The world’s most successful investor, Warren Buffett, has been selling his shares. Apple was once half of his equity portfolio. But over the past year, he has sold 2/3rds of his holding. And Buffett doesn’t normally sell shares when he thinks the company will do well.
Chemicals and the Economy
Chemicals must respond to demographic destiny
Demographic changes are now transforming the nature of demand in chemicals and other industries. Far-sighted companies around the world are already adapting their strategies for success in today’s New Normal.
The polls may be close, but normal ‘polling error’ means Harris or Trump could still win by a landslide
Voter enthusiasm is usually key to election victory. And it is clear that Trump’s focus on immigration is enthusing many voters. But logic suggests that Kamala Harris’ focus on women’s reproductive rights makes her best placed to win, potentially with a larger majority than the polls suggest.
NVIDIA moves to new highs, while nearly half of major US companies have no earnings
Markets are finally rediscovering their core role of price discovery. The US 10-year rate has risen 0.5% since the Fed cut its rate by 0.5%. And so the clock is now ticking for the biggest stock market bubble of our lifetimes.
China’s cheap, well-made, Electric Vehicles take centre stage at Paris Motor Show
2025 is therefore likely to be a make-or-break year for many European automakers. Chinese automakers can already export profitably into Europe, despite the new tariffs. And they will soon be opening European plants to avoid the tariffs altogether
Chemicals industry starts to focus on Reinvention options at Berlin conference
The key is to rethink the business and become demand-led. And the good news is that companies are now starting to explore this option.
Middle East and Ukraine Wars, US election and China’s slowdown threaten ‘October surprise’ for markets
The real “October surprise” for markets might be to find out that central banks are powerless against today’s major geopolitical risks.
Deflation risks rise as OPEC aims to regain market share and cut oil prices
Oil market developments need very careful attention. If prices do now fall below $50/bbl, then central banks will likely rush to make major cuts in interest rates. And that will make deflation even more likely.
China’s economy risks heading into recession as Producer Prices enter deflation
China’s problems are spreading to the rest of the world. Not only is it exporting deflation, as its Producer Prices fall. But also, and understandably, consumer countries are introducing trade barriers to protect their own industries
OPEC+ risks losing control of oil markets
Oil traders have built a record bearish position in oil futures, as they expect consumption growth to stay weak. So it would be no surprise at all to see prices fall towards the $50/bbl level.
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