Chemical news · Three minutes a day
Sunday, September 13, 2026
Lead Story
Trump Says Iran Probably Responsible for Attack on Saudi PipelineU.S. President Trump blamed Iran for an attack shutting down Saudi Arabia's East-West crude oil pipeline. The strike disrupts a key export route bypassing the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns over global energy supply stability.
President Trump stated Houthis requested US non-targeting amid Middle East clashes disrupting oil flows, pushing US diesel prices above $6 per gallon and spiking global energy market anxiety.
Tidal Investments LLC increased its stake in International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. by 11.4% in Q2. Despite missing earnings, IFF announced a $2.5 billion share-repurchase program and maintained its dividend.
President Trump and Republicans outlined policy proposals including fossil fuel expansion and pharmaceutical pricing deals at their convention, but face significant legislative hurdles due to debt concerns and Senate rules.
Virginia Retirement Systems purchased 7,445 shares worth $1.81 million in WD-40 Company, raising institutional ownership to 91.52% amid strong Q2 earnings and a maintained Buy rating.
National Pension Service sold 14,536 shares of PPG Industries, reducing its stake while retaining holdings worth $55.9 million. KeyCorp initiated coverage with an Overweight rating and a $133 price target amid mixed analyst sentiment.
Arizona State Retirement System reduced its DuPont de Nemours stake by 65.6% in Q2, retaining $5.31 million. Meanwhile, DuPont reported strong quarterly earnings beating estimates with analysts maintaining a Moderate Buy rating.
Evonik Industries plans to close its Hamburg and Bitterfeld sites in Germany next year, impacting 90 employees due to high operational costs and weak market demand. Production activities will be consolidated at larger German locations to improve competitiveness.
Chemours agreed to pay $455 million over 15 years to settle PFAS contamination claims at its Fayetteville Works plant. The settlement includes a $135 million reserve fund from DuPont to ensure payments even if Chemours faces bankruptcy.
North American weekly chemical rail traffic rose for the week ended Sept. 5, driven by a Canadian rebound that offset Mexican declines. New Association of American Railroads data confirms sequential growth in chemical railcar volumes.
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