Episode 1144: Think Tank: Why stock markets soar yet chemicals slump

Stock markets around the world are surpassing previous highs while the chemical industry continues to be bogged down by low demand, poor profitability and rising overcapacity.  

-          Chemicals supply/demand imbalance will persist even if economy picks up

-          China, Middle East will continue to add capacity

-          China chemicals demand growth could be low or even negative

-          Stock markets dominated by technology companies

-          Valuations bloated by past era of cheap borrowing

-          Stock market bubble could burst 

-          More trade barriers likely to protect European industry
-          Demographics will continue to drag on GDP growth