INSIGHT: 2017 in perspective-low growth and ‘flashing red lights’

摘要

LONDON (ICIS)--Rushing to the year end chemical producers are understandably concerned about 2017 and the global geo-political and energy events that could derail current strategies. But chemical markets are functioning reasonably well. The lower oil price continues to buoy the financial performance of those cracking naphtha and other high energy consumers. The shale gas-based competitive advantage makes the US the best place to invest for most in the industry even though ethane prices have doubled over the past year.