Q : Can you provide clarity on Alcoa's net debt target and how the Ma'aden equity position factors into capital returns? A : Molly Beerman, CFO, mentioned that Alcoa does not have a stated net debt target but aims to reduce its current $2.1 billion adjusted net debt. The Ma'aden transaction, valued at approximately $1.3 billion, is expected to close in the first half of the year, with a lockup period for shares.

Q : What is the current state of the bauxite market, and is there sufficient capacity for new refineries in India and China? A : William Oplinger noted that the bauxite market is very tight, with prices at $120-$130 per ton, impacting alumina costs. The tight market pressures alumina availability, and new production in India and Indonesia is needed to ease the market.

Q : What progress has been made with the San Ciprian operations, and what are the financial implications if a deal isn't reached? A : Molly Beerman explained that high API prices have reduced cash consumption, but urgency remains to finalize discussions with unions and energy suppliers. The MOU is a positive step but doesn't guarantee a deal. Closure costs without severance are estimated at $40-$50 million for the smelter and $200 million for the refinery.

Q : How does Alcoa plan to monetize idle sites given the interest from data centers? A : William Oplinger highlighted Alcoa's history of monetizing legacy assets, such as the Rockdale and Intalco sites, which were sold for significant amounts. Alcoa is in contact with developers and aims to maximize value from sites like Point Comfort and Point Henry.

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript .

This article first appeared on GuruFocus .