Chemical news · Three minutes a day
Tuesday, September 15, 2026
Lead Story
BASF mandates banks for planned agricultural business listingBASF has appointed global coordinators including Citi and Goldman Sachs for the potential IPO of its Agricultural Solutions unit by mid-2027. The move is part of CEO Markus Kamieth's broader restructuring plan to overhaul the German chemicals giant.
Argentina's YPF, partnering with Eni and XRG, is close to securing LNG sales contracts for a $24 billion export plant with 12 million tons annual capacity, aiming for a final investment decision in November.
Uniper agreed to sell its 20% stake in Germany’s Opal gas pipeline to Hy24, fulfilling a key EU bailout condition. This divestment aligns with Berlin’s commitment to reduce state ownership in the utility by 2028.
ICIS News Asia reports rising prices for acetone, PTA, and polyethylene driven by tight supply and crude oil surges amid Middle East tensions. Global ammonia forecasts are raised due to gas concerns, alongside India's alternative-fuel car sales surpassing petrol vehicles.
Shell, Axens, and Schneider Electric installed Europe's first industrial electric heater at a German base oil project. The technology replaces flame heaters to achieve zero direct CO2 and NOx emissions, marking a key step in refining decarbonization.
Electra Therapeutics targets a $977.6 million valuation in its U.S. IPO to fund clinical trials for its lead drug ipsoprubart and candidate ELA822 targeting immunological diseases and cancer. The company plans to raise up to $346.7 million via a Nasdaq listing.
Essar Group acquired UK petrol station operator SGN Retail for approx £400 million, expanding its network to 235 sites. The deal supports Essar Energy Transition Fuels' strategy to reach 800 outlets by 2031 with direct refinery supply.
The U.S. EPA will announce the repeal of Biden-era carbon emission limits on coal and gas power plants during the G20 energy ministers' meeting in Houston. This regulatory shift aims to boost energy production despite concerns over increased greenhouse gas emissions.
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright announced the Saudi East-West oil pipeline, targeted by drone attacks, will resume operations soon. This critical alternative to the Strait of Hormuz handles 7 million barrels daily.
Spirits company Sazerac has completed the acquisition of UK-based Au Vodka for over £300 million to strengthen its global market presence.
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