Travel

Oil, Naphtha & Plastics Q4/2026: Industry Outlook and Thai Market Trends

Global Nickel Market Outlook (Nickel Outlook) October 2026 – 2036 SO OK TRADING | FAST | SHARP | RELIABLE | October 2, 2026 ✨ Introduction The year 2026 marks a pivotal turning point for the global nickel market — a strategic metal driving the clean energy economy and future technologies. Nickel is not only a key raw material in the stainless steel industry but also the backbone of electric vehicle (EV) batteries and advanced energy storage systems. In October, the nickel market is shifting from a state of oversupply to a more balanced and tightening market, reflecting a restructuring of the global supply chain. At the center of this transformation is Indonesia, the dominant producer shaping global price direction. ⚙️ Industry Overview Supply: Indonesia has cut mining quotas by over 30%, reducing output to 250–270 million tons in 2026 → tightening supply and raising costs. Demand: Recovery across regions: Europe +1.8% United States +0.9% Africa +26.3% Geopolitics: With North and South America’s share of production down to just 7%, the U.S. and its allies are accelerating long-term agreements to secure supply chains.

Tin: The Strategic Metal of the Digital and Green Era SO OK TRADING | October 2, 2026 In an age where technology and clean energy drive global progress, Tin (Sn) has emerged as a strategic metal vital to the world’s supply chain. From electronics and semiconductors to electric vehicles (EVs) and green energy, tin is no longer just an ordinary industrial metal—it has become the backbone of future manufacturing and innovation. With its outstanding properties—silver-white appearance, softness, high corrosion resistance, and rust-free durability—tin is widely applied across industries. Its uses range from soldering circuits, tin-plating for food and beverage cans, alloy production, and float glass manufacturing, to advanced chemical compounds and stabilizers. In 2026, the global tin market price has reached USD 53,700–54,300 per metric ton, driven by surging demand in AI and EV sectors. Analysts forecast that prices will remain elevated throughout 2027 amid a structural supply deficit, reinforcing tin’s role as a critical resource in the digital economy. Tin is no longer a conventional industrial metal—it is a precious resource of the digital era, symbolizing the transformation of the global economy toward a sustainable, technology-driven future. SO OK TRADING — FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE Your trusted partner in the non-ferrous metals market

Gold Plunges! Global Good News Turns Into Bad News for Safe Haven SO OK TRADING | 28 September 2026 ✨ Introduction Global gold prices (Gold Spot) have dropped sharply by nearly $100 per ounce, breaking below the psychological level of $4,300 and moving within the range of $4,230–$4,270. This decline reflects multiple pressures: the U.S. Federal Reserve’s (Fed) hawkish stance, surging bond yields, a stronger dollar, and crude oil prices remaining elevated. Interestingly, what was seen as “good news for the global economy” — the trade agreement between the U.S. and China — has ironically become “bad news for gold.” As market risks eased, investors shifted back into risk assets, reducing demand for safe-haven assets like gold.

Stalled Storms and Nationwide Flood Crisis – Disaster Warning 2026 SO OK TRADING | September 27, 2026 Thailand is currently facing severe heavy rainfall and widespread flooding caused by a strong low-pressure system stalled over the lower central region, including Bangkok and its metropolitan area. As a result, more than 21 provinces nationwide have already been affected. Bangkok is preparing to declare all 50 districts as disaster zones after continuous rainfall has overwhelmed the city’s drainage capacity. Although this situation is not as prolonged or devastating as the Great Flood of 2011, it has already caused widespread impacts on daily life, the economy, and transportation. Particularly, Bangkok, the central region, the eastern provinces, and the lower northeastern region are now under the highest level of alert. SO OK TRADING has compiled in-depth analysis and future outlook to provide a comprehensive overview of the situation, helping you stay informed and prepared. SO OK TRADING FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE Your Trusted Business Partner

Trade Truce & Global Tensions: US–China Summit September 2026 By SO OK TRADING | September 26, 2026 “From Trade Truce to the Fragile Balance of the Global Economy”

At the end of September 2026, global financial markets and the Thai baht are facing turbulence from multiple critical factors. The U.S. monetary tightening policy, crude oil prices surging above $100 per barrel, and continuous capital outflows from emerging markets have pushed the Thai baht down to 33.50 per U.S. dollar. Meanwhile, the meeting between the two world superpowers at the Trump–Xi Summit has become a pivotal turning point in geopolitics and the global economy. Signals of a “trade truce” and the intensifying rivalry in artificial intelligence (AI) highlight the deep interconnection between global economic dynamics and the trajectory of Thailand’s currency and capital markets. This article by SO OK TRADING provides an in‑depth analysis of the Thai baht, the Thai stock market, and the impact of the Trump–Xi Summit, while also presenting an economic outlook and key calendar events for the coming week. The goal is to equip readers with the insights needed to confidently shape business and investment strategies in a rapidly changing world.

Aluminum Can Industry 2027–2032: Advancing the Circular Economy and Emerging Growth Markets By SO OK TRADING | September 24, 2026 The global aluminum can packaging industry is entering a pivotal transformation between 2027 and 2032. Once valued primarily for convenience and low cost, aluminum cans are now becoming the cornerstone of the Circular Economy and a key driver toward Net Zero under increasingly stringent global environmental regulations. In the next 5–6 years, aluminum cans will evolve beyond being simple beverage containers. They will stand as a symbol of sustainability and innovation, expanding into premium beverage categories as well as rapidly growing new markets such as premium pet food cans, which are gaining significant traction worldwide. Thailand, as a manufacturing hub in the ASEAN region (EEC Hub), is set to play a crucial role in advancing this industry. With a highly efficient closed-loop recycling system and strong domestic producers, Thailand is well-positioned to accelerate its presence in the global market. SO OK TRADING is ready to be your trusted business partner — FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE — in building a sustainable and globally competitive future for aluminum packaging.

Global Economy Sep–Oct 2026: Navigating Geopolitical Storms and Transitioning into a New Era The global economy in September–October 2026 stands at a critical turning point in the “Post-Globalization” era. Supply chains and trade rules are being restructured amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and volatile monetary policies. The IMF and UN have revised global GDP growth forecasts down to 2.5–3.0%, reflecting a phase of “subdued expansion” that now relies heavily on new drivers such as AI and clean energy. While the world faces energy crises, inflationary pressures, and renewed interest rate hikes, Asia—particularly ASEAN and India—has emerged as the new epicenter of global growth. Thailand itself is at a crossroads of economic restructuring and is set to play a pivotal role on the global stage as host of the IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings 2026. Under the framework of the “Bangkok Blueprint,” Thailand will help shape the future of the global economy, focusing on digital transformation, AI, climate finance, and strategies for aging societies. ✨ Stay tuned for in-depth analysis and global economic insights from SO OK TRADING FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE

EV + Solar Cell + Non-Ferrous Metals: Clean Energy & Global Green Economy Outlook SO OK TRADING | 22 SEP 2026 The world is entering the era of the Green Macroeconomy, where clean energy is no longer an alternative — it’s the driving force of global transformation. From Electric Vehicles (EV) to Solar Cells, and the rising demand for Non-Ferrous Metals, these industries are now interlinked as the backbone of the new sustainable economy. China dominates the global supply chain, shaping the future of production, pricing, and technology. Meanwhile, nations worldwide are racing to adapt — investing in smart grids, renewable infrastructure, and circular energy systems that redefine how we power our lives. At SO OK TRADING, we stand at the intersection of these megatrends — connecting the world’s clean energy revolution with the strength of Thailand’s Non-Ferrous metal industry. Our commitment is simple yet powerful: FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE — delivering trusted partnerships and insights that drive the next wave of green innovation. ✨ Visit us: www.sooktrading.com

**Global Metal Price Analysis (ZINC – LEAD – ANTIMONY) and the Impact on Thai Industry SO OK TRADING | September 22, 2026** In the second half of 2026, the global base metals market is entering a “structural transition.” As the world shifts from traditional economies to the clean energy era, rising energy costs and geopolitical uncertainties are driving volatility. Zinc, Lead, and Antimony — essential raw materials for Thai industries — clearly reflect the ongoing realignment of global supply chains. SO OK TRADING has compiled in-depth insights and global price trends, analyzing their impact on Thailand’s manufacturing sector. This aims to help businesses plan strategies to navigate market volatility and the Thai baht’s depreciation expected toward the end of the year. This article explores:

Aluminum Packaging & Coil Market: Growth, Challenges, and Future Outlook SO OK TRADING | September 21, 2026 As the world moves toward sustainability and the circular economy, aluminum has emerged as the material of the future for the packaging industry. With its ability to be 100% recycled without loss of quality, aluminum meets the rising demand in the global food, beverage, and pharmaceutical sectors. The global aluminum packaging market is projected to grow from USD 66.4 billion in 2025 to USD 92.1 billion by 2033. Meanwhile, the aluminum coil market is expected to expand from USD 95.4 billion in 2026 to USD 131.2 billion by 2035, driven by sustainability, recycling, and eco-friendly production technologies. SO OK TRADING, as Thailand’s trusted aluminum business partner, is committed to delivering deep insights and global market trends to help businesses and investors identify new opportunities in this rapidly growing industry. SO OK TRADING — FAST | SHARP | RELIABLE

Non-Ferrous Scrap: From “Waste” to “Strategic Resource” Non-Ferrous Scrap is rapidly transforming from “industrial waste” into a strategic resource. Nations worldwide are competing to secure this material to drive the Circular Economy and achieve Net Zero Carbon by 2050. The demand for copper and aluminum is surging at unprecedented levels, fueled by the growth of EVs, Energy Storage Systems (ESS), and AI Data Centers — positioning scrap as a critical backbone of the new industrial era. Thailand, as the ASEAN supply chain hub, holds immense opportunities. By upgrading sorting standards and certification systems, the country can rise as a leader in Green Industry and Circular Economy.

SO OK TRADING: September 21, 2026 Website Visitors Surpass 4,000,000 Worldwide

Thai Baht & Gold Price Outlook (21–25 September 2026) By SO OK TRADING — FAST | SHARP | RELIABLE ✨ Introduction This week, global financial markets are under intense scrutiny, with several critical factors expected to directly influence the short- to medium-term outlook for both the Thai Baht and gold prices: The Federal Reserve (Fed) has raised interest rates to the 3.75–4.00% range, signaling continued monetary tightening. The US–China Summit on September 24, a historic event that could shape the future of global trade and technology. Asian economic indicators, particularly China’s Loan Prime Rate (LPR) announcement and Thailand’s August export figures, reflecting the region’s recovery momentum. Overall, the Thai Baht is expected to remain weak, pressured by a stronger US dollar driven by the Fed’s hawkish stance. Meanwhile, gold prices are likely to stay highly volatile, supported by safe-haven demand amid geopolitical uncertainties. SO OK TRADING believes this week is a crucial period for investors to closely monitor the outcome of the US–China Summit, which will be a key driver of currency trends, interest rates, and global gold prices.

Thai Durian Q4/2026 – From “King of Fruits” to Red Ocean Battlefield in China SO OK TRADING | September 19, 2026 The year 2026 marks a golden era for Thai durian exports, with China remaining the primary destination for the “King of Fruits.” In just the first seven months of this year, Thailand exported 1,005,267 tons of fresh durian to China, valued at over 124.658 billion baht — figures that highlight the strength and global appeal of Thai durian. However, as we enter the final quarter of the year (October–December), which coincides with the off-season and the tail end of the southern harvest, the market faces significant challenges. Price pressures, intensifying competition, and the rapidly shifting preferences of Chinese consumers are reshaping the landscape. From a “luxury fruit for niche consumers” to a “fruit for everyday life,” Thai durian is at a turning point. Quality, hygiene, and logistics speed have become the decisive factors for survival in the Red Ocean market, crowded with competitors from across ASEAN.

Oil Surge Shakes Global Metal Markets: MJP Q4/2026 Forecast SO OK TRADING | September 19, 2026 ✦ Introduction September 2026 marks a pivotal turning point in the global energy market as Brent crude oil prices surged to $104–113 per barrel, driven by geopolitical tensions and shipping attacks in the Middle East. This shockwave not only pushed energy costs higher but also disrupted the global metal cost structure, particularly impacting MJP Premiums and LME Aluminium Cash prices — key benchmarks for Thailand’s aluminium processing and electric vehicle (EV) industries. ✦ Context With energy costs soaring and the metal market entering a phase of “tightness,” Thai manufacturers face dual pressures from both global market dynamics and domestic cost structures. To navigate this environment, businesses must adopt proactive strategies, including risk hedging and supply chain adjustments. ✦ SO OK TRADING’s Perspective SO OK TRADING provides in‑depth analysis and survival strategies for Q4/2026, enabling Thai enterprises to safeguard margins and maintain competitiveness amid the era of expensive energy. Our insights aim to guide businesses toward sustainable growth despite global volatility.

China’s Transition to Green Aluminum From Coal-Fired Smelters to a Clean Energy Future SO OK TRADING | 18 September 2026 China, the world’s largest producer and consumer of aluminum, accounting for more than 60% of global output, is undergoing a historic transformation. Once driven by coal-based energy and mass production, the industry is now entering a new era of Green Aluminum, powered by clean energy and advanced technologies. This shift is a direct response to mounting environmental challenges and global carbon regulations such as the EU’s CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism). This transition not only reflects China’s determination to reduce carbon emissions but also signals a strategic restructuring of the global metals market, which is moving toward a Circular Economy and quality-driven production. In this article, SO OK TRADING explores: Supply control policies and the 45 million tons annual production cap The shift toward high-tech products such as EV battery foil and aerospace materials Expansion of clean energy bases in Yunnan and Sichuan The impact of CBAM and China’s investment in ASEAN Global aluminum market outlook for 2026–2027 ✨ China is redefining the meaning of “Green Aluminum” This marks a pivotal turning point that the global metals industry must closely watch.

“Tuna Transformation: Reinventing Thailand’s Tuna Industry into the Era of Smart Protein & Premium Aluminum Packaging” SO OK TRADING : 18 SEPTEMBER 2026

Thai Beer Market 2026–2035: Competition, Premiumization & Packaging Revolution SO OK TRADING | FAST • SHARP • RELIABLE | 17 SEP 2026 ✨ Introduction The Thai beer market is entering a major transformation — from the fierce rivalry between Leo (Boon Rawd Brewery) and Chang (Thai Beverage) to new forces driven by Premiumization, RTD (Ready-To-Drink), and aluminum packaging innovations that align with sustainability and modern lifestyles. With a market value of THB 1.6–2.7 trillion, accounting for nearly 70% of the country’s alcohol beverage market, Thailand’s beer industry not only reflects evolving consumer behavior but also plays a pivotal role in the national economy and packaging sector.

“Fed Raises Interest Rate 0.25% — Global Shock, Thai Impact: SO OK TRADING’s In-Depth Analysis on Non-Ferrous Metals and Thailand’s Economy”

Silicon Metal (Industrial Silicon) is the strategic raw material driving the transition to the future — from clean energy and electric vehicles to advanced electronics and AI powering the global digital economy. With a high purity level of 98–99%, Silicon Metal is recognized as the “lifeline of modern industries,” fueling both energy and high-tech sectors. Its applications span across solar cells, EVs, semiconductors, and even medical materials. As the world accelerates its shift away from fossil fuels toward a Green Economy, Silicon Metal is no longer just an ordinary metal — it is the core foundation for building a sustainable future.

Global Oil Breaks $100: Geopolitical Crisis and the Energy Transition to a New Era SO OK TRADING | 16 September 2026 ✨ Introduction In September 2026, global oil prices remain firmly above $100 per barrel, driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, pipeline attacks, and supply disruptions across several countries. The energy market continues to face significant strain, with WTI reaching $103 and Brent climbing to $107. Market attention is now focused on OPEC+ decisions and the recovery of Saudi pipelines, which may prove pivotal for oil prices in the final quarter of the year.