Toluene-based chemical production margins shrank week on week as gains in toluene outpaced gains in benzene.
US Mobil selective toluene disproportionation margins fell roughly $23.50 week on week to close Friday at $55.67/mt.
Toluene disproportionation margins fell just under $37 to finish Friday's session at $68.41/mt. Hydrodealkylation margins remained in negative territory, shedding $19.53 to close at minus $24.33/mt.
The declines were attributed to stronger toluene prices, which were assessed Friday at 217 cents/gal FOB USG, with trades heard at that level. August spot toluene rose 7 cents week on week, supported by stronger blend values. Toluene's blend value was estimated at near 220 cents/gal as of close of business Friday.
Prices softened as spot benzene, which heavily impacts margins, posted more muted gains. August DDP benzene prices rose 2 cents week on week, assessed Friday at 252 cents/gal.
In energy, NYMEX September RBOB futures softened week on week, falling roughly 3.6 cents to finish Friday at 161.30 cents/gal.
