PODCAST: Negative Q4 margins and falling stock markets point to tougher year ahead

BARCELONA (ICIS)–Chemical margins fell into negative territory for many products late in 2021, signalling a tough start to 2022, while falling stock markets also signal risks for the year ahead.

• Stock market bubble may burst
• Demand for chemicals would fall as investors lose money
• Tighter monetary policy could lead to more corporate bankruptcies
• Negative fourth-quarter chemical margins point to tougher 2022
• Rising chemical prices in January show higher costs can be pushed through
• Global binding treaty on plastic waste is needed
• Chemical companies must bear cost of collection, recycling

In this Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews ICIS Insight Editor Nigel Davis, ICIS senior consultant Asia John Richardson and Paul Hodges, chairman of New Normal Consulting.

Editor’s note: This podcast is an opinion piece. The views expressed are those of the presenter and interviewees, and do not necessarily represent those of ICIS.

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Read Paul Hodges and John Richardson’s ICIS blogs.