Dow CEO on The Current Climate of Global Business

Jim Fitterling, CEO of Dow Chemical, discusses his career and the company's strategies for growth and risk management. He emphasizes the importance of long-term planning, innovation, and understanding global markets. Dow's approach to currency management and strategic partnerships is highlighted, along with the significance of having a strong team to navigate economic and political challenges.

What are the two main ways Dow Chemical achieves growth?

• By focusing solely on the domestic market

• By reducing costs and increasing prices

• Through innovation and geographic expansion

• Through mergers and acquisitions

Why is it important for Dow to consider long-term trends in their investment strategies?

• To avoid short-term losses

• To ensure stability and growth in key markets

• To reduce the number of employees

• To focus on quarterly profits

What strategic advantage does a country have if it possesses a National Oil and Gas Company?

• It has a strategic advantage in natural resources

• It can reduce its national debt

• It can attract more foreign tourists

• It can control global oil prices

How does Dow manage its currency risk?

• By investing only in US dollars

• By using a central financial house model

• By avoiding international markets

• By outsourcing financial management

What is crucial for Dow's success in managing financial and operational risks?

• Reducing the workforce

• Having a strong finance team

• Focusing on short-term gains

• Relying on automated systems

What experience do Dow's finance team members gain?

• Experience in marketing and sales

• Experience similar to working in a local bank

• Experience similar to working in international banks

• Experience in retail management

How does Dow ensure it stays ahead of market changes?

• By reacting to market changes after they occur

• By making proactive moves before the market shifts

• By reducing investment in research

• By focusing only on domestic markets