Five new M&A transactions were announced for the week ending Nov. 9, with year-to-date values rising despite lower volumes driven by Mitsui Chemicals' $11.6 billion acquisition of JSR Corp.
Vynova Belgium filed for bankruptcy after failed recapitalization efforts amid soaring energy costs and weak demand. The closure adds to a wave of European chlor-alkali and vinyls plant shutdowns affecting major producers like Westlake and Dow.
LBB Specialties has secured an exclusive distribution partnership with Palsgaard Inc. to supply plant-based food emulsifier technologies across North America. The collaboration aims to enhance product consistency and processing efficiency for applications including bakery, confectionery, and fats and oils.
US inflation increased 0.4% in October, with energy prices remaining a key factor despite a dip in gas costs. The Federal Reserve may hike rates again as labor market growth exceeds expectations.
Experts warn that the pharmaceutical industry's surge in GLP-1 weight-loss drugs threatens insulin supply stability for diabetes patients. Major firms face scrutiny over prioritizing lucrative obesity markets over essential diabetes treatments.
China XLX Fertiliser advanced key Zhundong and Guangxi projects targeting melamine and fertilizer production by 2026–2027. The company reported a 28% revenue rise to 23 billion RMB for the first nine months of 2026.
BASF plans to transition its eligible European polyisobutene portfolio to 100% renewable electricity by January 2027 using mass-balance approaches. Selected product grades will achieve zero cradle-to-gate carbon footprint without requiring requalification.
The US Senate advanced bipartisan legislation to expedite permitting for energy infrastructure, including oil, gas, and clean energy projects. While industry groups support the move to lower costs, environmentalists warn of weakened safeguards.
Brent crude fell nearly 3% to $89.66 after President Trump downplayed military action against Iran, signaling lower energy costs and potential relief for inflation and consumer fuel prices.
UK shoppers increased purchases of bottled water, canned goods, and hand sanitiser following the government's Be Ready campaign, though data indicates this was precautionary rather than panic buying. Sales surged significantly, with hand sanitiser rising 83% and bottled water up 67%.
Denka Co. Ltd. plans to spin off its styrene business into a new unit, Node Chemical, starting operations in April 2027 to improve agility and competitiveness. Full transfer is scheduled for April 2028 following stakeholder reviews.
President Trump declared the war with Iran militarily 'effectively over,' though a naval blockade on Iranian oil continues amid global fuel price concerns. He emphasized maintaining the status quo while pursuing diplomatic solutions for Iran's nuclear program.
ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods cancels attendance at the COP31 climate conference citing security logistics, ending his three-year streak of participation. The company maintains its commitment to affordable energy while sending other executives to discuss decarbonization efforts.
Venezuela's legislature passed a law enabling private investment in its power grid to resolve blackouts and aid oil production. The reform allows private generation and arbitration to attract capital while the state retains control over key hydroelectric assets.
Bank of England deputy warns youth unemployment is rising due to geopolitical conflict and energy price volatility, prompting potential interest rate hikes amidst a stagnant labor market.
Jens Eskelund warns EU manufacturers face an existential threat from China by 2030, citing risks to the chemicals and auto sectors. He suggests companies integrate into Chinese supply chains instead of competing directly.
US stock markets rallied, recovering most losses as Brent crude oil prices fell nearly 6% amid geopolitical uncertainty. Strong earnings from energy and tech firms further boosted indices despite concerns over AI infrastructure costs.
Botswana plans to raise its De Beers stake to 30% via a consortium led by former CEO Gareth Penny. This strategic shift occurs as the natural diamond industry grapples with lab-grown competition and reduced luxury demand in China.
Welch & Forbes LLC increased its stake in Linde PLC by 2.1% in Q3, acquiring 2,138 shares worth over $50 million. Other institutional investors also adjusted positions in the industrial gas company.
M&G PLC reduced its stake in Linde PLC by 7% in Q3, selling 14,351 shares valued at $90.8 million. Other institutions adjusted holdings while Linde executives sold shares for tax withholding on equity awards.
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