Paul Hodges, consultant and publisher of The pH Report, discusses the overcapacity in the chemical industry, low prices indicating weakened demand, the possibility of a soft landing in the US economy, the risks of overcapacity and debt crises in Asia, and China's potential money distribution impacting the global economy. Hodges also explores the impact of subprime mortgages on demand, concerns about the stock market rally and political risk, fluctuations in interest rates, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, and the value of strong point of view in research reports.

Paul Hodges, Chairman of New Normal Consulting and author of The pH Report, discusses the current inflation outlook and how the geopolitical landscape is driving energy and food prices. He also shares his outlook on China and emerging markets.

Nigel Davis, a member of the ICIS market development team, and Paul Hodges, chairman of New Normal Consulting, dive into the pressing issues facing the plastics industry following failed UN treaty negotiations. They discuss the critical need for effective plastic waste management and how consumer demand will shape future practices. With a shift towards localized solutions and better recycling technologies, the duo emphasizes reconnecting chemical companies with brands and consumers to move beyond the current recycling crisis.

John Richardson, a member of ICIS's market development team, and Paul Hodges, chairman of New Normal Consulting, dive into the upcoming boom in Saudi Aramco's liquids-to-chemicals projects. They highlight how this initiative aims to transform massive amounts of crude oil into chemicals by 2030. With escalating capacities, they discuss the looming global oversupply, and how the demand for petrochemicals might not keep pace. The duo explores the implications for market balance and the necessity for closures to stabilize the industry.

In a compelling discussion, Paul Hodges, Chairman of New Normal Consulting and author of the pH Report, dives into the transformative effects of rising debt and an aging baby boomer population on global markets. He explores how these demographic shifts will reshape economic dynamics and create new opportunities, particularly in service-oriented consumption. Hodges also touches on the implications of political changes and the need for resilient investment strategies, urging listeners to adapt to navigate this evolving economic landscape.