	0.83	(0.03)		2.16 Basic	0.66	1.35	2.01
0.52	0.83	0.82	(0.03)		2.15 Diluted	0.66	1.34	2.00
Earnings per share from discontinued operations (in €)
0.01	–	0.01	0.06		0.07 Basic	(0.01)	(0.01)	(0.02)
0.01	–	0.01	0.06		0.07 Diluted	(0.01)	(0.01)	(0.02)
Earnings per share from total operations (in €)
0.53	0.84	0.84	0.03		2.23 Basic	0.65	1.34	1.99
0.53	0.83	0.83	0.03		2.22 Diluted	0.65	1.33	1.98
Number of shares (in millions)
243.0	244.4	245.4	245.7		244.7 Weighted average number of shares	246.4	247.7	247.1
243.4	245.4	245.4	246.0		246.0 Number of shares at end of quarter	246.9	248.4	248.4
Adjusted earnings (in € millions)
185	319	303	45		852 Profit before tax from continuing operations	263	467	730
–	–	–	85		85 Incidentals reported in operating income	–	(34)	(34)
31	39	33	38		141 Amortization of intangible assets	36	35	71
(52)	(101)	(94)	(72)		(319) Adjusted income tax	(93)	(118)	(211)
(16)	(24)	(16)	(16)		(72) Non-controlling interests	(18)	(27)	(45)
148	233	226	80		687 Adjusted net income for continuing operations	188	323	511
0.61	0.95	0.92	0.33		2.81 Adjusted earnings per share (in €)	0.76	1.30	2.07

Quarterly statistics

Principal risks and uncertainties

In our 2014 Report we have extensively described our risk management framework and our major risk factors which may prevent full achievement of our objectives within the forthcoming five years. In respect of the principal risks, we consider the six risks assessed most likely to increase as communicated in the Annual Report of 2014 to be still valid.

Risk	Risk description	Risk corrective actions
Worsening of economic conditions	The global economy remains fragile and it continues to be difficult to predict customer demand and raw material costs. AkzoNobel is susceptible to decreased growth rates within high growth markets and/or continued economic and market downturn in mature markets. The effects could lead to a decline in demand and deterio rating financial results, which in turn could result in the company not realizing its financial targets.	Execute our strategy to bring down our operational cost base and reduce complexity. Continue the implementation of Global Business Services aimed at standardized core functional processes in all regions across the organization. Further deploy the commer cial excellence programs to capture organic growth and offset the effects of decreasing economic growth rates.
International operations	We are a global business with operations in more than 80 countries. We are therefore exposed to a variety of risks, many of them beyond our control. Unfavorable political, social or economic developments and devel opments in laws, regulations and standards could adversely affect our business and results of operations. Our aspirations to fuel growth in high growth markets will further expose us to these risks.	Strategically spread our activities geographically and serve many sectors to benefit from opportunities and reduce the risk of instability. Carefully monitor the political, economic and legislative conditions across the company. All significant investments, and the coun tries and industry segments in which AkzoNobel conducts its business, are decided on by the Executive Committee. Country organizations are in place in order to mitigate country-specific and generic business risks.
Information Technology	An effect of AkzoNobel's longer term Information Technology strategy is that our IT landscape is converging into fewer ERP systems and other critical applications. The amount of digital exchanges of busi ness transactions with customers, suppliers and other stakeholders is increasing. Non-availability of our critical IT systems or unauthorized access, through cyber crime or other events, can have a direct effect on our production processes, our competitive position and the reputation of the company.	Continuously test and update the systems used for information security. Further implement measures such as redundant design, back-up processes, virus protection, anti-spoofing and forensic scans. Centrally monitor access control processes to our key IT systems. A company-wide directive describing the rules regarding Information Management was issued in 2014.
Free cash flow generation	The potential for further deterioration of economic conditions could have an impact on the free cash flow generation of our businesses. Furthermore, we are potentially exposed to additional funding of pension schemes. This may lead to insufficient free cash flow generation, which limits our strategic degrees of freedom.	Maintain a strong investment grade credit rating; our longterm senior unsecured debt rating is BBB+ by Standard & Poor's and Baa1 by Moody's. Focus on cash manage ment is stressed in our monthly Operational Control Cycle meetings and relevant metrics are included in our remuneration policies. Engage in restructuring of underperforming parts of our portfolio if deemed strategically appropriate. We have a prudent financing strategy and a strict cash management policy, which are governed by our centralized treasury function.
Complying with laws and regulations	We may be held responsible for any liabilities arising out of non-compliance with laws and regulations.	Monitor and adapt to significant changes in the legal systems, regulatory controls, customs and practices in the countries in which we operate. Remain dedicated to minimizing AkzoNobel's compliance risk by fostering an open and transparent culture, continuously educating our employees worldwide and increasing awareness. Monitor overall compliance through our comprehensive annual non-financial letter of represen tation process, as well as our annual competition law compliance declaration. Embed company-wide standard setting and compliance awareness through activities and training programs.
Innovation and identification of major transforming technologies	Our success depends on the sustainable growth of our business through research, development and inno vation. If we are not able to identify and adopt major transforming technologies in a timely manner, this may lead to the loss of our leadership positions and adversely affect our business.	Support continuous research and development through a spend of 2.5 percent (€363 million) of total revenue. Maintain the use of our detailed technology roadmaps, which assess relevant technological horizons and pathways to acquire and detail new tech nologies. Promote our global open innovation capability to identify, assess and acquire the most recent promising technologies.

Board of Management's statement on the condensed half-yearly financial statements and the interim management report.

We have prepared the half-yearly financial report 2015 of AkzoNobel and the undertakings included in the consolidation taken as a whole in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the EU and additional Dutch disclosure requirements for half-yearly financial reports.

To the best of our knowledge:

• 1. The condensed financial statements in this half-yearly financial report 2015 give a true and fair view of our assets and liabilities, financial position at June 30, 2015, and of the result of our consolidated operations for the first half year of 2015.
• 1. The interim management report in this halfyearly financial report includes a fair review of the information required pursuant to section 5:25d, subsections 8 and 9 of the Dutch Act on Financial Supervision.

Amsterdam, July 21, 2015 The Board of Management

Ton Büchner, Chief Executive Officer Maëlys Castella, Chief Financial Officer

Notes to the condensed financial statements

Accounting policies and restatements

This interim financial report is in compliance with IAS 34 "Interim Financial Reporting". This report is unaudited. The IFRS changes applicable as from January 1, 2015 do not have any or only an immaterial effect on our Consolidated financial statements. Otherwise the accounting principles are as applied in the 2014 financial statements.

Seasonality

Revenue and results in Decorative Paints are impacted by seasonal influences. Revenue and profitability tend to be higher in the second and third quarter of the year as weather conditions determine whether paints and coatings can be applied. In Performance Coatings, revenue and profitability vary with building patterns from original equipment manufacturers. In Specialty Chemicals, the Functional Chemicals and the Surface Chemistry businesses experience seasonal influences. Revenue and profitability are affected by developments in the agricultural season and tend to be higher in the first half of the year.

Other activities

In other activities, we report activities which are not allocated to a particular Business Area. Corporate costs are the unallocated costs of our head office and shared services center in the Netherlands and also include country holdings. Pensions reflects pension costs after the elimination of interest cost (reported as financing expenses). Insurances are the results from our captive insurance companies. Other costs include the cost of share-based compensation, the results of treasury and legacy operations.

Glossary

Adjusted earnings per share are the basic earnings per share from continuing operations excluding incidentals in operating income, amortization of intangible assets and tax on these adjustments.

Comprehensive income is the change in equity during a period resulting from transactions and other events other than those changes resulting from transactions with shareholders in their capacity as shareholders.

EBITDA is operating income excluding depreciation, amortization and incidental results.

EBITDA margin is EBITDA as percentage of revenue.

Emerging Europe: Central and Eastern Europe (excluding Austria), Baltic States and Turkey.

Incidental results are special charges and benefits, results on acquisitions and divestments, major impairment charges, and charges related to major legal, anti-trust, and environmental cases.

Invested capital is total assets (excluding cash and cash equivalents, investments in associates, the receivable from pension funds in an asset position, assets held for sale) less current income tax payable, deferred tax liabilities and trade and other payables.

Mature markets comprise of Western Europe, the US, Canada, Japan and Oceania.

Net debt is defined as long-term borrowings plus short-term borrowings less cash and cash equivalents.

Operating income is defined in accordance with IFRS and includes the relevant incidental results.

Operating working capital is defined as the sum of inventories, trade receivables and trade payables of the total company. When expressed as a ratio, operating working capital is measured against four times last quarter revenue.

ROI is calculated as operating income of the last twelve months as percentage of average invested capital.

ROS is operating income as percentage of revenue.

Safe Harbor Statement

This report contains statements which address such key issues as AkzoNobel's growth strategy, future financial results, market positions, product development, products in the pipeline and product approvals. Such statements should be carefully considered, and it should be understood that many factors could cause forecast and actual results to differ from these statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, price fluctuations, currency fluctuations, developments in raw material and personnel costs, pensions, physical and environmental risks, legal issues, and legislative, fiscal, and other regulatory measures. Stated competitive positions are based on management estimates supported by information provided by specialized external agencies. For a more comprehensive discussion of the risk factors affecting our business, please see our latest Annual Report.

Brand and trademarks

In this report, reference is made to brands and trademarks owned by, or licensed to, AkzoNobel. Unauthorized use of these is strictly prohibited.

Akzo Nobel N.V.

Strawinskylaan 2555 P.O. Box 75730 1070 AS Amsterdam, the Netherlands T +31 20 502 7555 F +31 20 502 7666 www.akzonobel.com

For more information: The explanatory sheets used during the press conference can be viewed on AkzoNobel's corporate website www.akzonobel.com

AkzoNobel Corporate Communications T +31 20 502 7833 F +31 20 502 7604 E info@akzonobel.com

AkzoNobel Investor Relations T +31 20 502 7854 F +31 20 502 7605 E investor.relations@akzonobel.com

Financial calendar

Report for the 3rd quarter 2015 October 22, 2015 Report for the year 2015 and the 4th quarter February 11, 2016 Report for the 1st quarter 2016 April 19, 2016 Annual General Meeting of shareholders April 20, 2016 Report for the 2nd quarter 2016 July 19, 2016 Report for the 3rd quarter 2016 October 19, 2016

www.akzonobel.com

AkzoNobel is a leading global paints and coatings company and a major producer of specialty chemicals. Calling on centuries of expertise, we supply industries and consumers worldwide with innovative products and sustainable technologies designed to meet the growing demands of our fast-changing planet. Headquartered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, we have approximately 46,000 people in around 80 countries, while our portfolio includes well-known brands such as Dulux, Sikkens, International, Interpon and Eka. Consistently ranked as one of the leaders in the area of sustainability, we are committed to making life more liveable and our cities more human.

© 2015 Akzo Nobel N.V. All rights reserved.

Decorative Paints Performance Coatings Specialty Chemicals Around half of all global offshore wind capacity features our coatings

Embracing urban heritage

We transformed a historic street in Antakya, Turkey with the help of 500 people, helping safe guard the heritage of 13 civilizations.

Delivering leading performance

We provided our coatings technology to Gode Wind offshore wind farm near the German North Sea coast; one of Europe's largest clean energy projects.

Driving innovation

As one of the founders of this pioneering initiative we are proud it has grown into 14 partners who join us in the quest to turn waste into raw material.

1,000 liters of paint for historic street

Waste-to-chemicals consortium doubles in size

Human Cities in action

AkzoNobel partnered with Monocle magazine on its Quality of Life Survey 2015. The survey includes both data-driven elements (e.g., crime figures and business climate) as well as 'soft' factors (e.g., commitment to culture and proximity to open spaces). Our partnership with Monocle has also enabled a dialogue on Human Cities with architects, designers and mayors.

Visit www.akzonobel.com/humancities to see which cities are the most liveable.

www.akzonobel.com/quarterlyresults