Chemical news · Three minutes a day
Monday, October 19, 2026
Lead Story
China Launches New Hydrogen Energy Comprehensive Pilot Program with Central Funding SupportChina's MIIT, Ministry of Finance, and NDRC launched a 4-year hydrogen energy pilot across five city clusters, focusing on technology, industrial projects, fuel cells, and infrastructure funded by central finance.
Woodside Energy paused pre-commissioning at its 98% complete Scarborough natural gas project after Greenpeace protesters boarded the platform. The company targets first LNG cargo delivery in the fourth quarter despite the avoidable disruption.
Venezuela aims to secure nearly $76 billion in oil and gas investment over five years to revive production, per Acting President Delcy Rodríguez. Major firms like Chevron are involved, though infrastructure and political challenges remain significant obstacles.
Woodside's Scarborough natural gas project operations remain paused after Greenpeace activists scaled the floating production unit off Western Australia. The environmental group cited concerns over reef impacts, prompting an investigation by Australian authorities into the unauthorized access.
Prime Minister Mark Carney urged Albertans to reject a separation referendum, citing sovereignty risks and trade tensions. The vote impacts Canada's vast oil reserves and critical energy policies, including pipeline negotiations.
Vontobel Holding Ltd. reduced its stake in Sherwin-Williams by 83.8% in Q3, while analysts maintain a Moderate Buy rating with a $382 price target following earnings beats.
Assenagon Asset Management increased its stake in DuPont de Nemours by 675.9% in Q3, acquiring 377,661 shares valued at $56.3 million, while analysts maintain a Moderate Buy consensus.
Birch Hill Investment Advisors LLC acquired 3,950 shares of Linde PLC valued at approximately $1.875 million. The company continues to expand into carbon capture and hydrogen infrastructure while reporting strong quarterly financial performance.
PineStone Asset Management Inc. increased its stake in Linde PLC by 5.3% in Q3, acquiring 41,024 shares valued at $384.9 million. Analysts maintain a 'Buy' rating with a price target of $547.10.
PineStone Asset Management reduced its stake in Sherwin-Williams by 2.5% in Q3, selling 39,720 shares while maintaining a $493 million holding. Analysts maintain a Moderate Buy rating following strong earnings and positive fiscal 2026 EPS guidance.
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