PODCAST: Falling chemical prices signal switch from inflation to deflation

BARCELONA (ICIS)–Falling chemical prices could be a leading indicator of a switch from inflation to deflation in the broader economy.

•  Chemical industry leading indicator for wider economy
• Spike in energy prices, supply chain disruption caused price hikes, inflation
• Poor demand and excess supply could deflate prices
• European industries introduce longer summer shutdowns
• Central bank policies encouraged too much growth in industrial capacity
• Global economy now governed by real, underlying supply and demand
• Aging populations around the world drag on demand growth

In this Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews Marco Hesselink, Brenntag’s business manager polymers for German-speaking countries (speaking in a personal capacity) 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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