BASF CEO Sees Good Growth in Asia in 2017

The transcript covers BASF's business performance and strategies in 2016 and 2017. It highlights growth in Asia, particularly in the automotive sector, and discusses cost-cutting measures that have improved earnings. The competitive landscape in the agrochemicals market is examined, along with potential acquisitions. Challenges in the oil and gas sector are addressed, including declining profits and cost management. Finally, the impact of geopolitical changes, such as those under President Trump, on global trade and BASF's operations is considered.

What was a key factor in BASF's growth in Asia, particularly in China, during 2016?

• Growth in the automotive industry

• Increased demand for electronics

• Expansion in the textile sector

• Rise in agricultural exports

How did BASF manage to achieve greater cost cuts than anticipated in 2016?

• Through disciplined cost management

• By reducing workforce

• Through mergers and acquisitions

• By increasing product prices

What is BASF's approach to dealing with the competitive environment in the agrochemicals sector?

• Exiting the agrochemicals market

• Focusing solely on organic growth

• Considering acquisitions if opportunities arise

• Increasing prices to outcompete rivals

What was a significant challenge for BASF's oil and gas business in 2016?

• High oil prices

• Declining sales and earnings

• Increased competition

• Regulatory hurdles

How does BASF plan to handle the uncertainty in oil prices in the coming years?

• By investing heavily in new oil fields

• By exiting the oil and gas sector

• By managing the business very consciously

• By increasing production significantly

What is BASF's strategy in response to potential protectionist policies under President Trump?

• Reducing exports to North America

• Increasing imports from Asia

• Becoming self-sufficient in North America

• Relocating operations to Europe

What is BASF's stance on the potential spin-off of its oil and gas business?

• They have already spun it off

• They are considering a partial spin-off

• They have no plans to spin it off

• They plan to spin it off soon