Basic Materials Roundup: Market Talk

The latest Market Talks covering Basic Materials. Published exclusively on Dow Jones Newswires at 4:20 ET, 12:20 ET and 16:50 ET.

0723 GMT – Brenntag could profit from fully separating its two main divisions, Citi analysts say in a research note following 1Q results. “The case for a full separation of Essentials and Specialties remains compelling, we think, as it appears that pure-play operators tend to perform better, grow faster and deliver higher returns,” Citi says. The German chemicals company’s 1Q performance was solid but the specialties division showed relative underperformance, according to the analysts. The company plans a strategy update in fall. Brenntag trades 0.4% lower at EUR74.58. (sarah.sloat@wsj.com)