OPIS Talks

OPIS TALKS ENVIRONMENTAL COMMODITIES: Learn about Brazil’s newly established carbon market and how the country plans to integrate carbon credits under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. Aloisio Melo, Brazil’s National Secretary for Climate Change, chats with OPIS Senior Editor Humberto J. Rocha about Brazil’s path toward decarbonization, its unique renewable energy profile, and the nation’s role as host of COP 30 in Belém — the first UN climate summit held in the Amazon. You’ll want to tune in if you’re following the evolution of international carbon markets, preparing for COP 30, or seeking insights into how Brazil’s approach could shape the next phase of global climate cooperation.

OPIS TALKS METALS: South Africa’s chrome and manganese ore sectors are at a historic inflection point.With President Cyril Ramaphosa announcing plans for export tariffs on both minerals, questions are mounting across the mining and global ferro alloys industry, which is dependent on South Africa for its ores.Will the proposed duty help rebuild domestic smelting capacity or risk undermining one of South Africa’s most valuable export streams?In this exclusive OPIS Talks podcast with McCloskey, Bongani Motsa, Chief Economist at the Minerals Council South Africa, joins our Research and Analysis Director Tiisetso Nkosi and Associate Director, Research & Analysis, Rohan Baid to unpack the economics, trade implications, and policy risks of this proposed intervention. From China’s dependence on South African ore to the realities of high energy costs and illegal mining, we explore what’s really at stake for South African miners and global ferro alloy smelters.

OPIS TALKS ENVIRONMENTAL COMMODITIES: In this episode, Humberto Juarez Rocha, OPIS senior editor for carbon and biodiversity, sits down with Mark Lewis—one of the first full-time carbon analysts in London and a longtime observer of carbon markets—to unpack the evolving dynamics of the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS).They explore:Why EU Allowance prices may be on the cusp of a bullish breakoutHow the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the phase-out of free allowances could reshape industrial behaviorThe growing role of speculative capitalProspects for international offset integration post-2030Global carbon market developments—from China to California to the UK ETS

OPIS TALKS ENVIRONMENTAL COMMODITIES: Learn about the emerging world of water credits and their role in the broader nature-based solutions markets of water, soil, carbon, and biodiversity. Daniel Sanchez, market maker at Nat5, talks to Humberto Juarez Rocha, OPIS senior editor for carbon and biodiversity, about how Nat5 is helping shape a future for voluntary water markets, corporate water stewardship, and ecosystem restoration – from infiltration projects in drought-stricken Chihuahua, Mexico, to pilot initiatives in France. The conversation also touches on the geopolitical importance of water, indigenous participation in nature markets, and recent EU developments around biodiversity credits.

OPIS TALKS PETROCHEMICALS: In this episode of OPIS Talks, plastics recycling expert John Jungjohann joins Xavier Cronin, senior editor of the OPIS Global Recycled Plastics Report, to dig into the key challenges around plastic recycling. They explore common misconceptions among consumers, especially the complications caused by contamination and mixed plastic types. The conversation touches on the U.S.’s slower progress compared to Europe and highlights the need for more public education. John also shares how chemical recycling could improve material quality and efficiency. Throughout the episode, they make a case for broader awareness and policy support to help move the needle on growing the U.S. plastics recycling market.

OPIS TALKS STEEL: How are pressure from U.S. tariffs and a surge in Chinese imports causing a shift in the Latin American steel industry's landscape? Could intensifying geopolitical tensions and wars in the Middle East impact Latin American steel? What is the economic outlook for Latin American steel? Are there efforts by regional steelmakers to reduce carbon emissions? In this episode of OPIS Talks, you’ll hear an interview with Ezequiel Tavernelli, executive director of Alacero, an organization that contributes to strengthening networks throughout the value chain and provides solutions for the Latin American steel industry. The interview is conducted by Dr. James Stevenson, executive director and research lead for McCloskey by OPIS, and Ranjana von Wendland, associate director, global business development, steel raw materials. Tune in for insights on how the Latin American steel sector is adapting to global headwinds and regional challenges as we explore the key factors shaping the region’s steel market and what lies ahead.Have questions or feedback? Please drop us a line at energy-marketing@opisnet.com. Please help us spread the word by sharing OPIS Talks. Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

OPIS TALKS CHEMICALS: Why has an industry that poured over a trillion dollars into new capacity over the past 25 years now shutting plants, slashing capex, and hunting for merger partners? In this episode of OPIS Talks, you’ll hear from Cornelia Schirber, VP, Consulting, for Chemical Market Analytics; Chuck Carr, VP, Consulting, for Chemical Market Analytics; and Tzyy Lok, Executive Director, Consulting, for Chemical Market Analytics. They explain the chemical downcycle, what makes the chemical industry so cyclical, and whether chemical demand is expected to continue to grow long-term. Have questions or feedback? Please drop us a line at energy-marketing@opisnet.com. Please help us spread the word by sharing OPIS Talks. Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

OPIS TALKS DOWNSTREAM FUELING: How are convenience stores adapting to evolving consumer behavior and the changing landscape of transportation fuels? How do broader economic conditions and consumer spending habits impact the performance of the energy retail sector? How has a convenience store giant achieved impressive same-store sales growth despite overall gasoline demand headwinds?In this episode of OPIS Talks, you’ll hear from Nathaniel Doddridge, senior vice president of fuel operations at Casey's. He discusses his leadership philosophies, shares perspectives on the evolution of the convenience store model, explores the complexities of fuel management, and emphasizes the importance of people in driving success. The interview is hosted by Denton Cinquegrana, chief oil analyst at OPIS, and Brandon Gormley, executive director of retail software sales and client success at OPIS. This episode is brought to you by OPIS RetailSuite, a collection of retail fuel software solutions that help retailers track and analyze key metrics for their gas stations. Have questions or feedback? Please drop us a line at energy-marketing@opisnet.com. Please help us spread the word by sharing OPIS Talks. Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

OPIS TALKS RENEWABLES: Could Canada’s Clean Fuel Regulations be a model—or a warning—for U.S. policymakers? How are U.S. tax credits like the Inflation Reduction Act reshaping the North American renewable fuels market? What happens when Canadian biodiesel and renewable diesel producers can’t compete with U.S. imports? Why are Canadian provinces starting to require "made in Canada" biofuels—and what does that mean for cross-border trade?In this episode of OPIS Talks, you’ll learn about these issues as we dive into the rapidly shifting dynamics of Canada’s renewable fuels landscape. From the real-world impacts of the Clean Fuel Regulations to the growing tension around trade and tax policy, this conversation with Fred Ghatala, president of Advanced Biofuels Canada, unpacks the opportunities—and risks—facing biofuel producers on both sides of the border. Fred and the host, Jordan Godwin, director of renewables pricing and news at OPIS, explore the domestic content requirements emerging in British Columbia, how U.S. tax credits are disrupting competitiveness, and why 2025 is a pivotal year for biofuels in Canada. Whether you're in policy, production, or just passionate about renewables, this is a must-listen for understanding where Canada's clean energy economy is headed. Fred also gives a sneak peek at what to expect from his upcoming appearance at the OPIS Canadian Carbon and Biofuels Forum in Vancouver this May. The 1st Annual OPIS Canadian Carbon & Biofuels Forum, scheduled for May 20-21, 2025, in Vancouver, will address the evolving landscape of energy pricing, economic shifts, and policy changes impacting Canada's fuel industry. Attendees will gain insights into topics such as pricing dynamics, regulatory developments, supply and demand forecasts, infrastructure growth, and the energy transition, equipping them to navigate and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Find out more here: https://www.opisnet.com/canadian-carbon-biofuels-forum/Have questions or feedback? Please drop us a line at energy-marketing@opisnet.com. Please help us spread the word by sharing OPIS Talks. Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

OPIS TALKS COAL, METALS & MINING: What’s driving the global demand for metallurgical coal and coke? Can Colombia position itself as a reliable supplier amid shifting trade dynamics? How are logistics and freight challenges shaping the future of this essential industry?In this episode of OPIS Talks, Carlos Andres Cante Puentes, Executive President of FenalCarbon, tackles these questions and the evolving landscape of coal and coke markets, with a spotlight on Colombia’s reserves, production growth, and export potential. The episode examines the impact of infrastructure limitations, freight costs, and competition from countries like Australia. The discussion also covers the effects of geopolitical shifts, tariffs, and environmental policies on global trade patterns. With insights into the ongoing tension between decarbonization goals and the need for reliable, affordable energy, this episode offers a timely look at the forces shaping the future of industrial raw materials.This interview is hosted by Dr. James Stevenson, Vice President and Research Lead, Coal, Metals, & Mining, and Ranjana von Wendland, Associate Director, Global Business Development, Steel Raw Materials. Join us for the 28th McCloskey Coal Conference of the Americas, in Cartagena, Colombia, April 22-24, 2025! Network with industry leaders, government officials and market experts while you gain critical insights into the thermal coal, metallurgical coal, metallurgical coke, and anthracite markets. Learn more: https://www.opisnet.com/mccloskey-coal-conference-americas/ ​Have questions or feedback? Please drop us a line at energy-marketing@opisnet.com. Please help us spread the word by sharing OPIS Talks. Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

OPIS TALKS RENEWABLE ENERGY: How will the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) reshape global trade? How has the EU Commission proposed to change the CBAM since it first came online in late 2023? What challenges will businesses face as potentially increasing carbon costs are imposed on imports? In this episode of OPIS Talks, Dan Maleski, CBAM lead at Redshaw Advisors, explains the purpose of CBAM, how it works, and what industries will be most affected. You’ll also learn about compliance requirements, recent policy proposals and potential changes, and the broader implications for supply chains and international competitiveness. As countries around the world consider similar measures, many are wondering about the future of carbon pricing and its implications for global markets. You'll want to tune in to this episode if you’re a business leader navigating the EU’s carbon regulations, a policymaker shaping climate strategies, or a sustainability professional seeking insights into how CBAM will impact global trade and supply chains.This interview is hosted by Humberto Juarez Rocha, OPIS senior editor covering carbon and biodiversity markets.Have questions or feedback? Please drop us a line at energy-marketing@opisnet.com. ​The OPIS Carbon Suite offers comprehensive market intelligence solutions, including policy insights, daily and forecasted prices, and robust analytics, to empower sustainability leaders, investors, and traders in navigating the evolving decarbonization economy. With services like CAMIRO, Carbon Market Reports, and Biodiversity Market Reports, OPIS provides the data and expertise needed to make informed decisions in compliance and voluntary carbon markets. Find out more: www.opisnet.com/carbonPlease help us spread the word by sharing OPIS Talks. Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

OPIS TALKS DOWNSTREAM: How is the transportation industry handling an aging workforce and the growing challenge of attracting young drivers? Is breaking outdated trucking stereotypes and embracing new technology the key? In this episode of OPIS Talks, Pete Phoebus, VP of Transportation at Cato Oil Company, describes how the industry is evolving and what Cato has done to bring in the next generation of fuel truck drivers. You’ll learn how flexible scheduling, safety incentives, and a strong company culture are all part of what helps Cato retain drivers. The interview is hosted by Keith Patterson, Director of Product Marketing at Axxis Software. If you’re in the energy or logistics space—or simply curious about the future of fuel transportation—this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.Learn more about Axxis by visiting axxispetro.com.Have questions or feedback? Please drop us a line at energy-marketing@opisnet.com. Please help us spread the word by sharing OPIS Talks. Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

OPIS TALKS PETROCHEMICALS: Why does so much plastic waste end up in landfills? Plastic recycling is a complex matter and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. In this episode of OPIS Talks, Michael Lipton, president of Arizona Pacific Plastics, talks to Xavier Cronin, senior editor of Recycled Plastics Weekly about those complexities. They explore the distinction between post-industrial and post-consumer plastics, the economic challenges of recycling, and why so much plastic waste still ends up in landfills. Lipton provides an insider's perspective on the costs, logistics, and markets that drive the recycling industry. The conversation also touches on global recycling models, including Japan’s strict waste-sorting system, and whether the U.S. can improve its plastic recycling rates. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on the real fate of the plastics you toss into your bin.Please help us spread the word by sharing OPIS Talks. Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

• OPIS TALKS DOWNSTREAM FUELING: In this episode of OPIS Talks, you'll hear from Rich Lisauskas, Art King, and Paul Cobb from Axxis, a sister company of OPIS. The discussion explores Axxis’ role in fuel supply chain management, detailing how their software solutions help clients optimize fuel purchasing, selling, and logistics. The guests highlight advancements in automation, data integration, and artificial intelligence, along with upcoming innovations aimed at improving operational efficiency in a rapidly evolving energy market. The interview is hosted by Denton Cinquegrana, chief oil analyst at OPIS, and Brandon Gormley, executive director of retail software sales and client success at OPIS.Download the Axxis software flashcard.

• OPIS TALKS DOWNSTREAM FUELING • In this episode of OPIS Talks, you'll hear from Brent Eubanks, principal consultant, and Mike Strickland, managing director from capSpire, who discuss the company's consulting approach, especially in solving challenges in the energy sector. They explain how capSpire differentiates itself by leveraging subject matter experts who deeply understand the nuances of industries like convenience store fuel retailing. They also discuss the potential impacts of recent political changes on energy policies, mergers and acquisitions, and regulatory challenges in upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors. The interview is hosted by Denton Cinquegrana, chief oil analyst at OPIS, and Brandon Gormley, executive director of retail software sales and client success at OPIS

OPIS TALKS: RENEWABLE ENERGY • In this episode of OPIS Talks, you'll hear from Megan Boutwell, president of Stillwater Associates, an energy consulting firm focused on the energy transition. Boutwell shares insights into what we might expect from the biofuels and LCFS markets in the coming months. Have questions or feedback? Please drop us a line at energy-marketing@opisnet.com. Please help us spread the word by sharing OPIS Talks. Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

• OPIS TALKS CHEMICALS: In this episode of OPIS Talks, Kaushik Mitra, Executive Director, Polyolefins, EMEA, and Anton Shenouda, Head of Middle East & Africa at Chemical Market Analytics by OPIS, discuss polyolefins market across the Middle East, including trends driving demand, sustainability and volatility challenges, and where the market might be headed.

• OPIS TALKS: SOLAR • In this episode of OPIS Talks, OPIS Sr. Editor for US Solar Colt Shaw interviews Mike Carr, Executive Director of Solar Energy Manufacturers for America Coalition (SEMA). They delve into the US solar supply chain's growth and challenges, examining the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act, trade policies, and Chinese competition. Listen and learn more about the market dynamics that are shaping the US solar industry’s trajectory.

• OPIS TALKS: PETROCHEMICALS • Acrylonitrile, a key petrochemical, has seen downturns before; however, currently, the market is in a never-seen-before state. Margins remain depressed for all regions, leading producers to cut production rates to manage inventory. Even with a slow demand recovery, global capacity continues to rise—especially with China adding new plants. This caused capacity rationalization, restructuring, and shifts in global consumption and trade patterns.In this episode of OPIS Talks, Kevin Longworth, Zengwei Yin, and David Onyekpe delve into these issues, sharing key insights and challenges in the current markets. They'll also preview what to expect at the upcoming Global Acrylonitrile & C4s Forum, Nov. 14-15, in Singapore.

• OPIS TALKS: COAL, METALS & MINING • In this episode of OPIS Talks, you’ll hear from Dr. James Stevenson, executive director and research lead for McCloskey by OPIS, and Ranjana von Wendland, associate director, global business development, steel raw materials. They explain the changing market dynamics of met coal and met coke supplies in Europe.