ICIS - chemical podcasts

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  Episode 1490: Think Tank: China slowdown deepens chemicals market pressure 11.08.2026 15мин

  China's economic downturn and expanding chemicals capacity continue to challenge global producers.China manufacturing and services contract, according to latest purchasing manager indices (PMIs)Property crisis remains an important dragAgeing population weakens domestic demandLimited stimulus constrains economic recoveryExports remain strong despite slowdownTrade barriers circumvented through third countriesChemical capacity additions remain substantial, totalling 77 million tonnes in 2026 and more in 2027Efficient mega-sites in China outcompete global rivalsMore closures expected outside ChinaRelief may emerge after 2030 as tough China environmental rules stifle more chemicals expansions In this ICIS Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews ICIS director, market insights and executive engagement, John Richardson.
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  Episode 1489: EU, US epoxy markets faced a volatile H1, skittish geopolitics casts shadow over H2 07.08.2026 19мин

  A complex tariff landscape, geopolitical instability in the Middle East, upstream volatility and demand struggles are key talking points in the Europe and US epoxy markets.In this podcast, Heidi Finch, who covers the Europe epoxy market, and fellow senior editor Tarun Raizada, who covers the US epoxy market, recap on what has been a very volatile and challenging H1, in particular due to unsettled US-Iran geopolitics and discuss possible expectations for the H2. . In the US, higher feedstock costs, reduced Asian imports, due to the ME war, along with tariffs supported prices in H1, while demand remained largely flat. Europe prices surged during Q2, due to the ME induced war cost impacts and more domestic sourcing due to import supply chain jitters, although demand remained lowGeopolitical uncertainty makes for a hazy H2 for both regions, managing headwinds the focus, no recovery in sight
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  Episode 1488: Think Tank: War boosts Q2 chemicals but risks mount for rest of year 04.08.2026 30мин

  After a strong Q2, chemical companies face an uncertain second half beset by weak demand, potential feedstock shortages and River Rhine disruption.-          European chemical profits rose sharply in Q2-          Producers upgrade full-year earnings forecasts-          Q2 gains driven by conflict-led pricing, margins-          Demand weak across key sectors-          Little momentum seen after Q2 uplift-          Outlook clouded by geopolitical uncertainty-          Rhine drought threatens logistics and supply-          More force majeures possible in Europe
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  Episode 1487: PODCAST: Asia PET resin market faces margin pressure, export challenges amid feedstock volatility 30.07.2026 6мин

  SINGAPORE (ICIS)--Asia PET resin prices have been shaped by volatile feedstock costs, while producer margins have narrowed to around breakeven levels. In this ICIS podcast, Senior Analyst Jimmy Zhang and Senior Editor Judith Wang discuss the impact of the US-Iran conflict on feedstock markets, the challenges facing Asia PET resin exports, and the outlook for the regional market.Upstream values remain a key driver of petrochemical price directionLimited vessel availability, high freight costs constrain Asia PET resin exportsICIS remains cautiously optimistic on PET resin supply-demand fundamentals
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  Episode 1486: Think Tank: War brings new risks for gas supply, especially for Europe and Asia 28.07.2026 33мин

  The Middle East conflict is disrupting global gas markets, with increased risks for Europe and Asia gas supply security.European storage levels below last yearGermany faces particularly low inventoriesMiddle East disruption limits LNG availabilityEurope competing with Asia for cargoesGas prices likely to remain elevatedDemand destruction may soften impact of low storage levelsLNG market outlook shifts from surplus to deficitChemical companies urged to plan for rising energy insecurityDiesel and petroleum increasingly short globallyRisk that US may place export ban on energy products, diesel and petroleum 
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  Episode 1485: China PE Market Outlook for H2 2026: Navigating a Wave of Supply Growth 24.07.2026 10мин

  In the latest ICIS podcast, analysts Haiyan, Joanne and Amy discuss the outlook for China’s PE market in H2 2026. The team explores how expanding supply, changing trade flows and demand uncertainties could shape the market in the months ahead.
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  Episode 1485: China PE Market Outlook for H2 2026: Navigating a Wave of Supply Growth 24.07.2026 10мин

  In the latest ICIS podcast, analysts Haiyan, Joanne and Amy discuss the outlook for China’s PE market in H2 2026. The team explores how expanding supply, changing trade flows and demand uncertainties could shape the market in the months ahead.
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  Episode 1484: Think Tank: Renewed Middle East conflict deepens chemical market uncertainty 21.07.2026 25мин

  Escalating Middle East tensions and weak consumer demand are creating new risks for global energy and chemical markets.Oil prices rise towards $90/barrelStrait of Hormuz disruption hits energy flows againBab el Mandeb Strait blockade risk grows, threatening access to the Red Sea and Suez CanalEuropean gas stocks remain vulnerableRhine low water disrupts logisticsChemical supply chains face pressure in EuropeDemand weakness limits market reaction Smartphone sales fall sharplyRising costs drive demand destructionIn this ICIS Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews ICIS Insight Editor Tom Brown and Paul Hodges, chairman of New Normal Consulting. 
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  Episode 1483: PODCAST: Oxo-alcohols and derivatives seeing summer slowdown btu uncertainty ahead for H2 2026 20.07.2026 11мин

  As we enter H2 2026, there is plenty happening in the market – although on the surface, much like a swan, things may appear relatively calm. Underneath, lots happening and moving, shaping the markets for the rest of the year.Acrylate esters editor Mat Jolin-Beech is joined by glycol ethers editor Cameron Birch and oxo-alcohols and butac editor Marion Boakye to discuss the market.
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  Episode 1482: Think Tank: Hormuz tensions bring renewed threats to oil and chemical markets 14.07.2026 31мин

  Renewed US-Iran tensions and Russian refinery disruptions are raising concerns over energy supplies, inflation and chemical market demand.• Prolonged disruption could trigger a major supply shock• Russian refinery outages are tightening fuel product supplies• Chemical markets remain cautious despite rising crude prices• Higher energy costs could fuel inflation and demand weakness• Global oil inventories and reserves continue to decline• China’s slowdown is weighing on petrochemical demand• Chemical buyers are delaying purchases amid uncertainty• Demand destruction may limit chemical price increases• Companies should strengthen resilience against market shocksIn this Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews ICIS Insight Editor Tom Brown and Paul Hodges, chairman of New Normal Consulting.
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  Episode 1481: Think Tank: Europe more exposed as China ramps up exports, Suez Canal reopens 08.07.2026 26мин

  Europe’s chemical industry will become increasingly exposed to competition from China, the Middle East and the rest of Asia if more shippers return to the Suez Canal.Maersk, Hapag-LLoyd reopen one Gemini service through the Suez CanalChina becomes increasingly self-sufficiency in chemicalsSwitches from net importer to exporter for some important productsGrowth of chemicals post-2030 could be focussed in megasites with low carbon production linked to CCS/U (carbon capture and storage/utilization)US ethane prices have fallen, giving US producers more of a competitive advantageIntroduction of US-EU trade deal will see tariffs on many US chemical imports fall from 6.5% to zeroNote – this podcast was recorded on 7 July, 2026In this ICIS Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews ICIS senior consultant John Richardson and ICIS Insight Editor Tom Brown.
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  Episode 1480: PODCAST: Global BD prices tumble as markets shift from supply fears to demand concerns 07.07.2026 13мин

  LONDON (ICIS)-- Butadiene (BD) prices have tumbled globally from highs after a volatile second quarter, as markets continue to adjust to the fallout from the US-Iran conflictIn this episode, ICIS Europe BD editor Melissa Hurley discusses the latest market developments and outlook with Ai Teng Lim (Asia), Elaine Zhang (China), and senior BD analysts Gawaine Preston (Europe) and Ann Sun (Asia).CFR northeast Asia BD prices have fallen significantly from March peak levels as expected supply shock failed to materialise; heavier-than-expected downstream demand losses seenChina market also experienced rapid price decline; H2 focus shifts from supply recovery to demand absorption: "The key question is no longer whether supply recovers — it's whether demand can absorb it." - Senior BD Analyst Ann Sun Asia and China remain the key balancing markets, expected to absorb surplus BD exports from Europe and the USPrices may face further near-term weakness before stabilising, while the timing of new Asian capacity additions remains the biggest uncertainty for the marketUS July BD contracts also lower on improved supply and weaker global pricingFocus podcast by Ai Teng Lim, Elaine Zhang, Gawaine Preston, Ann Sun and Melissa Hurley. Additional reporting by Preeti Sriram.
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  Episode 1479: Think Tank: The story of a Lebanese chemical distributor 01.07.2026 15мин

  Running a chemical distribution company in a conflict zone such as Lebanon requires determination and agility to keep the business running while ensuring the safety of employees. -          High levels of stress but a resolve to adapt to conflict conditions -          Very difficult operating environment with displaced population-          Maintaining stock levels is a key challenge-          Hazardous material moved to a warehouse out of Beirut and away from other high-risk zones -          Back-up office created to allow work to continue during times of high conflict-          Less transport by sea through port of Beirut and more via land crossings to Syria-          Impossible to get insurance coverage for logistics in conflict zones-          Shift of commercial terms to cash in advance before delivery-          Banking system has become very primitiveIn this Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews Dany Njeim, CEO of RN Chemicals, based in Lebanon and Italy and Paul Hodges, chairman of New Normal Consulting. 
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  Episode 1478: PODCAST: Phenol & Acetone Derivatives: Volatility, Supply Shifts and a Fragile Q3 Outlook 29.06.2026 29мин

  LONDON (ICIS)--A turbulent Q2 saw the phenol and acetone value chain rocked by geopolitical disruption, cost inflation and shifting supply-demand dynamics, with prices surging before easing as markets rebalanced.In this Q2 episode of the Acetone and Derivatives podcast, ICIS experts unpack the key drivers across phenol, acetone, BPA, epoxy and polycarbonate, and explore a cautious, uncertain outlook for Q3 amid weak demand, ample supply and ongoing global volatility.MMA markets editor Mathew Jolin-Beech is joined by Acetone and phenol editor Jane Gibson, Heidi Finch senior editor for the European BPA and epoxy resins, Sam Lovatt on PC, and Michele Bossi - analyst for the chain.
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  Episode 1477: Think Tank: Sale of stockpiles explains China’s massive wartime export boost 25.06.2026 37мин

  From March to May, China has exported record amounts of chemicals despite falling production as companies work through huge inventories built up over the past few years.China chemicals production has fallen, but exports are soaringInventory levels in China are much higher than people suspectedHigher prices mean that this is now being exportedChina operators still run despite poor economics, domestic demandThey have been stockpiling, now selling this inventoryMay data confirm the trend is continuing20% of global olefins supply has been disrupted by the Middle East war45% of Asia ethylene supply outside of China was offline in AprilRecord capacity additions mean oversupply will continue for 5-10 yearsFrom 2030 China will add less new capacityIn this Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews ICIS senior polyolefins analyst James Wilson and ICIS senior consultant John Richardson.
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  Episode 1476: PODCAST: Europe oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets see sentiment cool as market adjusts to falling cost base and declining geopolitical risk premium 24.06.2026 14мин

  LONDON (ICIS)--Europe oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets continue to digest geopolitical developments regarding shifting dynamics in the Persian Gulf and the price correction lower across many feedstock markets of late. Uncertainty remains high but bearish price sentiment has been growing as availability concerns fade and demand expectations into the summer months remain relatively subdued. End users continue to exhibit caution regarding purchasing trends under the belief that prices may ease further into Q3 and beyond.Glycol ethers editor Cameron Birch speaks to oxo-alcohols and butyl acetate editor Marion Boakye, acrylate esters editor Mathew Jolin-Beech and oxo alcohols analyst Gawaine Preston about current market conditions and expectations for the near future.
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  Episode 1475: Increasing polyols from China to Europe a key concern at industry conference 24.06.2026 5мин

  Rising imports from China were a central theme highlighted by multiple market players on the side-lines of the annual EUROPUR and EURO-MOULDERS conference, held in Antwerp, Belgium, on 10–11 June 2026.In this episode, European markets editor Zubair Adam for polyols who had attended the event, discusses with Isaac Tan his Asian counterpart, key developments on the China to Europe trade lane.
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  Episode 1474: Think Tank: Regionalization of industry will give Velogy the edge in Europe 18.06.2026 41мин

  As the global chemical industry moves towards a more regional business model, Velogy – the new company carved out of former LyondellBasell assets – will be able to serve European customers from within Europe.Customers increasingly want to take “Europe for Europe” approach to ensure security of supplyChemical industry is moving from global to regional structure, and this will help Velogy in an oversupplied worldAction needed at EU and national level to protect Europe chemicals and industrial backbone from subsidised importsBeing a mid-sized €2.5 billion sales company allows Velogy to act fastStrong balance, without debt, gives Velogy a head startAdding SABIC assets will increase sales to around €8 billionSABIC acquisition expected to close in Q4 2026Parent group AEQUITA is not a typical private equity fund with investors expecting an exit/return within a few yearsFive partners own the group, with experience in troubled industrial sectors such as automotiveAfter SABIC assets are added there are no plans for closures, but some cost savings in central functions possibleIn this Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews Richard Roudeix, CEO of Velogy and Robert Roiger, Chief Transformation Officer at Velogy and Chief Operating Officer at AEQUITA.
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  Episode 1473: Think Tank: Chemical distributors adapt to Middle East war impact 11.06.2026 29мин

  BARCELONA (ICIS)--European chemical distributors are flexing their business models to ensure that supply chains still operate effectively despite the Middle East war.Chemical supply chains are becoming more flexibleSupply reliability and diversification are now key competitive advantagesTo thrive distributors need to diversify supply chains, adopt a more ‘local for local’ approachDistributors and producers need to focus on financial stability of their suppliers and customersAfter Hormuz, other global trade chokepoints could be weaponizedIf oil prices rise to $150/barrel, interest rates may rise to 5-10%High interest rates will cause chemical industry bankruptciesIn this ICIS Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews Dorothee Arns, director general of the European Association of Chemical Distributors (Fecc) and  Paul Hodges, chairman of New Normal Consulting.Click here to register for the 19 June joint Fecc/ICIS CEO round tables mentioned during the podcast. 
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  Episode 1472: Sustainably Speaking: Making food grade rPOs commercially viable 09.06.2026 25мин

  Recycling editor Sam Lovatt speaks to Nextek CEO Ed Kosior about the company's new European food grade recycled polyolefin technology, the recycling market in general, 2030 deadlines and everything in between.