The Inaugural OPIS Global LPG Conference Agenda

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Tuesday, November 5, 2024

7:30 am
Registration, Check-in, and Welcome Refreshments

Session 1: Global LPG Drivers

8:30 am
Welcome and Opening Remarks

Carlo Barrasa, Chemical Market Analytics by OPIS


8:40 am
Global Economy and Implications to Energy

The global economy is at a crucial point, affecting the energy sector significantly. As geopolitical tensions change trade dynamics and economic policies evolve, the energy landscape faces challenges and opportunities. Due to varying economic recoveries and slow growth in different regions, shifts in demand make energy planning and investments more complex. This recognized expert will explore how global economic trends are shaping energy markets. This dynamic talk will address the balance between traditional fossil fuels and renewable energy, and how supply chain disruptions impact energy security.


9:10 am
Trends in Global Oil, Gas, & Refining

Moderated by Carlo Barrasa, Chemical Market Analytics by OPIS

Jamie Brito, Chemical Market Analytics by OPIS,  Dan Wilson, Energy Transfer, Josh Eiermann, U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)

The global oil, gas, and refining industries are navigating a landscape shaped by diverse and interconnected trends. Stakeholders face complex challenges and opportunities from fluctuating energy demand driven by economic recoveries and geopolitical tensions to evolving regulatory frameworks and technological innovations. This panel discussion will delve into the critical trends shaping the industry and explore the implications of shifting global energy consumption patterns, the impact of geopolitical dynamics on the energy sector, and energy transition initiatives.


9:55 am
The Triumphs and Perils of Being a Low-Cost Ethylene Producer

Anna Maldonado, Petrochem Wire by OPIS

Just 20 years ago, there were no new petrochemical complexes being built or planned in the US. The BASF/Total complex at Port Arthur, Texas was the only new investment the Gulf had seen in some time, and it was banking on butane and heavier feedstocks to fuel its olefins profitability. Plans for LNG import terminals were still in play. Fast forward to 10 years ago and every petrochemical major in the US was furiously on its way to building and expanding its olefins and derivative presence. The game changer was cost, as we all know.

Looking back at what a decade as the lowest-cost olefins producer on earth has meant for the US industry and its place in the global marketplace also reveals what pitfalls could be ahead as the zeal to supply the world continues to draw on US assets and resources, which will eventually affect prices in their own right. Join one of the industry’s most recognized experts as she takes a deep dive into the LPG trends that changed the US chemical markets.


10:10 am
LPG and Olefins: The Symphony of Energy Harmonics

Pablo Giorgi, Chemical Market Analytics by OPIS

In the grand orchestra of the global olefins industry, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), is tuning up. This rapidly evolving energy symphony has played a significant role for LPG, orchestrating the future of olefin production into a new melody. The composition is marked by LPG’s growing utilization as a feedstock in steam cracking processes, as well as on-purpose olefins production, its notes resonating with its abundance, cost-effectiveness, and a softer echo on the environment. The rising prominence of propane and butane, the twin harmonics in the LPG ensemble, is making its mark in the production of ethylene and propylene. Innovations in process technologies are the conductors, enabling greater flexibility and efficiency in this energy symphony. Finally, this review offers a glimpse into the future composition for LPG-based olefin production, considering factors such as the global energy transition, policy developments, chemical demand, feedstock availability, and advancements in cracking technologies.


10:25 am
Q&A

Moderated by Carlo Barrasa, Chemical Market Analytics by OPIS


10:35 am
Networking Break

(Available for sponsorship)


Session 2: Global LPG Landscape

11:05 am
Keynote: Status of the LPG Industry

Rob Donaldson, Targa Resources

An industry perspective on the current landscape of the LPG market while outlining challenges and opportunities on the horizon. Hear insight into the role and ongoing positioning of the United States in supplying the world with LPG, the challenges of building new infrastructure in the United States during the energy transition, and headwinds and tailwinds of US production.


11:30 am
Hot Issues in LPG

Adrian Calcaneo, Chemical Market Analytics by OPIS

The LPG industry is integral to the global energy landscape, serving a range of sectors from residential heating to industrial applications. This presentation will examine the distribution of LPG production, emphasizing key regions and the factors influencing supply. Shifting the focus to demand, the discussion will delve into evolving consumption patterns driven by economic growth, regulatory frameworks, and advancements in LPG technology. Furthermore, the interplay between supply and demand dynamics will be analyzed, exploring how market forces, geopolitical factors, and environmental considerations influence pricing strategies and trade flows within the global LPG market.


12:00 pm
Q&A

Moderated by Diane Miller, OPIS


12:15 pm
Networking Lunch

(Available for sponsorship)


Session 3: Market Impacts – Infrastructure & Trade

In a rapidly evolving world, global issues, trends, and projects play pivotal roles in shaping industries, economies, and societies. This discussion will provide a comprehensive exploration of the most pressing issues facing the global LPG landscape today. From geopolitical shifts and environmental challenges to technological innovations and infrastructural projects, the discussion will dissect the interconnected factors influencing global dynamics.

1:45  pm
Trade Outlook

2:05 pm
VLGC Shipping Market Update & Outlook

Mia Willoch, Fearnleys

A view into the VLGC shipping market, including supply & demand dynamics, the current and future fleet as well as key trends shaping the LPG shipping industry.


2:25 pm
Infrastructure Outlook

2:45 pm
Q&A

Moderated by Adrian Calcaneo, Chemical Market Analytics by OPIS


3:00 pm
Networking Break

(Available for sponsorship)


Session 4: Regional LPG Markets

The dynamics of regional LPG markets play a crucial role in shaping energy landscapes and economic activities across different parts of the world. The presentations in Sessions 3 and 4 will showcase the unique characteristics and challenges of differing and unique regional LPG markets, highlighting key factors influencing supply, demand, and pricing dynamics.

3:30 pm
Latin America Market Outlook

Fabricio Duarte, AIGLP (Ibero-American Liquid Petroleum Gas Association)


3:50 pm
Mexico Market Outlook

Carlos Serrano, Amexgas


4:10 pm
India  Market Outlook

Manish Sejwal, Rystad Energy


4:30 pm
Q&A

Moderated by Adrian Calcaneo, Chemical Market Analytics by OPIS


4:45 pm
Closing Remarks/Day Concludes

4:45 pm
“World of LPG” Evening Cocktail Reception

(Available for sponsorship)

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Wednesday, November 6, 2024

7:30 am
Registration and Welcome Refreshments

Session 5: LPG Pricing and Trade

8:15 am
Welcome Remarks

Carlo Barrasa, Chemical Market Analytics by OPIS


8:25 am
Global LPG Pricing

Adrian Calcaneo, Chemical Market Analytics by OPIS

Understanding global pricing trends is crucial for stakeholders across various industries and markets. This presentation will delve into the global factors influencing LPG pricing dynamics while emphasizing market fundamentals, production, demand, freight, and other relevant factors. It will analyze the drivers behind price fluctuations, including supply-demand dynamics, geopolitical tensions, and regulatory changes. Additionally, a price forecast will be presented to provide insight into future trends and considerations.


8:50 am
Benchmark Methodology

Ben Scriber, OPIS

For all active Mont Belvieu LPG physical or financial market participants, or any players with established presence in the upstream, midstream or downstream spaces, it’s crucial to understand the methodology behind it pricing it all. OPIS is the globally benchmarked price reporting agency (PRA) for nearly 30 physical LPG and petrochemical products, and our methodology guides us in being able to provide fair and transparent physical spot assessments to our subscribers. This presentation details the role pricing and benchmarking play in ensuring efficient and profitable business operations.


9:10 am
Hedging and Risk Management

Ryan Murphy, ICE (Intercontinental Exchange)

Building on the OPIS physical spot market assessments it’s strongly encouraged to “insure” your positions or book as best you can through hedging. Learn more about this invaluable business tool and the various ways it assists in managing your upside and minimizing your downside.


9:30 am
Futures and Financials Tied to Spot

JD Buss, Twin Feathers

Billions of dollars of open interest in the futures and financial markets are tied to the OPIS physical spot month to date averages. Take a dive into these paper markets and the platforms that serve them to better understand their relationship to the OPIS LPG benchmarked physical market.


9:50 am
Q&A

Moderated by Kathy Hall, OPIS


10:05 am
Trade Dynamics

Moderated by Nicola Williams, OPIS

Scott Gray, Snapper Creek Energy, David Herr, BW LPG Product Services and Ron Nissimov, OPIS

Trade dynamics are fundamental to the global economy, influencing market stability, economic growth, and geopolitical relationships. This panel will explore the intricate interplay of trade dynamics across different regions and industries. Factors to be examined include driving international trade, including supply chains, tariffs, trade agreements, and technological advancements and discussing the impact of global economic trends, political developments, and regulatory frameworks on trade flows and patterns.


10:50 am
Networking Break

(Available for sponsorship)


Session 6: LPG Market Dynamics and Trends

11:25 am
Waterborne Shipping

LPG has several unique properties that make it suitable for waterborne vessels, including clean handling and efficient burning. This presentation will highlight the advantages of using LPG as a fuel source and the challenges around safety and cost.


11:45 am
The Global View of LPG: Energy Anywhere

Cinch Munson, World Liquid Gas Association

Over 3 billion people around the world rely on Liquid Gas, including LPG, propane, butane, and dimethyl ether, and renewable Liquid Gas (rLG) for energy. With a vast, agile, and resilient supply chain that is already delivering energy to the hardest to reach customers, the global Liquid Gas industry will ensure that no one is left behind in the energy transition while helping countries, communities, industries, and businesses reach their environmental and operational targets. We’ll look at how the global industry is helping ensure a just energy transition for all.


12:o5 pm
Autogas

Worldwide interest in renewable energy sources is gathering momentum and the sales of electric vehicles (EVs) has significantly increased. However, EVs are not the solution for all countries and regions. Autogas as a transport fuel, already plays a key role in reducing emissions and improving air quality. As its unique qualities make it an available and viable alternative to electrification for a part of the vehicle fleet. This presentation will explore autogas in further detail and current and future usage trends as an alternative fuel.


12:25 pm
Q&A

Moderated by Adrian Calcaneo, Chemical Market Analytics by OPIS


12:40 pm
Conference concludes

12:45  pm
Networking Lunch

(Available for sponsorship)

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