View from the Bridge - Bulletin 172
Could shale oil exploration boost Europe's oil economy? Can the lubes industry benefit from lower oil prices and what effect is solar have on the global energy markets?
Could shale oil exploration boost Europe's oil economy? Can the lubes industry benefit from lower oil prices and what effect is solar have on the global energy markets?
Although vehicle sales have slowed, China's lubricants consumption continues to grow consistently with the question of when, rather than if, the Chinese market will overtake the US.
The UNITI Conference provided thought-provoking insights into the future of the European and global automotive and lubricants industries - from multiple propulsion solutions to ultra-thin engine oils.
Mobile is the message this month, with the latest stats from China's digital world demonstrating brand value and the power of mobile data.
Is Shell's move for BG the start of more consolidation? The European economy shows signs of improvement and lubes producers need more help to simplify consumer choice.
China's latest clampdown on pollution and vehicle emissions, along with volatile domestic and export sales of cars and trucks, is creating challenges for both lubes producers and vehicle makers.
The 19th ICIS World Base Oils Conference in London provided plenty of food for thought for the lubricants industry, from swing factors to GDP growth increasing transport needs.
As China enters the Year of the Sheep falling GDP projections cause some to worry, but the lubricants sector continues to invest in innovate products
Europe, Russia and the Ukraine all hark back to the 30s, but there are positive signs in the auto industry and connectivity drives technology.
Falling oil prices are prompting lubes producers to revise product costs, but hard discounting can prove as troublesome as maintaining high prices in China's online marketplace