UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C.  20549
 

___________________________
 
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)    
 þ
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the quarterly period ended June 30,December 31, 2017
 
OR
 o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES 
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
For the transition period from _________ to ___________

Commission file number 1-32532333-211719

ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC.

(a Delaware corporation)
I.R.S. No. 81-2587835

50 E. RiverCenter Boulevard
Covington, Kentucky 41011
Telephone Number (859) 815-3333

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant: (1)  has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes  þ No  o    
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was required to submit and post such files).     Yes þ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company.  See the definitions of  “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company”  in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.  (Check One):
 
 Large Accelerated Filer þ
 
 Accelerated Filer o  
 
 Non-Accelerated Filer o
 
Smaller Reporting Company o  
  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company.)
Emerging Growth Company o 
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o 
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes o No þ
At June 30,December 31, 2017, there were 62,402,31662,228,812 shares of Registrant’s Common Stock outstanding.
     


PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
     

ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
     
Three months ended Nine months endedThree months ended
June 30 June 30December 31
(In millions except per share data - unaudited)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
2017
 2016
Sales$870
 $790
 $2,380
 $2,265
$842
 $704
Cost of sales635
 554
 1,727
 1,581
613
 515
Gross profit235
 236
 653
 684
229
 189
          
Selling, general and administrative expense182
 160
 493
 481
171
 157
Research and development expense20
 22
 61
 66
21
 20
Equity and other income4
 3
 9
 7
2
 3
Operating income37
 57
 108
 144
39
 15
          
Net interest and other financing expense51
 40
 203
 125
31
 122
Net gain (loss) on acquisitions and divestitures(6) 3
 (7) 3
Income (loss) from continuing operations       
before income taxes(20) 20
 (102) 22
Income tax benefit - Note I(4) (4) (49) (39)
Income (loss) from continuing operations(16) 24
 (53) 61
Income (loss) from discontinued operations       
(net of tax) - Note D(14) 47
 138
 186
Other net periodic benefit income—
 2
Net loss on divestitures1
 1
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes7
 (106)
Income tax expense (benefit) - Note I14
 (41)
Loss from continuing operations(7) (65)
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax) - Note D

3
 75
Net income (loss)(30) 71
 85
 247
(4) 10
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest (a)
3
 —
 27
 —
—
 11
Net income (loss) attributable to Ashland$(33) $71
 $58
 $247
Net loss attributable to Ashland$(4) $(1)
          
PER SHARE DATA          
Basic earnings per share - Note L 
  
  
  
 
  
Income (loss) from continuing operations       
attributable to Ashland$(0.26) $0.39
 $(0.85) $0.97
Income (loss) from discontinued operations(0.28) 0.76
 1.78
 2.94
Net income (loss) attributable to Ashland$(0.54) $1.15
 $0.93
 $3.91
Loss from continuing operations
$(0.12) $(1.05)
Income from discontinued operations attributable to Ashland0.05
 1.04
Net loss attributable to Ashland$(0.07) $(0.01)
          
Diluted earnings per share - Note L 
  
  
  
 
  
Income (loss) from continuing operations       
attributable to Ashland$(0.26) $0.38
 $(0.85) $0.95
Income (loss) from discontinued operations(0.28) 0.75
 1.78
 2.92
Net income (loss) attributable to Ashland$(0.54) $1.13
 $0.93
 $3.87
       
DIVIDENDS PAID PER COMMON SHARE$0.225
 $0.390
 $1.005
 $1.170
Loss from continuing operations

$(0.12) $(1.05)
Income from discontinued operations attributable to Ashland0.05
 1.04
Net loss attributable to Ashland$(0.07) $(0.01)
          
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)          
Net income (loss)$(30) $71
 $85
 $247
$(4) $10
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax - Note M          
Unrealized translation gain (loss)105
 (46) 19
 (26)3
 (146)
Net change in available-for-sale securities8
 —
Pension and postretirement obligation adjustment—
 —
 (4) 21
—
 (1)
Net change in available-for-sale securities4
 4
 10
 13
Other comprehensive income (loss)109
 (42) 25
 8
11
 (147)
Comprehensive income$79
 $29
 $110
 $255
Comprehensive income (loss)$7
 $(137)
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest3
 —
 27
 —
—
 10
Comprehensive income attributable to Ashland$76
 $29
 $83
 $255
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Ashland$7
 $(147)
          
(a)RepresentsFor the three months ended December 31, 2016, this represents the income attributable to the previous noncontrolling interest in Valvoline Inc., whose results are now included within discontinued operations. See Note B for more information.




SEE NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

   

June 30
 September 30
December 31
 September 30
(In millions - unaudited)2017
 2016
2017
 2017
      
ASSETS      
Current assets      
Cash and cash equivalents$492
 $1,017
$601
 $566
Accounts receivable (a)
643
 529
597
 612
Inventories - Note F631
 539
674
 634
Other assets73
 89
92
 91
Current assets of discontinued operations - Note D—
 714
Total current assets1,839
 2,888
1,964
 1,903
Noncurrent assets 
  
 
  
Property, plant and equipment      
Cost3,707
 3,615
3,795
 3,762
Accumulated depreciation1,770
 1,715
1,850
 1,792
Net property, plant and equipment1,937
 1,900
1,945
 1,970
Goodwill - Note G2,426
 2,138
2,475
 2,465
Intangibles - Note G1,316
 1,061
1,298
 1,319
Restricted investments - Note E299
 292
315
 302
Asbestos insurance receivable - Note K211
 196
205
 209
Equity and other unconsolidated investments32
 31
Deferred income taxes35
 35
Deferred and other income taxes28
 28
Other assets411
 406
425
 422
Noncurrent assets of discontinued operations - Note D—
 1,053
Total noncurrent assets6,667
 7,112
6,691
 6,715
Total assets$8,506
 $10,000
$8,655
 $8,618
      
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 
  
 
  
Current liabilities 
  
 
  
Short-term debt - Note H$223
 $170
$355
 $235
Current portion of long-term debt - Note H6
 —
Trade and other payables392
 376
382
 409
Accrued expenses and other liabilities274
 313
266
 324
Current liabilities of discontinued operations - Note D—
 379
Total current liabilities895
 1,238
1,003
 968
Noncurrent liabilities 
  
 
  
Long-term debt - Note H2,584
 2,325
2,584
 2,584
Asbestos litigation reserve - Note K676
 694
Deferred and other income taxes390
 375
Employee benefit obligations - Note J191
 195
194
 191
Asbestos litigation reserve - Note K702
 686
Deferred income taxes374
 315
Other liabilities361
 361
409
 400
Noncurrent liabilities of discontinued operations - Note D—
 1,715
Total noncurrent liabilities4,212
 5,597
4,253
 4,244
Commitments and contingencies - Note K

 



 

Equity   
Stockholders' equity3,399
 3,347
3,399
 3,406
Noncontrolling interest (b)
—
 (182)
Total equity3,399
 3,165
Total liabilities and equity$8,506
 $10,000
      
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity$8,655
 $8,618
   
(a)
Accounts receivable includes an allowance for doubtful accounts of $8 million and $10$9 million at June 30,December 31, 2017 and September 30, 20162017, respectively..
(b)Represents the previous noncontrolling interest in Valvoline Inc. held outside of Ashland which is now included within discontinued operations.








SEE NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
STATEMENT OF CONSOLIDATED EQUITY

   



(In millions - unaudited)
Common
stock

 
Paid-in
capital

 
Retained
earnings

 
Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income (loss)

(a)Noncontrolling interest
(b)Total
BALANCE AT SEPTEMBER 30, 2016$1
 $923
 $2,704
 $(281)
$(182) $3,165
Total comprehensive income (loss)           
Net income 
   58
  
27
 85
Other comprehensive loss      25
 —
 25
Regular dividends, $1.005 per common share 
  
 (62)  
   (62)
Common shares issued under stock 
  
  
  
    
   incentive and other plans (c)
 
 3
    
   3
Distribution of Valvoline Inc. (b)
  —
 68
 (33) 152
 187
Other  (7)     7
 —
Distributions to noncontrolling interest        (4) (4)
BALANCE AT JUNE 30, 2017$1
 $919
 $2,768
 $(289)
$—
 $3,399
            
(In millions - unaudited)
Common
stock

 
Paid-in
capital

 
Retained
earnings

 
Accumulated
other
comprehensive
income (loss)

(a)Total
BALANCE AT SEPTEMBER 30, 2017$1
 $931
 $2,696
 $(222)
$3,406
Total comprehensive income (loss)         
Net loss 
   (4)  
(4)
Other comprehensive income      11
 11
Regular dividends, $0.225 per common share 
  
 (14)  
 (14)
Common shares issued under stock incentive and other plans (b)
 
 —
    
 —
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2017$1
 $931
 $2,678
 $(211)
$3,399
          
(a)
At June 30,December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2016,2017, the after-tax accumulated other comprehensive loss attributable to Ashland of $289$211 million and $281$222 million, respectively, was comprised of net unrealized translation losses of $243 million and $246 million, respectively, net unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities of $29 million and $21 million, respectively, and unrecognized prior service credits as a result of certain employee benefit plan amendments of $3 million and $46 million, respectively, net unrealized translation losses of $308 million and $333 million, respectively, and net unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities of $16 million and $6 million, respectively. At September 30, 2016, amounts attributable to noncontrolling interest included unrecognized prior service credits of $9 million and net unrealized translation losses of $2 million. The accumulated other comprehensive income that was distributed to Valvoline Inc. included $39 million of unrecognized prior service credits and $6 million of net unrealized translation losses.for each period.
(b)See Note B for discussion of the distribution of Valvoline Inc. and the noncontrolling interest.
(c)
Common shares issued were 242,043111,400 for the ninethree months ended June 30,December 31, 2017.



























SEE NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
STATEMENTS OF CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS

   

Nine months endedThree months ended
June 30December 31
(In millions - unaudited)2017
 2016
2017
 2016
CASH FLOWS PROVIDED (USED) BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES FROM      
CONTINUING OPERATIONS      
Net income$85
 $247
Net income (loss)$(4) $10
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)(138) (186)(3) (75)
Adjustments to reconcile income from continuing operations to 
  
 
  
cash flows from operating activities 
  
 
  
Depreciation and amortization218
 227
79
 68
Original issue discount and debt issuance cost amortization108
 9
2
 94
Deferred income taxes(4) —
Equity income from affiliates—
 (1)
Distributions from equity affiliates1
 1
Deferred and other income taxes8
 2
Stock based compensation expense14
 23
7
 5
Loss on early retirement of debt9
 —
Gain on available-for-sale securities(9) (6)
Net loss (gain) on divestitures4
 (3)
Gain on early retirement of debt—
 (3)
Realized gain and investment income on available-for-sale securities(3) (3)
Net loss on divestitures1
 1
Pension contributions(6) (24)(2) (1)
Loss (gain) on pension and other postretirement plan remeasurements(2) 18
Gain on post-employment plan remeasurement—
 (2)
Change in operating assets and liabilities (a)(166) (70)(109) (156)
Total cash flows provided by operating activities from continuing operations114
 235
Total cash flows used by operating activities from continuing operations(24) (60)
CASH FLOWS PROVIDED (USED) BY INVESTING ACTIVITIES FROM 
  
 
  
CONTINUING OPERATIONS 
  
 
  
Additions to property, plant and equipment(126) (150)(24) (33)
Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment4
 3
1
 —
Purchase of operations - net of cash acquired(680) —
Proceeds from sale of operations or equity investments4
 18
Proceeds from sale of operations1
 —
Net purchase of funds restricted for specific transactions(2) (4)(5) (2)
Reimbursements from restricted investments19
 24
5
 —
Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities5
 —
Purchases of available-for-sale securities(19) (4)(5) —
Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities19
 4
Proceeds from the settlement of derivative instruments5
 8
—
 4
Payments for the settlement of derivative instruments(3) (2)(2) —
Total cash flows used by investing activities from continuing operations(779) (103)(24) (31)
CASH FLOWS PROVIDED (USED) BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES FROM 
  
 
  
CONTINUING OPERATIONS 
  
 
  
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt1,100
 —
Repayment of long-term debt(913) (50)(2) (239)
Premium on long-term debt repayment(17) —
—
 (5)
Proceeds from short-term debt69
 389
Repurchase of common stock—
 (500)
Proceeds (repayment) from short-term debt120
 (154)
Debt issuance costs(15) (2)—
 (4)
Cash dividends paid(62) (72)(14) (24)
Excess tax benefits related to share-based payments2
 1
Stock based compensation employee withholding taxes paid in cash(5) (8)
Total cash flows provided (used) by financing activities from continuing operations164
 (234)99
 (434)
CASH USED BY CONTINUING OPERATIONS(501) (102)51
 (525)
Cash provided (used) by discontinued operations 
  
 
  
Operating cash flows, net123
 170
(16) 70
Investing cash flows, net(293) (104)—
 (10)
Financing cash flows, net(17) —
—
 (10)
Total cash provided (used) by discontinued operations(187) 66
(16) 50
Effect of currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents(8) (6)—
 (9)
DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS(696) (42)
Cash, beginning of period held by Ashland1,017
 1,257
Cash, beginning of period held by Valvoline and reported as discontinued operations171
 —
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS35
 (484)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS - BEGINNING OF PERIOD1,188
 1,257
566
 1,017
Change in cash and cash equivalents held by Valvoline—
 (65)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS - END OF PERIOD$492
 $1,215
$601
 $468
      
(a)Excludes changes resulting from operations acquired or sold.




SEE NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   



NOTE A – SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of presentation  
On September 20, 2016, Ashland was reincorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware through a tax-free reorganization under a new holding company structure (the 2016 Reorganization). As a result of the Reorganization, Ashland Global Holdings Inc. replaced Ashland Inc. as the publicly held corporation and, through its subsidiaries, now conducts all of the operations that historically were conducted by Ashland Inc. The Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Ashland Global Holdings Inc. and its majority owned subsidiaries and, when applicable, entities for which Ashland has a controlling financial interest or is the primary beneficiary (Ashland).
The accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for interim financial reporting and Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulations.  In the opinion of management, all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included.  Additionally, certain prior period data, primarily related to discontinued operations, have been reclassified in the Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes to conform to the current period presentation, as further described in this section. These statements omit certain information and footnote disclosures required for complete annual financial statements and, therefore, should be read in conjunction with Ashland’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 20162017.  Results of operations for the period ended June 30,December 31, 2017 are not necessarily indicative of the expected results for the remaining quarterquarters in the fiscal year.
On May 12, 2017, Ashland completed the distribution of its remaining 170 million shares of common stock of Valvoline Inc. which represented approximately 83% of the total outstanding shares of Valvoline Inc.'s common stock. This distribution ofseparation from Valvoline represented a strategic shift in Ashland's business and qualified as a discontinued operation. Accordingly, Valvoline's assets, liabilities, operating results and cash flows for all periods presentedthe three months ended December 31, 2016 have been classified as discontinued operations within the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. See Note B for additional information on the separation of Valvoline Inc. The term Valvoline as used herein, depending on context, refers to either Valvoline Inc. or Valvoline as a previous reportable segment of Ashland.
Subsequent to completing the distribution ofseparation from Valvoline Inc. during the current quarter,, Ashland's operations are now managed within the following three reportable segments: Specialty Ingredients, Composites and Intermediates and Solvents. In previous periods, Composites and Intermediates and Solvents were reporting units included within the Ashland Performance Materials reportable segment.
Use of estimates, risks and uncertainties
The preparation of Ashland’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities.  Significant items that are subject to such estimates and assumptions include, but are not limited to, long-lived assets (including goodwill and other intangible assets), employee benefit obligations, income taxes and liabilities and receivables associated with asbestos litigation and environmental remediation.  Although management bases its estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, actual results could differ significantly from the estimates under different assumptions or conditions.
Ashland’s results are affected by domestic and international economic, political, legislative, regulatory and legal actions.  Economic conditions, such as recessionary trends, inflation, interest and monetary exchange rates, government fiscal policies and changes in the prices of certain key raw materials, can have a significant effect on operations.  While Ashland maintains reserves for anticipated liabilities and carries various levels of insurance, Ashland could be affected by civil, criminal, regulatory or administrative actions, claims or proceedings relating to asbestos, environmental remediation or other matters.
New accounting standards
A description of new U.S. GAAP accounting standards issued or adopted during the current year is required in interim financial reporting.  A detailed listing of new accounting standards relevant to Ashland is included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017. The following standards relevant to Ashland were either issued or adopted in the current period, or will become effective in a subsequent period.
In May 2014, the FASB issued accounting guidance outlining a single comprehensive five step model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers (ASC 606 Revenue from Contracts with Customers). The new guidance supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, in an
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE A – SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)
 

New accounting standards
A description of new U.S. GAAP accounting standards issued or adopted during the current year is required in interim financial reporting.  A detailed listing of new accounting standards relevant to Ashland is included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2016. The following standards relevant to Ashland were either issued or adopted in the current period, or will become effective in a subsequent period.
In May 2014, the FASB issued accounting guidance outlining a single comprehensive five step model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers (ASC 606 Revenue from Contracts with Customers). The new guidance supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, in an effort to converge the revenue recognition principles within U.S. GAAP. This new guidance also requires entities to disclose certain quantitative and qualitative information regarding the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of qualifying revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. Entities have the option of using a full retrospective or a modified retrospective approach to adopt the new guidance. Ashland has identified an implementation team that is currently evaluating the impact of the new standard on the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and the adoption method options available as well as the overall impact the new guidance will have on the organization. The assessment process consists of categorizing Ashland’s revenue streams and reviewing the current internal accounting policies and practices to determine potential differences that would result from applying the requirements of the new standard to revenue contracts. Additional discussions and meetings with each revenue stream team have occurred to solicit input, identify potential impacts and appropriate changes to Ashland’s business processes, systems and controls to support the revenue recognition and disclosure requirements under the new standard. Based on various preliminary assessments conducted to date, Ashland has identified agreements with distributors and customers that are subject to rebate and incentive programs that could contain elements of material rights and/or variable consideration. Ashland does not currently believe that these elements would result in a material change to how revenue would be recognized for these agreements. Ashland currently intends to adopt this standard using the modified retrospective approach and does not believe the impact will be material to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements but does expect there to be significant additional disclosures within the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. This guidance becomes effective for Ashland on October 1, 2018 and Ashland currently plans to adopt the standard at that time.   2018.
In March 2017, the FASB issued accounting guidance that will change how employers who sponsor defined benefit pension and/or postretirement benefit plans present the net periodic benefit cost in the Statement of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.Income (Loss). This guidance requires employers to present the service cost component of net periodic benefit cost in the same caption within the Statement of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) as other employee compensation costs from services rendered during the period. All other components of the net periodic benefit cost will be presented separately outside of the operating income caption. This guidance must be applied retrospectively and will become effective forretrospectively. Ashland on October 1, 2018, with early adoption being optional. Ashland currently intendselected to early adopt this guidance on October 1, 2017, which resulted in a reclassification of $2 million in income from the selling, general and will reviseadministrative expense and cost of sales captions to the presentation of theother net periodic benefit income caption in the Statement of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the three months ended December 31, 2016. The components of net periodic benefits income (costs) reclassified primarily relate to interest cost, expected return on assets, curtailments, settlements and actuarial gains and losses. Ashland did not have to adjust the classification of service cost since it previously was recorded within the caption required by the new guidance. See Note J for additional information on net periodic benefit costs.
In March 2016, the FASB issued new accounting guidance for certain aspects of share-based payments to employees. This guidance requires all excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies related to share-based payments to be recognized as income tax expense in previous periods to conform to the current period presentation. Ashland does not expect this guidance to have a significant impact on the presentation of Ashland’s Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.
Income (Loss) instead of additional paid-in capital, and changes the classification of excess tax benefits from a financing activity to an operating activity within the Statements of Condensed Consolidated Cash Flows. This guidance also allows entities to make an accounting policy election to either estimate the number of awards that are expected to vest or account for forfeitures when they occur. In January 2017,addition, this guidance increases the FASB issued accounting guidance which simplifiesamount an employer can withhold to cover income taxes on awards and still qualify for equity classification and requires that cash paid by an employer when directly withholding shares for tax-withholding purposes be classified as a financing activity within the subsequent measurementStatements of goodwill by eliminating the second step of the two-step impairment test under which the implied fair value of goodwill is determined as if the reporting unit were being acquired in a business combination.Condensed Consolidated Cash Flows. The guidance instead requires entities to compare the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount and recognize an impairment charge for any amount by which the carrying amount exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value.  This guidance must be applied prospectively and will becomebecame effective for Ashland and was adopted on October 1, 2020. Ashland is currently evaluating2017. The guidance specifically related to the impact thisStatements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) was adopted prospectively while the guidance may have on Ashland'srelated to the Statements of Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
In April 2015,Cash Flows was adopted retrospectively, as required by the FASB issued accounting guidance to help entities evaluate the accounting for fees paid by a customer in a cloud computing arrangement. Cloud computing arrangements represent the delivery of hosted services over the internet which includes software, platforms, infrastructure and other hosting arrangements. Under the guidance, customers that gain access to software in a cloud computing arrangement account for the software as internal-use software only if the arrangement includes a software license. This guidance became effective prospectively for Ashland on October 1, 2016.guidance.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE A–SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued)

Upon adoption, the overall impact on Ashland's Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements was not significant.
NOTE B– VALVOLINE


Ashland Separation of Valvoline
On September 22, 2015, Ashland announced that the Board of Directors approved proceeding with a plan to separate Ashland into two independent, publicly traded companies comprising of the new Ashland (now known as Ashland Global Holdings Inc.) and Valvoline Inc. The initial step of the separation, the initial public offering (IPO) of Valvoline Inc., closed on September 28, 2016. As discussed further within the Final Separation section of this Note, Ashland completed the distribution of its remaining shares in Valvoline Inc. on May 12, 2017. The new Ashland is a premier global leader in providing specialty chemical solutions to customers in a wide range of consumer and industrial markets. Key markets and applications include pharmaceutical, personal care, food and beverage, architectural coatings, adhesives, automotive, construction and energy.
After completing the IPO on September 28, 2016 and before the distribution of its remaining shares on May 12, 2017, Ashland owned 170 million shares of Valvoline Inc.’s common stock which represented approximately 83% of the total outstanding shares of Valvoline Inc.’s common stock. As a result, Ashland continued to consolidate Valvoline within the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements up until the distribution of the remaining shares. The resulting outside stockholders’ interests in Valvoline Inc., which was approximately 17% as of September 30, 2016,, was presented separately as a noncontrolling interest within Ashland’s equity in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.Sheets up until the distribution of the remaining shares. The amount of consolidated net income attributable to these minority holders is presented as a separate caption on the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.
Ashland recognized separation costs of $28 million for each of the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, and $82 million and $46 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, which are primarily related to transaction and legal fees. Of these amounts, $13 million of separation costs directly related to Valvoline and were included within the discontinued operations caption of the Statement of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the ninethree months ended June 30, 2017. Otherwise, separation costs are recorded within the selling, general and administrative expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.December 31, 2016.
Final Separation
Ashland completed the distribution of its remaining 170 million shares of common stock of Valvoline Inc. as a pro rata dividend on shares of Ashland common stock outstanding at the close of business on the record date of May 5, 2017. Based on the shares of Ashland common stock outstanding as of May 5, 2017, the record date for the distribution, each share of Ashland common stock received 2.745338 shares of Valvoline common stock in the distribution. The distribution was recorded at the carrying amount of Valvoline Inc.'s net assets which was a deficit of $187 million as of May 12, 2017, as follows:
 
 
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
NOTE B – VALVOLINE (continued)



 May 12
(In millions)2017
ASSETS 
Current assets 
Cash179
Accounts receivable, net385
Inventories153
Other current assets24
Total current assets741
Noncurrent assets 
Net property, plant and equipment357
Goodwill329
Equity and other unconsolidated investments31
Deferred income taxes391
Other noncurrent assets93
Total noncurrent assets1,201
Total assets$1,942
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 
Current liabilities 
Short-term debt75
Current portion of long-term debt16
Trade and other payables353
Other current liabilities34
Total current liabilities478
Noncurrent liabilities 
Long-term debt662
Employee benefit obligations826
Other long-term liabilities163
Total noncurrent liabilities1,651
Total liabilities$2,129
Net deficit$(187)
A Tax Matters Agreement between Ashland and Valvoline Inc. governs the rights and obligations after the spin-offseparation regarding certain income taxes and other taxes, including certain tax liabilities and benefits, attributes, returns and contests.
Discontinued Operations Assessment
Valvoline met the criteria to qualify as a discontinued operation and accordingly, its assets, liabilities, operating results and cash flows for the three months ended December 31, 2016 have been classified as discontinued operations within the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. See Note D for more information.
Certain indirect corporate costs included within the selling, general and administrative expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income that were previously allocated to the Valvoline reportable segment do not qualify for classification within discontinued operations and continue to be reported as selling, general and administrative expense within continuing operations on a consolidated basis and within the Unallocated and other segment. These costs were $6 million and $17 million for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2016, respectively.
 
 
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
NOTE B – VALVOLINE (continued)



Costs of transaction
Ashland entered into an agreement in Septemberrecognized separation costs of $6 million and $28 million for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, for an approximate two year period that provides certain transition servicesrespectively. Of these amounts, $6 million of separation costs directly related to Valvoline Inc. Duringand were included within the discontinued operations caption of the Statement of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017, Ashland recognized income for transition service fees of $1 million and $10 million, respectively, which offsetDecember 31, 2016. Otherwise, separation costs are recorded within the selling, general and administrative expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income. Likewise, Valvoline Inc. provides certain transition services to Ashland as deemed necessary. During the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017, Ashland recognized expense for transition service fees of $1 million and $4 million, respectively, which are included within the selling, general and administrative expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.Income (Loss).
NOTE C – ACQUISITION AND DIVESTITUREACQUISITIONS
Pharmachem
Background
On May 17, 2017, Ashland completed its acquisition of the stock of Pharmachem Laboratories, Inc. (Pharmachem), a leading provider of quality ingredients to the global health and wellness industries and high-value differentiated products to fragrance and flavor houses. With annual revenues of approximately $300 million and 14 manufacturing facilities in the United States and Mexico, New Jersey-based Pharmachem develops, manufactures and supplies custom and branded nutritional and fragrance products.  Ashland has included Pharmachem within the Specialty Ingredients reporting segment.  
Purchase price allocation
The acquisition was recorded by Ashland using the purchase method of accounting in accordance with applicable U.S. GAAP whereby the total purchase price was allocated to tangible and intangible assets and liabilities acquired based on respective fair values.
The all-cash purchase price of Pharmachem was $680 million which included working capital adjustments of approximately $20 million. Ashland incurred $5 million of transaction costs during the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017 related to the acquisition, which was recorded within the net gain (loss) on acquisitions and divestitures caption within the Statement of Consolidated Income.  The following table summarizes the current preliminary values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition.
 At
 May 17, 2017
Preliminary purchase price allocation (in millions)As Adjusted
Assets: 
Accounts receivable52
Inventory74
Other current assets4
Intangible assets330
Goodwill287
Property, plant and equipment97
Other noncurrent assets20
Liabilities: 
Accounts payable(32)
Deferred tax - net(138)
Other noncurrent liabilities(14)
Total purchase price$680
 
 
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
NOTE C – ACQUISITION AND DIVESTITUREACQUISITIONS (continued)



 At
 May 17,
Preliminary purchase price allocation (in millions)2017
Assets: 
Accounts receivable53
Inventory76
Other current assets9
Intangible assets312
Goodwill276
Property, plant and equipment96
Other noncurrent assets20
Liabilities: 
Accounts payable(23)
Deferred tax - net(128)
Other noncurrent liabilities(11)
Total purchase price$680
As of June 30,December 31, 2017, the purchase price allocation for the acquisition was preliminary and subject to completion.preliminary. Adjustments to the current fair value estimates in the above table may occur as the process conducted for various valuations and assessments, including certain tangible and intangible assets, are finalized. Goodwill was calculated as the excess of the consideration transferred over the net assets recognized and represents the estimated future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired that could not be individually identified and separately recognized. The factors contributing to the recognition of goodwill were based on strategic benefits that are expected to be realized from the acquisition. None of the goodwill is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes.
Intangible assets identified
The purchase price allocation included $312$330 million of certain definite-lived intangible assets which are being amortized over the estimated useful life in proportion to the economic benefits consumed. The determination of the useful lives is based upon various industry studies, historical acquisition experience, economic factors, and future cash flows of the combined company.  In addition, Ashland reviewed certain technological trends and also considered the relative stability in the current Pharmachem customer base.
The following details the total intangible assets identified as of May 17, 2017.
  Weighted-average  Weighted-average
  amortization period  amortization period
Intangible asset type (in millions)Value
 (years)Value
 (years)
Trademarks and trade names$26
 15$26
 15
Intellectual property69
 2268
 22
Customer and supplier relationships217
 20236
 20
Total$312
  $330
  
Impact on operating results
The results of Pharmachem’s operations have been included in Ashland’s Consolidated Financial Statements since the May 17, 2017 closing date.  The following table provides sales and results of operations from the Pharmachem acquired business lines included in Ashland’s results during the current period.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE C – ACQUISITION AND DIVESTITURE (continued)



Pharmachem results of operationsNine months ended 
(In millions)June 30, 2017(a)
Sales$36
 
Operating income4
 
   
(a)Amounts represent the sales and results of operations for the period May 17, 2017 through June 30, 2017, the period for which Pharmchem was owned.
The following unaudited pro forma information for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 assumes the acquisition of Pharmachem occurred at the beginning of the respective periods presented.
 Three months ended Nine months ended
Unaudited pro forma informationJune 30 June 30
(In millions, except per share amounts)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
Sales$943
 $861
 $2,589
 $2,485
Net income (loss)(26) 70
 97
 245
These amounts have been calculated after applying Ashland’s accounting policies and adjusting the results of Pharmachem to reflect the additional depreciation, amortization and interest expense that would have been charged assuming the fair value adjustments to property, plant and equipment and intangible assets, and the related debt incurred had been applied on October 1, 2015, together with the consequential tax effects.                                                                                                                               
The unaudited pro forma information presented above is for illustrative purposes only and does not purport to be indicative of the results of future operations of Ashland or the results that would have been attained had the operations been combined during the periods presented.

Specialty Ingredients Joint Venture
During September 2016, Ashland entered into a definitive sale agreement to sell its ownership interest in a Specialty Ingredients joint venture in China, which primarily serves the construction end market. Ashland recognized a loss of $12 million before tax in 2016 to recognize the assets at fair value less cost to sell, using Level 2 nonrecurring fair value measurements.
During June 2017, Ashland completed the transfer of its ownership interest in the joint venture and recognized an additional loss of $4 million during the current quarter primarily related to a license fee and tax adjustments. The loss was reported within the net gain (loss) on acquisitions and divestitures caption within the Statement of Consolidated Comprehensive Income. The net assets held for sale were not material to Ashland’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30, 2016.
Ashland determined this transaction did not qualify for discontinued operations treatment since it did not represent a strategic shift that had or will have a major effect on Ashland’s operations and financial results.
Specialty Ingredients Facility
During the current quarter, Ashland committed to a plan to reorganize certain operations within the Specialty Ingredients reportable segment.  As part of this plan a manufacturing facility that was previously operational was closed during the current quarter.  As a result of this closure, the remaining value for primarily machinery and equipment related to this facility was written off during the current quarter, which resulted in an $11 million charge for these assets as well as an additional $2 million reserve for employee costs associated with the facility closure.  No additional charges related to this facility are expected.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE D – DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS


In previous periods, Ashland has divested certain businesses that have qualified as discontinued operations. The operating results from these divested businesses and subsequent adjustments related to ongoing assessments of certain retained liabilities and tax items have been recorded within the discontinued operations caption in the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income for all periods presented and are discussed further within this note.
As previously discussed in Notes A and B, Ashland completed the distribution of its remaining 170 million shares of common stock of Valvoline Inc. on May 12, 2017. Ashland determined that the final distribution of Valvoline separation qualified as a discontinued operation, in accordance with U.S. GAAP, since it represents a strategic shift for Ashland and has a major effect on Ashland's operations and financial results. Accordingly, Valvoline's assets, liabilities, operating results and cash flows for all periods presentedthe three months ended December 31, 2016 have been classified as discontinued operations within the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
On July 31, 2014, Ashland completed the sale of the Ashland Water Technologies (Water Technologies) business to Clayton, Dubilier & Rice. Ashland made subsequent post-closing adjustments to the discontinued operations caption as defined by the definitive agreement during the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016.
Components of amounts reflected in the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) related to discontinued operations are presented in the following table for the three and nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016.
 Three months ended Nine months ended
 June 30 June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
Income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax)       
Asbestos-related litigation$(25) $(30) $(25) $(30)
Water Technologies(1) 3
 2
 2
Valvoline12
 73
 161
 214
Gain on disposal of discontinued operations (net of tax) 
  
  
  
Water Technologies—
 1
 —
 —
Total income (loss) from discontinued operations (net of tax)$(14) $47
 $138
 $186
The following table presents a reconciliation of the captions within Ashland's Statements of Consolidated Income for the income from discontinued operations attributable to Valvoline for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE D – DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (continued)

 Three months ended Nine months ended
 June 30 June 30
(In millions)
2017 (a)

 2016
 2017
 2016
Income (loss) from discontinued operations       
attributable to Valvoline

       
Sales$234
 $500
 $1,237
 $1,435
Cost of sales(148) (300) (750) (868)
Selling, general and administrative expense(50) (84) (222) (245)
Research and development expense(1) (3) (8) (9)
Equity and other income3
 5
 17
 16
Operating income of discontinued operations38
 118
 274
 329
Net interest and other financing expense(5) —
 (22) —
Pretax income of discontinued operations33
 118
 252
 329
Income tax expense(21) (45) (91) (115)
Income from discontinued operations$12
 $73
 $161
 $214
        
 Three months ended
 December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)   
Valvoline$3
 $75
Total income from discontinued operations (net of tax)$3
 $75
(a)Valvoline results in the current quarter reflect only 42 days of activity since the business was fully distributed on May 12, 2017.
The following table presents a reconciliation of the historically reported captions within Ashland's Statements of assets and liabilities of Valvoline that are presented asConsolidated Income (Loss) for the income from discontinued operations within Ashland's Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of September 30,attributable to Valvoline for the three months ended December 31, 2016.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 Three months ended
(In millions)December 31, 2016
Income from discontinued operations 
attributable to Valvoline

 
Sales$489
Cost of sales(293)
Selling, general and administrative expense(82)
Research and development expense(3)
Equity and other income9
Operating income of discontinued operations120
Net interest and other financing expense(10)
Pretax income of discontinued operations110
Income tax expense(35)
Income from discontinued operations$75

NOTE D – DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS (continued)

 September 30
(In millions)2016
Cash$171
Accounts receivable, net387
Inventories131
Other current assets25
Current assets of discontinued operations$714
  
Net property, plant and equipment$324
Goodwill264
Equity and other unconsolidated investments26
Deferred income taxes347
Other noncurrent assets92
Noncurrent assets of discontinued operations$1,053
  
Current portion of long-term debt$19
Trade and other payables360
Current liabilities of discontinued operations$379
  
Long-term debt$730
Employee benefit obligations886
Other long-term liabilities99
Noncurrent liabilities of discontinued operations$1,715
  
Equity 
Noncontrolling interest$(182)

ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE E – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

As required by U.S. GAAP, Ashland uses applicable guidance for defining fair value, the initial recording and periodic remeasurement of certain assets and liabilities measured at fair value and related disclosures for instruments measured at fair value.  Fair value accounting guidance establishes a fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels.  The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3).  An instrument’s categorization within the fair value hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the instrument’s fair value measurement.  The three levels within the fair value hierarchy are described as follows.
Level 1 – Observable inputs such as unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2 – Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.  These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active.
Level 3 – Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability for which there is little, if any, market activity at the measurement date.  Unobservable inputs reflect Ashland’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability.  The inputs are developed based on the best information available in the circumstances, which might include Ashland’s own financial data such as internally developed pricing
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE E – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (continued)

models, discounted cash flow methodologies, as well as instruments for which the fair value determination requires significant management judgment.
For assets that are measured using quoted prices in active markets (Level 1), the total fair value is the published market price per unit multiplied by the number of units held without consideration of transaction costs.  Assets and liabilities that are measured using significant other observable inputs (Level 2) are primarily valued by reference to quoted prices of similar assets or liabilities in active markets, adjusted for any terms specific to that asset or liability.  For all other assets and liabilities for which unobservable inputs are used (Level 3), fair value is derived through the use of fair value models, such as a discounted cash flow model or other standard pricing models that Ashland deems reasonable.
The following table summarizes financial instruments subject to recurring fair value measurements as of JuneDecember 31, 2017.
(In millions)
Carrying
value

 
Total
fair
value

 
Quoted prices
in active
markets for
identical
assets
Level 1

 
Significant
other
observable
inputs
Level 2

 
Significant
unobservable
inputs
Level 3

Assets         
Cash and cash equivalents$601
 $601
 $601
 $—
 $—
Restricted investments (a)
345
 345
 345
 —
 —
Deferred compensation investments (b)
160
 160
 —
 160
 —
Investments of captive insurance company (b)
3
 3
 3
 —
 —
Foreign currency derivatives4
 4
 —
 4
 —
Total assets at fair value$1,113
 $1,113
 $949
 $164
 $—
          
Liabilities 
  
  
  
  
Foreign currency derivatives$13
 $13
 $—
 $13
 $—
          
(a)Included in restricted investments is $30 million classified in the other current assets caption on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
(b)Included in other noncurrent assets in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The following table summarizes financial asset instruments subject to recurring fair value measurements as of September 30, 2017.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE E – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (continued)

(In millions)
Carrying
value

 
Total
fair
value

 
Quoted prices
in active
markets for
identical
assets
Level 1

 
Significant
other
observable
inputs
Level 2

 
Significant
unobservable
inputs
Level 3

Carrying
value

 
Total
fair
value

 
Quoted prices
in active
markets for
identical
assets
Level 1

 
Significant
other
observable
inputs
Level 2

 
Significant
unobservable
inputs
Level 3

Assets          
  
  
  
  
Cash and cash equivalents$492
 $492
 $492
 $—
 $—
$566
 $566
 $566
 $—
 $—
Restricted investments (a)
329
 329
 329
 —
 —
332
 332
 332
 —
 —
Deferred compensation investments (b)
155
 155
 —
 155
 —
158
 158
 —
 158
 —
Investments of captive insurance company (b)
3
 3
 3
 —
 —
3
 3
 3
 —
 —
Foreign currency derivatives14
 14
 —
 14
 —
2
 2
 —
 2
 —
Total assets at fair value$993
 $993
 $824
 $169
 $—
$1,061
 $1,061
 $901
 $160
 $—
                  
Liabilities 
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
Foreign currency derivatives$10
 $10
 $—
 $10
 $—
$36
 $36
 $—
 $36
 $—
                  
(a)Included in restricted investments andis $30 million withinclassified in the other current assets in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
(b)Included in other noncurrent assets in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The following table summarizes financial asset instruments subject to recurring fair value measurements as of September 30, 2016.
(In millions)
Carrying
value

 
Total
fair
value

 
Quoted prices
in active
markets for
identical
assets
Level 1

 
Significant
other
observable
inputs
Level 2

 
Significant
unobservable
inputs
Level 3

Assets 
  
  
  
  
Cash and cash equivalents$1,017
 $1,017
 $1,017
 $—
 $—
Restricted investments (a)
322
 322
 322
 —
 —
Deferred compensation investments (b)
150
 150
 —
 150
 —
Investments of captive insurance company (b)
4
 4
 4
 —
 —
Foreign currency derivatives3
 3
 —
 3
 —
Total assets at fair value$1,496
 $1,496
 $1,343
 $153
 $—
          
Liabilities 
  
  
  
  
Foreign currency derivatives$5
 $5
 $—
 $5
 $—
          
(a)Included in restricted investments and $30 million within other current assets incaption on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
(b)Included in other noncurrent assets in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Restricted investments
On January 13,During 2015, Ashland and Hercules entered into a comprehensive settlement agreement related to certain insurance coverage for asbestos bodily injury claims with Underwriters at Lloyd’s, certain London Companies and Chartis (AIG) member companies, along with National Indemnity Company and Resolute Management, Inc., under which Ashland and Hercules received a total of $398 million (the January 2015 asbestos insurance settlement). During the March 2015 quarter, Ashland placed $335 million of the settlement
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE E – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (continued)

funds from the January 2015 asbestos insurance settlement into a renewable annual trust restricted for the purpose of paying ongoing and future litigation defense and claim settlement costs incurred in conjunction with asbestos claims. These funds were classified primarily as noncurrent restricted investment assets, with $30 million classified within other current assets, in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30,December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2016.2017.
During 2015, Ashland diversified the restricted investments received from the January 2015 asbestos insurance settlement into primarily equity and corporate bond mutual funds that are designated as available-for-sale securities, classified as Level 1 measurements within the fair value hierarchy. Available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value with unrealized gains and losses, net of related deferred income taxes, included in the stockholders' equity section of the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI). Investment income and realized gains and losses on the available-for-sale securities are reported in the net interest and other financing expense caption in the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income. The following table provides a summary of the available-for-sale securities portfolio as of June 30,December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2016:
 June 30
 September 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
Original cost$335
 $335
Accumulated investment income, settlement funds   
and disbursements, net(24) (3)
Adjusted cost (a)
311
 332
Investment income (b)
7
 8
Unrealized gain26
 11
Realized gain2
 —
Settlement funds2
 4
Disbursements(19) (33)
Fair value$329
 $322
    
(a)The adjusted cost of the demand deposit includes accumulated investment income, disbursements and settlements recorded in previous periods.
(b)Investment income for the demand deposit includes interest income as well as dividend income transferred from the equity and corporate bond mutual funds.
The following table presents gross unrealized gains and losses for the restricted investment available-for-sale securities as of June 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016:2017:
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE E – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (continued)

   Gross
 Gross
  
(In millions)Adjusted Cost
 Unrealized Gain
 Unrealized Loss
 Fair Value
As of June 30, 2017       
Demand Deposit$15
 $—
 $—
 $15
Equity Mutual Fund168
 26
 —
 194
Corporate bond Mutual Fund120
 —
 —
 120
Fair value$303
 $26
 $—
 $329
        
As of September 30, 2016       
Demand Deposit$6
 $—
 $—
 $6
Equity Mutual Fund185
 8
 —
 193
Corporate bond Mutual Fund120
 3
 —
 123
Fair value$311
 $11
 $—
 $322
 December 31
 September 30
(In millions)2017
 2017
Original cost$335
 $335
Accumulated adjustments, net (a)

(38) (24)
Adjusted cost, beginning of year297
 311
Investment income (b)
2
 9
Unrealized gain45
 35
Realized gain1
 2
Settlement funds5
 2
Disbursements(5) (27)
Fair value$345
 $332
    
(a)The accumulated adjustments include investment income, realized gains, disbursements and settlements recorded in previous periods.
(b)Investment income for the demand deposit includes interest income as well as dividend income transferred from the equity and corporate bond mutual funds.
The following table presents gross unrealized gains and losses for the restricted investment available-for-sale securities as of December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2017:
   Gross
 Gross
  
(In millions)Adjusted Cost
 Unrealized Gain
 Unrealized Loss
 Fair Value
As of December 31, 2017       
Demand Deposit$17
 $—
 $—
 $17
Equity Mutual Fund163
 45
 —
 208
Corporate bond Mutual Fund120
 —
 —
 120
Fair value$300
 $45
 $—
 $345
        
As of September 30, 2017       
Demand Deposit$9
 $—
 $—
 $9
Equity Mutual Fund168
 34
 —
 202
Corporate bond Mutual Fund120
 1
 —
 121
Fair value$297
 $35
 $—
 $332

The unrealized gains and losses as of June 30,December 31, 2017 and September 30, 20162017 were recognized within AOCI. Ashland invests in highly-rated investment grade mutual funds. No other-than-temporary impairment was recognized in AOCI during the three and nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016.
The following table presents the investment income realized gains and disbursements related to the investments within the portfolio for the three and nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016.
Three months ended Nine months endedThree months ended
June 30 June 30December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
2017
 2016
Investment income$2
 $2
 $7
 $6
$2
 $3
Realized gains—
 —
 2
 —
1
 —
Disbursements(7) (1) (19) (24)(5) —
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE E – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (continued)

Deferred compensation investments
Deferred compensation investments consist of Level 2 measurements within the fair value hierarchy which are comprised primarily of a guaranteed interest fund, a common stock index fund and an intermediate government bond fund. Gains and losses related to deferred compensation investments are immediately recognized within the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.Income (Loss).
Derivative and hedging activitiesForeign currency derivatives
Currency hedges
Ashland conducts business in a variety of foreign currencies.  Accordingly, Ashland regularly uses foreign currency derivative instruments to manage exposure on certain transactions denominated in foreign currencies to curtail potential earnings volatility effects ofon certain assets and liabilities, including short-term inter-company loans, denominated in currencies other than Ashland’s functional currency of an entity. These derivative contracts generally require exchange of one foreign currency for another at a fixed rate at a future date and generally have maturities of less than twelve months.  All contracts are valued at fair value with net changes in fair value recorded within the selling, general and administrative expense caption.  The impacts of these contracts were largely offset by gains and losses resulting from the impact of changes in exchange rates on transactions denominated in non-functional currencies. The following table summarizes the net gains andand/or losses
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE E – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (continued)

recognized during the three and nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016 within the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.Income (Loss).
Three months ended Nine months endedThree months ended
June 30 June 30December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
2017
 2016
Foreign currency derivative gain (loss)$(1) $(3) $10
 $1
Foreign currency derivative loss$(11) $(8)
The following table summarizes the fair values of the outstanding foreign currency derivatives as of June 30,December 31, 2017 and September 30, 20162017 included in accounts receivable and accrued expenses and other liabilities of the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
June 30
 September 30
December 31
 September 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
2017
 2017
Foreign currency derivative assets$14
 $3
$4
 $2
Notional contract values842
 325
425
 79
      
Foreign currency derivative liabilities$10
 $4
$13
 $36
Notional contract values797
 528
810
 1,601
Net investment hedgesOther financial instruments
Since 2014, Ashland has entered into foreign currency contracts in order to manage the foreign currency exposure of the net investment in certain foreign operations. These foreign currency contracts were primarily the result of certain proceeds from the sale of Water Technologies being received in non-U.S. denominated currencies during 2014 and ongoing management of the volatility in foreign currency exchange rates. Ashland designated the foreign currency contracts as hedges of net investments in its foreign subsidiaries. As a result, Ashland records these hedges at fair value using forward rates, with the effective portion of the gain or loss reported as a component of the cumulative translation adjustment within AOCI and subsequently recognized in the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income when the hedged item affects net income. During 2017 and 2016, these foreign currency contracts were settled and for certain hedges Ashland entered into new foreign currency contracts designated as hedges of net investments in foreign subsidiaries. These settlements resulted in net gains and losses recorded within the cumulative translation adjustment within AOCI, including a net gain of $1 million and a net loss of $1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, and net gains of $2 million and $6 million for the nine months June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
As of June 30,At December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2016, the total notional value of foreign currency contracts equaled $49 million and $94 million, respectively. The fair value of2017, Ashland's net investment hedge assets and liabilities are calculated using forward rates. Accordingly, these instruments are deemed to be Level 2 measurements within the fair value hierarchy. Counterparties to these net investment hedges are highly rated financial institutions which Ashland believes carry only a nominal risk of nonperformance. The following table summarizes the fair value of the outstanding net investment hedge instruments as of June 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016.
  June 30
 September 30
(In millions)Consolidated balance sheet caption2017
 2016
Net investment hedge assets (a)
Accounts receivable$—
 $—
Net investment hedge liabilities (a)
Accrued expenses and other liabilities—
 1
     
(a)Fair value of $0 denotes a value less than $1 million.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE E – FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (continued)

The following table summarizes the change in the unrealized gain (loss) on the net investment hedge instruments recognized within the cumulative translation adjustment within AOCI during the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016. No portion of the gain or loss was reclassified to income during the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016. There was no hedge ineffectiveness with these instruments during the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016.
 Three months ended Nine months ended
 June 30 June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
Change in unrealized gain in AOCI (a)
$—
 $—
 $—
 $—
Tax impact of change in unrealized gain in AOCI (a)
—
 (1) —
 —
        
(a)$0 denotes a value less than $1 million.
Other financial instruments
At June 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016, Ashland’s consolidated long-term debt (including the current portion and excluding debt issuance cost discounts) had a carrying value of $2,616$2,614 million and $2,3452,615 million, respectively, compared to a fair value of $2,750$2,755 million and $2,558$2,768 million, respectively.  The fair values of long-term debt are based on quoted market prices or, if market prices are not available, the present values of the underlying cash flows discounted at Ashland’s incremental borrowing rates, which are deemed to be Level 2 measurements within the fair value hierarchy.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE F –INVENTORIES

Inventories are carried at the lower of cost or market.  Inventories are primarily stated at cost using the weighted-average cost method. In addition, certain chemicals, and plasticsinventories are valued at cost using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method.  
The following table summarizes Ashland’s inventories as of the reported Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet dates.
June 30
 September 30
December 31
 September 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
2017
 2017
Finished products$381
 $377
$421
 $390
Raw materials, supplies and work in process251
 163
256
 245
LIFO reserves(1) (1)(3) (1)
$631
 $539
$674
 $634
NOTE G – GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES
Goodwill
Ashland reviews goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment annually or when events and circumstances indicate an impairment may have occurred.  This annual assessment is performed as of July 1 and consists of Ashland determining each reporting unit’s current fair value compared to its current carrying value.  For its July 1, 20162017 assessment, Ashland determined that its reporting units for the allocation of goodwill include the Specialty Ingredientsare its three reportable segment, the Composites and Intermediates and Solvents reporting units within the Performance Materials reportable segment, and the Core North America, Quick Lubes and
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE G – GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES (continued)

International reporting units within the Valvoline reportable segment. Subsequent to completing the distribution of Valvoline during the current quarter, Ashland performed an assessment that changed its reportable segments tosegments: Specialty Ingredients, Composites and Intermediates and Solvents. In addition,At that time, Ashland determined that the reportable segments would also be designated as reporting units. Based on the results of its goodwillno additional impairment testing as of July 1, 2016, Ashland recorded a pre-tax goodwill impairment charge of $171 million for Intermediates and Solvents during the fourth quarter of 2016.existed.
The following is a progression of goodwill by reportable segment for the ninethree months ended June 30,December 31, 2017.
 Specialty
   Intermediates
  
(In millions)Ingredients
 Composites
 and Solvents
 Total
Balance as of September 30, 2016$1,991
 $147
 $—
 $2,138
Acquisitions (a)
276
 —
 —
 276
Currency translation adjustment12
 —
 —
 12
Balance as of June 30, 2017$2,279
 $147
 $—
 $2,426
        
 Specialty
   Intermediates
  
(In millions)Ingredients
 Composites
 and Solvents
(a)Total
Balance as of September 30, 2017$2,315
 $150
 $—
 $2,465
Currency translation adjustment10
 —
 —
 10
Balance as of December 31, 2017$2,325
 $150
 $—
 $2,475
        
(a)RelatesAs of December 31, 2017, there was accumulated impairment of $171 million related to the acquisition of Pharmachem during the current quarter. See Note C for more information.Intermediates and Solvents reportable segment.
Other intangible assets
Intangible assets principally consist of trademarks and trade names, intellectual property and customer and supplier relationships. Intangible assets classified as finite are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives.  The cost of trademarks and trade names is amortized principally over 3 to 25 years, intellectual property over 5 to 25 years, and customer and supplier relationships over 3 to 24 years.
Ashland annually reviews indefinite-lived intangible assets for possible impairment or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that carrying amounts may not be recoverable.  
Intangible assets were comprised of the following as of June 30,December 31, 2017 and September 30, 20162017.
 
 June 30, 2017
 Gross
   Net
 carrying
 Accumulated
 carrying
(In millions)amount
 amortization
 amount
Definite-lived intangible assets     
Trademarks and trade names$66
 $(21) $45
Intellectual property735
 (308) 427
Customer and supplier relationships759
 (216) 543
Total definite-lived intangible assets (a)
1,560
 (545) 1,015
      
Indefinite-lived intangible assets     
Trademarks and trade names301
 —
 301
Total intangible assets$1,861
 $(545) $1,316
      
(a)The gross carrying amount of the definite-lived intangible assets increased during the nine months ended June 30, 2017 primarily due to the acquisition of Pharmachem. See Note C for more information.

   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE G – GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES (continued)

September 30, 2016December 31, 2017
Gross
   Net
Gross
   Net
carrying
 Accumulated
 carrying
carrying
 Accumulated
 carrying
(In millions)amount
 amortization
 amount
amount
 amortization
 amount
Definite-lived intangible assets          
Trademarks and trade names$40
 $(19) $21
$67
 $(22) $45
Intellectual property667
 (273) 394
758
 (340) 418
Customer relationships543
 (198) 345
Customer and supplier relationships780
 (246) 534
Total definite-lived intangible assets1,250
 (490) 760
1,605
 (608) 997
          
Indefinite-lived intangible assets          
Trademarks and trade names301
 —
 301
301
 —
 301
Total intangible assets$1,551
 $(490) $1,061
$1,906
 $(608) $1,298


 September 30, 2017
 Gross
   Net
 carrying
 Accumulated
 carrying
(In millions)amount
 amortization
 amount
Definite-lived intangible assets     
Trademarks and trade names$67
 $(22) $45
Intellectual property757
 (326) 431
Customer and supplier relationships777
 (235) 542
Total definite-lived intangible assets1,601
 (583) 1,018
      
Indefinite-lived intangible assets     
Trademarks and trade names301
 —
 301
Total intangible assets$1,902
 $(583) $1,319
Amortization expense recognized on intangible assets was $20$24 million and $19 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, and $58 million and $57 million for the nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, and is included in the selling, general and administrative expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.Income (Loss). Estimated amortization expense for future periods is $81$94 million in 20172018 (includes ninethree months actual and threenine months estimated), $91$90 million in 2018,2019, $89 million in 2020, $89 million in 2021 and $87 million in 2019, $86 million in 2020 and $86 million in 2021.2022. The amortization expense for future periods is an estimate. Actual amounts may change from such estimated amounts due to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, additional intangible asset acquisitions and divestitures, potential impairment, accelerated amortization, or other events.
NOTE H – DEBT
The following table summarizes Ashland’s current and long-term debt as of the dates reported in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE H – DEBT (continued)

June 30
 September 30
December 31
 September 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
2017
 2017
4.750% notes, due 20221,082
 1,121
$1,082
 $1,082
Term Loan B, due 2024600
 —
597
 599
6.875% notes, due 2043376
 376
376
 376
Revolving Credit Facility285
 173
Term Loan A, due 2022250
 —
250
 250
Term Loan A, due 2020250
 —
250
 250
Revolving Credit Facility128
 —
Accounts receivable securitization95
 —
64
 56
6.50% junior subordinated notes, due 2029
51
 140
51
 51
Other international loans—
 20
Medium-term notes, due 2019, interest of 9.4% at June 30, 20175
 5
Term Loan, due 2017—
 150
3.875% notes, due 2018—
 700
Medium-term notes, due 2019, interest of 9.4% at December 31, 20175
 5
Other (a)
(24) (17)(21) (23)
Total debt2,813
 2,495
2,939
 2,819
Short-term debt(223) (170)
Current portion of long-term debt(6) —
Short-term debt (includes current portion of long-term debt)(355) (235)
Long-term debt (less current portion and debt issuance cost discounts)$2,584
 $2,325
$2,584
 $2,584
      
(a)Other includes $26$24 million and $20$25 million of debt issuance cost discounts as of June 30,December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2016,2017, respectively.
The scheduled aggregate maturities of long-term debt by year (including the current portion and excluding debt issuance costs) are as follows: $2$5 million remaining in 2017, $6 million in 2018, $11 million in 2019, $269 million in 2020, and $56 million in 2021.2021 and $1,279 million in 2022.  
Ashland Financing Activities
2017 Credit Agreement
On May 17, 2017, in conjunction with the closing of the Pharmachem acquisition, Ashland entered into a secured credit agreement (the 2017 Credit Agreement) with a group of lenders. The 2017 Credit Agreement providesprovided for (i) a $250 million three-year term loan A facility (the Three-Year TLA Facility), (ii) a $250 million five-year term loan A facility (the Five-Year TLA Facility and together with the Three-Year TLA Facility, the TLA Facilities) and (iii) a $680 million five-year revolving credit facility (including a $125 million letter of credit sublimit) (the 2017 Revolving Credit Facility). Proceeds of borrowings under the TLA Facilities were used solely to finance the acquisition of Pharmachem, andwhile the proceeds of the 2017 Revolving Credit Facility were used to finance, in part, the acquisition of Pharmachem, and to refinance the 2015 Senior Credit Agreement.Agreement and for general corporate purposes. On May 19, 2017, Ashland entered into Amendment No. 1 to the 2017 Credit Agreement, which increased the aggregate commitments under the 2017 Revolving Credit Facility from $680 million to $800 million.
At Ashland’s option, loans issued under the 2017 Credit Agreement will bear interest at either LIBOR or an alternate base rate, in each case plus the applicable interest rate margin. Loans will initially bear interest at LIBOR plus 1.75% per annum, in the case of LIBOR borrowings, or at the alternate base rate plus 0.75%, in the alternative, through and including the date of delivery of a quarterly compliance certificate and thereafter the interest rate will fluctuate between LIBOR plus 1.375% per annum and LIBOR plus 2.500% per annum (or between the alternate base rate plus 0.375% per annum and the alternate base rate plus 1.500% per annum), based upon Ashland’s secured facilities ratings or the consolidated net leverage ratio (as defined in the 2017 Credit Agreement) (whichever yields a lower applicable interest rate margin) at such time. In addition, Ashland will initially bewas required to pay fees of 0.25% per annum on the daily unused amount of the 2017 Revolving Credit Facility through and including the date of delivery of a compliance certificate, and thereafter the fee rate will fluctuate between 0.175% and 0.40% per annum, based upon Ashland’s secured facilities rating or the consolidated net leverage ratio (whichever yields a lower applicable rate). The TLA Facilities may be prepaid at any time without
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE H – DEBT (continued)

Credit Facility through and including the date of delivery of a compliance certificate, and thereafter the fee rate will fluctuate between 0.175% and 0.40% per annum, based upon the Ashland’s secured facilities rating or the consolidated net leverage ratio (whichever yields a lower applicable rate). The TLA Facilities may be prepaid at any time without premium. The Three-Year TLA Facility will not amortize and will be due on May 17, 2020.  The Five-Year TLA Facility will not amortize in each of the first, second and third years and will amortize at a rate of 20% per annum in each of the fourth and fifth years (payable in equal quarterly installments), with the outstanding balance of the Five-Year TLA Facility to be paid on May 17, 2022.
On June 14, 2017, Ashland entered into Amendment No. 2 to the 2017 Credit Agreement, which providesprovided for a new $600 million seven-year senior secured term loan B facility (the 2017 TLB Facility). At Ashland’s option, loans issued under the 2017 TLB Facility will bear interest at either (x) LIBOR plus 2.00% per annum or (y) an alternate base rate plus 1.00% per annum. The 2017 TLB Facility may be prepaid at any time, subject to a prepayment premium if the prepayment is made on or prior to December 14, 2017 in connection with a Repricing Transaction (as defined in the 2017 Credit Agreement).time. The 2017 TLB Facility will amortizeamortizes at a rate of 1.00% per annum (payable in equal quarterly installments) with the outstanding balance to be paid on May 17, 2024.
Ashland incurred $15 million of new debt issuance costs in connection with the 2017 Credit Agreement, of which $2 million was recognized immediately during the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017 within the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.The remaining balance is amortized using the effective interest method. Additionally, as a result of the termination of the 2015 Senior Credit Facility, Ashland recognized a $5 million charge for the accelerated amortization of previously capitalized debt issuance costs, which is included in the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.
The credit facilities under the 2017 Credit Agreement are guaranteed by Ashland Global Holdings Inc., Ashland Chemco Inc. and Ashland LLC's existing and future subsidiaries (other than certain immaterial subsidiaries, joint ventures, special purpose financing subsidiaries, regulated subsidiaries, foreign subsidiaries and certain other subsidiaries) and are secured by a first-priority security interest in substantially all of the personal property assets of Ashland and the guarantors, including all or a portion of the equity interests of certain of Ashland’s domestic subsidiaries and first-tier foreign subsidiaries and, in certain cases, a portion of the equity interests of other foreign subsidiaries.  The guarantees by Ashland’s subsidiaries and pledge of security interests by such guarantors may, at Ashland’s option, be released upon and during the occurrence of a Collateral Release Event (as defined in the Credit Agreement).
Redemption of 3.875% notes due 2018
In connection with the 2017 TLB Facility, Ashland redeemed all of its outstanding 3.875% Senior Notes due 2018, of which approximately $659 million were outstanding. Proceeds of borrowings under the 2017 TLB Facility, together with cash on hand, were used to pay for the redemption. Ashland recognized a $13 million charge related to premiums paid and accelerated amortization of previously capitalized debt issuance costs, which is included in the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE H – DEBT (continued)

Open market repurchases of 4.750% notes due 2022 and 3.875% notes due 2018
During the nine months ended June 30, 2017, Ashland executed open market repurchases of its 4.750% notes due 2022 (2022 notes) and its 3.875% notes due 2018 (2018 notes). As a result of these repurchases, the carrying values of the 2022 notes and 2018 notes were reduced by $39 million and $41 million, respectively. Ashland recognized a $3 million charge related to premiums paid in the open market repurchases and accelerated amortization of previously capitalized debt issuance costs, which is included in the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income for the nine months ended June 30, 2017. As previously discussed, the remaining outstanding amount of the 2018 notes was redeemed during June 2017.
6.50% junior subordinated notes due 2029
In December 2016, Hercules LLC (Hercules) (formerly Hercules Incorporated), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Ashland, repurchased, through a cash tender offer (the Tender Offer), $182 million of the aggregate principal par value amount of its 6.50% junior subordinated notes due 2029 (2029 notes) for an aggregate purchase price of $177 million. As a result of the Tender Offer, the carrying value of the 2029 notes was reduced by $90 million and Ashland recognized a $92 million charge related to accelerated accretion of the recorded debt discount (compared to the total par value) and $5 million of a net gain related to the repayment of the debt. The charge and net gain are included in the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the ninethree months ended June 30, 2017.December 31, 2016.
Subsidiary senior unsecured term loan
During August 2016, a wholly owned foreign subsidiaryOpen market repurchases of Ashland entered into a credit agreement which provided for an aggregate principal amount of $150 million in a senior unsecured term loan facility. This term loan was drawn in full as of September 30, 20164.750% notes due 2022 and was fully repaid as of June 30, 2017.
Accounts receivable securitization3.875% notes due 2018
During the three months ended December 2015 quarter,31, 2016, Ashland executed open market repurchases of its 4.750% notes due 2022 (2022 notes) and its 3.875% notes due 2018 (2018 notes). As a result of these repurchases, the Transfer and Administration Agreement was amended to extend the termination datecarrying values of the accounts receivable securitization facility from2022 notes and 2018 notes were reduced by $36 million and $29 million, respectively. Ashland recognized a $2 million charge related to premiums paid in the open market repurchases and accelerated amortization of previously capitalized debt issuance costs, which is included in the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the three months ended December 31, 2015 to March 22, 2017. During the March 2017 quarter, this facility was extended for an additional year with similar terms as the previous facility agreement.  No other changes to the agreement within the current or prior year amendments are expected to have a significant impact to Ashland's results of operations and financial position.2016.
Remaining borrowing capacity
The borrowing capacity remaining under the 2017 Revolving Credit Facility was $620$467 million due to an outstanding balance of $128$285 million, as well as a reduction of $52$48 million for letters of credit outstanding at June 30,December 31, 2017. Ashland's total borrowing capacity at June 30,December 31, 2017 was $625$498 million, which included $5$31 million of available capacity from the accounts receivable securitization facility.
Covenants related to current Ashland debt agreements
Ashland's debt contains usual and customary representations, warranties and affirmative and negative covenants, including financial covenants for leverage and interest coverage ratios, limitations on liens, additional subsidiary indebtedness, restrictions on subsidiary distributions, investments, mergers, sale of assets and restricted payments and other customary limitations. As of June 30,December 31, 2017, Ashland is in compliance with all debt agreement covenant restrictions.
The maximum consolidated net leverage ratio permitted under Ashland's most recent credit agreement (the 2017 Credit Agreement) is 4.5.  At December 31, 2017, Ashland’s calculation of the consolidated net leverage ratio was 3.9.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE H – DEBT (continued)

The maximum consolidated net leverage ratio permitted under Ashland's most recent credit agreement (the 2017 Credit Agreement) is 4.50.  At June 30, 2017, Ashland’s calculation of the consolidated net leverage ratio was 4.0, which is below the maximum consolidated leverage ratio of 4.50.
The minimum required consolidated interest coverage ratio under the 2017 Credit Agreement during its entire duration is 3.0.  At June 30,December 31, 2017, Ashland’s calculation of the interest coverage ratio was 4.6, which exceeds the minimum required consolidated ratio of 3.0.
Guarantee of Senior Notes
Ashland Global Holdings Inc. was incorporated on May 6, 2016 as a direct wholly owned subsidiary of Ashland Inc. (now Ashland LLC) to reincorporate in Delaware and to help facilitate the separation of the Valvoline business from the specialty chemical businesses.  As a result of the Reorganization, Ashland Global Holdings Inc. replaced Ashland Inc. as the publicly held corporation, and Ashland Inc. was converted to a Kentucky limited liability company and is now an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Ashland Global Holdings Inc.  Ashland Global Holdings Inc. fully and unconditionally guaranteed the 3.875% notes due 2018 (which were fully repaid during the current quarter), 4.750% notes due 2022 and 6.875% notes due 2043 (collectively referred to as the Senior Notes) and has no significant independent assets or operations. For periods prior to September 30, 2016, the parent entity was Ashland LLC (formerly Ashland Inc.).
Subsequent to the final distribution of Valvoline Inc., there are no longer any significant subsidiaries of Ashland Global Holdings Inc. other than the subsidiary issuer (Ashland LLC). As a result, Ashland is no longer required to provide condensed consolidated financial information for Ashland Global Holdings Inc., Ashland LLC and all other non-guarantor subsidiaries as disclosed in previous reporting periods.4.6.
NOTE I – INCOME TAXES
Tax Law Changes
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Tax Act) was enacted on December 22, 2017. The Tax Act reduces the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, requires companies to pay a one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries that were previously tax deferred and creates new taxes on certain foreign sourced earnings. At December 31, 2017, Ashland has not completed the internal accounting assessment for the tax effects of enactment of the Tax Act; however, Ashland determined a reasonable estimate of the effects on our existing deferred tax balances and the one-time transition tax. Ashland recognized a provisional amount for the three months ended December 31, 2017, which is included as a component of income tax expense from continuing operations. Ashland recorded net unfavorable tax adjustments of $16 million primarily related to deferred tax rate changes and a one-time transition tax assessed on foreign cash and unremitted earnings.
Provisional amounts - Deferred and other income tax assets and liabilities
Ashland remeasured certain deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the rates at which they are expected to reverse in the future, which is generally 21%. However, Ashland is still analyzing certain aspects of the Tax Act and refining certain calculations, which could potentially affect the measurement of these balances or potentially give rise to new deferred tax amounts. The provisional amount recorded related to the remeasurement of the deferred tax balance was a favorable tax adjustment of $126 million.
Provisional amounts - Foreign tax effects
The one-time transition tax is based on Ashland's total post-1986 earnings and profits (E&P) of foreign subsidiaries that were previously deferred from U.S. income taxes. Ashland recorded a provisional amount for this one-time transition tax liability of $142 million. Ashland has not yet completed its calculation of the total post-1986 E&P for these foreign subsidiaries. In addition, the transition tax is based in part on the amount of those earnings held in cash and other specified assets. This amount may change when Ashland finalizes the calculation of post-1986 foreign E&P previously deferred from U.S. federal taxation and finalize the amounts held in cash or other specified assets. No additional income taxes have been provided for any remaining undistributed foreign earnings not subject to the transition tax, or any additional outside basis difference inherent in these entities, as these amounts continue to be indefinitely reinvested in foreign operations. Ashland determined that the amount of unrecognized deferred tax liability related to any remaining undistributed foreign earnings not subject to the transition tax and additional outside basis difference in these entities (i.e., basis difference in excess of that subject to the one-time transition tax) is not practicable at this time.
Current fiscal year
Ashland’s estimated annual effective income tax rate used to determine income tax expense in interim financial reporting for the year ending September 30, 2017 is 9%. Ashland’s effective tax rate in any interim period is subject to adjustments related to discrete items and the mix of domestic and foreign operating results.  The overall effective tax rate was 20%200% for the three months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and was impacted by tax rates applied to certain key items, which are considered significant unusual or infrequent items, and by net unfavorable tax discrete items. These discrete items primarily related to changes in the realization of certain historic tax attributes due to the Valvoline distribution and the Pharmachem acquisition as well as tax on certain restructuring items.
The overall effective tax rate was 48% for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and was impacted by tax rates applied to certain key items, which are considered significant unusual or infrequent items, and by net unfavorable tax discrete items primarily related to items previously noted in the current quarter, partially offset by a reversal for unrecognized tax benefits due to lapse of the statute of limitations.
Prior fiscal year
Ashland’s annual effective income tax rate used to determine income tax expense in interim financial reporting for the year ending September 30, 2016 was a benefit of 1%. The overall effective tax benefit rate was 20% for the three months ended June 30, 2016 and was primarily impacted by income mix and net unfavorable tax rates applieddiscrete adjustments of $16 million related to certain key items, which are considered significant unusual or infrequent items.the Tax Act.
Prior fiscal year
The overall effective tax benefit rate was 177%39% for the ninethree months ended June 30,December 31, 2016 and was primarily impacted by net favorable tax discrete items primarily related to the items noted above, a favorable tax liquidation resolution, and other tax adjustments. income mix.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE I – INCOME TAXES (continued)

Unrecognized tax benefits
Changes in unrecognized tax benefits are summarized as follows for the ninethree months ended June 30,December 31, 2017.
 (In millions) 
Balance at October 1, 2016$168
Increases related to positions taken on items from prior years6
Decreases related to positions taken on items from prior years(2)
Increases related to positions taken in the current year12
Pharmachem acquisition12
Lapse of the statute of limitations(3)
Settlement of uncertain tax positions with tax authorities(1)
Balance at June 30, 2017$192
 (In millions) 
Balance at October 1, 2017$194
Increases related to positions taken on items from prior years2
Increases related to positions taken in the current year3
Balance at December 31, 2017$199
InFrom a combination of statute expirations and audit settlements in the next twelve months, Ashland expects a decrease in the amount accrued for uncertain tax positions of up to $1between $22 million and $32 million for continuing operations and zero for discontinued operations related primarily to audit settlements and statute of limitations expirations in various tax jurisdictions.operations. It is reasonably possible that there could be other material changes to the amount of uncertain tax positions due to activities of the taxing authorities, settlement of audit issues or the reassessment of existing uncertain tax positions; however, Ashland is not able to estimate the impact of these items at this time.
NOTE J - EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
For the ninethree months ended June 30,December 31, 2017, Ashland contributed $9 million to its non-qualified U.S. pension plans, all of which was related to plans transferred to Valvoline, and $8$2 million to its non-U.S. pension plans of which $3 million was related to plans transferred to Valvoline. Additionally, Ashland contributed $1 millionand zero to its qualified U.S. pension plans during the nine months ended June 30, 2017.plans. Ashland expects to make additional contributions of approximately $5 million to theits non-U.S. plans of approximatelyand $1 million to its U.S. plans during the remainder of 2017.2018.
Plan Transfers
During September 2016, Ashland transferred a substantial portion of the largest U.S. qualified pension and non-qualified U.S. pension plans as well as certain other postretirement obligations to Valvoline Inc. As of September 30, 2016, the net pension and other postretirement plan liabilities that transferred to Valvoline Inc. totaled $886 million and are classified within the Noncurrent liabilities of discontinued operations caption of the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Plan Amendments and Remeasurements
Effective January 1, 2017, Ashland discontinued certain post-employment health and life insurance benefits. The effect of these plan changes resulted in a remeasurement gain of $10$2 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2017, of which $8 million is attributable to Valvoline and is includedrecorded within the discontinued operationsother net period benefit cost (income) caption ofon the StatementsStatement of Consolidated Comprehensive Income. OfIncome (Loss) for the remaining $2 million, $1 million is included within cost of sales and $1 million is included within selling, general and administrative expense.
During March 2016, Ashland announced plans to amend the majority of its U.S. pension plans, with the exception of certain union plans, to freeze the accrual of pension benefits for participants. The freezing of pension benefits was effective September 30,three months ended December 31, 2016. Additionally, Ashland announced plans to reduce retiree life and medical benefits effective October 1, 2016 and January 1, 2017, respectively. The net effect of the
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE J – EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (continued)

these remeasurements resulted in a loss of $23 million within the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income for the nine months ended June 30, 2016, of which $5 million was included within discontinued operations. The following details the components of the remeasurement impact:
As a result of the remeasurement of the affected U.S. pension plans, Ashland recognized a curtailment gain of $65 million and actuarial loss of $123 million during the nine months ended June 30, 2016. Of these amounts, $12 million of the curtailment gain and $22 million of the actuarial loss were attributable to Valvoline and are included within the discontinued operations caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.
As a result of the remeasurement of other postretirement benefit plans, Ashland recognized a curtailment gain of $39 million and actuarial loss of $7 million during the nine months ended June 30, 2016. Of these amounts, $6 million of the curtailment gain and $1 million of the actuarial loss were attributable to Valvoline and are included within the discontinued operations caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income. This remeasurement reduced the benefit obligations by $86 million.
Ashland was also required to remeasure a non-U.S. pension plan during the prior year quarter and as a result recognized a curtailment gain of $6 million and actuarial loss of $3 million during the nine months ended June 30, 2016.
Components of net periodic benefit costs (income)
The following table details the components of pension and other postretirement benefit costs for both continued and discontinuedcontinuing operations.
     Other postretirement
 Pension benefits benefits
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
Three months ended June 30       
Service cost (a)
$3
 $7
 $—
 $—
Interest cost12
 27
 —
 1
Expected return on plan assets(19) (46) —
 —
Amortization of prior service credit (a)
—
 —
 (1) (3)
 $(4) $(12) $(1) $(2)
        
Nine months ended June 30 
  
  
  
Service cost (a)
$8
 $20
 $—
 $1
Interest cost59
 89
 2
 3
Expected return on plan assets(97) (141) —
 —
Amortization of prior service credit (a)
—
 (1) (7) (11)
Curtailment gain—
 (71) —
 (39)
Actuarial (gain) loss—
 126
 (10) 7
 $(30) $22
 $(15) $(39)
        
     Other postretirement
 Pension benefits benefits
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
Three months ended December 31       
Service cost (a)
$2
 $2
 $1
 $—
Interest cost (b)
3
 2
 —
 1
Expected return on plan assets (b)
(3) (3) —
 —
Actuarial gain (b)
—
 —
 —
 (2)
Total net periodic benefit costs (income)$2
 $1
 $1
 $(1)
        
(a)ActivityService cost was not impacted by new accounting guidance adopted in the current quarter and is therefore still classified within the selling, general and administrative expense and cost of $0 denote values less than $1 million.sales captions on the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss). See Note A for additional information.
(b)These components are now classified within the other net periodic benefit income caption on the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) due to the adoption of new accounting guidance in the current quarter. See Note A for additional information.
For segment reporting purposes, service cost for continuing operations is proportionately allocated to each segment, excluding the Unallocated and other segment, while all other costs for continuing operations are recorded within the Unallocated and other segment. The service cost previously allocated to the Valvoline reportable segment is now included within the discontinued operationsnet periodic benefit income caption ofon the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income. Also, in accordance with U.S. GAAP, a portion of the other components
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE J – EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (continued)

of pension and other postretirement benefit costs (i.e. interest cost, expected return on assets, and amortization of prior service credit) related to Valvoline was reclassified from the Unallocated and other segment to the discontinued operations caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income. Net periodic benefit income of $8 million and $2 million was classified within discontinued operations for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Excluding the impact of curtailment gains and actuarial gains and losses, net periodic benefit income of $42 million and $4 million was classified within discontinued operations during the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.Income (Loss).
NOTE K – LITIGATION, CLAIMS AND CONTINGENCIES
Asbestos litigation
Ashland and Hercules have liabilities from claims alleging personal injury caused by exposure to asbestos.  To assist in developing and annually updating independent reserve estimates for future asbestos claims and related costs given various assumptions, Ashland retained Hamilton, Rabinovitz & Associates, Inc. (HR&A).  The methodology used by HR&A to project future asbestos costs is based largely on recent experience, including claim-filing and settlement rates, disease mix, enacted legislation, open claims and litigation defense.  The claim experience of Ashland and Hercules are separately compared to the results of previously conducted third party epidemiological studies estimating the number of people likely to develop asbestos-related diseases.  Those studies were undertaken in connection with national analyses of the population expected to have been exposed to asbestos.  Using that information, HR&A estimates a range of the number of future claims that may be filed, as well as the related costs that may be incurred in resolving those claims.  Changes in asbestos-related liabilities and receivables are recorded on an after-tax basis within the discontinued operations caption in the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.
Ashland asbestos-related litigation
The claims alleging personal injury caused by exposure to asbestos asserted against Ashland result primarily from indemnification obligations undertaken in 1990 in connection with the sale of Riley Stoker Corporation, a former subsidiary.  The amount and timing of settlements and number of open claims can fluctuate from period to period.  A summary of Ashland asbestos claims activity, excluding Hercules claims, follows.
 Nine months ended      
 June 30   Years ended September 30
(In thousands)2017
 2016
 2016
 2015
 2014
Open claims - beginning of period57
 60
 60
 65
 65
New claims filed2
 2
 2
 2
 2
Claims settled(1) —
 —
 —
 (1)
Claims dismissed(3) (4) (5) (7) (1)
Open claims - end of period55
 58
 57
 60
 65
Ashland asbestos-related liability
From the range of estimates, Ashland records the amount it believes to be the best estimate of future payments for litigation defense and claim settlement costs, which generally approximates the mid-point of the estimated range of exposure from model results.  Ashland reviews this estimate and related assumptions quarterly and annually updates the results of a non-inflated, non-discounted approximate 50-year model developed with the assistance of HR&A.  
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE K – LITIGATION, CLAIMS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)


 Three months ended      
 December 31   Years ended September 30
(In thousands)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
 2015
Open claims - beginning of period54
 57
 57
 60
 65
New claims filed1
 —
 2
 2
 2
Claims settled—
 —
 (1) —
 —
Claims dismissed(1) (1) (4) (5) (7)
Open claims - end of period54
 56
 54
 57
 60
Ashland asbestos-related liability
From the range of estimates, Ashland records the amount it believes to be the best estimate of future payments for litigation defense and claim settlement costs, which generally approximates the mid-point of the estimated range of exposure from model results.  Ashland reviews this estimate and related assumptions quarterly and annually updates the results of a non-inflated, non-discounted approximate 50-year model developed with the assistance of HR&A.  
During the most recent annual update of this estimate completed during the June 2017 quarter, it was determined that the liability for Ashland asbestos-related claims should be increased by $36 million.  Total reserves for asbestos claims were $424$409 million at June 30,December 31, 2017 compared to $415419 million at September 30, 20162017.
A progression of activity in the asbestos reserve is presented in the following table.
Nine months ended      Three months ended      
June 30   Years ended September 30December 31   Years ended September 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2016
 2015
 2014
2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
 2015
Asbestos reserve - beginning of period$415
 $409
 $409
 $438
 $463
$419
 $415
 $415
 $409
 $438
Reserve adjustment36
 37
 37
 —
 4
—
 —
 36
 37
 —
Amounts paid(27) (27) (31) (29) (29)(10) (9) (32) (31) (29)
Asbestos reserve - end of period(a)$424
 $419
 $415
 $409
 $438
$409
 $406
 $419
 $415
 $409
         
(a)Included $34 million classified in accrued expenses and other liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2017.
Ashland asbestos-related receivables
Ashland has insurance coverage for certain litigation defense and claim settlement costs incurred in connection with its asbestos claims, and coverage-in-place agreements exist with the insurance companies that provide substantially all of the coverage that will be accessed.  
For the Ashland asbestos-related obligations, Ashland has estimated the value of probable insurance recoveries associated with its asbestos reserve based on management’s interpretations and estimates surrounding the available or applicable insurance coverage, including an assumption that all solvent insurance carriers remain solvent.  Substantially all of the estimated receivables from insurance companies are expected to be due from domestic insurers, all of which are solvent.
At June 30,December 31, 2017, Ashland’s receivable for recoveries of litigation defense and claim settlement costs from insurers amounted to $156$151 million (excluding the Hercules receivable for asbestos claims), of which $4 million relates compared to costs previously paid.  Receivables from insurers amounted to $151$155 million at September 30, 2016.2017.  During the June 2017 quarter, the annual update of the model used for purposes of valuing the asbestos reserve and its impact on valuation of future recoveries from insurers was completed.  This model update resulted in a $15 million increase in the receivable for probable insurance recoveries.
Ashland entered into settlement agreements totaling $5 million and $4 million with certain insurers during the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, which resulted in a reduction of the Ashland insurance receivable within the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets by the same amount. During the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, Ashland placed $2 million and $4 million, respectively, of the settlement funds into the renewable annual trust.
A progression of activity in the Ashland insurance receivable is presented in the following table.
 Nine months ended      
 June 30 Years ended September 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2016
 2015
 2014
Insurance receivable - beginning of period$151
 $150
 $150
 $402
 $408
Receivable adjustment15
 16
 16
 (3) 22
Insurance settlement(5) (4) (4) (227) —
Amounts collected(5) (10) (11) (22) (28)
Insurance receivable - end of period$156
 $152
 $151
 $150
 $402
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE K – LITIGATION, CLAIMS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)


A progression of activity in the Ashland insurance receivable is presented in the following table.
 Three months ended      
 December 31 Years ended September 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
 2015
Insurance receivable - beginning of period$155
 $151
 $151
 $150
 $402
Receivable adjustment—
 —
 15
 16
 (3)
Insurance settlement—
 —
 (5) (4) (227)
Amounts collected(4) (2) (6) (11) (22)
Insurance receivable - end of period (a)
$151
 $149
 $155
 $151
 $150
          
(a)Included $14 million classified in accounts receivable on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2017.
Hercules asbestos-related litigation
Hercules has liabilities from claims alleging personal injury caused by exposure to asbestos.  Such claims typically arise from alleged exposure to asbestos fibers from resin encapsulated pipe and tank products which were sold by one of Hercules’ former subsidiaries to a limited industrial market.  The amount and timing of settlements and number of open claims can fluctuate from period to period.  A summary of Hercules’ asbestos claims activity follows.
Nine months ended      Three months ended      
June 30 
  Years ended September 30
December 31 
  Years ended September 30
(In thousands)2017
 2016
 2016
 2015
 2014
2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
 2015
Open claims - beginning of period15
 20
 20
 21
 21
12
 15
 15
 20
 21
New claims filed1
 1
 1
 1
 1
—
 —
 1
 1
 1
Claims dismissed(4) (5) (6) (2) (1)—
 —
 (4) (6) (2)
Open claims - end of period12
 16
 15
 20
 21
12
 15
 12
 15
 20
Hercules asbestos-related liability
From the range of estimates, Ashland records the amount it believes to be the best estimate of future payments for litigation defense and claim settlement costs, which generally approximates the mid-point of the estimated range of exposure from model results.  Ashland reviews this estimate and related assumptions quarterly and annually updates the results of a non-inflated, non-discounted approximate 50-year model developed with the assistance of HR&A.  As a result of the most recent annual update of this estimate, completed during the June 2017 quarter, it was determined that the liability for Hercules asbestos-related claims should be increased by $16 million.  Total reserves for asbestos claims were $328$315 million at June 30,December 31, 2017 compared to $321323 million at September 30, 20162017.
A progression of activity in the asbestos reserve is presented in the following table.
 Nine months ended      
 June 30 Years ended September 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2016
 2015
 2014
Asbestos reserve - beginning of period$321
 $311
 $311
 $329
 $342
Reserve adjustment16
 25
 25
 4
 10
Amounts paid(9) (10) (15) (22) (23)
Asbestos reserve - end of period$328
 $326
 $321
 $311
 $329
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE K – LITIGATION, CLAIMS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)


 Three months ended      
 December 31 Years ended September 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
 2015
Asbestos reserve - beginning of period$323
 $321
 $321
 $311
 $329
Reserve adjustment—
 —
 16
 25
 4
Amounts paid(8) (3) (14) (15) (22)
Asbestos reserve - end of period (a)$315
 $318
 $323
 $321
 $311
          
(a)Included $14 million classified in accrued expenses and other liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2017.
Hercules asbestos-related receivables
For the Hercules asbestos-related obligations, certain reimbursement obligations pursuant to coverage-in-place agreements with insurance carriers exist.  As a result, any increases in the asbestos reserve have been partially offset by probable insurance recoveries.  Ashland has estimated the value of probable insurance recoveries associated with its asbestos reserve based on management’s interpretations and estimates surrounding the available or applicable insurance coverage, including an assumption that all solvent insurance carriers remain solvent.  The estimated receivable consists exclusively of solvent domestic insurers.
As of June 30,December 31, 2017 and September 30, 20162017, the receivables from insurers amounted to $68 million and $63 million, respectively.million. During the June 2017 quarter, the annual update of the model used for purposes of valuing the asbestos reserve and its impact on valuation of future recoveries from insurers was completed.  This model update resulted in a $5 million increase in the receivable for probable insurance recoveries.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE K – LITIGATION, CLAIMS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)


A progression of activity in the Hercules insurance receivable is presented in the following table.
Nine months ended      Three months ended      
June 30 Years ended September 30December 31 Years ended September 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2016
 2015
 2014
2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
 2015
Insurance receivable - beginning of period$63
 $56
 $56
 $77
 $75
$68
 $63
 $63
 $56
 $77
Receivable adjustment5
 7
 7
 1
 3
—
 —
 5
 7
 1
Insurance settlement—
 —
 —
 (22) —
—
 —
 —
 —
 (22)
Amounts collected—
 —
 —
 —
 (1)
Insurance receivable - end of period$68
 $63
 $63
 $56
 $77
$68
 $63
 $68
 $63
 $56
Asbestos litigation cost projection
Projecting future asbestos costs is subject to numerous variables that are extremely difficult to predict.  In addition to the significant uncertainties surrounding the number of claims that might be received, other variables include the type and severity of the disease alleged by each claimant, the long latency period associated with asbestos exposure, mortality rates, dismissal rates, costs of medical treatment, the impact of bankruptcies of other companies that are co-defendants in claims, uncertainties surrounding the litigation process from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and from case to case, and the impact of potential changes in legislative or judicial standards.  Furthermore, any predictions with respect to these variables are subject to even greater uncertainty as the projection period lengthens.  In light of these inherent uncertainties, Ashland believes that the asbestos reserves for Ashland and Hercules represent the best estimate within a range of possible outcomes.  As a part of the process to develop these estimates of future asbestos costs, a range of long-term cost models was developed.  These models are based on national studies that predict the number of people likely to develop asbestos-related diseases and are heavily influenced by assumptions regarding long-term inflation rates for indemnity payments and legal defense costs, as well as other variables mentioned previously.  Ashland has currently estimated in various models ranging from approximately 40 to 50 year periods that it is reasonably
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE K – LITIGATION, CLAIMS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)


possible that total future litigation defense and claim settlement costs on an inflated and undiscounted basis could range as high as approximately $660 million for the Ashland asbestos-related litigation (current reserve of $424$409 million) and approximately $510 million for the Hercules asbestos-related litigation (current reserve of $328$315 million), depending on the combination of assumptions selected in the various models.  If actual experience is worse than projected, relative to the number of claims filed, the severity of alleged disease associated with those claims or costs incurred to resolve those claims, or actuarial refinement or improvements to the assumptions used within these models are initiated, Ashland may need to further increase the estimates of the costs associated with asbestos claims and these increases could be material over time.
Environmental remediation and asset retirement obligations
Ashland is subject to various federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations that require environmental assessment or remediation efforts (collectively environmental remediation) at multiple locations.  At June 30,December 31, 2017, such locations included 82 waste treatment or disposal sites where Ashland has been identified as a potentially responsible party under Superfund or similar state laws, 126118 current and former operating facilities (including certain operating facilities conveyed as part of the MAP Transaction) and about 1,225 service station properties, of which 6136 are being actively remediated.
Ashland’s reserves for environmental remediation and related environmental litigation amounted to $173$168 million at June 30,December 31, 2017 compared to $177$163 million at September 30, 2016,2017, of which $129$125 million at June 30,December 31, 2017 and $134$121 million at September 30, 20162017 were classified in other noncurrent liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE K – LITIGATION, CLAIMS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)


The remaining reserves were classified in accrued expenses and other liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The following table provides a reconciliation of the changes in the environmental remediation reserves during the ninethree months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016.
Nine months endedThree months ended
June 30December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
2017
 2016
Reserve - beginning of period$177
 $186
$163
 $177
Disbursements(22) (32)(8) (7)
Revised obligation estimates and accretion18
 32
13
 4
Reserve - end of period$173
 $186
$168
 $174
The total reserves for environmental remediation reflect Ashland’s estimates of the most likely costs that will be incurred over an extended period to remediate identified conditions for which the costs are reasonably estimable, without regard to any third-party recoveries.  Engineering studies, probability techniques, historical experience and other factors are used to identify and evaluate remediation alternatives and their related costs in determining the estimated reserves for environmental remediation.  Ashland continues to discount certain environmental sites and regularly adjusts its reserves as environmental remediation continues.  Ashland has estimated the value of its probable insurance recoveries associated with its environmental reserve based on management’s interpretations and estimates surrounding the available or applicable insurance coverage.  At June 30,December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2016,2017, Ashland’s recorded receivable for these probable insurance recoveries was $15 million and $23 million, respectively, of which $14 million and $15 million, respectively, of which $13 million and $14 million at June 30,December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2016,2017, respectively, were classified in other noncurrent assets on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE K – LITIGATION, CLAIMS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)


Components of environmental remediation expense included within the selling, general and administrative expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income are presented in the following table for the three and ninethree months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016.
Three months ended Nine months endedThree months ended
June 30 June 30December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
2017
 2016
Environmental expense$11
 $17
 $16
 $30
$12
 $4
Accretion2
 1
 2
 2
1
 —
Legal expense1
 1
 6
 6
1
 2
Total expense14
 19
 24
 38
14
 6
          
Insurance receivable(a)(2) (2) (2) (3)—
 —
Total expense, net of receivable activity (a)
$12
 $17
 $22
 $35
$14
 $6
          
(a)Net expenseActivity of $0 denotes value less than $1 million and $3 million for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017, respectively, and $1 million and $2 million for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2016, respectively, relates to divested businesses which qualified for treatment as discontinued operations and for which certain environmental liabilities were retained by Ashland.  These amounts are classified within the income (loss) from discontinued operations caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.million.
Environmental remediation reserves are subject to numerous inherent uncertainties that affect Ashland’s ability to estimate its share of the costs.  Such uncertainties involve the nature and extent of contamination at each site, the extent of required cleanup efforts under existing environmental regulations, widely varying costs of alternate cleanup methods, changes in environmental regulations, the potential effect of continuing improvements in remediation technology, and the number and financial strength of other potentially responsible parties at multiparty sites.  Although it is not possible to predict with certainty the ultimate costs of
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE K – LITIGATION, CLAIMS AND CONTINGENCIES (continued)


environmental remediation, Ashland currently estimates that the upper end of the reasonably possible range of future costs for identified sites could be as high as approximately $420$412 million.  The largest reserve for any site is approximately 15% of the remediation reserve.
Other legal proceedings and claims
In addition to the matters described above, there are other various claims, lawsuits and administrative proceedings pending or threatened against Ashland and its current and former subsidiaries.  Such actions are with respect to commercial matters, product liability, toxic tort liability, and other environmental matters, which seek remedies or damages, some of which are for substantial amounts.  While Ashland cannot predict with certainty the outcome of such actions, it believes that adequate reserves have been recorded and losses already recognized with respect to such actions were immaterial as of June 30,December 31, 2017 and September 30, 20162017.  There is a reasonable possibility that a loss exceeding amounts already recognized may be incurred related to these actions; however, Ashland believes that such potential losses were immaterial as of June 30,December 31, 2017.
NOTE L -– EARNINGS PER SHARE
The following is the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share (EPS) from continuing operations attributable to Ashland.  Stock appreciation rights (SARs), stock options and warrants available to purchase shares outstanding for each reporting period whose grant price was greater than the average market price of Ashland Common Stock for each applicable period were not included in the computation of income from continuing operations per diluted share because the effect of these instruments would be antidilutive.  The total number of these shares outstanding was approximately 1.40.7 million and 1.20.9 million at June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.  Earnings per share is reported under the treasury stock method. 
 Three months ended Nine months ended
 June 30 June 30
(In millions except per share data)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
Numerator       
Numerator for basic and diluted EPS –       
Income (loss) from continuing operations$(16) $24
 $(53) $61
Denominator 
  
  
  
Denominator for basic EPS – Weighted-average 
  
  
  
common shares outstanding62
 62
 62
 63
Share-based awards convertible to common shares (a)
—
 1
 —
 1
Denominator for diluted EPS – Adjusted weighted- 
  
  
  
average shares and assumed conversions62
 63
 62
 64
        
EPS from continuing operations attributable 
  
  
  
to Ashland       
Basic$(0.26) $0.39
 $(0.85) $0.97
Diluted(0.26) 0.38
 (0.85) 0.95
        
(a)As a result of the loss from continuing operations attributable to Ashland during the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017, the effect of the share-based awards convertible to common shares would be antidilutive. As such, they have been excluded from the diluted EPS calculation.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE L – EARNINGS PER SHARE (continued)

 Three months ended
 December 31
(In millions except per share data)2017
 2016
Numerator   
Numerator for basic and diluted EPS –   
Loss from continuing operations$(7) $(65)
Denominator 
  
Denominator for basic EPS – Weighted-average 
  
common shares outstanding62
 62
Share-based awards convertible to common shares (a)
—
 —
Denominator for diluted EPS – Adjusted weighted- 
  
average shares and assumed conversions62
 62
    
EPS from continuing operations attributable to Ashland   
Basic$(0.12) $(1.05)
Diluted(0.12) (1.05)
    
(a)As a result of the loss from continuing operations attributable to Ashland during the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, the effect of the share-based awards convertible to common shares would be antidilutive. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, they have been excluded from the diluted EPS calculation.
NOTE M– EQUITY ITEMS


Stock repurchase programs
In April 2015, Ashland's Board of Directors approved a $1 billion share repurchase authorization that willwas set to expire on December 31, 2017 (the 2015 stock repurchase program). This authorization allows for Ashland’s common shares to be repurchased in open market transactions, privately negotiated transactions or pursuant to one or more accelerated stock repurchase programs or Rule 10b5-1 plans. The following summarizes the stock repurchases under the 2015 stock repurchase program.
2015 stock repurchase program agreement
In November 2015, underDuring 2017, Ashland's Board of Directors extended the 2015 stock repurchase program Ashland announced that it entered into an accelerated share repurchase agreement (2016 ASR Agreement) with Goldman, Sachs & Co. Under the 2016 ASR Agreement, Ashland paid an initial purchase priceindefinitely. As of $500 million and received an initial delivery of approximately 3.9 million shares of common stock during November 2015. In February 2016, Goldman, Sachs & Co. exercised their early termination option under the 2016 ASR Agreement and the pricing period was closed. The settlement price, which represents the weighted average price of Ashland's common stock over the pricing period less a discount, was $99.01 per share. Based on this settlement price, the final number of shares repurchased by Ashland that were delivered by Goldman, Sachs & Co. under the 2016 ASR Agreement was 5.1 million shares. Ashland received the additional 1.2 million shares during the March 2016 quarter to settle the difference between the initial share delivery and the total number of shares repurchased. After the 2016 ASR Agreement,December 31, 2017, $500 million of share repurchase authorization remains under the 2015 stock repurchase program.
Stockholder dividends
In May 2017, aftersubsequent to the final distribution of Valvoline Inc.'s common stock, the Board of Directors of Ashland announced a quarterly cash dividend of 22.5 cents per share to eligible shareholders at record.record which was paid for quarterly dividends in the first quarter of fiscal 2018 and the third and fourth quarters of fiscal 2017. This representsrepresented a reduction from the previous quarterly dividend of 39 cents per share which was paid for quarterly dividends in the first and second quarters of fiscal 2017 and each quarter of fiscal 2016. When combined with Valvoline Inc.'s most recent dividend, the total cash returned to shareholders of both companies is approximately equal to what Ashland paid prior to the separation.2017.
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Components of other comprehensive income (loss) recorded in the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) are presented below, before tax and net of tax effects.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE M – EQUITY ITEMS (continued)

2017 20162017 2016
  Tax
     Tax
    Tax
     Tax
  
Before
 (expense)
 Net of
 Before
 (expense)
 Net of
Before
 (expense)
 Net of
 Before
 (expense)
 Net of
(In millions)tax
 benefit
 tax
 tax
 benefit
 tax
tax
 benefit
 tax
 tax
 benefit
 tax
Three months ended June 30           
Three months ended December 31           
Other comprehensive income (loss)                      
Unrealized translation gain (loss)$107
 $(2) $105
 $(45) $(1) $(46)$3
 $—
 $3
 $(150) $4
 $(146)
Pension and postretirement obligation adjustment:                      
Amortization of unrecognized prior service                      
credits included in net income (a)
(1) 1
 —
 (3) 3
 —
—
 —
 —
 (3) 2
 (1)
Net change in available-for-sale securities:                      
Unrealized gain during period6
 (2) 4
 7
 (3) 4
Unrealized gains during period11
 (2) 9
 —
 —
 —
Reclassification adjustment for realized gains           
included in net income(1) —
 (1) —
 —
 —
Total other comprehensive income (loss)$112
 $(3) $109
 $(41) $(1) $(42)$13
 $(2) $11
 $(153) $6
 $(147)
                      
Nine months ended June 30           
Other comprehensive income (loss)           
Unrealized translation gain (loss)$15
 $4
 $19
 $(27) $1
 $(26)
Pension and postretirement obligation adjustment:           
Adjustment of unrecognized prior service credit—
 —
 —
 86
 (31) 55
Amortization of unrecognized prior service           
credits included in net income (a)
(7) 3
 (4) (52) 18
 (34)
Net change in available-for-sale securities:           
Unrealized gain during period15
 (4) 11
 21
 (8) 13
Reclassification adjustment for gains           
included in net income(2) 1
 (1) —
 —
 —
Total other comprehensive income$21
 $4
 $25
 $28
 $(20) $8
           
(a)AmortizationFor the three months ended December 31, 2016, the amortization of unrecognized prior service credits are included in the calculation of net periodic benefit costs (income) forwas related to pension and other postretirement plans. For specific financial statement captions impacted bybenefit plans that transferred to Valvoline and was classified in the amortization seediscontinued operations caption on the table below.Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss).
As discussed in the table above, certain pension and postretirement costs (income) are amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and recognized in net income. The captions on the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income impacted by the amortization of unrecognized prior service credits for pension and other postretirement plans are disclosed within. During the nine months ended June 30, 2016, the amortization of unrecognized prior service credits included the impact of the pension and other postretirement plan remeasurements of $40 million. See Note J for more information.
 Three months ended Nine months ended
 June 30 June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
Cost of sales$—
 $(1) $—
 $(18)
Selling, general and administrative expense—
 (1) —
 (26)
Discontinued operations(1) (1) (7) (8)
Total amortization of unrecognized prior service credits$(1) $(3) $(7) $(52)
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE N -– STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS

Ashland has stock incentive plans under which key employees or directors are granted stock-settled SARs,stock appreciation rights (SARs), performance share awards or nonvested stock awards.  Each program is typically a long-term incentive plan designed to link employee compensation with increased shareholder value or reward superior performance and encourage continued employment with Ashland.  Ashland recognizes compensation expense for the grant date fair value of stock-based awards over the applicable vesting period within the selling, general and administrative expense captionperiod.
The components of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.  Stock-basedAshland’s pretax stock-based compensation expense was $9 million and $7 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, and $26 million and $25 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Of these amounts, $1 million and $5 million of expense related to Valvoline and was included within discontinuedin continuing operations during the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017, respectively. Stock-based compensation expense during the three months ended June 30, 2017 included cash-settled nonvested stock awards expense of $2 million andcash-settled performance units expense of $1 million. Stock-based compensation expense during the nine months ended June 30, 2017 included cash-settled nonvested stock awards expense of $4 million and cash-settled performance units expense of $3 million, while the nine months ended June 30, 2016 included $2 million of expense for cash-settled nonvested stock awards.are as follows:
Conversion of Equity Awards Outstanding from Valvoline Distribution
On May 12, 2017, the date of the final distribution of Valvoline common stock, certain of Ashland's outstanding equity awards held by Valvoline Inc. employees were converted to equivalent equity awards, as applicable, with respect to Valvoline Inc.’s common stock. These modified awards otherwise retained substantially the same terms and conditions, including term and vesting provisions, as the existing Ashland equity awards had at the time of conversion. Ashland transferred all Valvoline awards and will not incur any future compensation cost related to the conversion of Ashland equity awards held by Valvoline Inc. employees and directors in connection with the final Valvoline Inc. distribution.
 Three months ended
 December 31
(In millions)
2017 (a)

 
2016 (b)

SARs$1
 $1
Nonvested stock awards6
 4
Performance awards4
 2
 $11
 $7
    
Additionally, in connection with this transaction, Ashland proportionately adjusted the number and exercise prices of SARS, nonvested stock awards and performance awards granted to Ashland employees and directors that were outstanding at the time of this transaction to maintain the approximate aggregate intrinsic value of such awards. To calculate the exchange ratio for all outstanding stock based compensation awards, Ashland utilized a 10-day volume weighted average stock price (VWAP), using the 10 consecutive trading days following the distribution. The ratio used to adjust these awards differs slightly from the exchange ratio that would have resulted had the ratio been calculated based on Ashland's stock price immediately following the transaction.
On the date of the final distribution and in accordance with U.S. GAAP, Ashland reassessed all outstanding equity awards to determine if additional compensation expense had been incurred due to the transaction causing a modification to the outstanding equity awards. The additional stock compensation expense as a result of this modification and assessment performed during the current quarter for all outstanding equity awards was not significant.
(a)The three months ended December 31, 2017 included $2 million of expense related to cash-settled nonvested restricted stock awards and $2 million of expense related to cash-settled performance units.
(b)The three months ended December 31, 2016 included $1 million of expense related to cash-settled nonvested restricted stock awards and $1 million of expense related to cash-settled performance units.
SARs
SARs are granted to employees or directors at a price equal to the fair market value of the stock on the date of grant and typically become exercisable over periods of one to three years.  Unexercised SARs lapse ten years and one month after the date of grant. No SARs were granted for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016. SARs granted for the nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016 were 0.4 million.470 thousand and 422 thousand, respectively. As of June 30,December 31, 2017, there was $7$13 million of total unrecognized compensation costs related to SARs.  That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.9 years.  Ashland estimates the fair value of SARs granted using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model.  This model requires several assumptions, which Ashland has
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE N – STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS (continued)

of total unrecognized compensation costs related to SARs.  That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.4 years.  Ashland estimates the fair value of SARs granted using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model.  This model requires several assumptions, which Ashland has developed and updates based on historical trends and current market observations.  The accuracy of these assumptions is critical to the estimate of fair value for these equity instruments.
Nonvested stock awards
Nonvested stock awards are granted to employees or directors at a price equal to the fair market value of the stock on the date of grant and generally vest over a one-to-five-year period.  However, such shares or units are subject to forfeiture upon termination of service before the vesting period ends. During 2016 and 2017, these awards were primarily granted as stock units that will convert to shares upon vesting, while the grants in prior years were generally made in shares.  Only nonvested stock awards granted in the form of shares entitle employees or directors to vote the shares.  Dividends on nonvested stock awards granted are in the form of additional units or shares of nonvested stock awards, which are subject to vesting and forfeiture provisions.  
Executive performance incentive and retention programStock-settled nonvested stock awards
During 2016, certain executives wereNonvested stock awards granted 0.3 million performance-based restricted shares of Ashland in order to provide an incentive to remain employed in the period after the full separation. At June 30, 2017, total nonvestedform of shares outstanding, assuming vesting at the 100% performance level, are 0.4 million shares, which includes forfeitureswere 142 thousand and the cumulative value of forfeitable dividends. The expense associated with these awards was contingent upon the completion of the full separation of Valvoline which occurred May 12, 2017, as discussed further in Note B. At this date, expense recognition was started and resulted in $1 million of expense81 thousand for the current quarter.three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. As of June 30,December 31, 2017, there was $11$12 million of total unrecognized compensation costs related to these nonvested stock awards.  That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.0 years.
Cash-settled nonvested stock awards
Certain nonvested stock awards are granted to employees and are settled in cash upon vesting. As of December 31, 2017, 220 thousand cash-settled nonvested stock awards were outstanding. The value of these cash-settled nonvested stock awards changes in connection with changes in the fair market value of the Ashland Common Stock. These awards generally vest over a period of three years. The expense recognized related to cash-settled nonvested stock awards was $2 million and $4$1 million during the three and nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 respectively, and zero2016, respectively.
Executive performance incentive and retention program
During 2016, certain executives were granted performance-based restricted shares of Ashland in order to provide an incentive to remain employed in the period after the full separation. At December 31, 2017, there were 60 thousand shares outstanding in connection with these awards, which includes forfeitures and the cumulative value of forfeitable dividends. The expense recognition for these awards commenced upon completing the full separation of Valvoline which occurred on May 12, 2017, as discussed further in Note B, and resulted in $2 million during the three and nine months ended June 30, 2016, respectively.
Summary
Total nonvested stock awards granted were zero and 7,000of expense for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, and 83,690 and 99,850 for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.December 31, 2017. As of June 30,December 31, 2017, there was $17$8 million of total unrecognized compensation costs related to nonvested stockthese awards.  That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.8 years.
Performance awards
Ashland sponsors a long-term incentive plan that awards performance shares/units to certain key employees that are primarily tied to Ashland’s overall financial performance relative to internal targets. Additionally, certain outstanding performance awards are tied to Ashland's overall financial performance relative to the financial performance of selected industry peer groups.  Awards are granted annually, with each award covering a three-year vesting period. 
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE N – STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS (continued)

For awards granted in prior years,fiscal 2016, each performance share/unit is convertible to one share of Ashland Common Stock.  These plans are recorded as a component of stockholders’ equity in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Performance measures used to determine the actual number of performance shares issuable upon vesting include an equal weighting of Ashland’s total shareholder return (TSR) performance and Ashland’s return on investment (ROI) performance as compared to the internal targets.  TSR relative to peers is considered a market condition while ROI is considered a performance condition under applicable U.S. GAAP. 
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE N – STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS (continued)

For awards granted in the current year, upon vesting, each performance unit will be settled in cash based on the fair market value of Ashland or Valvoline common stock. For these awards, dependent upon whether the participant is an employee of Ashland or Valvoline,fiscal 2017 and 2018, the performance measure used to determine the actual number of performance shares/units issuable upon vesting is the financial performance of Ashland or Valvoline compared to award targets. The financial performance award metric is considered a performance condition under applicable U.S. GAAP. Additionally, the actual number of performance shares/units issuable upon vesting can be potentially increased or decreased based on a TSR performance modifier relative to peers forof Ashland. For awards granted in fiscal 2017, each performance unit will be settled in cash based on the fair value of Ashland and Valvoline.common stock. For awards granted in fiscal 2018, each performance share/unit is convertible to one share of Ashland Common Stock.
Nonvested performance shares/units do not entitle employees to vote the shares or to receive any dividends thereon. No performance shares/units were granted during the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016. Performance shares/units granted for the ninethree months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016 were 0.1 million.101 thousand and 56 thousand, respectively. As of June 30,December 31, 2017, there was $10$17 million of total unrecognized compensation costs related to performance shares/units.  That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.92.2 years.
NOTE O – REPORTABLE SEGMENT INFORMATION
Ashland determines its reportable segments based on how operations are managed internally for the products and services sold to customers, including how the results are reviewed by the chief operating decision maker, which includes determining resource allocation methodologies used for reportable segments. Operating income is the primary measure on the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) that is reviewed by the chief operating decision maker in assessing each reportable segment's financial performance. Ashland does not aggregate operating segments to arrive at these reportable segments.
NewChange in Reportable Segments
Subsequent to completing the distribution ofseparation from Valvoline Inc. during the current quarter,on May 12, 2017, Ashland's operations are now managed by the chief operating decision maker within the following three reportable segments: Specialty Ingredients, Composites and Intermediates and Solvents. As a result, the financial information for the new reportable segments (Composites and Intermediates and Solvents) has been disclosed for all periods presented. In previous periods,Prior to the separation from Valvoline Inc., Composites and Intermediates and Solvents were reporting units included within the previous Ashland Performance Materials reportable segment.
Reportable segment business descriptions
Specialty Ingredients is a global leader in cellulose ethers, vinyl pyrrolidones and biofunctionals. It offers industry-leading products, technologies and resources for solving formulation and product-performance challenges. Specialty Ingredients uses natural, synthetic and semisynthetic polymers derived from cellulose ethers, vinyl pyrrolidones, acrylic polymers, polyester and polyurethane-based adhesives, and plant and seed extract. Specialty Ingredients includes two divisions, Consumer Specialties and Industrial Specialties, thatIngredients’ end markets offer comprehensive and innovative solutions for today’s demanding consumer and industrial applications. Key customers include: pharmaceutical companies; makers of personal care products, food and beverages; makers of nutraceuticals and supplements; manufacturers of paint, coatings and construction materials; packaging and converting; and oilfield service companies. On May 17, 2017, Ashland completed its acquisition of the stock of Pharmachem, Laboratories, Inc. (Pharmachem), a leading provider of quality ingredients to the global health and wellness industries and high-value differentiated products to fragrance and flavor houses. With 14 manufacturing facilities in the United States and Mexico, New Jersey-based Pharmachem develops, manufactures and supplies custom and branded nutritional and fragrance products. See Note C for more information.
Composites is a global leader in unsaturated polyester resins, vinyl ester resins and gel coats. The Composites business manufactures and sells a broad range of general-purpose and high-performance grades of unsaturated polyester and vinyl ester resins, gelcoats and low-profile additives for the reinforced plastics industry.  The
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE O – REPORTABLE SEGMENT INFORMATION (continued)



the global health and wellness industries and high-value differentiated products to fragrance and flavor houses. With 14 manufacturing facilities in the United States and Mexico, New Jersey-based Pharmachem develops, manufactures and supplies custom and branded nutritional and fragrance products. See Note C for more information.
Composites is a global leader in unsaturated polyester resins, vinyl ester resins and gelcoats. The Composites business manufactures and sells a broad range of general-purpose and high-performance grades of unsaturated polyester and vinyl ester resins, gelcoats and low-profile additives for the reinforced plastics industry. The products in the Composites business provide an array of functional properties including corrosion resistance, fire retardance, ultraviolet resistance, water and chemical resistance, high mechanical strength, impact and scratch resistance and high strength-to-weight ratios. Key end markets include transportation, construction, marine and infrastructure. In addition, the business manufactures and sells molten maleic anhydride for the manufacture of a variety of products such as unsaturated polyester resins, copolymers, lubricating oil additives, alkenyl succinic anhydrides, malic acid, fumaric acid and numerous derivative chemicals. Key markets include composites, personal care, dispersants and paper sizing.
Intermediates and Solvents is a leading producer of 1,4 butanediol (BDO) and related derivatives, including tetrahydrofuran and n-methylpyrrolidone. These products are used as chemical intermediates in the production of engineering polymers and polyurethanes, and as specialty process solvents in a wide array of applications including electronics, construction,pharmaceuticals, water filtration membranes and active pharmaceutical ingredient manufacture.more. Butanediol is also supplied to Ashland’s Specialty Ingredients business for use as a raw material.
Unallocated and Other generally includes items such as components of pension and other postretirement benefit plan expenses (excluding service costs, which are allocated to the reportable segments), certain significant company-wide restructuring activities, including internal separation costs, and legacy costs or adjustments that relate to divested businesses that are no longer operated by Ashland.
Reportable segment results
Results of Ashland’s reportable segments are presented based on its management structure and internal accounting practices.structure.  The structure and practices areis specific to Ashland; therefore, the financial results of Ashland’s reportable segments are not necessarily comparable with similar information for other comparable companies.  Ashland allocates all costs to its reportable segments except for certain significant company-wide restructuring activities such as the restructuring plans, and other costs or adjustments that relate to former businesses that Ashland no longer operates. The service cost component of pension and other postretirement benefits costs is allocated to each reportable segment on a ratable basis; while the remaining components of pension and other postretirement benefits costs are recorded to Unallocated and other.within the other net periodic benefit income caption on the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss).  Ashland refines its expense allocation methodologies to the reportable segments from time to time as internal accounting practices are improved, more refined information becomes available and the industry or market changes.  RevisionsSignificant revisions to Ashland’s methodologies that are deemed insignificant are appliedadjusted for all segments on a prospectiveretrospective basis.
The following table presents various financial information for each reportable segment for the three and nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016. 2016. 
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

   
NOTE O – REPORTABLE SEGMENT INFORMATION (continued)



Three months ended Nine months endedThree months ended
June 30 June 30December 31
(In millions - unaudited)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
2017
 2016
SALES          
Specialty Ingredients$591
 $552
 $1,617
 $1,557
$550
 $482
Composites209
 174
 561
 508
218
 165
Intermediates and Solvents70
 64
 202
 200
74
 57
$870
 $790
 $2,380
 $2,265
$842
 $704
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) 
  
  
  
 
  
Specialty Ingredients$58
 $66
 $172
 $169
$42
 $40
Composites22
 17
 50
 55
18
 15
Intermediates and Solvents2
 (1) (8) 5
8
 (7)
Unallocated and other(45) (25) (106) (85)(29) (33)
$37
 $57
 $108
 $144
$39
 $15
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES

   

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This Form 10-Q contains forward-looking statements including, without limitation, statements made under the caption “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation” (MD&A), within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  Ashland has identified some of these forward-looking statements with words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “estimates,” “is likely,” “predicts,” “projects,” “forecasts,” “objectives,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “plans” and “intends” and the negative of these words or other comparable terminology.  In addition, Ashland may from time to time make forward-looking statements in its annual reports, quarterlyreports and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), news releases and other written and oral communications.  These forward-looking statements are based on Ashland’s expectations and assumptions, as of the date such statements are made, regarding Ashland’s future operating performance and financial condition, as well as the economy and other future events or circumstances. Ashland’s expectations and assumptions include, without limitation, those mentioned within the MD&A, internal forecasts and analyses of current and future market conditions and trends, management plans and strategies, operating efficiencies and economic conditions (such as prices, supply and demand, cost of raw materials, and the ability to recover raw-material cost increases through price increases), and risks and uncertainties associated with the following: the impact of acquisitions and/or divestitures Ashland has made or may make, including the acquisition of Pharmachem (including the possibility that  Ashland may not realize the anticipated benefits from such transactions); Ashland’s substantial indebtedness (including the possibility that such indebtedness and related restrictive covenants may adversely affect Ashland’s future cash flows, results of operations, financial condition and its ability to repay debt);  the potential that Ashland does not realize all of the expected benefits of the separation of its Valvoline business; the potential that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act enacted on December 22, 2017 will have a negative impact on Ashland’s financial results, and severe weather, natural disasters, cyber events and legal proceedings and claims (including product recalls, environmental and asbestos matters).  Various risks and uncertainties may cause actual results to differ materially from those stated, projected or implied by any forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, risks and uncertainties affecting Ashland that are contained in “Use of estimates, risks and uncertainties” in Note A of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements and in Item 1A in its most recent Form 10-K filed with the SEC, which is available on Ashland’s website at http://investor.ashland.com or on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.  Ashland believes its expectations and assumptions are reasonable, but there can be no assurance that the expectations reflected herein will be achieved.  Unless legally required, Ashland undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements made in this Form 10-Q whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.  Information on Ashland’s website is not incorporated into or a part of this Form 10-Q.






ITEM 2.  MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
     
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
     

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and the accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements herein. As Ashland Global Holdings Inc. is the successor to Ashland Inc., the information set forth refers to Ashland Inc. for the periods prior to September 30, 2016 and to Ashland Global Holdings Inc. on and after September 30, 2016.
BUSINESS OVERVIEW
Ashland profile
Ashland is a premier global leader in providing specialty chemical solutions to customers in a wide range of consumer and industrial markets, including adhesives, architectural coatings, automotive, construction, energy, food and beverage, personal care and pharmaceutical. With approximately 7,0006,500 employees worldwide, Ashland serves customers in more than 100 countries.
Ashland’s sales generated outside of North America were 60% and 61% for both the ninethree months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.2016.  Sales by region expressed as a percentage of total consolidated sales for the three and nine months ended June 30December 31 were as follows:
Three months ended Nine months endedThree months ended
June 30 June 30December 31
Sales by Geography2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
2017
 2016
North America (a)
41% 40% 40% 39%40% 40%
Europe33% 34% 32% 34%34% 31%
Asia Pacific18% 18% 19% 18%18% 20%
Latin America & other8% 8% 9% 9%8% 9%
100% 100% 100% 100%100% 100%
          
(a)Ashland includes only U.S. and Canada in its North America designation.
Reportable segments
Subsequent to completing the separation offrom Valvoline Inc. during the current quarter,, Ashland's businesses are now managed within the following three reportable segments: Specialty Ingredients, Composites and Intermediates and Solvents. In previous periods, Composites and Intermediates and Solvents were included in the Ashland Performance Materials reportable segment. For further descriptions of each reportable segment, see “Results of Operations – Reportable Segment Review” beginning on page 59.45.
The contribution to sales by each reportable segment expressed as a percentage of total consolidated sales for the three and nine months ended June 30December 31 were as follows:
Three months ended Nine months endedThree months ended
June 30 June 30December 31
Sales by Reportable Segment2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
2017
 2016
Specialty Ingredients68% 70% 68% 69%65% 69%
Composites24% 22% 24% 22%26% 23%
Intermediates and Solvents8% 8% 8% 9%9% 8%
100% 100% 100% 100%100% 100%
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

KEY DEVELOPMENTS
Business results
Ashland’s net loss was $4 million in the current quarter compared to net income of $10 million in the prior year quarter. Ashland’s Adjusted EBITDA increased by 25% to $136 million (see U.S. GAAP reconciliation on page 41). The following recent transactionsincrease in Adjusted EBITDA was primarily due to growth in the Intermediates and operational decisions had an impactSolvents and Specialty Ingredients reportable segments, which reported increases to Adjusted EBITDA of $16 million and $10 million, respectively. The significant improvement in the performance of Intermediates and Solvents was primarily driven by improved product pricing and reduced costs in the current quarter compared to the prior year quarter. Excluding the acquisition of Pharmachem, the increase in profitability for Specialty Ingredients compared to the prior year quarter was primarily driven by improvements in volume and mix and favorable foreign currency exchange.
Tax law changes
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Tax Act) was enacted on Ashland’s currentDecember 22, 2017. The Tax Act reduces the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, requires companies to pay a one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries that were previously tax deferred and future cash flows, resultscreates new taxes on certain foreign sourced earnings. At December 31, 2017, Ashland has not completed the internal accounting assessment for the tax effects of operations and financial position.
Ashland Separation of Valvoline
On September 22, 2015, Ashland announced that the Board of Directors approved proceeding with a plan to separate Ashland into two independent, publicly traded companies comprisingenactment of the newTax Act; however, Ashland (now known as Ashland Global Holdings Inc.) and Valvoline Inc. The initial stepdetermined a reasonable estimate of the separation,effects on our existing deferred tax balances and the initial public offering (IPO) of Valvoline Inc., closed on September 28, 2016. As discussed further within the Final Separation section of this Note, Ashland completed the distribution of its remaining shares in Valvoline Inc. on May 12, 2017. The new Ashland is a premier global leader in providing specialty chemical solutions to customers in a wide range of consumer and industrial markets. Key markets and applications include pharmaceutical, personal care, food and beverage, architectural coatings, adhesives, automotive, construction and energy.
After completing the IPO on September 28, 2016 and before the distribution of its remaining shares on May 12, 2017, Ashland owned 170 million shares of Valvoline Inc.’s common stock which represented approximately 83% of the total outstanding shares of Valvoline Inc.’s common stock. As a result, Ashland continued to consolidate Valvoline within the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements up until the distribution of the remaining shares. The resulting outside stockholders’ interests in Valvoline Inc., which was approximately 17% as of September 30, 2016, was presented separately as noncontrolling interest within Ashland’s equity in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The amount of consolidated net income attributable to these minority holders is presented as a separate caption on the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.
one-time transition tax. Ashland recognized separation costs of $28 milliona provisional amount for each of the three months ended June 30,December 31, 2017, and 2016, and $82which is included as a component of income tax expense from continuing operations. Ashland recorded net unfavorable tax adjustments of $16 million and $46 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, which are primarily related to transactiondeferred tax rate changes and legal fees. Of these amounts, $13 million of separation costs directly related to Valvolinea one-time transition tax assessed on foreign cash and were included within the discontinued operations caption of the Statement of Consolidated Comprehensive Income for the nine months ended June 30, 2017. Otherwise, separation costs are recorded within the selling, general and administrative expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.
Final Separation
Ashland completed the distribution of its remaining 170 million shares of common stock of Valvoline Inc. as a pro rata dividend on shares of Ashland common stock outstanding at the close of business on the record date of May 5, 2017. Based on the shares of Ashland common stock outstanding as of May 5, 2017, the record date for the distribution, each share of Ashland common stock received 2.745338 shares of Valvoline common stock in the distribution. The distribution was recorded at the carrying amount of Valvoline Inc.'s net assets which was a deficit of $187 million as of May 12, 2017.
A Tax Matters Agreement between Ashland and Valvoline Inc. governs the rights and obligations after the spin-off regarding certain income taxes and other taxes, including certain tax liabilities and benefits, attributes, returns and contests.
Valvoline met the criteria to qualify as a discontinued operation and accordingly, its assets, liabilities, operating results and cash flows have been classified as discontinued operations within the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. See Note D for more information.
Certain indirect corporate costs included within the selling, general and administrative expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income that were previously allocated to the Valvoline reportable segment do not qualify for classification within discontinued operations and continued to be reported as selling,
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general and administrative expense within continuing operations on a consolidated basis and within the Unallocated and other segment. These costs were $6 million and $17 million for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2016, respectively.
Ashland entered into an agreement in September 2016 for an approximate two year period that provides certain transition services to Valvoline Inc. During the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017, Ashland recognized income for transition service fees of $1 million and $10 million, respectively, which offset costs within the selling, general and administrative expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income. Likewise, Valvoline Inc. provides certain transition services to Ashland as deemed necessary. During the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017, Ashland recognized expense for transition service fees of $1 million and $4 million, respectively, which are included within the selling, general and administrative expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.
New Reportable Segments
Subsequent to completing the distribution of Valvoline Inc. during the current quarter, Ashland's operations are now managed within the following three reportable segments: Specialty Ingredients, Composites and Intermediates and Solvents. In previous periods, Composites and Intermediates and Solvents were reporting units included within the Ashland Performance Materials reportable segment.
Pharmachem Acquisition
Background
On May 17, 2017, Ashland completed its acquisition of the stock of Pharmachem Laboratories, Inc. (Pharmachem), a leading provider of quality ingredients to the global health and wellness industries and high-value differentiated products to fragrance and flavor houses. With annual revenues of approximately $300 million and 14 manufacturing facilities in the United States and Mexico, New Jersey-based Pharmachem develops, manufactures and supplies custom and branded nutritional and fragrance products.  Ashland has included Pharmachem within the Specialty Ingredients reporting segment.  
Purchase price allocation
The acquisition was recorded by Ashland using the purchase method of accounting in accordance with applicable U.S. GAAP whereby the total purchase price was allocated to tangible and intangible assets and liabilities acquired based on respective fair values.
The all-cash purchase price of Pharmachem was $680 million which included working capital adjustments of approximately $20 million.  Ashland incurred $5 million of transaction costs during the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017 related to the acquisition, which was recorded within the net gain (loss) on acquisitions and divestitures caption within the Statement of Consolidated Income. See Note C within the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.
Ashland Financing Activities
2017 Credit Agreement
On May 17, 2017, in conjunction with the closing of the Pharmachem acquisition, Ashland entered into a credit agreement (the 2017 Credit Agreement) with a group of lenders. The 2017 Credit Agreement provides for (i) a $250 million three-year term loan A facility (the Three-Year TLA Facility), (ii) a $250 million five-year term loan A facility (the Five-Year TLA Facility and together with the Three-Year TLA Facility, the TLA Facilities) and (iii) a $680 million five-year revolving credit facility (including a $125 million letter of credit sublimit) (the 2017 Revolving Credit Facility). Proceeds of borrowings under the TLA Facilities were used solely to finance the acquisition of Pharmachem, and the proceeds of the 2017 Revolving Credit Facility were used to finance, in part, the acquisition of Pharmachem and to refinance the 2015 Senior Credit Agreement. On May
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19, 2017, Ashland entered into Amendment No. 1 to the 2017 Credit Agreement, which increased the aggregate commitments under the 2017 Revolving Credit Facility from $680 million to $800 million.
At Ashland’s option, loans issued under the 2017 Credit Agreement will bear interest at either LIBOR or an alternate base rate, in each case plus the applicable interest rate margin. Loans will initially bear interest at LIBOR plus 1.75% per annum, in the case of LIBOR borrowings, or at the alternate base rate plus 0.75%, in the alternative, through and including the date of delivery of a quarterly compliance certificate and thereafter the interest rate will fluctuate between LIBOR plus 1.375% per annum and LIBOR plus 2.500% per annum (or between the alternate base rate plus 0.375% per annum and the alternate base rate plus 1.500% annum), based upon Ashland’s secured facilities ratings or the consolidated net leverage ratio (as defined in the 2017 Credit Agreement) (whichever yields a lower applicable interest rate margin) at such time. In addition, Ashland will initially be required to pay fees of 0.25% per annum on the daily unused amount of the 2017 Revolving Credit Facility through and including the date of delivery of a compliance certificate, and thereafter the fee rate will fluctuate between 0.175% and 0.40% per annum, based upon the Ashland’s secured facilities rating or the consolidated net leverage ratio (whichever yields a lower applicable rate). The TLA Facilities may be prepaid at any time without premium. The Three-Year TLA Facility will not amortize and will be due on May 17, 2020.  The Five-Year TLA Facility will not amortize in each of the first, second and third years and will amortize at a rate of 20% per annum in each of the fourth and fifth years (payable in equal quarterly installments), with the outstanding balance of the Five-Year TLA Facility to be paid on May 17, 2022.
On June 14, 2017, Ashland entered into Amendment No. 2 to the 2017 Credit Agreement, which provides for a new $600 million seven-year senior secured term loan B facility (the 2017 TLB Facility). At Ashland’s option, loans issued under the 2017 TLB Facility will bear interest at either (x) LIBOR plus 2.00% per annum or (y) an alternate base rate plus 1.00% per annum. The 2017 TLB Facility may be prepaid at any time, subject to a prepayment premium if the prepayment is made on or prior to December 14, 2017 in connection with a Repricing Transaction (as defined in the 2017 Credit Agreement). The 2017 TLB Facility will amortize at a rate of 1.00% per annum (payable in equal quarterly installments) with the outstanding balance to be paid on May 17, 2024.
Ashland incurred $15 million of new debt issuance costs in connection with the 2017 Credit Agreement, of which $2 million was recognized immediately during the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017 within the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.The remaining balance is amortized using the effective interest method. Additionally, as a result of the termination of the 2015 Senior Credit Facility, Ashland recognized a $5 million charge for the accelerated amortization of previously capitalized debt issuance costs, which is included in the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.
The credit facilities under the 2017 Credit Agreement are guaranteed by Ashland Global Holdings Inc., Ashland Chemco Inc. and Ashland LLC's existing and future subsidiaries (other than certain immaterial subsidiaries, joint ventures, special purpose financing subsidiaries, regulated subsidiaries, foreign subsidiaries and certain other subsidiaries) and are secured by a first-priority security interest in substantially all of the personal property assets of Ashland and the guarantors, including all or a portion of the equity interests of certain of Ashland’s domestic subsidiaries and first-tier foreign subsidiaries and, in certain cases, a portion of the equity interests of other foreign subsidiaries.  The guarantees by Ashland’s subsidiaries and pledge of security interests by such guarantors may, at Ashland’s option, be released upon and during the occurrence of a Collateral Release Event (as defined in the Credit Agreement).
Redemption of 3.875% notes due 2018
In connection with the 2017 TLB Facility, Ashland redeemed all of its outstanding 3.875% Senior Notes due 2018, of which approximately $659 million were outstanding. Proceeds of borrowings under the 2017 TLB Facility, together with cash on hand, were used to pay for the redemption. Ashland recognized a $13 million
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
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charge related to premiums paid and accelerated amortization of previously capitalized debt issuance costs, which is included in the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017.
Open market repurchases of 4.750% notes due 2022 and 3.875% notes due 2018
During the nine months ended June 30, 2017, Ashland executed open market repurchases of its 4.750% notes due 2022 (2022 notes) and its 3.875% notes due 2018 (2018 notes). As a result of these repurchases, the carrying values of the 2022 notes and 2018 notes were reduced by $39 million and $41 million, respectively. Ashland recognized a $3 million charge related to premiums paid in the open market repurchases and accelerated amortization of previously capitalized debt issuance costs, which is included in the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income for the nine months ended June 30, 2017. As previously discussed, the remaining outstanding amount of the 2018 notes was redeemed during June 2017.
6.50% junior subordinated notes due 2029
In December 2016, Hercules LLC (Hercules) (formerly Hercules Incorporated), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Ashland, repurchased, through a cash tender offer (the Tender Offer), $182 million of the aggregate principal par value amount of its 6.50% junior subordinated notes due 2029 (2029 notes) for an aggregate purchase price of $177 million. As a result of the Tender Offer, the carrying value of the 2029 notes was reduced by $90 million and Ashland recognized a $92 million charge related to accelerated accretion of the recorded debt discount (compared to the total par value) and $5 million of a net gain related to the repayment of the debt. The charge and net gain are included in the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income for the nine months ended June 30, 2017.
Subsidiary senior unsecured term loan
During August 2016, a wholly owned foreign subsidiary of Ashland entered into a credit agreement which provided for an aggregate principal amount of $150 million in a senior unsecured term loan facility. This term loan was drawn in full as of September 30, 2016 and was fully repaid as of June 30, 2017.
Accounts receivable securitization
During the December 2015 quarter, the Transfer and Administration Agreement was amended to extend the termination date of the accounts receivable securitization facility from December 31, 2015 to March 22, 2017. During the March 2017 quarter, this facility was extended for an additional year with similar terms as the previous facility agreement.  No other changes to the agreement within the current or prior year amendments are expected to have a significant impact to Ashland's results of operations and financial position.unremitted earnings.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – CONSOLIDATED REVIEW
Use of non-GAAP measures
Ashland has included within this document the following non-GAAP measures, on both a consolidated and reportable segment basis, which are not defined within U.S. GAAP and do not purport to be alternatives to net income or cash flows from operating activities as a measure of operating performance or cash flows:
EBITDA - net income (loss), plus income tax expense (benefit), net interest and other financing expenses, and depreciation and amortization.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
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Adjusted EBITDA - EBITDA adjusted for noncontrolling interests, discontinued operations, net gain (loss) on acquisitions and divestitures, other income and (expense) and key items (including the remeasurement gains and losses related to pension and other postretirement plans).
Adjusted EBITDA margin - Adjusted EBITDA, which can include pro forma adjustments, divided by sales.
Adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) - income (loss) from continuing operations, adjusted for key items, net of tax, divided by the average outstanding diluted shares for the applicable period.
Free cash flow - operating cash flows less capital expenditures and certain other adjustments as applicable.
Management believes the use of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA measures on a consolidated and reportable segment basis assistassists investors in understanding the ongoing operating performance by presenting comparable financial results between periods. Ashland believes that by removing the impact of depreciation and amortization and excluding certain non-cash charges, amounts spent on interest and taxes and certain other charges that are highly variable from year to year, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA provide Ashland’s investors with performance measures that reflect the impact to operations from trends in changes in sales, margin and
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
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operating expenses, providing a perspective not immediately apparent from net income and operating income. The adjustments Ashland makes to derive the non-GAAP measures of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA exclude items which may cause short-term fluctuations in net income and operating income and which Ashland does not consider to be the fundamental attributes or primary drivers of its business. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA provide disclosure on the same basis as that used by Ashland’s management to evaluate financial performance on a consolidated and reportable segment basis and provide consistency in our financial reporting, facilitate internal and external comparisons of Ashland’s historical operating performance and its business units and provide continuity to investors for comparability purposes.
The Adjusted diluted EPS metric enables Ashland to demonstrate what effect key items have on an earnings per diluted share basis by taking income (loss) from continuing operations, adjusted for key items after tax that have been identified in the Adjusted EBITDA table, and dividing by the average outstanding diluted shares for the applicable period.  Ashland’s management believes this presentation is helpful to illustrate how the key items have impacted this metric during the applicable period.
The free cash flow metric enables Ashland to provide a better indication of the ongoing cash being generated that is ultimately available for both debt and equity holders as well as other investment opportunities. Unlike cash flow provided by operating activities, free cash flow includes the impact of capital expenditures from continuing operations, as well as other items Ashland has deemed nonoperational, providing a more complete picture of cash generation. Free cash flow has certain limitations, including that it does not reflect adjustment for certain non-discretionary cash flows such as mandatory debt repayments. The amount of mandatory versus discretionary expenditures can vary significantly between periods.
Although Ashland provides forward-looking guidance for Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted diluted EPS and free cash flow, Ashland is not reaffirming or providing forward-looking guidance for U.S. GAAP-reported financial measures or a reconciliation of forward-looking non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP measure because it is unable to predict with reasonable certainty the ultimate outcome of certain significant items that affect these metrics such as domestic and international economic, political, legislative, regulatory and legal actions. In addition, certain economic conditions, such as recessionary trends, inflation, interest and monetary exchange rates, government fiscal policies and changes in the prices of certain key raw materials, can have a significant effect on operations and are difficult to predict with certainty.
These non-GAAP measures should be considered supplemental in nature and should not be construed as more significant than comparable measures defined by U.S. GAAP. Limitations associated with the use of these non-GAAP measures include that these measures do not present all of the amounts associated with our results as determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The non-GAAP measures provided are used by Ashland management and may not be determined in a manner consistent with the methodologies used by other companies. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA provide a supplemental presentation of Ashland’s operating performance on a consolidated and reportable segment basis. Adjusted EBITDA generally includes adjustments for items that impact comparability between periods. In addition, certain financial covenants related to Ashland’s 2017 Credit Agreement are based on similar non-GAAP measures and are defined further in the sections that reference this metric.
In accordance with U.S. GAAP, Ashland recognizes actuarial gains and losses for defined benefit pension and other postretirement benefit plans annually in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year and whenever a plan is determined to qualify for a remeasurement during a fiscal year. Actuarial gains and losses occur when actual experience differs from the estimates used to allocate the change in value of pension and other postretirement benefit plans to expense throughout the year or when assumptions change, as they may each year. Significant factors that can contribute to the recognition of actuarial gains and losses include changes in discount rates used to remeasure pension and other postretirement obligations on an annual basis or upon a qualifying remeasurement, differences between actual and expected returns on plan assets and other changes in actuarial assumptions, for example, the life expectancy of plan participants. Management believes Adjusted EBITDA, which includes the expected return on pension plan assets yet excludes both the actual return on pension plan
   
   
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which includes the expected return on pension plan assets yet excludes both the actual return on pension plan assets and the impact of actuarial gains and losses, provides investors with a meaningful supplemental presentation of Ashland’s operating performance (see the Adjusted EBITDA reconciliation tablestable on pages 52 and 53page 41 for additional details on exact amounts included within this non-GAAP measure related to pension and other postretirement plans.) Management believes these actuarial gains and losses are primarily financing activities that are more reflective of changes in current conditions in global financial markets (and in particular interest rates) that are not directly related to the underlying business. For further information on the actuarial assumptions and plan assets referenced above, see the MD&A - Critical Accounting Policies - Employee benefit obligations and Note NM of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements within the 20162017 Form 10-K.
Consolidated review
Net income
Ashland’s net income is primarily affected by results within operating income, net interest and other financing expense, income taxes, discontinued operations and other significant events or transactions that are unusual or nonrecurring.
Current Quarter - Key financial results for the three months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016 included the following:
Ashland’s net income (loss)loss attributable to Ashland amounted to a loss of $33$4 million and income of $71$1 million for the three months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively, or a loss of $0.54$0.07 and income of $1.13$0.01 diluted earnings per share, respectively.  
Ashland’s net income attributable to noncontrolling interest amounted to $3$11 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017December 31, 2016 and reflects the noncontrolling interest of Valvoline Inc. before the final distributionseparation occurred on May 12, 2017.
Discontinued operations, which are reported net of taxes, resulted in a lossincome of $14$3 million and income of $47$75 million during the three months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.  The activity within discontinued operations primarilyfor the three months ended December 31, 2016 includes the operating results of Valvoline Inc. and updates to the asbestos liability and receivable models.
Income (loss)Loss from continuing operations, which excludes results from discontinued operations, amounted to a loss of $16$7 million and income of $24$65 million for the three months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
The effective income tax rate was 20%200% and a benefit of 20%39% for the three months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016, and was impacted by certain discrete items in both the current and prior year quarters. The current quarter rate was primarily impacted by income mix and net unfavorable tax discrete adjustments of $16 million related to the Tax Act.
Ashland incurred pretax net interest and other financing expense of $51$31 million and $40$122 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
Operating income was $37 million and $57 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.  
Year-to-Date - Key financial results for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 included the following:
Ashland’s net income attributable to Ashland amounted to $58 million and $247 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, or $0.93 and $3.87 diluted earnings per share, respectively.
Ashland’s net income attributable to noncontrolling interest amounted to $27 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and reflects the noncontrolling interest of Valvoline Inc. before the final distribution occurred on May 12, 2017. 
Discontinued operations, which are reported net of taxes, resulted in income of $138 million and $186 million during the nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The activity within
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discontinued operations primarily includes the results of Valvoline Inc. as well as updates to the asbestos liability and receivable models.
Income (loss) from continuing operations, which excludes results from discontinued operations, amounted to a loss of $53 million and income of $61 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
The effective income tax rate was 48% and a benefit of 177% for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, and was impacted by certain discrete items in both the current and prior year periods.
Ashland incurred pretax net interest and other financing expense of $203 million and $125 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The current periodquarter was impacted by $92 million of net charges associated with current period debt financing activity.
Operating income was $108$39 million and $144$15 million for the ninethree months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
For further information on the items reported above, see the discussion in the comparative Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income caption review analysis.
Operating income
Current Quarter - Operating income amounted to $37$39 million and $57$15 million for the three months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The current and prior year quarters' operating income includeincluded certain key items that arewere excluded to arrive at Adjusted EBITDA. These key items are summarized as follows:
•Separation, restructuring and other costs, net, include the following:
◦$28 million of costs related to the separation of Valvoline during each of the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 (which included $1 million of accelerated depreciation during the three months ended June 30, 2016);
◦$13 million of restructuring charges for a plant closure during the three months ended June 30, 2017 (which included $11 million of accelerated depreciation);
◦$1 million of integration costs related to the acquisition of Pharmachem for the three months ended June 30, 2017;
◦$4 million of restructuring charges related to the exit from a toller agreement and restructuring of a manufacturing facility during the three months ended June 30, 2016;
$9 million and $1511 million of environmental reserve charges related to previously divested businesses during the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively;
$6 million of a net loss on acquisitions and divestitures during the three months ended June 30,December 31, 2017;
$1 million of noncash charges related to the fair value assessment of inventory acquired from Pharmachem at the date of acquisition; and
$11 million and $5 million of income related to a legacy benefit for former directors and a customer claim adjustment, respectively, during the three months ended June 30, 2016.
Operating income for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 included depreciation and amortization of $72 million and $76 million, respectively (which excluded accelerated depreciation of $11 million and $1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively). EBITDA totaled $89 million and $183 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

•Separation, restructuring and other costs and accelerated depreciation include the following:
◦$6 million and $22 million of costs related to the separation of Valvoline during the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively;
◦$4 million of accelerated depreciation related to the planned closure of an office building during the three months ended December 31, 2017;
◦$2 million of accelerated depreciation for the termination of a contract at a manufacturing facility during the three months ended December 31, 2017;
◦$1 million of severance and other restructuring charges for the closure of a manufacturing plant during the three months ended December 31, 2017; and
◦$1 million of integration costs related to the acquisition of Pharmachem for the three months ended December 31, 2017;
Remeasurement gain of $2 million associated with the discontinuation of certain post-employment health and life insurance benefits during the three months ended December 31, 2016; and
a $5 million charge for a legal reserve during the three months ended December 31, 2016.
Operating income for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 included depreciation and amortization of $73 million and $68 million, respectively (which excluded accelerated depreciation of $6 million for the three months ended December 31, 2017).
EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA
EBITDA totaled $114 million and $159 million for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA results in the table below have been prepared to illustrate the ongoing effects of Ashland’s operations, which exclude certain key items and the impact of Ashland's previous noncontrolling interest in Valvoline Inc.  
 Three months ended
 June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
Net income (loss)$(30) $71
Income tax benefit(4) (4)
Net interest and other financing expense51
 40
Depreciation and amortization (a)
72
 76
EBITDA89
 183
Loss (income) from discontinued operations (net of tax)14
 (47)
Separation, restructuring and other costs, net31
 31
Environmental reserve adjustment9
 15
Benefit adjustment—
 (11)
Customer claim adjustment—
 (5)
Accelerated depreciation11
 1
Net loss on acquisitions and divestitures6
 —
Inventory fair value adjustment1
 —
Adjusted EBITDA (b)
$161
 $167
    
(a)Excludes $11 million and $1 million of accelerated depreciation three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
(b)Includes $3 million of expense and $12 million of income during the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, related to net periodic pension and other postretirement costs (income) recognized ratably through the fiscal year. These amounts are comprised of service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, and amortization of prior service credit and is disclosed in further detail in Note J of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Year-to-Date - Operating income amounted to $108 million and $144 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The current and prior year periods' operating income include certain key items that are excluded to arrive at Adjusted EBITDA. In addition to the key items within the current and prior year quarters previously discussed, the following are also excluded on a year-to-date basis:
•Separation, restructuring and other costs, net, include the following additional key items:
◦
an additional $41 million, including $1 million of accelerated depreciation, and $18 million of costs related to the separation of Valvoline during the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively;
◦
additional adjustments related to a restructuring plan within an existing manufacturing facility of a $5 million reversal of the previous severance accrual and $4 million of accelerated depreciation during the nine months ended June 30, 2016;
◦
$4 million of restructuring charges related to office buildings during the nine months ended June 30, 2016;
a $2 million remeasurement gain associated with the discontinuation of certain post-employment health and life insurance benefits during the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and $18 million of pension and other postretirement plan remeasurement losses during the nine months ended June 30, 2016, representing the net impact of a curtailment gain of $92 million related to the current period plan amendments and a $110 million actuarial loss due to changes in discount rates and asset values; and
additional charges for legal reserves of $15 million during the nine months ended June 30, 2016.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

 Nine months ended
 June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
Net income$85
 $247
Income tax benefit(49) (39)
Net interest and other financing expense203
 125
Depreciation and amortization (a)
206
 222
EBITDA445
 555
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)(138) (186)
Separation, restructuring and other costs, net71
 48
Environmental reserve adjustment9
 15
Legacy benefit for former directors—
 (11)
Customer claim adjustment—
 (5)
Loss (gain) on pension and other postretirement plan remeasurements(2) 18
Legal reserve5
 15
Accelerated depreciation12
 5
Net loss on acquisitions and divestitures6
 —
Inventory fair value adjustment1
 —
Adjusted EBITDA (b)
$409
 $454
    
 Three months ended
 December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
Net income (loss)$(4) $10
Income tax expense (benefit)14
 (41)
Net interest and other financing expense31
 122
Depreciation and amortization (a)
73
 68
EBITDA114
 159
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)(3) (75)
Environmental reserve adjustments11
 —
Separation, restructuring and other costs8
 22
Accelerated depreciation6
 —
Legal reserve—
 5
Gain on post-employment plan remeasurement—
 (2)
Adjusted EBITDA (b)
$136
 $109
    
(a)Excludes $12 million and $5$6 million of accelerated depreciation for the ninethree months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.December 31, 2017.
(b)Includes $7 million of expense and $36 million of income during the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, related to net periodic pension and other postretirement costs (income) recognized ratably through the fiscal year. These amounts are comprised of service cost, interest cost, expected return on plan assets, and amortization of prior service credit and is disclosed in further detail in Note J of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Diluted EPS and Adjusted Diluted EPS
The following table reflects the U.S. GAAP calculation for the income (loss) from continuing operations adjusted for the cumulative diluted EPS effect for key items after tax that have been identified in the Adjusted EBITDA table in the previous section. The Adjusted diluted EPS for the income (loss) from continuing operations in the following table has been prepared to illustrate the ongoing effects of Ashland’s operations since management believes the use of non-GAAP measures on a consolidated and reportable segment basis assists investors in understanding the ongoing operating performance by presenting the financial results between periods on a more comparable basis.  
 Three months ended
 December 31
 2017
 2016
Diluted EPS from continuing operations (as reported)$(0.12) $(1.05)
Key items0.54
 1.19
Adjusted diluted EPS from continuing operations (non-GAAP)$0.42
 $0.14
Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income – caption review
A comparative analysis of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income by caption is provided as follows for the three and nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016.
Three months ended June 30 Nine months ended June 30Three months ended December 31 
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
 2017
 2016
 Change
2017
 2016
 Change
 
Sales$870
 $790
 $80
 $2,380
 $2,265
 $115
$842
 $704
 $138
 
The following table provides a reconciliation of the change in sales between the three and nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016.
 Three months ended  Nine months ended 
(In millions)June 30, 2017  June 30, 2017 
Volume $26
  $107
Pricing 30
  17
Product mix (7)  (25)
Currency exchange (8)  (22)
Acquisitions and divestitures 39
  38
Change in sales $80
  $115
Current Quarter - Sales for the current quarter increased $80 million compared to the prior year quarter. The acquisition of Pharmachem within the Specialty Ingredients reportable segment increased sales by $36 million while the net impact of other acquisitions and divestitures increased sales by $3 million. Improved volume
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS


increased sales by $26 million, or 3%, while higher pricing increased sales by $30 million. Unfavorable foreign currency exchange decreased sales by $8 million and product mix decreased sales by $7 million.
Year-to-Date - Sales for the current period increased $115 million compared to the prior year period. The acquisition of Pharmachem within the Specialty Ingredients reportable segment increased sales by $36 million while the net impact of other acquisitions and divestitures increased sales by $2 million. Improved volume increased sales by $107 million, or 5%, while higher pricing increased sales by $17 million. Changes in product mix decreased sales by $25 million and unfavorable foreign currency exchange decreased sales by 22 million.
 Three months ended June 30 Nine months ended June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
 2017
 2016
 Change
Cost of sales$635
 $554
 $81
 $1,727
 $1,581
 $146
Gross profit as a percent of sales27.0% 29.9%  
 27.4% 30.2%  
Fluctuations in cost of sales are driven primarily by raw material prices, volume and changes in product mix, currency exchange, net losses or gains on pension and other postretirement benefit plan remeasurements, and other certain charges incurred as a result of changes or events within the businesses or restructuring activities. The following table provides a quantified reconciliation of the changes in cost of sales between the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016.
 Three months ended  Nine months ended 
(In millions)June 30, 2017  June 30, 2017 
Changes in:     
Volume $17
  $76
Production costs 28
  50
Acquisitions and divestitures 28
  28
Currency exchange (5)  (15)
Product mix (8)  (21)
Customer claim 5
  5
Pension and other postretirement benefit plans expense (income)     
(including remeasurements) 7
  12
Severance and other restructuring costs     
(including accelerated depreciation) 9
  11
Change in cost of sales $81
 
$146
Current Quarter - Cost of sales for the current quarter increased $81 million compared to the prior year quarter. The Pharmachem acquisition increased cost of sales by $25 million while the net impact of other acquisitions and divestitures increased cost of sales by $3 million. Unfavorable production costs and higher volumes increased cost of sales by $28 million, or 5%, and $17 million, or 3%, respectively. Changes in product mix and favorable currency exchange decreased cost of sales by $8 million and $5 million, respectively.
Pension and other postretirement net periodic income increased cost of sales by $7 million compared to the prior year quarter. The current quarter included $13 million of severance and other restructuring charges related to a plant closure (including $11 million of accelerated depreciation) while the prior year quarter included $4 million of charges related to the exit from a toller agreement and restructuring of a manufacturing facility. The prior year quarter also included income related to a customer claim adjustment of $5 million.
Year-to-Date - Cost of sales for the current period increased $146 million compared to the prior year period primarily due to higher volume, unfavorable production costs, and the net impact of the acquisitions and divestitures of certain divisions and product lines. These factors increased cost of sales by $76 million, or 5%,
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS


$50 million, or 3%, and $28 million, or 2%, respectively. Changes in product mix and favorable foreign currency exchanged decreased cost of sales by $21 million and $15 million, respectively.
Pension and other postretirement net periodic income increased cost of sales by $12 million compared to the prior year period. The current period included $13 million of severance and other restructuring charges related to a plant closure (including $11 million of accelerated depreciation) while the prior year period included $2 million of severance and other restructuring costs. The prior year period also included income related to a customer claim adjustment of $5 million.
 Three months ended June 30 Nine months ended June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
 2017
 2016
 Change
Selling, general and administrative           
expense$182
 $160
 $22
 $493
 $481
 $12
As a percent of sales20.9% 20.3%  
 20.7% 21.2%  
Current Quarter - Selling, general and administrative expense for the current quarter increased $22 million compared to the prior year quarter with expenses as a percent of sales increasing 0.6 percentage points. Key drivers of the fluctuation in selling, general and administrative expense compared to the prior year quarter were:
$28 million of costs related to the separation of Valvoline during the current quarter compared to $28 million in the prior year quarter;
an increase of $10 million due to higher pension and other postretirement income in the prior year period due to the transfer of a substantial portion of the U.S. pension plans to Valvoline Inc. during September 2016;
$11 million and $16 million in net environmental-related expenses during the current and prior year quarter, respectively; and
$11 million of income related to the termination of a legacy benefit for former directors during the prior year quarter.
Year-to-Date - Selling, general and administrative expense for the current period increased $12 million compared to the prior year period with expenses as a percent of sales decreasing 0.5 percentage points. Key drivers of the fluctuation in selling, general and administrative expense compared to the prior year period were:
$69 million of costs related to the separation of Valvoline during the current period compared to $46 million in the prior year period;
an increase of $29 million due to higher pension and other postretirement income in the prior year period due to the transfer of a substantial portion of the U.S. pension plans to Valvoline Inc. during September 2016;
decreased costs of $12 million due to a post-employment remeasurement gain of $1 million during the current period and pension and other postretirement plan remeasurement losses of $11 million during the prior year period, which consisted of a curtailment gain of $53 million and an actuarial loss of $64 million;
$19 million and $33 million in net environmental-related expenses during the current and prior year period, respectively;
$5 million and $15 million charges for legal reserves during the current and prior year period, respectively;
$11 million of income related to the termination of a legacy benefit for former directors during the prior year period; and
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS


$4 million of restructuring charges related to office buildings during the prior year period.
 Three months ended June 30 Nine months ended June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
 2017
 2016
 Change
Research and development expense$20
 $22
 $(2) $61
 $66
 $(5)
Current Quarter - Research and development expense remained relatively consistent with the prior year quarter.
Year-to-Date - Research and development expense remained relatively consistent with the prior year period.
 Three months ended June 30 Nine months ended June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
 2017
 2016
 Change
Equity and other income 
  
  
  
  
  
Equity income$—
 $1
 $(1) $—
 $1
 $(1)
Other income4
 2
 2
 9
 6
 3
 $4
 $3
 $1
 $9
 $7
 $2
Current Quarter - Equity income remained relatively consistent with the prior year quarter. Other income increased $2 million primarily due to a gain on the sale of property during the current quarter.
Year-to-Date - Equity income remained relatively consistent with the prior year period. Other income increased $3 million primarily to a gain on the sale of property during the current period.
 Three months ended June 30 Nine months ended June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
 2017
 2016
 Change
Net interest and other           
financing expense (income)           
Interest expense$41
 $44
 $(3) $199
 $131
 $68
Interest income(1) (2) 1
 (3) (4) 1
Available-for-sale securities income(2) (2) —
 (9) (6)
(3)
Other financing costs13
 —
 13
 16
 4
 12
 $51
 $40
 $11
 $203
 $125
 $78
Current Quarter - Net interest and other financing expense increased $11 million during the current quarter compared to the prior year quarter. Interest expense decreased during the current quarter primarily due to lower debt levels. This decrease was partially offset by charges for debt issuance costs related to financing activity for the 2017 Credit Agreement, which included $7 million of accelerated amortization of previously capitalized debt issuance costs and $2 million of new debt issuance costs immediately recognized. The increase in other financing costs was primarily due to an $11 million charge for early redemption premium payments for the 2018 notes during the current quarter. Available-for-sale securities income of $2 million during the current and the prior year quarter represents investment income and realized gains related to restricted investments discussed in Note E of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Year-to-Date - Net interest and other financing expense increased $78 million during the current period compared to the prior year period. Interest expense increased during the current period primarily due to $92 million of accelerated accretion related to the December 2016 Tender Offer of the 2029 notes and charges for debt issuance costs in the current quarter as previously discussed, partially offset by a decrease in interest expense due to lower debt levels. Available-for-sale securities income of $9 million compared to $6 million in the prior year period represents investment income and realized gains related to restricted investments discussed in Note E of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

 Three months ended June 30 Nine months ended June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
 2017
 2016
 Change
Net gain (loss) on acquisitions           
and divestitures

           
Pharmachem acquisition$(5) $—
 $(5) $(5) $—
 $(5)
Specialty Ingredients joint venture(4) —
 (4) (4) —
 (4)
Kelowna—
 2
 (2) —
 2
 (2)
Composites manufacturing facility4
 —
 4
 4
 —
 4
Other(1) 1
 (2) (2) 1
 (3)
 $(6) $3
 $(9) $(7) $3
 $(10)
 Three months ended 
(In millions)December 31, 2017 
Acquisitions and divestitures $63
Pricing 30
Currency exchange 20
Volume 18
Product mix 7
Change in sales $138
Current Quarter - The activity inSales for the current quarter includes a net loss of $5increased $138 million fromcompared to the prior year quarter. The acquisition of Pharmachem a loss of $4 million recognized forwithin the Specialty Ingredients joint venture divestiturereportable segment increased sales by $58 million, or 8%, while the net impact of other acquisitions and divestitures increased sales by $5 million. Improvements in Chinapricing increased sales by $30 million, or 4%, while favorable foreign currency exchange increased sales by $20 million, or 3%. Higher volumes and changes in product mix increased sales by $18 million and $7 million, respectively.
 Three months ended December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
Cost of sales$613
 $515
 $98
Gross profit as a percent of sales27.2% 26.8%  
Fluctuations in cost of sales are driven primarily by raw material prices, volume and changes in product mix, currency exchange, acquisitions and divestitures and other certain charges incurred as a lossresult of changes or events within the businesses or restructuring activities. The following table provides a quantified reconciliation of the changes in cost of sales between the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.
 Three months ended 
(In millions)December 31, 2017 
Changes in:  
Acquisitions and divestitures $50
Production costs 20
Currency exchange 15
Volume 8
Product mix 4
Severance and other restructuring costs 1
Change in cost of sales $98
Cost of sales for the current quarter increased $98 million compared to the prior year quarter. The Pharmachem acquisition increased cost of sales by $44 million, or 9%, while the net impact of other acquisitions and divestitures increased cost of sales by $6 million. Unfavorable production costs and foreign currency exchange increased cost of sales by $20 million, or 4%, and $15 million, or 3%, respectively. Higher volumes and changes in product mix increased cost of sales by $8 million and $4 million, respectively, while the current quarter also included $1 million dueof severance and other restructuring charges related to post-closing adjustmentsa plant closure.
 Three months ended December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
Selling, general and administrative expense$171
 $157
 $14
As a percent of sales20.3% 22.3%  
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS


Selling, general and administrative expense for the Elastomers divestiture, partially offset by a net gain of $4current quarter increased $14 million from the acquisition of a Composites manufacturing facility. The activity incompared to the prior year quarter relateswith expenses as a percent of sales decreasing 2.0 percentage points. Key drivers of the fluctuation in selling, general and administrative expense compared to the saleprior year quarter were:
$10 million of the Kelowna plant and post-closing adjustmentsincremental costs related to Pharmachem’s operations and $1 million of Pharmachem integration costs during the Biocides divestitures.current quarter;
Year-to-Date - In addition to the activity discussed within the Current Quarter section, the activity$14 million and $6 million in net environmental-related expenses during the current and prior year periods primarily relatequarters, respectively;
an increase of $7 million due to post-closing adjustmentshigher employee-related costs in the current quarter;
an increase of $5 million due to unfavorable foreign currency exchange in the current quarter;
$4 million of accelerated depreciation related to the planned closure of an office building during the current quarter;
$6 million of costs related to the separation of Valvoline during the current quarter compared to $22 million in the prior year quarter; and
a $5 million charge for certain divestitures.a legal reserve during the prior year quarter.
 Three months ended June 30 Nine months ended June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
 2017
 2016
 Change
Income tax benefit$(4) $(4) $—
 $(49) $(39) $(10)
Effective tax rate20% (20)%  
 48% (177)%  
 Three months ended December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
Research and development expense$21
 $20
 $1
Current Quarter -Research and development expense remained relatively consistent with the prior year quarter.
 Three months ended December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
Equity and other income 
  
  
Equity income (a)
$—
 $—
 $—
Other income2
 3
 (1)
 $2
 $3
 $(1)
      
(a)Activity of $0 denotes value less than $1 million.
Equity and other income remained relatively consistent with the prior year quarter.
 Three months ended December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
Net interest and other financing expense (income)     
Interest expense$34
 $126
 $(92)
Interest income(1) (1) —
Available-for-sale securities income(3) (3) —
Other financing costs1
 —
 1
 $31
 $122
 $(91)
Net interest and other financing expense decreased $91 million during the current quarter compared to the prior year quarter. The overall effective tax ratecurrent quarter decrease in interest expense was 20% for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and was impacted by tax rates applied to certain key items, which are considered significant unusual or infrequent items, and by net unfavorable tax discrete items. These discrete items primarily related to changes in the realization of certain historic tax attributes due to the Valvoline distribution and the Pharmachem acquisition as well as tax on certain restructuring items.
The overall effective tax benefit rate was 20% for the three months ended June 30, 2016 and was primarily impacted by net tax rates applied to certain key items, which are considered significant unusual or infrequent items.
Year-to-Date - The overall effective tax rate was 48% for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and was impacted by tax rates applied to certain key items, which are considered significant unusual or infrequent items, and by net unfavorable tax discrete items primarily related to items previously noted in the currentprior year quarter partially offset by a reversal for unrecognized tax benefits due to lapseincluding $92 million of the statute of limitations.
The overall effective tax benefit rate was 177% for the nine months ended June 30, 2016 and was impacted by net favorable tax discrete items primarilyaccelerated accretion related to the items noted above, a favorable tax liquidation resolution,December 2016 tender offer of the 2029 notes. Available-for-sale securities income of $3 million during both the current and other tax adjustments. 

the prior year quarters represents investment income and realized gains related to restricted investments discussed in Note E of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

 Three months ended June 30 Nine months ended June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
 2017
 2016
 Change
Income (loss) from discontinued           
operations (net of tax)           
Valvoline$12
 $73
 $(61) $161
 $214
 $(53)
Asbestos-related litigation(25) (30) 5
 (25) (30) 5
Water Technologies(1) 4
 (5) 2
 2
 —
 $(14) $47
 $(61) $138
 $186
 $(48)
 Three months ended December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
Other net periodic benefit income$—
 $2
 $(2)
Current Quarter - The income in the prior year quarter primarily related to a $2 million gain on the remeasurement of certain post-employment health and life insurance benefit plans that were discontinued.
 Three months ended December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
Net loss on divestitures$1
 $1
 $—
The activity in the current and prior year quarters primarily related to post-closing adjustments for certain divestitures.
 Three months ended December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
Income tax expense (benefit)$14
 $(41) $55
Effective tax rate200% 39%  
The overall effective tax expense rate was 200% for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and was primarily impacted by the current quarter income mix and net unfavorable tax discrete adjustments of $16 million related to the enactment of the Tax Act. These net unfavorable adjustments primarily included deferred tax rate changes and a one-time transition tax assessed on foreign cash and unremitted earnings.
The overall effective tax benefit rate was 39% for the three months ended December 31, 2016 and was primarily impacted by income mix.
 Three months ended December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)     
Valvoline$3
 $75
 $(72)
As a result of the full separation of Valvoline Inc. on May 12, 2017, the operating results related to Valvoline Inc., including the operating results of the former Valvoline reportable segment, have been reflected as discontinued operations (net of tax) within the Statement of Consolidated Comprehensive Income for both(Loss). The activity within the current andquarter represents subsequent adjustments that were made in conjunction with the Tax Matters Agreement. See Note B for more information on the Tax Matters Agreement. During the prior year quarters.quarter, Valvoline's sales for the current and prior year quarterpre-tax operating income included in discontinued operations were $234$489 million (reflective of sales until the full separation on May 12, 2017) and $500$120 million, respectively.     Valvoline's pre-tax operating income of discontinued operations totaled $38 million during the current quarter and $118 million in the prior year quarter.
The current and prior year quarter included after-tax net adjustments to the asbestos reserves and receivables of $25 million and $30 million of expense, respectively, including the adjustments for the annual update.     
Year-to-Date - Valvoline's sales for the current year and prior year period included in discontinued operations were $1,237 million and $1,435 million, respectively. Valvoline's pre-tax operating income of discontinued operations totaled $274 million during the current period compared to $329 million during the prior year period.
 Three months ended June 30 Nine months ended June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
 2017
 2016
 Change
Net income attributable to           
noncontrolling interest$3
 $—
 $3
 $27
 $—
 $27
Since Ashland's ownership interest in Valvoline Inc. was approximately 83% until the final separation on May 12, 2017, the amount of net income attributable to the outside stockholders' approximately 17% noncontrolling interest in Valvoline Inc. is presented within this caption on the Statement of Consolidated Comprehensive Income for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017.
Other comprehensive income (loss)
A comparative analysis of the components of other comprehensive income (loss) is provided below for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016.
 Three months ended June 30 Nine months ended June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
 2017
 2016
 Change
Other comprehensive income           
(loss) (net of taxes)           
Unrealized translation gain (loss)$105
 $(46) $151
 $19
 $(26) $45
Pension and postretirement           
obligation adjustment—
 —
 —
 (4) 21
 (25)
Net change in available-for-sale           
     securities4
 4
 —
 10
 13
 (3)
 $109
 $(42) $151
 $25
 $8
 $17
 Three months ended December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest$—
 $11
 $(11)
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

Current Quarter - Since Ashland's ownership interest in Valvoline Inc. was approximately 83% until the final separation on May 12, 2017, the amount of net income attributable to the outside stockholders' approximately 17% noncontrolling interest in Valvoline Inc. is presented within this caption on the Statement of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the three months ended December 31, 2016.
Other comprehensive income (loss)
A comparative analysis of the components of other comprehensive income (loss) is provided below for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.
 Three months ended December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 Change
Other comprehensive income (loss) (net of taxes)     
Unrealized translation gain (loss)$3
 $(146) $149
     Net change in available-for-sale securities8
 —
 8
Pension and postretirement obligation adjustment—
 (1) 1
 $11
 $(147) $158
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax, for the current quarter increased $151$158 million compared to the prior year quarter as a result of the following components:
For the three months ended June 30,December 31, 2017, the change in unrealized gain (loss) from foreign currency translation adjustments was $105a gain of $3 million compared to a loss of $46$146 million for the three months ended June 30, 2016. The fluctuations in unrealized translation gains and losses is primarily due to translating foreign subsidiary financial statements from local currencies to U.S. Dollars.
Gains of $4 million on available-for-sale securities, net of tax, related to restricted investments, were recognized within other comprehensive income during each of the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016.
Year-to-Date - Total other comprehensive income, net of tax, for the current period increased $17 million compared to the prior year period as a result of the following components:
For the nine months ended June 30, 2017, the unrealized gain from foreign currency translation adjustments was income of $19 million compared to a loss of $26 million for the nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2016. The fluctuations in unrealized translation gains and losses are primarily due to translating foreign subsidiary financial statements from local currencies to U.S. Dollars.
Gains on available-for-sale securities related to restricted investments amounted to $8 million, net of tax, during the three months ended December 31, 2017.
Pension and postretirement obligation adjustment was a loss of $4$1 million for the ninethree months ended June 30, 2017 comparedDecember 31, 2016. This amount related to income of $21 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2016. Of these amounts, $4 million and $34 million during the current and prior year periods, respectively,amortization of unrecognized prior serviceservices credits net of tax, relating tofor pension and other postretirement benefit plans were amortized and was reclassified into net income. Additional unrecognized prior service credits, net of tax, of $55 millionincome during the prior year period were included in other comprehensive income (loss) as a result of the pension and other postretirement plan remeasurements.
Gains of $10 million and $13 million on available-for-sale securities, net of tax, related to restricted investments, were recognized within other comprehensive income (loss) during the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
quarter.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS – REPORTABLE SEGMENT REVIEW
Subsequent to completing the distribution ofseparation from Valvoline Inc. during the current quarter,on May 12, 2017, Ashland's operations are now managed within the following three reportable segments: Specialty Ingredients, Composites and Intermediates and Solvents. In previous periods, Composites and Intermediates and Solvents were reporting units included within the Ashland Performance Materials reportable segment.
Results of Ashland’s reportable segments are presented based on its management structure and internal accounting practices.structure.  The structure and practices areis specific to Ashland; therefore, the financial results of Ashland’s reportable segments are not necessarily comparable with similar information for other comparable companies.  Ashland allocates all costs to its reportable segments except for certain significant company-wide restructuring activities and other costs or adjustments that generally relate to former businesses that Ashland no longer operates. The service cost component of pension and other postretirement benefits costs is allocated to each reportable segment on a ratable basis; while the remaining components of pension and other postretirement benefits costs are recorded to Unallocated and other.within the other net periodic benefit income caption on the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss).  Ashland refines its expense allocation methodologies to the reportable segments from time to time as internal accounting practices are improved, more refined information becomes available and businesses change.  Revisionsthe industry or market changes.  Significant revisions to Ashland’s methodologies that are deemed insignificant are appliedadjusted for all segments on a prospectiveretrospective basis.
The EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA amounts presented within this business section are provided as a means to enhance the understanding of financial measurements that Ashland has internally determined to be relevant
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

The EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA amounts presented within this business section are provided as a means to enhance the understanding of financial measurements that Ashland has internally determined to be relevant measures of comparison for each segment.  Each of these non-GAAP measures is defined as follows: EBITDA (operating income (loss) plus depreciation and amortization), Adjusted EBITDA (EBITDA adjusted for key items, which may include pro forma effects for significant acquisitions or divestitures, as applicable), and Adjusted EBITDA margin (Adjusted EBITDA, which may include pro forma adjustments, divided by sales or sales adjusted for pro forma results).  Ashland does not allocate items to each reportable segment below operating income, such as interest expense and income taxes.  As a result, reportable segment EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are reconciled directly to operating income since it is the most directly comparable caption to the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.
The following table discloses sales, operating income, depreciation and amortization and statistical operating information by reportable segment for the three and nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016.  
Three months ended Nine months endedThree months ended
June 30 June 30December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
2017
 2016
Sales          
Specialty Ingredients$591
 $552
 $1,617
 $1,557
$550
 $482
Composites209
 174
 561
 508
218
 165
Intermediates and Solvents70
 64
 202
 200
74
 57
$870
 $790
 $2,380
 $2,265
$842
 $704
Operating income (loss) 
  
  
  
 
  
Specialty Ingredients$58
 $66
 $172
 $169
$42
 $40
Composites22
 17
 50
 55
18
 15
Intermediates and Solvents2
 (1) (8) 5
8
 (7)
Unallocated and other(45) (25) (106) (85)(29) (33)
$37
 $57
 $108
 $144
$39
 $15
Depreciation and amortization 
  
  
  
 
  
Specialty Ingredients$70
 $61
 $178
 $184
$62
 $55
Composites5
 6
 16
 16
5
 6
Intermediates and Solvents8
 8
 23
 23
8
 7
Unallocated and other—
 2
 1
 4
4
 —
$83
 $77
 $218
 $227
$79
 $68
Operating information 
  
  
  
 
  
Specialty Ingredients 
  
  
  
 
  
Sales per shipping day$9.2
 $8.6
 $8.6
 $8.2
$9.0
 $7.9
Metric tons sold (thousands)83.7
 81.8
 237.0
 227.8
73.0
 72.6
Gross profit as a percent of sales (a)
30.6% 33.2% 32.4% 33.6%31.5% 32.0 %
Composites 
    
   
  
Sales per shipping day$3.3
 $2.7
 $3.0
 $2.7
$3.6
 $2.7
Metric tons sold (thousands)88.5
 80.2
 251.6
 233.9
91.2
 78.4
Gross profit as a percent of sales (a)
21.0% 23.3% 20.2% 23.6%18.4% 21.1 %
Intermediates and Solvents 
  
  
  
 
  
Sales per shipping day1.1
 1.0
 1.1
 1.1
$1.2
 $0.9
Metric tons sold (thousands)34.4
 34.5
 109.8
 103.2
32.7
 32.2
Gross profit as a percent of sales (a)14.3% 9.0% 6.7% 13.3%21.3% (0.9)%
          
(a)Gross profit is defined as sales, less cost of sales divided by sales.
Sales by region expressed as a percentage of reportable segment sales for the three and nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016 were as follows. Ashland includes only U.S. and Canada in its North American designation.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

Three months ended June 30, 2017 Nine months ended June 30, 2017Three months ended December 31, 2017
Sales by Geography
Specialty Ingredients Composites Intermediates and Solvents Specialty Ingredients Composites Intermediates and SolventsSpecialty Ingredients Composites Intermediates and Solvents
North America40% 48% 21% 40% 48% 22%41% 45% 21%
Europe31% 29% 60% 30% 29% 58%30% 34% 59%
Asia Pacific19% 15% 16% 20% 15% 17%19% 14% 17%
Latin America & other10% 8% 3% 10% 8% 3%10% 7% 3%
100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100%100% 100% 100%

Three months ended June 30, 2016 Nine months ended June 30, 2016Three months ended December 31, 2016
Sales by Geography
Specialty Ingredients Composites Intermediates and Solvents Specialty Ingredients Composites Intermediates and SolventsSpecialty Ingredients Composites Intermediates and Solvents
North America39% 51% 21% 39% 50% 22%39% 48% 23%
Europe32% 30% 61% 32% 31% 59%29% 28% 57%
Asia Pacific19% 14% 14% 19% 13% 15%22% 16% 17%
Latin America & other10% 5% 4% 10% 6% 4%10% 8% 3%
100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100%100% 100% 100%
Specialty Ingredients
Specialty Ingredients is a global leader in cellulose ethers, vinyl pyrrolidones and biofunctionals. It offers industry-leading products, technologies and resources for solving formulation and product-performance challenges. Specialty Ingredients uses natural, synthetic and semisynthetic polymers derived from cellulose ethers, vinyl pyrrolidones, acrylic polymers, polyester and polyurethane-based adhesives, and plant and seed extract. Specialty Ingredients includes two divisions, Consumer Specialties and Industrial Specialties, thatIngredients’ end markets offer comprehensive and innovative solutions for today’s demanding consumer and industrial applications. Key customers include: pharmaceutical companies; makers of personal care products, food and beverages; makers of nutraceuticals and supplements; manufacturers of paint, coatings and construction materials; packaging and converting; and oilfield service companies.
On May 17, 2017, Ashland completed its acquisition of the stock of Pharmachem, Laboratories, Inc. (Pharmachem), a leading provider of quality ingredients to the global health and wellness industries and high-value differentiated products to fragrance and flavor houses. With annual revenues of approximately $300 million and 14 manufacturing facilities in the United States and Mexico, New Jersey-based Pharmachem develops, manufactures and supplies custom and branded nutritional and fragrance products. See Note C within the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for more information.
JuneAdditionally, Ashland completed the transfer of its ownership interest in a consolidated joint venture during the third quarter of fiscal 2017.
December 2017 quarter compared to JuneDecember 2016 quarter
Specialty Ingredients’ sales increased $39$68 million to $591$550 million in the current quarter. The acquisition of Pharmachem in the current quarter increased sales $36 million while a toller agreement exit decreased sales by $2 million. Improved product pricing increased sales by $6$58 million, or 1%,12%. Favorable foreign currency exchange increased sales by $10 million, while volume and mix combined to increase sales by $5$9 million. In addition, unfavorable foreign currency exchange decreasedimproved product pricing increased sales by $6 million in the current quarter.
Gross profit during the current quarter decreased $2 million compared to the prior year quarter. The acquisition of Pharmachem in the current quarter increased gross profit by $11 million while improved volume and mix combined to increase gross profit by $5 million. These increases were partially offset by decreases duea decrease of $11 million from divestitures which was primarily related to the transfer of ownership interest in a $13 millionconsolidated joint venture.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

restructuring charge for plant closing as well as unfavorableGross profit during the current quarter increased $19 million compared to the prior year quarter. The acquisition of Pharmachem increased gross profit by $14 million while improved volume and mix combined to increase gross profit by $9 million. Favorable foreign currency exchange increased gross profit by $4 million. These increases were partially offset by the net impact of $3pricing and costs which decreased gross profit by $6 million and higher coststhe joint venture divestiture which decreased gross profit by $2 million. In total, gross profit margin during the current quarter decreased 2.60.5 percentage points as compared to the prior year quarter to 30.6%31.5%.
Selling, general and administrative expenses (which include research and development expenses throughout the reportable segment discussion and analysis) increased $6$15 million in the current quarter as compared to the prior year quarter primarilylargely due to additionalincremental costs of $10 million related to Pharmachem’s operations. The remaining increase in selling, general and administrative expenses was primarily due to higher employee-related costs and unfavorable foreign currency exchange. Equity and other income decreased $2 million compared to the prior year quarter.
Operating income totaled $58$42 million for the current quarter compared to $66$40 million in the prior year quarter.  Current quarter EBITDA decreased $10increased $7 million to $117$102 million, while Adjusted EBITDA increased $3 million to $131 million. Adjusted EBITDA margin decreased 1.0 percentage points in the current quarter to 22.2%.
Fiscal 2017 year-to-date compared to fiscal 2016 year-to-date
Specialty Ingredients' sales increased $60 million to $1,617 million in the current period. Volume and mix combined to increase sales $40 million while improved product pricing increased sales by $3 million. The acquisition of Pharmachem in the current period increased sales $36 million while a toller agreement exit decreased sales by $3 million. In addition, unfavorable foreign currency exchange decreased sales by $16 million in the current period.
Gross profit during the current period increased $2 million compared to the prior year period. The acquisition of Pharmachem in the current period increased gross profit by $11 million while improved volume and mix combined to increase gross profit by $20 million. These increases were partially offset by decreases due to pricing and higher costs, primarily raw material costs of $8 million, unfavorable foreign currency exchange of $7 million and $14 million in plant restructuring costs. In total, gross profit margin during the current period decreased 1.2 percentage points as compared to the prior year period to 32.4%.
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $1 million in the current period as additional costs related to Pharmachem’s operations of $5 million were partially offset by favorable foreign currency exchange of $2 million and other employee related reductions. Equity and other income (loss) increased $2 million compared to the prior year period.
Operating income totaled $172 million for the current period compared to $169 million in the prior year period. EBITDA decreased $10 million to $339 million in the current period, while Adjusted EBITDA increased to $353$105 million. Adjusted EBITDA margin decreased 0.6 percentage points in the current periodquarter to 21.8%19.1%.
EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA reconciliation
The following EBITDA presentation for the three and nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016 below is provided as a means to enhance the understanding of financial measurements that Ashland has internally determined to be relevant measures of comparison for the results of Specialty Ingredients.  Adjusted EBITDA results have been prepared to illustrate the ongoing effects of Ashland's operations, which exclude certain key items. The key items within the current quarter and period relate to $2 million of accelerated depreciation for the termination of a $13contract at a manufacturing facility and $1 million of severance and other restructuring chargecharges for the closure of a manufacturing plant, which included $11 million of accelerated depreciation and $2 million of severance and other restructuring costs, and $1 millionplant. There were no unusual or key items that affected comparability for the revaluation of Pharmachem inventoryEBITDA during the current quarter. The prior year quarter included $4 million of restructuring charges, $2 million of environmental reserve adjustments, and $5 million of income related to a customer claim adjustment. In addition to the prior year quarter key items, the prior year period reflects a $5 million income adjustment for severance and $4 million of accelerated depreciation.
quarter.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS


Three months ended Nine months endedThree months ended
June 30 June 30December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
2017
 2016
Operating income$58
 $66
 $172
 $169
$42
 $40
Depreciation and amortization (a)
59
 61
 167
 180
60
 55
EBITDA117
 127
 339
 349
102
 95
Accelerated depreciation2
 —
Severance and other restructuring costs2
 4
 2
 (1)1
 —
Environmental reserve adjustment—
 2
 —
 2
Accelerated depreciation11
 —
 11
 4
Customer claim adjustment—
 (5) —
 (5)
Inventory fair value adjustment1
 —
 1
 —
Adjusted EBITDA$131
 $128
 $353
 $349
$105
 $95
          
(a)
Excludes $11$2 million of accelerated depreciation for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017 and$4 million of accelerated depreciation for the nine months ended June 30, 2016.
December 31, 2017.
Composites
Composites is a global leader in unsaturated polyester resins, vinyl ester resins and gel coats.gelcoats. The Composites business manufactures and sells a broad range of general-purpose and high-performance grades of unsaturated polyester and vinyl ester resins, gelcoats and low-profile additives for the reinforced plastics industry. The products in the Composites business provide an array of functional properties including corrosion resistance, fire retardance, ultraviolet resistance, water and chemical resistance, high mechanical strength, impact and scratch resistance and high strength-to-weight ratios. Key end markets include transportation, construction, marine and infrastructure. In addition, the business manufactures and sells molten maleic anhydride for the manufacture of a variety of products such as unsaturated polyester resins, copolymers, lubricating oil additives, alkenyl succinic anhydrides, malic acid, fumaric acid and numerous derivative chemicals. Key markets include composites, personal care, dispersants and paper sizing.
June 2017 quarter compared to June 2016 quarter
Composites’ sales increased$35 million to $209 million in the current quarter. Improved product pricing increased sales by $20 million, or 11%. Volume and mix increased sales by $12 million, or 7%, as metric tons sold increased to 88.5 thousand in the current quarter. The acquisition of an unsaturated polyester resins manufacturing facility in the current quarter increased sales by $5 million while unfavorable foreign currency exchange decreased sales by $2 million.
Gross profit increased $4 million in the current quarter compared to the prior year quarter. Changes in volume increased gross profit by $3 million, while the facility acquisition increased gross profit by $1 million. The effects of pricing, cost and foreign currency exchange did not impact gross profit in the current quarter. In total, gross profit margin decreased 2.3 percentage points as compared to the prior year quarter to 21.0%.
Selling, general and administrative expenses during the current quarter decreased $2 million compared to the prior year quarter, primarily due to decreases in bad debt expenses in the current quarter. Equity and other income decreased $1 million compared to the prior year quarter, primarily due to equity income.
Operating income totaled $22 million in the current quarter compared to $17 million in the prior year quarter.  EBITDA increased $4 million to $27 million in the current quarter, while EBITDA margin decreased 0.3 percentage points in the current quarter to 12.9%.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

Fiscalalkenyl succinic anhydrides, malic acid, fumaric acid and numerous derivative chemicals. Key markets include composites, personal care, dispersants and paper sizing.
December 2017 year-to-datequarter compared to fiscalDecember 2016 year-to-datequarter
Composites'Composites’ sales increased $53 million to $218 million in the current period to $561 million. Volume increased sales by $34 million, or 7%, as metric tons sold increased to 251.6 thousand in the current period.quarter. Improved product pricing increased sales by $20$19 million, or 4% while unfavorable mix decreased sales by $3 million.12%. The acquisition of an unsaturated polyester resins manufacturing facility in the current periodthird of quarter of fiscal 2017 increased sales by $5$16 million, or 10%. Improved volume and mix increased sales by $12 million, or 7%, as metric tons sold increased to 91.2 thousand in the current quarter, while unfavorablefavorable foreign currency exchange decreasedincreased sales by $3$6 million, or 4%.
Gross profit decreased $7increased $5 million in the current periodquarter compared to the prior year period. Pricing effects were offset by higher costsquarter. Changes in volume and mix combined to decreaseincrease gross profit by $16 million. Higher volume and mix increased gross profit by $8$3 million, while the impact of the facility acquisition and favorable foreign currency exchange each increased gross profit by $1 million. The net effects of pricing and raw material increases did not impact gross profit in the current quarter. In total, gross profit margin decreased 3.42.7 percentage points as compared to the prior year periodquarter to 20.2%18.4%.
Selling, general and administrative expenses during the current period decreased $4quarter increased $3 million compared to the prior year period,quarter primarily due to declines in employee related costs.higher employee-related costs and unfavorable foreign currency exchange. Equity and other income decreased $2increased $1 million compared to the prior year period, primarily due to a decline in other income.quarter.
Operating income totaled $50$18 million in the current periodquarter compared to $55$15 million in the prior year period.quarter.  EBITDA decreased $5increased $2 million to $66$23 million in the current period.quarter, while EBITDA margin decreased 2.22.1 percentage points in the current periodquarter to 11.8%10.6%.
EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA reconciliation
The following EBITDA presentation for the three and nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016 below is provided as a means to enhance the understanding of financial measurements that Ashland has internally determined to be relevant measures of comparison for the results of Composites. There were no unusual or key items that affected comparability for EBITDA during the current and prior year quarters or periods.quarters.
Three months ended Nine months endedThree months ended
June 30 June 30December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
2017
 2016
Operating income$22
 $17
 $50
 $55
$18
 $15
Depreciation and amortization5
 6
 16
 16
5
 6
EBITDA$27
 $23
 $66
 $71
$23
 $21
Intermediates and Solvents
Intermediates and Solvents is a leading producer of 1,4 butanediol (BDO) and related derivatives, including tetrahydrofuran and n-methylpyrrolidone. These products are used as chemical intermediates in the production of engineering polymers and polyurethanes, and as specialty process solvents in a wide array of applications including electronics, construction,pharmaceuticals, water filtration membranes and active pharmaceutical ingredient manufacture.more. Butanediol is also supplied to Ashland’s Specialty Ingredients business for use as a raw material.
JuneDecember 2017 quarter compared to JuneDecember 2016 quarter
Intermediates and Solvents’ sales increased $6$17 million to $70$74 million in the current quarter. Higher product pricing increased sales by $9 million while higher volumes and changes in product mixfavorable foreign currency exchange each increased sales by $4 million and $2 million, respectively.million.
Gross profit increased $3$16 million during the current quarter compared to the prior year quarter. HigherLower facility turn around costs in the prior yearcurrent quarter resulted in a $2an $8 million increase in gross profit. The impactprofit as a result of volume and mix increased gross profit by $1 million , while pricing and raw material costs remained unchanged. In total, gross profit margin increased 5.3 percentage points as compared to the prior year quarter to 14.3%.
Selling, general and administrative expenses was comparable to the prior year quarter.a significant
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

planned plant shutdown that occurred in the prior year quarter. The net impact of pricing and costs increased gross profit by $7 million primarily due to improvements in product pricing. Higher volumes contributed to a $1 million increase in gross profit. In total, gross profit margin increased 22.2 percentage points as compared to the prior year quarter to 21.3%.
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by $1 million compared to the prior year quarter.
Operating income totaled $2$8 million in the current quarter as compared to $1 million of a loss of $7 million in the prior year quarter.  EBITDA increased $3 million to $10 millionand EBITDA margin in the current quarter while EBITDA margin increased 3.4 percentage points during the current quarter to 14.3%.
Fiscal 2017 year-to-date compared to fiscal 2016 year-to-date
Intermediates and Solvents’ sales increased $2 million to $202 million in the current period. Higher volume increased sales by $12 million as metric tons sold increased to 109.8 thousand. This increase was partially offset by lower product pricing and unfavorable foreign currency exchange which decreased sales by $6$16 million and $4 million,21.6%, respectively.
Gross profit decreased $13 million during the current period compared to the prior year period. This decline was primarily due to higher raw material costs and unfavorable pricing which combined to decrease gross profit by $12 million. In total, gross profit margin decreased 6.6 percentage points as compared to the prior year period to 6.7%.
Selling, general and administrative expenses was comparable to the prior year period.
The operating loss totaled $8 million in the current period as compared to $5 million of operating income in the prior year period. EBITDA decreased $13 million to $15 million in the current period, while EBITDA margin decreased 6.6 percentage points during the current period to 7.4%.
EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA reconciliation
The following EBITDA presentation for the three and nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016 is provided as a means to enhance the understanding of financial measurements that Ashland has internally determined to be relevant measures of comparison for the results of Intermediates and Solvents. There were no unusual or key items that affected comparability for EBITDA during the current and prior year quarters or periods.quarters.
Three months ended Nine months endedThree months ended
June 30 June 30December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
2017
 2016
Operating income$2
 $(1) $(8) $5
Operating income (loss)$8
 $(7)
Depreciation and amortization8
 8
 23
 23
8
 7
EBITDA$10
 $7
 $15
 $28
$16
 $—
Unallocated and other
The following table summarizes the key components of the Unallocated and other segment's operating income (loss)loss for the three and nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016.
 Three months ended
 December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
Restructuring activities (includes separation, severance, integration   
and stranded divestiture costs)$14
 $24
Environmental expense for divested businesses13
 4
Legal reserve—
 5
Other expense2
 —
Total expense$29
 $33
December 2017 quarter compared to December 2016 quarter
Unallocated and other recorded expense of $29 million and $33 million for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The unallocated items for the current and prior year quarters included charges for restructuring activities of $14 million and $24 million, respectively. Restructuring activities included $6 million and $22 million of costs related to the separation of Valvoline and stranded divestiture costs of $3 million and $2 million during the current and prior year quarters, respectively. The current quarter also included $4 million of accelerated depreciation related to the planned closure of an office building and $1 million of integration charges related to the acquisition of Pharmachem.
The remaining unallocated items during the current quarter primarily included $13 million for environmental-related expenses while the remaining items during the prior year quarter primarily included $5 million of expense for a legal reserve and $4 million for environmental reserve adjustments.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS


FINANCIAL POSITION
Liquidity
Ashland had $601 million in cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2017, of which $581 million was held by foreign subsidiaries and had no significant limitations that would prohibit remitting the funds to satisfy corporate obligations. In certain circumstances, if such amounts were repatriated to the United States, additional taxes might need to be accrued and paid depending on the source of the earnings remitted.  Ashland currently has no plans to repatriate any amounts for which additional taxes would need to be accrued. However, due to the recent Tax Act, Ashland will be reassessing this position in future quarters.
Ashland’s cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities, as reflected in the Statements of Condensed Consolidated Cash Flows, are summarized as follows for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.  
 Three months ended
 December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
Cash provided (used) by:   
Operating activities from continuing operations$(24) $(60)
Investing activities from continuing operations(24) (31)
Financing activities from continuing operations99
 (434)
Discontinued operations(16) 50
Effect of currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents—
 (9)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents$35
 $(484)
Operating activities
The following discloses the cash flows associated with Ashland’s operating activities for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

 Three months ended Nine months ended
 June 30 June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
 2017
 2016
Pension and other postretirement net periodic income       
(excluding service cost)$—
 $17
 $1
 $50
Gain (loss) on pension and other postretirement       
plan remeasurements—
 —
 2
 (18)
Restructuring activities (includes separation,       
severance and stranded divestiture costs)(31) (37) (79) (80)
Environmental expense for divested businesses(9) (15) (17) (32)
Legal reserve—
 —
 (5) (15)
Other income (expense)(5) 10
 (8) 10
Total income (expense)$(45) $(25) $(106) $(85)
 Three months ended
 December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
Cash flows provided (used) by operating activities from continuing operations   
Net income (loss)$(4) $10
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)(3) (75)
Adjustments to reconcile income from continuing operations to 
  
cash flows from operating activities 
  
Depreciation and amortization79
 68
Original issue discount and debt issuance cost amortization2
 94
Deferred income taxes8
 2
Stock based compensation expense7
 5
Gain on early retirement of debt—
 (3)
Realized gain and investment income on available-for-sale securities(3) (3)
Net loss on divestitures1
 1
Pension contributions(2) (1)
Gain on post-employment plan remeasurement—
 (2)
Change in operating assets and liabilities (a)
(109) (156)
Total cash flows used by operating activities from continuing operations$(24) $(60)
    
June 2017 quarter compared(a)Excludes changes resulting from operations acquired or sold.

Cash flows used from operating activities from continuing operations, a major source of Ashland’s liquidity, amounted to June 2016 quarter
Unallocated and other recorded expensecash inflows of $45$24 million and $25$60 million in the current and prior year quarters, respectively.  
Operating Activities - Operating Assets and Liabilities
The cash results during each quarter are primarily driven by net income (loss), excluding discontinued operation results, adjusted for certain non-cash items including depreciation and amortization (including original issue discount and debt issuance cost amortization), as well as changes in working capital, which are fluctuations within accounts receivable, inventory, trade payables and accrued expenses. Ashland continues to emphasize working capital management as a high priority and focus.
Changes in net working capital accounted for outflows of $96 million and $71 million for the three months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.  Unallocatedrespectively, and other includes pension and other postretirement net periodic costs and income that have not been allocated to reportable segments.  These include interest cost, expected return on assets and amortizationwere driven by the following:
Accounts receivable - There were cash inflows of prior service credit as these items are considered financing activities managed at the corporate level, as opposed to service costs which are allocated to reportable segments.  The recurring pension and other postretirement components in Unallocated and other resulted in income of $17$15 million during the prior year quarter. The decrease in pension and other postretirement income in the current quarter is primarily due to the transfer of a substantial portion of the U.S. pension plans to Valvoline Inc. during September 2016.
The remaining unallocated items for the current quarter primarily included charges for restructuring activities of $31 million, of which $28 million related to the Valvoline separation, and $9 million for environmental reserve adjustments. The remaining unallocated items for the prior year quarter primarily included charges for restructuring activities of $37 million, of which $28 million related to the Valvoline separation, and included $15 million for environmental reserve adjustments. Additionally, $11 million of income related to the termination of a legacy benefit for former directors, partially offset by $6 million of stranded Valvoline costs.
Fiscal 2017 year-to-date compared to fiscal 2016 year-to-date
Unallocated and other recorded expense of $106 million and $85 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.  Recurring pension and other postretirement components in Unallocated and other resulted in income during the current and prior year period of $1 million and $50 million, respectively. The decrease in pension and other postretirement income in the current quarter isquarters, respectively, which were primarily due to collections in excess of sales during the transferfirst quarter of a substantial portion of the U.S. pension plans to Valvoline Inc. during September 2016.each fiscal year.
Inventory - The current period also includedquarter had a $2cash outflow of $39 million gain on the remeasurementcompared to a cash inflow of certain post-employment health and life insurance benefit plans that were discontinued while the prior year period included a loss of $18$15 million related to pension and other postretirement plan remeasurements, which consisted of the net impact of a curtailment gain of $90 million due toduring the prior year quarter, plan amendmentswhich were primarily due to sales volumes and an actuarial lossinventory management strategies.
Trade and other payables - There were cash outflows of $108$72 million resulting from the change in discount rates and asset values. See Note J of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion on$95 million during the current and prior year periods' remeasurements.
The remaining unallocated items for the current periodquarters, respectively, which were primarily included charges for restructuring activities of $79 million, of which $69 million related to the Valvoline separation, $17 million for environmental reserve adjustments,driven by seasonal fluctuations in trade payables and $5 million of expense for a legal reserve. The remaining unallocated items duringincentive compensation payouts from the prior year periodpaid during the first quarter of each fiscal year. Additionally, the prior year quarter included charges for restructuring activitiesthe payment of $80 million, of which $46 million related to thecertain Valvoline separation and $28 million of stranded divestiture costs of which $17 million was related to coststhat were incurred in the preceding fiscal year.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

previously allocatedThe remaining outflows within changes in operating assets and liabilities of $13 million and $85 million in the current and prior year quarters, respectively, relate primarily to adjustments to certain accruals and long term assets and liabilities as well as income taxes received and paid.
Operating Activities - Summary
Operating cash flows for the Valvoline reportable segment. Additionally, unallocated costs incurrent quarter included a loss from continuing operations of $7 million, noncash adjustments of $79 million for depreciation and amortization and $2 million for debt issuance cost amortization.
Operating cash flows for the prior year periodquarter included $32a loss from continuing operations of $65 million and noncash adjustments of $68 million for environmental reserve adjustments, $15depreciation and amortization and $94 million for a legal reserveoriginal issue discount and $11debt issuance cost amortization, including $92 million of incomeaccelerated accretion related to the termination of a legacy benefit for former directors.
FINANCIAL POSITION
Liquidity
Ashland had $492 million in cash and cash equivalents as of June 30, 2017, of which $453 million was held by foreign subsidiaries and had no significant limitations that would prohibit remitting the funds to satisfy corporate obligations.  However, if such amounts were repatriated to the United States, additional taxes would likely need to be accrued and paid depending on the sourcetender offer of the earnings remitted.  Ashland currently has no plans to repatriate any amounts for which additional U.S. taxes would need to be accrued.2029 notes.
Ashland’s cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities, as reflected in the Statements of Condensed Consolidated Cash Flows, are summarized as follows for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016.  
 Nine months ended
 June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
Cash provided (used) by:   
Operating activities from continuing operations$114
 $235
Investing activities from continuing operations(779) (103)
Financing activities from continuing operations164
 (234)
Discontinued operations(187) 66
Effect of currency exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents(8) (6)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents$(696) $(42)
OperatingInvesting activities
The following discloses the cash flows associated with Ashland’s operatinginvesting activities for the ninethree months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016.
 Three months ended
 December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
Cash flows provided (used) by investing activities from continuing operations   
Additions to property, plant and equipment$(24) $(33)
Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment1
 —
Proceeds from sale of operations1
 —
Net purchase of funds restricted for specific transactions(5) (2)
Reimbursements from restricted investments5
 —
Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities5
 —
Purchases of available-for-sale securities(5) —
Proceeds from the settlement of derivative instruments—
 4
Payments for the settlement of derivative instruments(2) —
Total cash flows used by investing activities from continuing operations$(24) $(31)
Cash used by investing activities was $24 million and $31 million for the current and prior year quarters, respectively.  The significant cash investing activities for the current quarter primarily related to cash outflows of $24 million for property additions compared to $33 million in the prior year quarter.
Financing activities
The following discloses the cash flows associated with Ashland’s financing activities for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

 Nine months ended
 June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
Cash flows provided (used) by operating activities from continuing operations   
Net income$85
 $247
Income from discontinued operations (net of tax)(138) (186)
Adjustments to reconcile income from continuing operations to 
  
cash flows from operating activities 
  
Depreciation and amortization218
 227
Original issue discount and debt issuance cost amortization108
 9
Deferred income taxes(4) —
Equity income from affiliates—
 (1)
Distributions from equity affiliates1
 1
Stock based compensation expense14
 23
Loss on early retirement of debt9
 —
Gain on available-for-sale securities(9) (6)
Net loss (gain) on divestitures4
 (3)
Pension contributions(6) (24)
Loss (gain) on pension and other postretirement plan remeasurements(2) 18
Change in operating assets and liabilities (a)
(166) (70)
Total cash flows provided by operating activities from continuing operations$114
 $235
    
(a)Excludes changes resulting from operations acquired or sold.

 Three months ended
 December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
Cash flows provided (used) by financing activities from continuing operations   
Repayment of long-term debt$(2) $(239)
Premium on long-term debt repayment—
 (5)
Proceeds (repayment) from short-term debt120
 (154)
Debt issuance costs—
 (4)
Cash dividends paid(14) (24)
Stock based compensation employee withholding taxes paid in cash(5) (8)
Total cash flows provided (used) by financing activities from continuing operations$99
 $(434)
Cash flows generated from operatingby financing activities from continuing operations, a major sourcewas $99 million for the current quarter as compared to cash used of Ashland’s liquidity, amounted to$434 million for the prior year quarter.
Significant cash financing activities for the current quarter included short-term debt net cash inflows of $114$120 million related to debt outstanding on the 2017 Revolving Credit Facility and $235 million in the current and prior year periods, respectively.  The cash results during each period are primarily driven by net income, excluding discontinued operation results, adjusted for certain non-cash items including depreciation and amortization (including original issue discount and debt issuance cost amortization), losses and gains on divestitures as well as changes in working capital, which are fluctuations within accounts receivable inventory, trade payables and accrued expenses. Ashland continues to emphasize working capital management as a high priority and focus.
Changes in net working capital accounted for outflows of $88 million and $55 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, and were driven by the following:
Accounts receivable -securitization. The current period hadquarter included cash dividends paid of $0.225 per share, for a total of $14 million.
Significant cash outflow of $76 million compared to a cash inflow of $36 million duringfinancing activities for the prior year period. Thequarter included cash outflow during the current period is primarily due to higher sales compared to the prior year period.
Inventory - The current period had a cash outflowoutflows of $16$239 million compared to a cash inflow of $46 million during the prior year period, which were primarily due to sales volumes and inventory management strategies.
Trade and other payables - The current period had a cash inflow of $4 million compared to a cash outflow of $137 million during the prior year period, which were primarily driven by seasonal fluctuations in trade payables and incentive compensation payouts from the prior year paid during the first quarter of each fiscal year.
The remaining outflows within changes in operating assets and liabilities of $78 million and $15 million in the current and prior year periods, respectively, relate primarily to adjustments to certain accruals and long term assets and liabilities as well as income taxes received and paid.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS


Operating cash flows for the current period included a loss from continuing operations of $53 million, noncash adjustments of $218 million for depreciation and amortization and $108 million for original issue discount and debt issuance cost amortization, including $92 million of accelerated accretion related to the Tender Offerrepayments of a portion of the 2029 notes, 2022 notes and $7 million of accelerated amortization of previously capitalized debt issuance cost related to financing activity for the 2017 Credit Agreement.
Operating cash flows for2018 notes. Additionally, the prior year periodquarter included income from continuing operationsshort-term debt net repayments of $61$154 million, and noncash adjustments of $227 million for depreciation and amortization, $18 millionwhich was primarily related to the losses on the pension and other postretirement plan remeasurements, and $9$150 million full repayment of a term loan held by a foreign subsidiary. The prior year quarter included cash dividends paid of $0.39 per share, for debt issuance cost amortization.
Investing activitiesa total of $24 million.
The following discloses the cash flows associated with Ashland’s investing activitiesdiscontinued operations for the ninethree months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and 2016.
 Nine months ended
 June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
Cash flows provided (used) by investing activities from continuing operations   
Additions to property, plant and equipment$(126) $(150)
Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment4
 3
Purchase of operations - net of cash acquired(680) —
Proceeds from sale of operations or equity investments4
 18
Net purchase of funds restricted for specific transactions(2) (4)
Reimbursements from restricted investments19
 24
Purchases of available-for-sale securities(19) (4)
Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities19
 4
Proceeds from the settlement of derivative instruments5
 8
Payments for the settlement of derivative instruments(3) (2)
Total cash flows used by investing activities from continuing operations$(779) $(103)
 Three months ended
 December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
Cash used by discontinued operations   
Operating cash flows$(16) $70
Investing cash flows—
 (10)
Financing cash flows—
 (10)
Total cash provided (used) by discontinued operations$(16) $50
Cash used by investing activities was $779 million and $103 millionflows for discontinued operations in the current and prior year periods, respectively.  The significant cash investing activities for the current periodquarter primarily related to cash outflowspreviously divested businesses, including net payments of $680 millionasbestos and environmental liabilities.
Cash flows for the acquisition of Pharmachem and $126 million for property additions, whilediscontinued operations in the prior year period includedquarter primarily relate to net cash outflowsinflows of $150$62 million for property additions.related to the activity of Valvoline Inc. The current period also included a $19 millionremaining cash inflow for reimbursements fromflows in the restrictive renewable annual trust established as a result of the January 2015 asbestos insurance settlement.
The prior year period also included reimbursementsquarter related to other previously divested businesses, including net payments of $24 million from the restrictive renewable annual trust established as a result of the January 2015 asbestos insurance settlement and proceeds from the settlement of derivative instruments of $8 million.environmental liabilities.
Financing activitiesFree cash flow and other liquidity resources
The following disclosesrepresents Ashland’s calculation of free cash flow for the disclosed quarters.  Free cash flow does not reflect adjustments for certain non-discretionary cash flows associated with Ashland’s financing activities for the nine months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016.such as mandatory debt repayments.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

 Nine months ended
 June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
Cash flows provided (used) by financing activities from continuing operations   
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt$1,100
 $—
Repayment of long-term debt(913) (50)
Premium on long-term debt repayment(17) —
Proceeds from short-term debt69
 389
Repurchase of common stock—
 (500)
Debt issuance costs(15) (2)
Cash dividends paid(62) (72)
Excess tax benefits related to share-based payments2
 1
Total cash flows provided (used) by financing activities from continuing operations$164
 $(234)
 Three months ended
 December 31
(In millions)2017
 2016
Cash flows provided by operating activities from continuing operations$(24) $(60)
Adjustments: 
  
Additions to property, plant and equipment(24) (33)
Free cash flows (a)
$(48) $(93)
    
Cash generated by financing activities was $164
(a)Includes $23 million and $29 million of restructuring payments for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.
At December 31, 2017, working capital (current assets minus current period asliabilities, excluding long-term debt due within one year) amounted to $967 million, compared to $941 million at September 30, 2017. Liquid assets (cash, cash usedequivalents and accounts receivable) amounted to 119% and 122% of $234 million for the prior year period. Significantcurrent liabilities at December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2017, respectively.
The following summary reflects Ashland’s cash financing activities for the current period included cash outflowsand unused borrowing capacity as of $913 million related to the full repayment of the 2018 notesDecember 31, 2017 and partial repayments of the 2029 notes and 2022 notes. September 30, 2017.
 December 31
 September 30
(In millions)2017
 2017
Cash and cash equivalents$601
 $566
    
Unused borrowing capacity 
  
2017 Revolving Credit Facility$467
 $579
Accounts receivable securitization facility31
 35
The current period also included cash inflows of $1,100 million from the issuance of the TLA Facilities and the 2017 TLB Facility. See further discussion regarding financing activities within the “Key Developments” section of Management’s Discussion and Analysis herein. Additionally, the current period included short-term debt net cash inflows of $69 million primarily related to debt outstanding onborrowing capacity remaining under the 2017 Revolving Credit Facility was $467 million due to an outstanding balance of $285 million, as well as a reduction of $48 million for letters of credit outstanding at December 31, 2017. In total, Ashland’s available liquidity position, which includes cash, the revolving credit facility and the accounts receivable securitization partially offset by the repaymentfacility, was $1,099 million at December 31, 2017, compared to $1,180 million at September 30, 2017.
Capital resources
Debt
The following summary reflects Ashland’s debt as of the term loan due 2017. December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2017.
 December 31
 September 30
(In millions)2017
 2017
Short-term debt (includes current portion of long-term debt)$355
 $235
Long-term debt (including current portion and debt issuance cost discounts) (a)
2,584
 2,584
Total debt$2,939
 $2,819
    
(a)Includes $24 million and $25 million of debt issuance cost discounts as of December 31, 2017 and September 30, 2017, respectively.
The current period included cash dividends paid of $1.005 per share, for a total of $62 million.
Significant cash financing activities for the prior year period included a cash outflow of $500 million for the repurchase of common stock and cash inflows of $389 million primarily related to the debt borrowings under the 2015 Revolving Credit Facility and the accounts receivable securitization facility. Additionally, the prior year period included cash dividends paid of $1.17 per share, for a total of $72 million, and the repaymentportion of long-term debt was $6 million at December 31, 2017.  Debt as a percent of $50 million related to the 2015 term loan facility and the repayment of debt.
The following discloses the cash flows associated with Ashland’s discontinued operations for the nine months ended June 30,capital employed was 46% at December 31, 2017 and 2016.
 Nine months ended
 June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
Cash used by discontinued operations   
Operating cash flows$123
 $170
Investing cash flows(293) (104)
Financing cash flows(17) —
Total cash provided (used) by discontinued operations$(187) $66
Cash flows for discontinued operations in45% at September 30, 2017.  At December 31, 2017, Ashland’s total debt had an outstanding principal balance of $3,015 million, discounts of $52 million, and debt issuance costs of $24 million.  The scheduled aggregate maturities of long-term debt by year (including the current period primarily related to cash outflows of $157portion and excluding debt issuance costs) are as follows: $5 million related to the activity of Valvoline Inc. The remaining cost flows for discontinued operations related to other previously divested businesses, including net payments of asbestosin 2018, $11 million in 2019, $269 million in 2020, $56 million in 2021 and environmental liabilities.
Cash flows for discontinued operations$1,279 million in the prior year period primarily relate to a cash inflows of $96 million related to the activity of Valvoline Inc., partially offset by cash outflows of $30 million related to other previously divested businesses, including net payments of asbestos and environmental liabilities.2022.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

Free cash flow and other liquidity resources
The following represents Ashland’s calculation of free cash flow for the disclosed periods.  Free cash flow does not reflect adjustments for certain non-discretionary cash flows such as mandatory debt repayments.
 Nine months ended
 June 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
Cash flows provided by operating activities from continuing operations$114
 $235
Adjustments: 
  
Additions to property, plant and equipment(126) (150)
Free cash flows$(12) $85
At June 30, 2017, working capital (current assets minus current liabilities, excluding current assets and current liabilities of discontinued operations and long-term debt due within one year) amounted to $950 million, compared to $1,315 million at September 30, 2016.  Ashland’s working capital is affected by its use of the LIFO method of inventory valuation that valued inventories below their replacement costs by $1 million at June 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016.  Liquid assets (cash, cash equivalents and accounts receivable) amounted to 127% and 180% of current liabilities (excluding current liabilities of discontinued operations) at June 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016, respectively.
The following summary reflects Ashland’s cash and unused borrowing capacity as of June 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016.
 June 30
 September 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
Cash and cash equivalents$492
 $1,017
    
Unused borrowing capacity 
  
2017 Revolving Credit Facility$620
 $—
2015 Revolving Credit Facility—
 742
Accounts receivable securitization facility5
 80
The borrowing capacity remaining under the 2017 Revolving Credit Facility was $620 million due to an outstanding balance of $128 million, as well as a reduction of $52 million for letters of credit outstanding at June 30, 2017. In total, Ashland’s available liquidity position, which includes cash, the revolving credit facility and the accounts receivable securitization facility, was $1,117 million at June 30, 2017, compared to $1,839 million at September 30, 2016.
Capital resources
Debt
The following summary reflects Ashland’s debt as of June 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016.
 June 30
 September 30
(In millions)2017
 2016
Short-term debt$223
 $170
Long-term debt (including current portion and debt issuance cost discounts) (a)
2,590
 2,325
Total debt$2,813
 $2,495
    
(a)Includes $26 million and $20 million of debt issuance cost discounts as of June 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016, respectively.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS


The current portion of long-term debt was $6 million at June 30, 2017.  Debt as a percent of capital employed was 45% at June 30, 2017 and 44% at September 30, 2016.  At June 30, 2017, Ashland’s total debt had an outstanding principal balance of $2,892 million, discounts of $53 million, and debt issuance costs of $26 million.  The scheduled aggregate maturities of long-term debt by year (including the current portion and excluding debt issuance costs) are as follows: $2 million remaining in 2017, $6 million in 2018, $11 million in 2019, $269 million in 2020 and $56 million in 2021.
Ashland Financing Activities
2017 Credit Agreement
On May 17, 2017, in conjunction with the closing of the Pharmachem acquisition, Ashland entered into a secured credit agreement (the 2017 Credit Agreement) with a group of lenders. The 2017 Credit Agreement providesprovided for (i) a $250 million three-year term loan A facility (the Three-Year TLA Facility), (ii) a $250 million five-year term loan A facility (the Five-Year TLA Facility and together with the Three-Year TLA Facility, the TLA Facilities) and (iii) a $680 million five-year revolving credit facility (including a $125 million letter of credit sublimit) (the 2017 Revolving Credit Facility). Proceeds of borrowings under the TLA Facilities were used solely to finance the acquisition of Pharmachem, andwhile the proceeds of the 2017 Revolving Credit Facility were used to finance, in part, the acquisition of Pharmachem, and to refinance the 2015 Senior Credit Agreement.Agreement and for general corporate purposes. On May 19, 2017, Ashland entered into Amendment No. 1 to the 2017 Credit Agreement, which increased the aggregate commitments under the 2017 Revolving Credit Facility from $680 million to $800 million.
At Ashland’s option, loans issued under the 2017 Credit Agreement will bear interest at either LIBOR or an alternate base rate, in each case plus the applicable interest rate margin. Loans will initially bear interest at LIBOR plus 1.75% per annum, in the case of LIBOR borrowings, or at the alternate base rate plus 0.75%, in the alternative, through and including the date of delivery of a quarterly compliance certificate and thereafter the interest rate will fluctuate between LIBOR plus 1.375% per annum and LIBOR plus 2.500% per annum (or between the alternate base rate plus 0.375% per annum and the alternate base rate plus 1.500% per annum), based upon Ashland’s secured facilities ratings or the consolidated net leverage ratio (as defined in the 2017 Credit Agreement) (whichever yields a lower applicable interest rate margin) at such time. In addition, Ashland will initially bewas required to pay fees of 0.25% per annum on the daily unused amount of the 2017 Revolving Credit Facility through and including the date of delivery of a compliance certificate, and thereafter the fee rate will fluctuate between 0.175% and 0.40% per annum, based upon the Ashland’s secured facilities rating or the consolidated net leverage ratio (whichever yields a lower applicable rate). The TLA Facilities may be prepaid at any time without premium. The Three-Year TLA Facility will not amortize and will be due on May 17, 2020.  The Five-Year TLA Facility will not amortize in each of the first, second and third years and will amortize at a rate of 20% per annum in each of the fourth and fifth years (payable in equal quarterly installments), with the outstanding balance of the Five-Year TLA Facility to be paid on May 17, 2022.
On June 14, 2017, Ashland entered into Amendment No. 2 to the 2017 Credit Agreement, which providesprovided for a new $600 million seven-year senior secured term loan B facility (the 2017 TLB Facility). At Ashland’s option, loans issued under the 2017 TLB Facility will bear interest at either (x) LIBOR plus 2.00% per annum or (y) an alternate base rate plus 1.00% per annum. The 2017 TLB Facility may be prepaid at any time, subject to a prepayment premium if the prepayment is made on or prior to December 14, 2017 in connection with a Repricing Transaction (as defined in the 2017 Credit Agreement).time. The 2017 TLB Facility will amortizeamortizes at a rate of 1.00% per annum (payable in equal quarterly installments) with the outstanding balance to be paid on May 17, 2024.
Ashland incurred $15 million of new debt issuance costs in connection with the 2017 Credit Agreement, of which $2 million was recognized immediately during the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017 within the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.The remaining balance is amortized using the effective interest method. Additionally, as a result of the
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS


termination of the 2015 Senior Credit Facility, Ashland recognized a $5 million charge for the accelerated amortization of previously capitalized debt issuance costs, which is included in the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income.
The credit facilities under the 2017 Credit Agreement are guaranteed by Ashland Global Holdings Inc., Ashland Chemco Inc. and Ashland LLC's existing and future subsidiaries (other than certain immaterial subsidiaries, joint ventures, special purpose financing subsidiaries, regulated subsidiaries, foreign subsidiaries and certain other subsidiaries) and are secured by a first-priority security interest in substantially all of the personal property assets of Ashland and the guarantors, including all or a portion of the equity interests of certain of Ashland’s domestic subsidiaries and first-tier foreign subsidiaries and, in certain cases, a portion of the equity interests of other foreign subsidiaries.  The guarantees by Ashland’s subsidiaries and pledge of security interests by such guarantors may, at Ashland’s option, be released upon and during the occurrence of a Collateral Release Event (as defined in the Credit Agreement).
Redemption of 3.875% notes due 2018
In connection with the 2017 TLB Facility, Ashland redeemed all of its outstanding 3.875% Senior Notes due 2018, of which approximately $659 million were outstanding. Proceeds of borrowings under the 2017 TLB Facility, together with cash on hand, were used to pay for the redemption. Ashland recognized a $13 million charge related to premiums paid and accelerated amortization of previously capitalized debt issuance costs, which is included in the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2017.
Open market repurchases of 4.750% notes due 2022 and 3.875% notes due 2018
During the nine months ended June 30, 2017, Ashland executed open market repurchases of its 4.750% notes due 2022 (2022 notes) and its 3.875% notes due 2018 (2018 notes). As a result of these repurchases, the carrying values of the 2022 notes and 2018 notes were reduced by $39 million and $41 million, respectively. Ashland recognized a $3 million charge related to premiums paid in the open market repurchases and accelerated amortization of previously capitalized debt issuance costs, which is included in the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income for the nine months ended June 30, 2017. As previously discussed, the remaining outstanding amount of the 2018 notes was redeemed during June 2017.
6.50% junior subordinated notes due 2029
In December 2016, Hercules LLC (Hercules) (formerly Hercules Incorporated), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Ashland, repurchased, through a cash tender offer (the Tender Offer), $182 million of the aggregate principal par value amount of its 6.50% junior subordinated notes due 2029 (2029 notes) for an aggregate purchase price of $177 million. As a result of the Tender Offer, the carrying value of the 2029 notes was reduced by $90 million and Ashland recognized a $92 million charge related to accelerated accretion of the recorded debt discount (compared to the total par value) and $5 million of a net gain related to the repayment of the debt. The charge and net gain are included in the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the ninethree months ended June 30, 2017.
Subsidiary senior unsecured term loan
During August 2016, a wholly owned foreign subsidiary of Ashland entered into a credit agreement which provided for an aggregate principal amount of $150 million in a senior unsecured term loan facility. This term loan was drawn in full as of September 30, 2016 and was fully repaid as of June 30, 2017.
Accounts receivable securitizationDecember 31, 2016.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

Open market repurchases of 4.750% notes due 2022 and 3.875% notes due 2018
During the three months ended December 2015 quarter,31, 2016, Ashland executed open market repurchases of its 4.750% notes due 2022 (2022 notes) and its 3.875% notes due 2018 (2018 notes). As a result of these repurchases, the Transfer and Administration Agreement was amended to extend the termination datecarrying values of the accounts receivable securitization facility from2022 notes and 2018 notes were reduced by $36 million and $29 million, respectively. Ashland recognized a $2 million charge related to premiums paid in the open market repurchases and accelerated amortization of previously capitalized debt issuance costs, which is included in the net interest and other financing expense caption of the Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the three months ended December 31, 2015 to March 22, 2017. During the March 2017 quarter, this facility was extended for an additional year with similar terms as the previous facility agreement.  No other changes to the agreement within the current or prior year amendments are expected to have a significant impact to Ashland's results of operations and financial position.2016.
Ashland credit ratings
Ashland’s corporate credit rating with Standard & Poor’s ratings areis BB, while Moody’s Investor Services areis Ba2. Moody’s Investor Services and Standard & Poor's outlooks both remained at stable.  Subsequent changes to these ratings may have an effect on Ashland’s borrowing rate or ability to access capital markets in the future.
Ashland debt covenant restrictions
TheAshland's most recent credit agreement (the 2017 Credit AgreementAgreement) contains usual and customary representations, warranties and affirmative and negative covenants, including financial covenants for leverage and interest coverage ratios, limitations on liens, additional subsidiary indebtedness, restrictions on subsidiary distributions, investments, mergers, sale of assets and restricted payments and other customary limitations.  As of June 30,December 31, 2017, Ashland is in compliance with all debt agreement covenant restrictions under the 2017 Credit Agreement.
The maximum consolidated net leverage ratio permitted under the 2017 Credit Agreement is 4.5. The 2017 Credit Agreement defines the consolidated net leverage ratio as the ratio of consolidated indebtedness minus unrestricted cash and cash equivalents to consolidated EBITDA (Covenant Adjusted EBITDA) for any measurement period. In general, the 2017 Credit Agreement defines Covenant Adjusted EBITDA as net income plus consolidated interest charges, taxes, depreciation and amortization expense, fees and expenses related to capital market transactions and proposed or actual acquisitions and divestitures, restructuring and integration charges, noncash stock and equity compensation expense, and any other nonrecurring expenses or losses that do not represent a cash item in such period or any future period; less any noncash gains or other items increasing net income. The computation of Covenant Adjusted EBITDA differs from the calculation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA, which have been reconciled previously on pages 52 and 53.page 41. In general, consolidated indebtedness includes debt plus all purchase money indebtedness, banker’s acceptances and bank guaranties, deferred purchase price of property or services, attributable indebtedness and guarantees.
The maximumminimum required consolidated leverageinterest coverage ratio permitted under the 2017 Credit Agreement during its remaining duration is 4.50.
3.0. The 2017 Credit Agreement defines the consolidated interest coverage ratio as the ratio of Covenant Adjusted EBITDA to consolidated interest charges for any measurement period.  The minimum required consolidated interest coverage ratio under the 2017 Credit Agreement during its entire duration is 3.0.
At June 30,December 31, 2017, Ashland’s calculation of the consolidated net leverage ratio was 4.0,3.9, which is below the maximum consolidated leverage ratio permitted under the 2017 Credit Agreement of 4.50.4.5. At June 30,December 31, 2017, Ashland’s calculation of the consolidated interest coverage ratio was 4.6, which exceeds the minimum required consolidated ratio of 3.0. Any
The average change in Covenant Adjusted EBITDA of $100 million would have an approximate 0.6x0.7x effect on the consolidated net leverage ratio and a 0.8x effect on the consolidated interest coverage ratio.  AnyThe average change in consolidated indebtedness of $100 million would affect the consolidated leverage ratio by approximately 0.2x.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS


Additional capital resources
Cash projection
Ashland projects that cash flow from operations and other available financial resources such as cash on hand and revolving credit should be sufficient to meet investing and financing requirements to enable Ashland to comply with the covenants and other terms of its financing obligations.  These projections are based on various assumptions that include, but are not limited to: operational results, capital expenditures, working capital cash generation, capital expenditures, divestitures and acquisitions, pension funding requirementsneeds and tax payments and receipts.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS


Total equity
Total equity increased $234decreased $7 million since September 30, 20162017 to $3,399 million at June 30,December 31, 2017. The increasedecrease of $234$7 million was primarily due to $187cash dividends of $14 million related to the distributionand a net loss of Valvoline Inc., $58$4 million, ofpartially offset by an $8 million net income attributable to Ashland, $27 million of net income attributable to the noncontrolling interestincrease in Valvoline Inc., $19available-for-sale securities and $3 million related to deferred translation gains, $10 million of a net change in the gain on available-for-sale securities and $3 million for common shares issued under stock incentive and other plans. These increases were partially offset by $62 million of regular cash dividends, $4 million for dividend distributions to noncontrolling interest and $4 million related to pension and other postretirement obligations.gains.
Stock repurchase program
In April 2015, Ashland's Board of Directors approved a $1 billion share repurchase authorization that willwas set to expire on December 31, 2017 (the 2015 stock repurchase program). This authorization allows for Ashland’s common shares to be repurchased in open market transactions, privately negotiated transactions or pursuant to one or more accelerated stock repurchase programs or Rule 10b5-1 plans. The following summarizes the stock repurchases under the 2015 stock repurchase program.
In November 2015, underDuring 2017, Ashland's Board of Directors extended the 2015 stock repurchase program Ashland announced that it entered into an accelerated share repurchase agreement (2016 ASR Agreement) with Goldman, Sachs & Co. Under the 2016 ASR Agreement, Ashland paid an initial purchase priceindefinitely. As of $500 million and received an initial delivery of approximately 3.9 million shares of common stock during November 2015. In February 2016, Goldman, Sachs & Co. exercised their early termination option under the 2016 ASR Agreement and the pricing period was closed. The settlement price, which represents the weighted average price of Ashland's common stock over the pricing period less a discount, was $99.01 per share. Based on this settlement price, the final number of shares repurchased by Ashland that were delivered by Goldman, Sachs & Co. under the 2016 ASR Agreement was 5.1 million shares. Ashland received the additional 1.2 million shares during the March 2016 quarter to settle the difference between the initial share delivery and the total number of shares repurchased. After the 2016 ASR Agreement,December 31, 2017, $500 million of share repurchase authorization remains under the 2015 stock repurchase program.
Stockholder dividends
In May 2017, aftersubsequent to the final distribution of Valvoline Inc.'s common stock, the Board of Directors of Ashland announced a quarterly cash dividend of 22.5 cents per share to eligible shareholders at record.record which was paid for quarterly dividends in the first quarter of fiscal 2018 and the third and fourth quarters of fiscal 2017. This representsrepresented a reduction from the previous quarterly dividend of 39 cents per share which was paid for quarterly dividends in the first and second quarters of fiscal 2017 and each quarter of fiscal 2016. When combined with Valvoline Inc.'s most recent dividend, the total cash returned to shareholders of both companies is approximately equal to what Ashland paid prior to the separation.2017.
Capital expenditures
Capital expenditures were $126$24 million for the ninethree months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and averaged approximately $220$217 million during the last three fiscal years.
Contractual obligations and commitments
As a result of the Tax Act that was enacted during December 2017, Ashland has currently estimated and identified that the one-time transition tax related to the new law is estimated to be approximately $160 million payable over eight years, with the first payment of approximately $13 million due during the first quarter of fiscal year 2019.   Ashland will continue to reassess this estimate in future periods. 
In addition, during January 2018, Ashland repatriated approximately $300 million in cash that was used to repay existing debt.  There were no other significant changes to the contractual obligations table as presented at September 30, 2017.
   
   
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

   

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The preparation of Ashland’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, sales and expenses, and the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities.  Significant items that are subject to such estimates and assumptions include, but are not limited to, long-lived assets (including goodwill and other intangible assets), employee benefit obligations, income taxes, other liabilities and receivables associated with asbestos litigation and environmental remediation.  These accounting policies are discussed in detail in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis – Critical Accounting Policies” in Ashland’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 20162017.  Although management bases its estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, actual results could differ significantly from the estimates under different assumptions or conditions.  Management has reviewed the estimates affecting these items with the Audit Committee of Ashland’s Board of Directors.  No material changes have been made to the valuation techniques during the ninethree months ended June 30,December 31, 2017.
OUTLOOK
Fiscal Year 2018
Ashland updated its financial outlook for fiscal 2018 as shown in the table below.
Prior FY 2018 OutlookUpdated FY 2018 Outlook
Adjusted EBITDA
Specialty Ingredients$560 - $590 millionNo change
Composites$85 - $95 millionNo change
Intermediates & Solvents$40 - $50 millionNo change
Unallocated and other($35 - $45 million)No change
Key Operating Metrics
Free cash flow>$220 millionNo change
Adjusted diluted EPS$3.20 - $3.40$2.90 - $3.10
Corporate Items
Depreciation & amortization~$290 millionNo change
Interest expense$125 - $135 millionNo change
Effective tax rate8 - 13%16 - 20%
Capital expenditures$195 - $205 millionNo change
Diluted share count~64 millionNo change
Second Quarter of 2018
For the upcoming fourthsecond quarter of the fiscal year, Specialty Ingredients’ sales are expected2018, Ashland expects Adjusted diluted EPS to be in the range of $590 million to $610 million. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to be in$0.80-$0.90 per diluted share. This estimate assumes an effective tax rate of 18% based on the range of $135 million to $145 million. These amounts include the full contribution of fourth-quarter results from the Pharmachem acquisition and excludes the sales of $9 million and EBITDA of $1 million from a joint venture in China, that Ashland chose to exit. Also during the quarter, year-over-year price increases are expected to be greater than year-over-year raw material cost increases. For the fiscal 2017 year, Specialty Ingredients expects adjusted EBITDA to be at the upper end of the previously communicated range of $485 million to $500 million, reflecting the continued progress in pricing initiatives and the strong earnings contribution from Pharmachem.
Composites expects sales for the upcoming fourth quarter of the fiscal year to be in the range of $200 million to $210 million, reflecting continued volume growth, disciplined pricing and a full-quarter contribution from the Etain composites facility, which was acquired during the current quarter. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to be in the range of $20 million to $25 million.
I&S expects sales for the upcoming fourth quarter of the fiscal year to be in the range of $75 million to $85 million, reflecting continued product mix and price improvements. Adjusted EBITDA is expected to be in the range of $10 million to $15 millionnew U.S. tax legislation.
ITEM 3.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Ashland’s market risk exposure at June 30,December 31, 2017 is generally consistent with the types and amounts of market risk exposures presented in Ashland’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 20162017.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS


ITEM 4.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure Controls and Procedures - As of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report, Ashland, under the supervision and with the participation of its management, including Ashland’s Chief Executive Officer and its Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of Ashland’s disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15(b) and 15d-15(b) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Based upon that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of June 30,December 31, 2017.
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC. AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS


Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting - During the three months ended June 30,December 31, 2017, Ashland completed its purchase of Pharmachem.  Although management believes appropriate internal controls and procedures have been maintained, Pharmachem’s controls and procedures for the recording, processing, and summarizing of financial information have not been fully evaluated by Ashland’s management as of June 30, 2017.  As such, there is a risk that deficiencies may exist and not yet be identified that could constitute significant deficiencies or in the aggregate, a material weakness related to Pharmachem's businesses.  Otherwise, there were no other significant changes in Ashland’s internal control over financial reporting, or in other factors, that occurred during the period covered by this quarterly report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, Ashland’s internal control over financial reporting.
During the June 2017 quarter, Ashland completed its purchase of Pharmachem. Although management believes appropriate internal controls and procedures have been maintained, Pharmachem’s controls and procedures for the recording, processing, and summarizing of financial information have not been fully evaluated by Ashland’s management as of December 31, 2017. As such, there is a risk that deficiencies may exist and not yet be identified that could constitute significant deficiencies or in the aggregate, a material weakness related to Pharmachem's businesses.


PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The following is a description of Ashland’s material legal proceedings.
Asbestos-Related Litigation
Ashland is subject to liabilities from claims alleging personal injury caused by exposure to asbestos.  Such claims result primarily from indemnification obligations undertaken in 1990 in connection with the sale of Riley Stoker Corporation (Riley), a former subsidiary.  Although Riley was neither a producer nor a manufacturer of asbestos, its industrial boilers contained some asbestos-containing components provided by other companies.
Hercules LLC (formerly Hercules Incorporated), an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Ashland, is also subject to liabilities from asbestos-related personal injury lawsuits involving claims which typically arise from alleged exposure to asbestos fibers from resin encapsulated pipe and tank products which were sold by one of Hercules’ former subsidiaries to a limited industrial market.
Ashland and Hercules are also defendants in lawsuits alleging exposure to asbestos at facilities formerly or presently owned or operated by Ashland or Hercules.
For additional detailed information regarding liabilities arising from asbestos-related litigation, see Note K of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in this quarterly report on Form 10-Q.
Environmental Proceedings
(a) CERCLA and Similar State Law Sites - Under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980 and similar state laws, Ashland and its subsidiaries may be subject to joint and several liability for cleanup costs in connection with alleged releases of hazardous substances at sites where it has been identified as a “potentially responsible party” (PRP).  As of June 30,December 31, 2017, Ashland and its subsidiaries have been identified as a PRP by U.S. federal and state authorities, or by private parties seeking contribution, for the cost of environmental investigation and/or cleanup at 82 waste treatment or disposal sites.  These sites are currently subject to ongoing investigation and remedial activities, overseen by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) or a state agency, in which Ashland or its subsidiaries are typically participating as a member of a PRP group.  Generally, the types of relief sought include remediation of contaminated soil and/or groundwater, reimbursement for past costs of site cleanup and administrative oversight and/or long-term monitoring of environmental conditions at the sites.  The ultimate costs are not predictable with assurance.
(b)     Hattiesburg, Mississippi Resource Conservation and Recovery Act Matter - In November 2008, the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) issued a Notice of Violation to Hercules’ now-closed Hattiesburg, Mississippi manufacturing facility alleging that a process water impoundment basin at the facility had been operated as a hazardous waste storage and treatment facility without a permit in violation of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.  In May 2011, the USEPA issued an inspection report from a September 2010 inspection with allegations similar to those of the MDEQ and promulgated an information request.  Ashland has been working with the MDEQ and USEPA to settle this matter in the context of the shutdown and ongoing remediation of the Hattiesburg facility.  The USEPA proposed a settlement penalty in excess of $100,000.  While it is reasonable to believe that this matter will involve a penalty from the MDEQ and/or the USEPA exceeding $100,000, the potential penalty with respect to this enforcement matter should not be material to Ashland.
(c) Lower Passaic River, New Jersey Matters - Ashland, through two formerly owned facilities, and ISP, through a now-closed facility, have been identified as PRPs, along with approximately 70 other companies (the Cooperating Parties Group or the CPG), in a May 2007 Administrative Order of Consent (AOC) with the USEPA. The parties are required to perform a remedial investigation and feasibility study (RI/FS) of the entire 17 miles of the Passaic River. In June 2007, the EPAUSEPA separately commenced a Focused Feasibility Study (FFS) as an interim measure. In accordance with the 2007 AOC, in June 2012 the CPG voluntarily entered into another AOC for an interim removal action focused solely at mile 10.9 of the Passaic River. The allocations for the 2007 AOC and the 2012 removal action are based on interim allocations, are immaterial and have been accrued. In April 2014, the EPAUSEPA released the FFS. The CPG submitted

submitted the Draft RI/FS Report on April 30, 2015. The EPAUSEPA has released the FFS Record of Decision for the lower 8 miles and recently reached an agreement with Occidental to conduct and pay for the remedial design. The EPAUSEPA has advised that it will be working to secure similar agreements with other PRPs. The release of the FFS Record of Decision did not have a material adverse impact on Ashland’s business and financial operations; however, there are a number of contingencies in the future that could possibly have a material impact including adverse rulings or verdicts, allocation proceedings and related orders.
For additional information regarding environmental matters and reserves, see Note K of Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in this quarterly report on Form 10-Q.
Other Pending Legal Proceedings
In addition to the matters described above, there are other various claims, lawsuits and administrative proceedings pending or threatened against Ashland and its current and former subsidiaries. Such actions are with respect to commercial matters, product liability, toxic tort liability and other environmental matters which seek remedies or damages, some of which are for substantial amounts.  While Ashland cannot predict with certainty the outcome of such actions, it believes that adequate reserves have been recorded and losses already recognized with respect to such actions were immaterial as of June 30,December 31, 2017.  There is a reasonable possibility that a loss exceeding amounts already recognized may be incurred related to these actions; however, Ashland believes that such potential losses were immaterial as of June 30,December 31, 2017.
ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS
During the period covered by this report, there were no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in Ashland’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2016.2017.
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
Share repurchase activity during the three months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 was as follows:
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Q3 Fiscal PeriodsTotal Number of Shares PurchasedAverage Price Paid Per Share, including commission Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (in millions)(1)
April 1, 2017 to April 30, 2017:       $500
 
Employee Tax Withholdings5,175
(2)(3) $123.88
 —
   
May 1, 2017 to May 31, 2017:     

 500
 
Employee Tax Withholdings—
  —
 —
   
June 1, 2017 to June 30, 2017:       500
 
Employee Tax Withholdings2,404
(2)(3) 62.93
 —
   
Total7,579
    —
 $500
 
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Q1 Fiscal PeriodsTotal Number of Shares PurchasedAverage Price Paid Per Share, including commission Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (in millions)(a)
October 1, 2017 to October 31, 2017—
  $—
 —
 $500
November 1, 2017 to November 30, 2017:     

  
Employee Tax Withholdings16,465
(b) 66.56
 —
 500
December 1, 2017 to December 31, 2017—
  —
 —
 500
         Total..........................................................16,465
    —
 $500

(1)(a)In April 2015, the Company's Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to $1 billion of the Company's stock, with the authorization expiring December 31, 2017. In September 2017, the Company's Board of Directors renewed the program for the remaining $500 million. The Company's share repurchase program does not obligate it to acquire any specific number of shares. Under the program, shares may be repurchased in privately negotiated and/or open market transactions, including under plans complying with Rule 10b5-1 of the Exchange Act. As of June 30,December 31, 2017, $500 million remains available for repurchase under this authorization.
(2)(b)Shares withheld from employees to cover their withholding requirements for personal income taxes related to the vesting of restricted stock.
(3)On May 12, 2017, Ashland distributed its remaining interest in Valvoline as a dividend of Valvoline shares to its shareholders. As a result, certain of Ashland’s outstanding equity awards held by Valvoline employees and certain former employees were converted to an approximate equivalent value of Valvoline equity awards. Additionally, Ashland


proportionately adjusted the number of its equity awards held by Ashland employees and certain other former employees to maintain the same approximate intrinsic value of such awards, as described in Ashland’s Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. The number of shares purchased to cover withholding obligations and average price per share for the month of April are based on award amounts and stock price prior to the distribution. The amounts for June 2017 reflect the amount withheld from adjusted awards and the stock price after the distribution.



ITEM 6.  EXHIBITS
(a)  Exhibits 
10.1Stock Purchase Agreement, dated April 14, 2017, by and among Ashland LLC, Pharmachem Laboratories, Inc., the holders of common stock of Pharmachem Laboratories, Inc., Dr. David Peele, and Photon SH Representative LLC, solely as the shareholders’ representative (filed as Exhibit 2.1 to Ashland’s Form 8-K filed on May 18, 2017 (SEC File No. 333-211719) and incorporated herein by reference).
  
10.2
10.1*
Amendment No. 1 to the Stock Purchase Agreement, dated May 16, 2017, by and among Ashland LLC, Pharmachem Laboratories,Global Holdings Inc., the holders of common stock of Pharmachem Laboratories, Inc., Dr. David Peele, and Photon SH Representative LLC, solely as the shareholders’ representative (filed as Exhibit 2.2 to Ashland’s Form 8-K filed on May 18, 2017 (SEC File No. 333-211719) and incorporated herein by reference).

Non-Qualified Defined Contribution Plan
  
10.3
10.2
Credit Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2017, among
Ashland LLC, as Borrower, The Bank of Nova Scotia, as Administrative Agent, Swing Line Lender and an L/C Issuer, each Lender and L/C Issuer party thereto and the other agents party theretoGlobal Holdings Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Ashland’s Form 8-K filed on May 18, 2017January 26, 2018 (SEC File No. 333-211719), and incorporated herein by reference).
  
10.4
10.3
Amendment No. 1 dated as
Form of May 19, 2017, amongStock-Settled Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement under the Ashland LLC, as Borrower (the “Borrower”), certain subsidiaries of the Borrower, The Bank of Nova Scotia, as Administrative Agent (the “Administrative Agent”), and Citibank, N.A., as the Incremental Revolving Credit Lender, to the Credit Agreement dated as of May 17, 2017, among the Borrower, the Administrative Agent, each lender and letter of credit issuer party thereto and the other agents party theretoGlobal Holdings Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.110.2 to Ashland’s Form 8-K filed on May 22, 2017January 26, 2018 (SEC File No. 333-211719), and incorporated herein by reference).
  
10.5
10.4
Amendment No. 2 dated as
Form of June 14, 2017, amongRestricted Stock Award Agreement under the Ashland LLC, as Borrower (the “Borrower”), certain subsidiaries of the Borrower, The Bank of Nova Scotia, as Administrative Agent (the “Administrative Agent”), and Citibank, N.A., as the Term B Lender, to the Credit Agreement dated as of May 17, 2017, among the Borrower, the Administrative Agent, each lender and letter of credit issuer party thereto and the other agents party theretoGlobal Holdings Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.110.3 to Ashland’s Form 8-K filed on June 14, 2017January 26, 2018 (SEC File No. 333-211719), and incorporated herein by reference).
  
10.6*
10.5
Fifteenth Amendment dated
Form of Stock Appreciation Rights Award Agreement under the Ashland Global Holdings Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (filed as of May 17, 2017Exhibit 10.4 to the TransferAshland’s Form 8-K filed on January 26, 2018 (SEC File No. 333-211719), and Administration Agreement dated as of August 31, 2012 among Ashland LLC, as Master Servicer, CVG Capital III LLC, as SPV, the Originators, the Investors, Letter of Credit Issuers, Managing Agents and Administrators party thereto, and The Bank of Nova Scotia, as agent for the Investors.incorporated herein by reference).
  
12*
10.6
Form of Performance Unit Award Agreement under the Ashland Global Holdings Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.5 to Ashland’s Form 8-K filed on January 26, 2018 (SEC File No. 333-211719), and incorporated herein by reference).
10.7
Form of Cash-Settled Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement under the Ashland Global Holdings Inc. 2018 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.6 to Ashland’s Form 8-K filed on January 26, 2018 (SEC File No. 333-211719), and incorporated herein by reference).
12*
Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.
  
31.1*
Certificate of William A. Wulfsohn, Chief Executive Officer of Ashland pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
  
31.2*
Certificate of J. Kevin Willis, Chief Financial Officer of Ashland pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
  
32*
Certificate of William A. Wulfsohn, Chief Executive Officer of Ashland, and J. Kevin Willis, Chief Financial Officer of Ashland pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
  
101.INS**XBRL Instance Document.
  
101.SCH**XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
  
101.CAL**XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.
  
101.DEF**XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
  
101.LAB**XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.


  
101.PRE**XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.
*Filed herewith.
**Attached as Exhibit 101 to this report are the following documents formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language):  (i) Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income for the three and nine months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and June 30,December 31, 2016; (ii) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at June 30,December 31, 2017 and September 30, 20162017; (iii) Statements of Consolidated Equity at June 30,December 31, 2017; (iv) Statements of Condensed Consolidated Cash Flows for the ninethree months ended June 30,December 31, 2017 and June 30,December 31, 2016; and (v) Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.  


SM Service mark, Ashland or its subsidiaries, registered in various countries.
™ Trademark, Ashland or its subsidiaries, registered in various countries.

SIGNATURE
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 Ashland Global Holdings Inc.
 (Registrant) 
August 4, 2017January 30, 2018/s/ J. Kevin Willis
 J. Kevin Willis
 
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(on behalf of the Registrant and as principal
financial officer)


EXHIBIT INDEX
(a)  Exhibits
10.1Stock Purchase Agreement, dated April 14, 2017, by and among Ashland LLC, Pharmachem Laboratories, Inc., the holders of common stock of Pharmachem Laboratories, Inc., Dr. David Peele, and Photon SH Representative LLC, solely as the shareholders’ representative (filed as Exhibit 2.1 to Ashland’s Form 8-K filed on May 18, 2017 (SEC File No. 333-211719) and incorporated herein by reference).
10.2Amendment No. 1 to the Stock Purchase Agreement, dated May 16, 2017, by and among Ashland LLC, Pharmachem Laboratories, Inc., the holders of common stock of Pharmachem Laboratories, Inc., Dr. David Peele, and Photon SH Representative LLC, solely as the shareholders’ representative (filed as Exhibit 2.2 to Ashland’s Form 8-K filed on May 18, 2017 (SEC File No. 333-211719) and incorporated herein by reference).
10.3Credit Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2017, among Ashland LLC, as Borrower, The Bank of Nova Scotia, as Administrative Agent, Swing Line Lender and an L/C Issuer, each Lender and L/C Issuer party thereto and the other agents party thereto (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Ashland’s Form 8-K filed on May 18, 2017 (SEC File No. 333-211719) and incorporated herein by reference).
10.4Amendment No. 1 dated as of May 19, 2017, among Ashland LLC, as Borrower (the “Borrower”), certain subsidiaries of the Borrower, The Bank of Nova Scotia, as Administrative Agent (the “Administrative Agent”), and Citibank, N.A., as the Incremental Revolving Credit Lender, to the Credit Agreement dated as of May 17, 2017, among the Borrower, the Administrative Agent, each lender and letter of credit issuer party thereto and the other agents party thereto (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Ashland’s Form 8-K filed on May 22, 2017 (SEC File No. 333-211719) and incorporated herein by reference).
10.5Amendment No. 2 dated as of June 14, 2017, among Ashland LLC, as Borrower (the “Borrower”), certain subsidiaries of the Borrower, The Bank of Nova Scotia, as Administrative Agent (the “Administrative Agent”), and Citibank, N.A., as the Term B Lender, to the Credit Agreement dated as of May 17, 2017, among the Borrower, the Administrative Agent, each lender and letter of credit issuer party thereto and the other agents party thereto (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Ashland’s Form 8-K filed on June 14, 2017 (SEC File No. 333-211719) and incorporated herein by reference).
10.6*Fifteenth Amendment dated as of May 17, 2017 to the Transfer and Administration Agreement dated as of August 31, 2012 among Ashland LLC, as Master Servicer, CVG Capital III LLC, as SPV, the Originators, the Investors, Letter of Credit Issuers, Managing Agents and Administrators party thereto, and The Bank of Nova Scotia, as agent for the Investors.
12*Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.
31.1*Certificate of William A. Wulfsohn, Chief Executive Officer of Ashland pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
31.2*Certificate of J. Kevin Willis, Chief Financial Officer of Ashland pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
32*Certificate of William A. Wulfsohn, Chief Executive Officer of Ashland, and J. Kevin Willis, Chief Financial Officer of Ashland pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
101.INS**XBRL Instance Document.
101.SCH**XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
101.CAL**XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.
101.DEF**XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
101.LAB**XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

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101.PRE**XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

*Filed herewith.
**Submitted electronically with this report.

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