In October 2024, the prices for C10 solvent experienced a strong upward trend in the German market, fueled by a complex interplay of economic factors, positive demand and supply chain shifts. The cost of C10 solvent surged by approximately 3.3%, reflecting its growing demand across various industries, particularly in the paints and coatings sector.

The paints and coatings industry relies heavily on C10 solvent, driven by robust activities in the automotive sector. As the automotive industry recovers, the demand for high-performance products, especially industrial solvents used in cleaning, degreasing, and manufacturing processes, has surged. This resurgence in automotive production and related activities continues to support the rising demand for C10 solvent. In October, new car sales in Germany saw a slight increase, marking a 6% year-over-year rise. The KBA federal transport authority reported that 231,992 new cars were registered, the first increase since June 2024, with a notable 10% uptick in commercial vehicle sales. However, private car registrations fell by 2.5%, while sales of battery-powered electric vehicles (EVs) declined by about 5%, bringing EV registrations down to around 15% of total new registrations, below the 2023 average of 18%.

The initial rise in crude prices was primarily due to heightened geopolitical tensions, such as the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, which spurred fears of supply disruptions. Additionally, demand from China surged as new economic stimulus measures encouraged oil consumption. The U.S. Federal Reserve’s recent interest rate cuts also stimulated demand, while OPEC+'s decision to limit production in October added constraints to the global supply chain. These developments in the crude oil market had a direct impact on the cost of C10 solvent, as rising oil prices increased the production costs of this essential industrial solvent.

In parallel, Germany’s inflation rate, as projected by Destatis (Federal Statistical Office), reached 2.0% in October 2024, with consumer prices increasing by 0.4% from the previous month. The higher consumer price index (CPI) has had an amplifying effect on C10 solvent prices, contributing to the overall inflationary pressure that the market faced. Higher inflation has not only raised production costs but has also impacted consumer spending, intensifying the upward price trend for C10 solvent.

Supply chain challenges in October further supported this bullish trend. A three-day strike at key U.S. East and Gulf Coast ports disrupted European shipping routes, worsening the already existing port congestion and severely limiting Trans-Atlantic shipping capacity. Additionally, seasonal low water levels on Germany’s Rhine River hindered container movement, affecting the supply chain dynamics in Europe. These logistical issues have led to limited availability of C10 solvent, thereby supporting the price increase.

Looking forward, analysts anticipates that C10 solvent prices may continue on an upward trajectory in the coming months. Demand from the downstream markets may remain positive, and uncertainties in the global crude oil market are likely to keep supply tight. With continued positive demand from industries such as automotive, paints, and coatings, C10 solvent prices are expected to maintain their bullish stance.