2026 Strategy Starts Now: Economic Forecasts for Chemical Executives - Ep. 227

With business leaders facing volatile headlines and uncertainty heading into 2026, understanding the real economic signals has never mattered more. Chief Economists Jeremy Bess and Patrick Luce of Stantec join host Victoria Meyer to break down the trends shaping the chemical industry, from the current state of macroeconomic headwinds and tailwinds to the impact of policy moves, interest rates, and global demand. Together, they discuss how companies can separate data from sentiment, apply scenario planning, and stress-test their outlooks in a dynamic marketplace.  Victoria, Jeremy, and Patrick explore the hard financial data leaders should be monitoring—ranging from bookings, backlogs, and billings to corporate profitability and the health of the consumer. They highlight how strategic pricing, scenario analysis, and a keen eye on the bond market can help chemical leaders build resilient plans for 2026 and beyond. The episode wraps with practical leadership advice for navigating unpredictability and maintaining confidence during uncertain times.    Victoria, Jeremy, and Patrick discuss the following: 2025–2026 Chemical Outlook: Modest growth expected and key market signals for decision-makers. Strategic planning approaches for uncertain economic conditions and scenario testing. How tariffs, taxes, and regulations in major markets impact chemicals. Data Over Hype: Focus on financial metrics (bookings, backlogs, billings) vs. market sentiment. Leading Through Uncertainty: Practical strategies for confident leadership during volatile times.   Killer Quote: "The US economy is an aircraft carrier. It does not turn on a dime. So all these signals have been manifesting throughout the course of this year suggesting modest, mild growth for 2025. And what Jeremy and I have been telling our clients to plan for is additional modest mild growth in 2026." — Patrick Luce  00:00 Chemical Summit 2025 Preview  05:08 "Planning with a Macroeconomic Focus"  10:15 "Business Growth Analysis Essentials"  13:10 2026 Economic Outlook Challenges  17:30 Plan for Contingencies, Stress Test  21:07 Rising Interest Payments: Global Impact  25:06 Strategic Pricing Amid Inflation Challenges  28:03 Focus on Hard Financial Data  31:28 Consumer Resilience Amid Economic Changes  33:02 Chemical Market's Post-Peak Adjustments  37:23 Bond Market's Impact on Mortgages  39:09 "Confidence in Informed Decisions"    Subscribe to The Chemical Show on YouTube    ***Don’t miss an episode: Subscribe to The Chemical Show on your favorite podcast player.  ***Like what you hear? Leave a rating and review. ***Want more insights? Sign up for our email list at https://www.thechemicalshow.com  Sponsored by Newry. Newry helps you uncover growth where you're built to win - fast. Visit newrycorp.com and see the Newry team at The Chemical Summit.