OCI (XAMS:OCI) (+14%; +0.83%), the global nitrogen fertilizer and methanol producer, contributed positively to results in the quarter. Improved prices and volumes for related commodities led to greatly increased cash flow year-over-year. The company’s Iowa fertilizer plant began operating in April, which showed the market that this formerly non-earning asset is now about to produce significant earnings. OCI also made progress bringing its new methanol plant (“Natgasoline”) closer to its fourth quarter completion date. Late in the quarter, OCI’s stock price responded positively to rumors of private equity interest in the company. We are confident that our proven, aligned partner, Chairman Nassef Sawiris, will navigate any strategic outcome in a way that maximizes shareholder value.
From Longleaf Partners' second quarter 2017 International Fund shareholder commentary.
