Stepan’s 4Q24 results showcased a mix of operational headwinds and positive momentum in key markets. While SCL faced increased costs related to preoperating expenses at its new Pasadena facility of $4.4M and a one-time tax reserve in Latin America of $2.9M, it continued to benefit from strong demand in select segments. The Surfactants segment demonstrated resilience, with notable volume growth in Agricultural, Oilfield, and Construction & Industrial Solutions markets. However, weak consumer product demand and continued softness in Polymers offset some of these gains. North American and European agricultural volumes fell below expectations, while Latin America, particularly Brazil and Mexico, outperformed. Despite a less favorable product mix, global margins remained stable, supported by a 9% increase in Surfactant operating income. Looking ahead, Stepan remains focused on margin recovery and volume growth, particularly with its alkoxylation expansion in Pasadena.