Acetylene Price, Monitor, Market analysis & Demand
North America In Q4 2023, North American Acetylene prices followed a dynamic trajectory influenced by internal and external factors. The downward trend from Q3 continued, primarily due to weakened demand from key downstream industries, especially construction. Prices reached their lowest in October, showing a 20% decrease from the Q2 peak. Towards the quarter's end, a slight uptick occurred, likely driven by seasonality and anticipation of increased early 2024 demand. Softening demand in construction, impacted by inflationary pressures and seasonal fluctuations, was a major driver of the price decline. Despite elevated calcium carbide prices, the key feedstock for acetylene, they stabilized in Q4, offering some relief to producers. Ample acetylene stocks and the broader economic slowdown in North America contributed to cautious buying behavior and lower demand. Regional price variations existed, with slightly higher prices in the Northeast and Midwest compared to the South and West...