Asia
In Asia, Octene prices in the second half of 2024 moved in a fluctuating pattern, closely linked to the changing feedstock ethylene market. At first, prices stayed fairly steady because supply and demand for ethylene were balanced, and downstream industries were running without major disruptions.
However, conditions shifted later in the period. Weak demand for several ethylene-based products, including resins and plastics, pushed ethylene prices down, which added downward pressure on Octene as well. Large cargo availability and slow buying interest also created a softer market sentiment.
At the same time, some regional plant shutdowns limited ethylene supply in certain areas, preventing prices from falling too sharply. In India, the market felt slightly stronger toward the end of the period as domestic demand improved, giving mild support to Octene values. Overall, Asia showed a stable to soft trend driven mainly by uneven ethylene fundamentals.
Europe
In Europe, Octene prices in H2’24 followed the region’s weaker ethylene conditions. The market was weighed down by slow industrial activity, high inventories, and muted confidence among buyers. Even when feedstock costs increased at certain points because of firmer crude and naphtha markets, buyers were hesitant to accept higher offers. This kept Octene prices under pressure.
The overall sentiment stayed soft as producers reduced operating rates to prevent further oversupply. Support from specialty and packaging sectors helped balance the market slightly, but not enough to change the general downward tone.
North America
North America saw a more divided trend during this period. Early in H2, Octene prices dipped as ethylene supply was high and demand stayed slow. But the market changed direction later when several unplanned outages tightened ethylene availability.
Weather-related disruptions and increased export movement added upward pressure. This helped Octene prices recover after a soft start, although demand from downstream plastic and chemical producers remained steady rather than strong.