Bank of America has downgraded its ratings for three major US chemical companies, citing concerns that recent share price gains may not be sustainable.
The investment bank lowered Dow Inc (NYSE:DOW) and LyondellBasell Industries NV (NYSE:LYB) to ‘Underperform,’ while Westlake Chemical (NYSE:WLK) was downgraded to ‘Neutral.’
The move comes after a significant year-to-date rally, with stock prices for the companies rising 60% to 80%.
Bank of America noted that the recent price gains were partly driven by market factors linked to the ongoing conflict in Iran, which it described as “unsustainable tailwinds.”
The analysts believe that as markets normalize, fundamentals, including oversupply and downward pressure on petrochemical prices, are likely to come back into focus, potentially weighing on shares.
Despite the downgrades, the bank has raised earnings forecasts for all three companies to reflect current market conditions and a higher energy price backdrop.
Price targets were also adjusted: LYB’s target increased to $68 from $55, DOW’s to $35 from $31, and WLK’s to $119 from $115.
LYB traded hands at $78 on Monday afternoon, while DOW shares were at $41, and WLK was at $118.
The bank highlighted that while near-term profits may remain elevated due to ongoing market dislocations, investor attention is expected to shift toward more “normal” earnings profiles by 2027 and 2028.
The analysts added that any resolution of regional conflicts without structural changes in capacity could lead to global oversupply, presenting challenges for sustained earnings growth.
