AkzoNobel beats Q1 profit expectations with 7% core profit jump. The Dulux maker reported adjusted earnings of 345 million euros, surpassing analyst estimates of 323 million euros. Strong pricing power across its decorative paints and specialty coatings divisions enabled the company to offset rising raw material costs. Management confirmed its 2026 core profit target of at least 1.47 billion euros despite anticipated high-teen percentage increases in raw material costs from Middle East disruptions. The Dutch group plans to absorb these pressures through previously announced price increases. AkzoNobel continues streamlining its Asian portfolio following India and Pakistan unit sales totaling 1.65 billion euros.
