The global recyclable polyethylene-based laminates market is projected to grow from USD 2.5 billion in 2025 to USD 5.92 billion by 2035 at a 9.0% CAGR. Growth is driven by stricter packaging regulations, corporate sustainability commitments, and technological advancements in mono-material PE structures. Europe currently leads the market, while Asia-Pacific is expected to grow fastest. Major companies are investing in high-barrier mono-PE films and recycled content integration.

The global certified-circular polyethylene (PE) market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11% from USD 1.85 billion in 2026 to USD 4.73 billion by 2035, driven by stricter sustainability regulations, corporate ESG commitments, advancements in chemical recycling technologies, and increasing demand for eco-friendly packaging. Asia-Pacific leads the market while North America is the fastest-growing region. Major investments from petrochemical companies and strategic partnerships are accelerating market adoption across packaging, e-commerce, and consumer goods sectors.

The global defoamers market, valued at USD 3.96 billion in 2025, is projected to reach USD 5.84 billion by 2035 with a CAGR of 5.11%. Asia Pacific dominates with 39% market share, while silicone-based defoamers lead by type. Growth is driven by stringent environmental regulations, industrial expansion, and technological advancements, with major players investing in sustainable and bio-based formulations.

Dow Inc (NYSE:DOW) has declared a quarterly dividend of 35 cents per share, payable on March 13, 2026, to shareholders of record as of February 27, 2026. This marks the 458th consecutive dividend paid by the company or its affiliates since 1912.

The global waterproofing chemicals market is projected to grow from USD 8.07 billion in 2025 to USD 15.77 billion by 2035 at a CAGR of 6.93%, driven by rapid urbanization, infrastructure development, and increased demand for durable buildings. The U.S. market specifically is expected to grow from USD 1.37 billion to USD 2.56 billion by 2035. Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing region with a 9.16% CAGR, while membranes and polymer-based waterproofing technologies dominate the market.

The global petrochemical market is valued at USD 743.50 billion in 2026 and is projected to reach USD 1.25 trillion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 6.03%. Growth is driven by rapid urbanization, expanding construction and automotive sectors, rising demand for plastics and synthetic fibers, and increased use of lightweight materials. Asia Pacific dominates with 52.14% market share, while ethylene leads product segments at 40.6% market revenue.

The global advanced recycled materials (ARM) in packaging market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.1% from 2026 to 2035, driven by stringent environmental regulations, corporate sustainability goals, and increased demand for rigid packaging. Europe currently leads the market with Germany as a key player, while Asia-Pacific, particularly China, represents the fastest-growing region. Recycled paper and cardboard dominate by material type, while corrugated and paperboard packaging lead by packaging type, with food and beverage as the largest end-use industry.

The global plastic compounding market, valued at USD 77.95 billion in 2025, is expected to grow to USD 159.91 billion by 2035 at a CAGR of 7.45%. Asia Pacific dominates with 47.55% market share, driven by industrialization and manufacturing expansion. Key growth drivers include decarbonization mandates, rising demand for recycled feedstocks, and expansion in automotive and packaging applications. Europe is anticipated to experience significant growth due to advanced manufacturing and sustainability focus.

The global automotive adhesives and sealants market is projected to grow from USD 7.26 billion in 2025 to USD 13.18 billion by 2035, at a CAGR of 6.9%. Growth is driven by increased vehicle production, demand for lightweight materials, electric vehicle adoption, and stricter fuel efficiency regulations. Polyurethane-based adhesives dominate the market, with North America leading and Asia Pacific showing the fastest growth.

Dow and LyondellBasell, two chemical giants hit hard by a five-year industry downturn, are emerging as potential turnaround plays for 2026. Both stocks plummeted 41.7% in 2025 but have rebounded over 15% year-to-date. With yields of 5% and 10.9% respectively, they offer attractive passive income opportunities as cost-cutting measures and lower interest rates could drive recovery, though risks remain given weak free cash flow support for dividends.

Dow Inc. reported Q4 2025 results with an adjusted loss of 34 cents per share (beating estimates) but revenue fell 9% YoY to $9.46 billion. The company launched its 'Transform to Outperform' initiative targeting $2 billion in operating EBITDA improvements through productivity gains and growth, with $1.1-$1.5 billion in one-time costs including severance for approximately 4,500 roles. Shares fell 4.66% following the announcement.

The global VAE market is projected to grow from USD 2.39 billion in 2025 to USD 3.38 billion by 2031 at a CAGR of 5.95%, driven by demand for low-VOC formulations, urbanization, and sustainable packaging. However, the market faces headwinds from economic instability and cyclical construction activity, particularly in Europe where construction output is expected to contract.