Trading Update Q1 2013

Highlights

Revenues were down 2% in the first quarter of 2013 with adverse market conditions persisting in many of Umicore’s end markets. This was particularly the case in Europe where the construction and automotive sectors experienced a difficult start to the year. In terms of business group evolution, Performance Materials and Recycling recorded lower revenues with Catalysis and Energy Materials recording stable and slightly higher revenues respectively.

Margins in the first quarter were impacted by a negative evolution in product and regional mix as well as the effects of lower prices for certain metals on the recycling activities. Management continues to focus on cost reduction measures and price increases to mitigate the effects of the adverse market conditions.

Cashflows remained highly positive and net debt decreased to well below € 200 million. Investments to support Umicore’s long term growth ambitions continued at a high pace.

As previously announced, Umicore has started to buy back its own shares. Up until 26 April some 377,380 shares had been bought back, representing 0.3% of the issued shares. Umicore thereby held on 26 April 8,244,306 shares in treasury, or 6.9% of the issued shares.

Outlook

Given the demand levels in the first quarter, the limited likelihood of any near term improvements in market conditions and higher depreciation charges, full year recurring EBIT is expected to be between € 300 million and € 330 million.

Note: All comparisons are made with the first quarter of 2012, unless mentioned otherwise.