Strong U.S. dollar helps SSL

Article Excerpt

SASOL LTD. (ADR) $33.44 (New York symbol SSL; TSINetwork Rating: Extra Risk) (082- 883-9697; www.sasol.com; ADRs outstanding: 650.9 million; Market cap: $21.6 billion; Dividend yield: 3.4%) is a South Africa-based company that converts coal and natural gas into motor fuels, produces oil and gas and mines coal. In its fiscal 2015 first half, which ended December 31, 2014, Sasol’s sales rose 1.6%, to 99.8 billion South African rand from 98.2 billion rand a year earlier (1 rand = $0.1099 U.S.). Earnings per ADR gained 6.0%, to 32.00 rand from 30.19. The U.S. dollar rose against the rand, increasing the value of Sasol’s foreign sales. That offset a 19% decline in realized oil prices. Despite the improved results, Sasol now plans to bring in an aggressive plan to conserve cash, including layoffs, lower spending on oil and gas exploration and development, and a 12.5% dividend cut. The ADRs yield 3.4%, based on the lower rate. The cuts will let Sasol stay…