Global Economies & 2025 Outloook

Global Economies Square - The Chemical Company

Despite recent positive economic data and a mostly robust outlook, the overall European economy still faces headwinds into 2025, with persistent core inflation, unsure policy direction and a range of geopolitical conflicts impacting a robust recovery, according to the IMF. Asian competition and growing full scale war concerns are two large trends impacting Europe’s ability […]

East Coast Port Strike “Halted”; Negotiations Set Through January 2025

Port Strike Square - The Chemical Company

The unions representing the U.S. Dock Workers & Port Operators agreed to an extension into January 15, 2025 this month, as the two sides get closer to a long term agreement. A multi-day strike made the unions’ position clear, and while ports are back to operational status, the new January deadline looms to make a […]

Consumers Rethink Pre-Election Purchases

Consumers Pause Square - The Chemical Company

Consumers are reportedly holding off on spending until after the election, leading businesses and producers to closely monitor anticipated demand and production schedules. While it remains to be determined which candidate would be better or worse for demand and the economy over the coming years, the fact of the matter is consumers, and therefore businesses […]

Container Shipping Costs Drop Amid Sluggish Demand

Container Shipping Square - The Chemical Company

After a steady rise in global container shipping rates, recent months have seen a notable decline, with rates from China to the U.S. dropping by as much as 20%. The easing of rates is attributed to weakened demand and adjustments in shipping lanes in anticipation of potential disruptions from the pending East Coast port strikes […]

European Automotive Production Faces Mounting Struggles

NEW European Automotive Square1 - The Chemical Company

European automakers are facing increasing challenges as borrowing costs rise, demand for electric vehicles (EVs) weakens, and the global economy remains sluggish. Recent reports from industry groups have highlighted shrinking profit margins and declining revenue for automakers, particularly in Europe. These issues have raised concerns about the future of automotive jobs and the sector’s stability. […]