Abu Dhabi looks to build its petchem activities
November 18, 2009
IPIC Mulls Bayer Joint Venture, Not Acquisition, Chairman Says | www.bloomberg.com
The Middle East is continuing to grow its role in petrochemicals. The latest move is by Abu Dhabi, to access technology for its ambitious new multi-$bn Chemaweyaat project.
Chemical Companies remain Cautious on the Outlook
October 31, 2009
Looking at the world from a stable but low level of activity | www.icis.com
The chemical industry is a leading indicator for the global economy. The recent company results season gives no support for the idea that earnings are about to stage a major recovery.
Specialty Chemicals Growth in 2010 Will be Modest and Uneven and Led by China
October 21, 2009
10,000: Then and Now | www.nytimes.com
Signs are emerging in the specialty chemicals value chains that show an overall improving global economy, but one with unevenness by region and by economic sector. Our indicators show China leading all regions in 2010 growth while manufacturing will lead all sectors. Lagging will be housing and the regions of North America and Europe.
Chemical Companies face Bumpy Road in 2010
October 17, 2009
10,000: Then and Now | www.nytimes.com
2010 should be a better year for the chemical industry, as demand grows in line with a recovery in global GDP. But a quick V-shaped return to the 2003-7 Boom years in terms of volumes/margins seems unlikely.
Flexible Packaging Industry depends on Consumer Spending for Growth
October 13, 2009
Flexible packaging will return to growth in 2011 | www.europeanplasticsnews.com
Flexible packaging volume growth is highly dependent upon the growth of consumer products, particularly non-discretionary products such as food. Value growth is dependent upon volume as well as pricing which has been under pressure in 2009 as the inputs associated with oil have dropped in price forcing packaging producers to pass on much of the decrease. Value will likely be down this year but volume will not.
Huntsman's Move In China Should be Polyurethane
September 28, 2009
Huntsman seeks deals in China | www.ft.com
Huntsman has announcement they are seeking deals for their textile chemicals business in China which seems misplaced given the strength and importance of their polyurethane business in this region.
BASF Nylon Plant Closure Reflects a Global Shift in Demand
September 21, 2009
BASF to Close Permanently Nylon-6 Plant in Germany | chemweek.com
BASF's closure of the nylon 6 plant in Rudolstadt, Germany is reflective of the broader global trends affecting nylon - slower demand growth that is shifting toward China and away from Europe and North America.
China's Economic Recovery "Uncertain" - Premier
August 27, 2009
Economic recovery will take some time, premier warns | www.chinadaily.com.cn
China is a major player in the global chemical industry. But doubts are now emerging about the underlying strength of its recent economic revival.
The Analysts have got it Wrong - No Sign of an Upturn in Chemicals
August 1, 2009
Chemicals: What have We Learned This Week? | internationalechem.blogspot.com
Many analysts, having failed to spot last year's downturn, are now making the opposite mistake and hoping to spot a quick recovery in chemical demand. But a large number of companies reported this week, and only China's Sinopec saw any sign of strong demand ahead. BASF, the world's No 1, was even worried things could get worse again.
Chemical Industry Study on Greehouse Gases - an interesting framework
July 21, 2009
Chems industry reduced global GHG by 11% in 2005 - ICCA | www.icis.com
The International Council of Chemical Associations emissions be enabling applications and technologies that serve to reduce overall societal emissions. Of great importance are chemical-based insulation, crop fertilizer/protection chemicals and improved lighting.
Big-Foot YRC Drops the Other Shoe on Shareholders
November 3, 2009
Bombardier Barbs Shows CSeries Can't Cut The Mustard
November 2, 2009
New 777 Depends On 787 Success
October 13, 2009
Airbus Lost $7.5bn+ Trying to Flog the A350XWB
August 28, 2009
Airbus A380 Struggling To Cut The Mustard?
August 24, 2009