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How to Buy Air Liquide Stock in 2025 ?
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How to Buy Air Liquide Stock in 2025 ?

Looking to buy Air Liquide shares in 2025 ? As a global leader in industrial and medical gases, Air Liquide is a staple in the CAC 40 index. Discover why and how to invest in Air Liquide, the top platforms, and recommended investment strategies in our comprehensive guide.

Written by Alexandre

Translated on April 11, 2025 at 17:00 by Léa

Air Liquide in action: Industrial operations.
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Air Liquide : What You Need to Know Before Investing

Before buying Air Liquide stock, it’s essential to understand what makes this century-old company a cornerstone in the French industrial landscape.

Air Liquide was founded in 1902 by researcher Georges Claude and entrepreneur Paul Delorme. The company was built on a major innovation : air liquefaction, a technique that separates oxygen and nitrogen.

Shortly after this discovery, Paul Delorme gathered 24 investors to finance the project. This marked the beginning of rapid growth, first in Europe in 1906, then internationally, particularly in the United States, Canada, and Japan.

In 1913, Air Liquide went public. Since then, it has been among the most solid stocks in the CAC 40. The stock has been listed on Euronext Paris for over 100 years.

Today, Air Liquide operates in more than 70 countries. The group has 67,000 employees and serves 3.9 million customers and patients. In 2022, revenue reached €29 billion (around $31.5 billion).

The Air Liquide stock is listed on the CAC 40 under ISIN code FR0000120073.

Air Liquide’s Business Activities

Air Liquide operates in 5 main sectors that form the core of its business :

  • Large Industries : production and distribution of industrial gases (oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen) via a pipeline network stretching thousands of kilometers across Europe and the United States. This division represents approximately 30% of revenue and serves heavy industries such as steel, chemicals, and refining.
  • Industrial Merchant : supply of bottled gases to SMEs in the metallurgy, glass, and food processing sectors. This activity, generating nearly 40% of revenue, offers a widely diversified customer base and highly recurring sales.
  • Healthcare : manufacturing and distribution of medical equipment and oxygen to healthcare professionals and patients. This segment, representing about 20% of revenue, is experiencing sustained growth, particularly in home care and chronic diseases.
  • Electronics : production of ultra-high purity gases and chemical liquids for the semiconductor and photovoltaic panel industries. This division, though more modest (about 10% of revenue), has the highest margins and benefits from growing demand for electronic components.
  • Engineering & Construction : development of customized solutions for gas purification and separation. This activity enables Air Liquide to control its value chain and develop proprietary technologies, strengthening its competitive advantages.

This diversification of activities is a major asset for investors looking to buy Air Liquide stock, as it ensures revenue stability even during crises. The complementarity between these different segments also allows for significant operational and commercial synergies.

Air Liquide’s Main Competitors

Before buying any stock, it’s important to evaluate its position against the competition. Air Liquide dominates the European market but faces three major competitors :

  • Linde : global industrial gas giant, particularly present in Europe and the United States following its merger with Praxair in 2018. Linde has a higher market capitalization than Air Liquide and maintains a strong presence in emerging markets.
  • Air Products and Chemicals : American company specializing in industrial gases and chemical products. It stands out for its investments in hydrogen and carbon capture technologies, positioning the company as a key player in the energy transition.
  • Praxair (now integrated with Linde) : American industrial gas leader, recognized for its operational excellence and high margins.

Air Liquide distinguishes itself through its strong presence in Europe, while its competitors are more established in the United States, giving it a strategic advantage in its domestic market.

Air liquide en Europe
Source : ResearchGate

The French company also stands out for its early commitment to green hydrogen and low-carbon technologies, a strategic positioning for the decades to come.

Key Figures for Air Liquide

To invest in Air Liquide with full knowledge, let’s analyze its recent financial performance. This data is essential for evaluating the company’s financial health and long-term growth prospects.

Indicator20202021202220232024
Revenue (billions €)20.523.329.927.627.1
Net income (millions €)2,4352,5722,7593,0823,306
Net margin11.9%11.0%9.2%11.2%12.2%
Dividend per share (€)2.502.642.953.203.30
Debt ratio56%48%45%41%39%
Return on capital employed9.0%9.3%9.7%10.1%10.3%

These figures demonstrate steady growth and a generous dividend policy, two compelling arguments for buying Air Liquide stock as a long-term investment. We also note a consistent improvement in return on capital employed and a gradual reduction in debt, signs of rigorous financial management.

Air Liquide’s market capitalization exceeds €75 billion in 2025, making it one of the largest on the CAC 40. The P/E ratio (Price-to-Earnings Ratio) typically ranges between 20 and 25, slightly above the market average, reflecting the perceived quality of the company and its growth prospects.

Key Dates

The history of Air Liquide is marked by significant events that have shaped its development and corporate culture :

  • 1902 : Creation of Air Liquide by Georges Claude and Paul Delorme, following the development of an industrial process for air liquefaction
  • 1913 : IPO, marking the beginning of a long stock market history
  • 1946 : Major international expansion after World War II, with the opening of subsidiaries in North America and Asia
  • 1995 : Launch of the development strategy in the healthcare sector
  • 2007 : Acquisition of Lurgi, strengthening the group’s engineering capabilities
  • 2016 : Acquisition of Airgas for $13.4 billion, the largest in its history
  • 2018 : Launch of the hydrogen strategy with massive investments
  • 2022 : Launch of the ADVANCE strategic plan focused on decarbonization and green hydrogen
  • 2024 : Reinforcement of green hydrogen production capacity in Europe
  • 2025 : New ambition to increase operating margin by +200 basis points for the 2025-2026 period

This historical trajectory demonstrates Air Liquide’s ability to reinvent itself and seize growth opportunities, a reassuring element for investors considering buying Air Liquide stock with a long-term perspective.

Where to Buy Air Liquide Stock in 2025 ?

To buy Air Liquide stock in 2025, several options are available. Your choice of purchase method will depend on your investor profile, financial goals, and investment horizon.

Online brokers are the most popular solution for buying Air Liquide stock in 2025. They generally offer :

  • Reduced brokerage fees (often less than €1 per order)
  • An intuitive interface accessible 24/7
  • Immediate access to French and international markets
  • Technical and fundamental analysis tools
  • High-performance mobile applications

However, you won’t automatically benefit from Air Liquide’s specific shareholder advantages without additional steps. To remedy this, you’ll need to request registration of your shares in administered registered form, a procedure generally offered by brokers but requiring some administrative formalities.

Buy Through Your Bank : Simplicity but Higher Fees

Your regular bank also allows you to buy Air Liquide stock through :

  • A standard securities account
  • A French Equity Savings Plan (PEA)

The advantages include centralizing your finances and simplicity of management, but fees are generally higher than with specialized brokers. Expect between €5 and €15 per order depending on the institution, plus annual custody fees in most cases.

Most major French banks also offer investment advisory services that can help you determine if buying Air Liquide stock matches your risk profile and wealth objectives.

Direct Purchase from Air Liquide

Air Liquide offers investors the option to buy Air Liquide stock directly through its shareholder services. This option has several advantages :

  • Automatic registration in pure registered form
  • Direct access to shareholder benefits without additional steps
  • Direct relationship with the company and its dedicated shareholder service
  • No custody fees

However, fees may be higher for small orders (0.10% of the transaction amount with a minimum of €10) and there’s less flexibility for frequent transactions. This solution is particularly suitable for long-term investors who want to fully benefit from Air Liquide’s shareholder advantages.

Using a PEA to Buy Air Liquide Stock

The French Equity Savings Plan (PEA) is particularly advantageous for buying Air Liquide stock thanks to :

  • Favorable taxation after 5 years of holding (income tax exemption)
  • Capital gains tax exemption (excluding social security contributions of 17.2%)
  • A contribution ceiling of €150,000 (€225,000 for a PEA-PME)
  • The possibility of making partial withdrawals without closing the plan after 5 years

To benefit from the loyalty bonus, however, you will need to request registration of your shares in administered registered form, a process compatible with the PEA but requiring some formalities with your financial intermediary.

Buy Through Life Insurance : Diversification and Optimized Taxation

Unit-linked life insurance also allows you to buy Air Liquide stock with :

  • Favorable taxation after 8 years (annual allowance of €4,600 for a single person)
  • Facilitated transmission in case of inheritance (exempt from inheritance tax up to €152,500 per beneficiary)
  • Potentially delegated management to professionals
  • Great flexibility in savings management

However, you won’t be able to benefit from Air Liquide’s specific shareholder advantages, as the securities are held by the insurer and not directly by you. Additionally, life insurance management fees (0.5% to 1% per year) are added to the securities purchase fees.

Best Platforms to Buy Air Liquide Stock in 2025

After thorough analysis, here is our selection of the best platforms to buy Air Liquide stock in 2025. These brokers have been evaluated according to several criteria: fees, ease of use, customer service quality, analysis tools, and security.

Vantage

Vantage checks all the boxes for those who want to invest with powerful tools without breaking the bank. It’s a serious option, well-suited for both beginners and experienced investors.

This broker stands out with ultra-competitive fees (from €0.50 per order), a clear and fast platform, more than 80 integrated technical indicators, and customer service available in English. Your funds are secured up to €100,000, in accordance with European regulations.

Special mention for its quality educational content : webinars, guides, resources… everything you need to refine your strategy before buying Air Liquide stock. The mobile app also allows you to stay responsive, wherever you are.

Libertex

libertex

Libertex focuses on clarity. Its interface is clean, intuitive, and designed to get straight to the point. No need to be an expert to find your way around a real asset.
No fixed commission, competitive spreads, available leverage (to be used cautiously), an app rated 4.5/5, and a demo account for stress-free testing : it’s a perfect environment to get started.

Libertex also offers an interesting cashback system and publishes daily market analyses. Ideal for detecting good timing and buying Air Liquide stock with a bit more perspective.

Axi

Axi is for investors who like to go further. Its platform is robust, fast, and comes with advanced analysis tools.

It features near-instantaneous execution, analyst reports, 24/7 customer support, and an unlimited demo account. Fees are transparent, spreads competitive, and features tailored for those who really want to understand what they’re doing.

If you plan to buy Air Liquide stock with a real strategy behind it, Axi is an option to seriously consider. Especially if you like digging into data before acting.

Why Buy Air Liquide Stock in 2025 ?

Several factors make Air Liquide an attractive investment in 2025. These elements constitute solid arguments for investing in Air Liquide with a medium to long-term perspective.

Dividends

Air Liquide stands out for its exceptional dividend policy that makes it a yield stock prized by investors :

  • Uninterrupted distribution for more than 30 years, even during economic crises
  • Increase in dividends for 31 consecutive years, a record among CAC 40 companies
  • Average yield of 2% to 3% per year, higher than French government bonds
  • Payment typically in May, with the option to receive payment in shares
dividendes air liquide
source : LeRevenu

This regularity makes Air Liquide stock a preferred choice for investors seeking passive income and protection against inflation. The payout ratio is generally between 50% and 60% of net income, a level that allows both shareholder remuneration and funding of future growth.

10% Loyalty Bonus for Registered Shareholders

A major advantage for buying Air Liquide stock is the 10% loyalty bonus granted to shareholders registered for more than two consecutive calendar years. This bonus applies to :

  • Dividends, significantly increasing the effective yield
  • Bonus share allocations, accelerating your portfolio growth
  • Capital increases, allowing you to participate on preferential terms

To benefit from this, you must hold your shares in pure registered form (directly through Air Liquide) or administered registered form (through your financial intermediary). This loyalty bonus represents a unique competitive advantage for Air Liquide compared to most other listed companies.

Bonus Share Program

Air Liquide regularly rewards its loyal shareholders with bonus share allocations, a rare advantage among large listed companies :

  • One free share for every 10 shares held (historical ratio, may vary)
  • Regular allocations (approximately every two years), the last occurring in June 2022
  • 10% loyalty bonus on these allocations for registered shareholders
  • Automatic process requiring no action from the shareholder

These allocations allow you to gradually increase your portfolio without additional investment, creating a capitalization effect that amplifies returns over the long term. This is a compelling argument for buying Air Liquide stock with a wealth-building perspective.

Dedicated Shareholder Services

Air Liquide offers numerous services to its shareholders, demonstrating the importance the company places on its relationship with individual investors :

  • Personal online space to track your portfolio and manage your securities
  • Regular newsletters on the company’s strategy and results
  • Webinars and shareholder meetings throughout France
  • Dedicated shareholder relations service, accessible by phone and email
  • “Air Liquide Shareholders” mobile app to track your investment

These services facilitate monitoring your investment and allow you to better understand the company’s strategic issues, a valuable asset when deciding whether to hold or increase your position.

Participation in General Meetings

As a shareholder, you can participate in Air Liquide’s general meetings, a fundamental right that allows you to exercise your influence on the company’s governance :

  • Voting rights on resolutions, with weight proportional to your holding
  • Ability to ask questions to management and address the board of directors
  • Meetings with other shareholders, creating a sense of belonging to a community
  • Better understanding of the company’s strategy and outlook

Air Liquide facilitates individual shareholders’ participation by offering online voting and broadcasting the general meeting on its website. It’s a unique opportunity to interact directly with the company’s leadership.

Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Air Liquide Stock

Here’s how to buy Air Liquide stock in 5 simple steps, whether you’re a beginner or experienced investor :

Step 1 : Choose the Right Platform

Start by selecting the option that best suits your needs : online broker, bank, or Air Liquide’s shareholder service. Compare fees, interface usability, and services offered to make an informed choice.

Step 2 : Open an Investment Account

Once you’ve chosen your platform, create your account by completing the registration form and providing the necessary documents (ID, proof of address). You’ll also need to answer an investor profile assessment questionnaire, in accordance with regulations.

Step 3 : Fund Your Account

Transfer the necessary funds by bank transfer (recommended method) or credit card. Budget an amount sufficient to cover the purchase of shares and transaction fees. Processing time typically varies from a few minutes to 2 business days depending on the chosen method.

Step 4 : Search for Air Liquide Stock

On your trading interface, search for Air Liquide stock using the ISIN code FR0000120073 or ticker AI.PA. Make sure you select the Euronext Paris market to avoid any confusion with a derivative product or another market.

Step 5 : Place Your Buy Order

Choose your order type : market order for immediate execution or limit order to set a maximum price. Define the number of shares desired or the amount to invest, check the summary, then confirm the transaction.

To maximize benefits, consider requesting registration of your securities in registered form to receive the loyalty bonus. This step can be done during purchase or later, but be aware that the two-year period to qualify for the bonus only starts from the effective registration date.

Air Liquide Stock Price Analysis

To provide a complete overview of Air Liquide stock, we should examine its historical performance, current technical setup, and analysts’ projections.

Historical Evolution of Air Liquide Stock Price

The Air Liquide stock price has seen remarkable progress over the long term, reflecting the solidity of the company’s business model :

  • Over the past 10 years, the price has more than doubled, outperforming the CAC 40 index
  • Historical volatility is lower than the market, with less pronounced declines during crises
  • Stock splits have been regularly executed to keep the price accessible to small investors
  • Consolidation periods have generally been followed by new upward phases
air liquide vs cac40 price evolution
Air Liquide (purple) vs CAC40 evolution – Tradingview

This historical performance demonstrates Air Liquide’s ability to create value for its shareholders over time, a compelling argument for buying Air Liquide stock as a long-term investment.

Technical Analysis of Current Price and Key Levels

The Air Liquide stock price is evolving in a long-term bullish channel. Technical levels to watch in 2025 are :

  • Major support : around €150, corresponding to former highs that have become support
  • Intermediate support : €165-170 zone, which has acted as a floor several times during corrections
  • Main resistance : €180/185 zone, tested several times in 2024 and constituting an important psychological barrier
  • Bullish target : €210-220 if resistance is broken, corresponding to a Fibonacci extension
support resistance air liquide
Daily support resistance – Tradingview

The stock’s relatively low historical volatility makes it a less risky investment than the CAC 40 average. Trading volumes are generally higher during earnings releases and dividend detachments, creating opportunities to buy Air Liquide stock at attractive prices.

Analyst Forecasts for Air Liquide Stock in 2025-2026

Financial analysts are generally positive about Air Liquide’s prospects, a consensus that supports the idea of investing in Air Liquide in 2025 :

  • Average price target : €195 (consensus of 20 analysts), with a range from €175 to €215
  • Dominant recommendation : Buy or Hold, with few Sell recommendations
  • Expected earnings per share growth : +7% to +9% per year over the next three years
  • Potential catalysts : green hydrogen development, energy transition, growth in the healthcare sector

Analysts particularly highlight Air Liquide’s strategic positioning in the hydrogen market, which could represent a major growth driver in the coming decades. The company’s ability to maintain high margins despite inflationary pressures is also highlighted as a strength, with an ambition to increase margins by +200 basis points for the 2025-2026 period announced in early 2025.

airliquide weekly tradingview
Airliquide 1W target €200/210 – Tradingview

Strategies to Optimize Your Air Liquide Stock Purchase

To maximize your investment when buying Air Liquide stock, several strategies are available. These approaches can be adapted according to your investor profile and financial goals.

1 – Regular Investment

Rather than investing a large amount at once, buy shares at regular intervals (monthly or quarterly) to smooth your entry price. This method, known as Dollar Cost Averaging (DCA), helps reduce the impact of volatility and avoid buying at the peak.

2 – Dividend Reinvestment

Use the dividends paid to buy new Air Liquide shares, creating a snowball effect that amplifies your returns over the long term. Air Liquide offers an automatic dividend reinvestment program that facilitates this approach.

3 – Registered Shares

As mentioned previously, benefit from the 10% loyalty bonus on dividends by registering your shares.
This simple administrative step can significantly improve your investment’s yield over time.

4 – Long-Term Horizon

Favor holding for at least 5 years to maximize tax benefits (especially within a PEA) and shareholder advantages. Air Liquide is typically a core portfolio holding that expresses its full potential over the long term.

5 – Diversification

Even though Air Liquide presents a moderate risk profile, integrate it into a diversified portfolio including other asset classes and sectors to reduce overall risk. An allocation of 5% to 10% of your portfolio may be appropriate depending on your profile.

6 – Buying During Corrections

Monitor technical pullbacks or market corrections that may offer attractive entry points to buy Air Liquide stock at discounted prices. Periods of market tension or rising interest rates often create opportunities.

Risks to Consider Before Buying Air Liquide Stock

Despite its many advantages, buying Air Liquide stock involves certain risks that should be evaluated before investing :

  • Market risk : like any stock, Air Liquide is subject to stock market fluctuations and may experience periods of decline, especially during generalized financial crises. Even if the stock is historically less volatile than the market, it is not immune to corrections.
  • Sector risk : Air Liquide’s activity is partially dependent on industrial cycles and energy prices. A prolonged economic slowdown or sustained increase in energy costs could weigh on the company’s margins and growth.
  • Interest rate risk : as a defensive stock offering regular yield, it may be sensitive to rising interest rates. When bond yields increase, investors may be tempted to move away from yield stocks in favor of less risky investments.
  • Valuation risk : with a P/E ratio generally above 20, Air Liquide trades at a premium compared to the market average. This high valuation could limit short-term upside potential and make the stock vulnerable to disappointments in results.
  • Geopolitical risk : Air Liquide’s international presence exposes it to trade tensions, currency fluctuations, and political instability in certain regions. Disruptions in global supply chains could also affect its operations.
  • Transition risk : although Air Liquide is well-positioned in the hydrogen market, the energy transition involves massive investments and technological uncertainties. The profitability of these new markets remains to be proven at scale.

These risks should be put in perspective with the company’s financial strength and history of resilience. Air Liquide has demonstrated its ability to navigate economic crises with less volatility than the market average, making it a relatively secure long-term investment.

Our Review on Air Liquide Stock

Air Liquide represents what is called a “family father” stock : solid, reliable, and sustainable. Buying Air Liquide stock in 2025 seems relevant for several reasons : the company is solid, well-positioned in its market, has paid an increasing dividend for over 30 years, and actively invests in future sectors such as hydrogen and healthcare.

For investors seeking a long-term investment with a balanced risk/return profile, investing in Air Liquide is a preferred option in a diversified portfolio. The stock combines defensive characteristics (stability, dividends) with growth potential linked to new energy technologies.

Air Liquide stock deserves a place in any long-term investment portfolio, particularly for investors seeking a combination of moderate growth, regular dividends, and substantial shareholder benefits.

Alexandre

Alexandre

Alexandre is one of the core writers at the crypto media outlet InvestX.fr. He specializes in finance in the broadest sense and has a true passion for writing. His articles offer expert insights into investing, the stock market, and cryptocurrencies.

FAQ : Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Air Liquide Stock

What is the minimum price to buy Air Liquide stock ?

There is no official minimum amount required to buy Air Liquide stock. In theory, you can purchase just one share (around €170 in 2025). However, brokerage fees can make small investments less profitable. An initial investment of €1,000 to €2,000 is generally recommended to reduce the impact of fees.

How can I benefit from the Air Liquide loyalty bonus ?

To receive the 10% loyalty bonus on dividends, you must hold your shares in registered form (either pure or administered) for two full consecutive calendar years. The request for registration can be made through your financial intermediary or directly with Air Liquide if you purchase via their service.

What are the fees for buying Air Liquide stock ?

Fees vary depending on the platform used: from €0.50 to €2 per order with online brokers, €5 to €15 with traditional banks, and 0.10% of the amount (minimum €10) if purchasing directly from Air Liquide. Custody fees may also apply, except for shares held in pure registered form.

When are Air Liquide dividends paid ?

Air Liquide typically pays its annual dividend in May. The exact date is announced during the annual earnings release in February. To be eligible for the dividend, you must hold the shares before the ex-dividend date (usually two business days before the payment).

Is it possible to buy fractional shares of Air Liquide ?

No, it is not possible to buy fractional shares of Air Liquide on regulated markets. You must purchase full shares. However, some platforms offer alternative solutions such as ETFs or trackers, which allow indirect exposure with smaller amounts.

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