COMPASS MINERALS (CMP) SECURITIES LAWSUIT SETTLEMENT

COMPASS MINERALS (CMP) SECURITIES LAWSUIT SETTLEMENT

Joseph Levi Joseph Levi
3 minute read

Caption: Local 295 IBT Employer Group Welfare Fund v. Compass Minerals International, Inc., et al. 

Case Number: 2:22-cv-02432-EFM-ADM 

Jurisdiction: United States District Court, District of Kansas  

Class PeriodOctober 31, 2017 – November 18, 2018, inclusive 

If you bought Compass Minerals securities during this period, you might be eligible to claim compensation from a recent settlement in the Compass Minerals securities lawsuit.  

Settlement Amount 

$48 million. Investors who purchased CMP securities during the class period could receive a share of the settlement fund. 

Allegations Against Compass Minerals and Goderich Mine Disclosures 

The case was about Compass Minerals International, Inc. (NYSE: CMP) and its ability to control costs at one of its mines.  Plaintiffs say Compass misled investors about a tech upgrade at its Goderich mine. From late 2017 to late 2018, Compass execs boasted the upgrade would save cash and boost output.  The opposite was true: costs ballooned and output dipped. On November 19, 2018, Compass Minerals admitted to major ongoing issues.  Investors dumped their shares and stock plummeted.  Additional claims involved a Brazilian facility which experienced undisclosed risks from mercury discharges.  

Lead Plaintiffs Retail Wholesale Department Store Union Local 338 Retirement Fund and Local 295 IBT Employer Group Welfare Fund filed suit against Compass Minerals, Francis J. Malecha, James D. Standen, and Anthony J. Sepich.  Plaintiffs claimed Compass violated federal securities law, such as Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act. 

Compass Minerals Securities Class Action Litigation History 

The case started in late 2022. Defendants moved to dismiss, but the major claims held up. A contentious discovered followed. Early talks went nowhere; but, with further mediation the parties made a deal.  On March 27, 2025, both sides agreed to a $48 million cash settlement. Judge Melgren gave preliminary okay on April 7, 2025.  The Court gave the final thumbs-up after a fairness hearing on July 31, 2025. 

Court Approval and Shareholder Settlement Terms 

Judge Melgren called the settlement fair, noting it resulted from arm’s-length negotiations. The claims process was clear and well-managed. Notices reached potential class members through mail and publications—no objections, no opt-outs. The deal shields Compass Minerals from future related suits. Payouts will be divided based on when you bought or sold CMP securities and losses tied to disclosures. 

Compass Minerals Settlement Fund Payout Details 

If you file a valid claim, you’ll get a pro rata share of the $48 million fund, based on transactions and losses. The fund first covers legal fees (up to ~$16 million, or 33-1/3%), and administration costs. Claims under $10 won’t qualify. Send brokerage records by August 5, 2025. Approved payments come by check or direct deposit, linked to purchase/sale timing and stock price shifts after key events. 

Securities Settlement Judgment and Case Conclusion 

Judge Melgren issued final judgment, dismissing the case with prejudice. Compass Minerals denies wrongdoing. If you didn’t opt out by July 9, 2025, you’re bound by the terms. The court oversees implementation. If the deal unravels, litigation could restart. For now, the fund pays out, eligible shareholders recover, and the case closes. Disclosures are public, the market adjusted, and resolution stands. 

Author 

Joseph Levi is a Managing Partner renowned for his expertise in securities litigation, specifically protecting shareholder rights in securities fraud cases. With extensive courtroom experience, he has secured notable victories, including a $35 million settlement for Occam Networks shareholders and significant relief in fiduciary litigation involving Health Grades. Additionally, Mr. Levi has effectively represented patent holders in high-stakes litigation across technology sectors, including software and communications, achieving substantial settlements and awards. 

LinkedIN

« Back to Blog