Chemicals & plastics

2007 results were excellent and analysts see a better year ahead.

Increased financing costs cut the company’s consolidated profit.

Europe still represented over a third of the company's sales in 2007.

The move follows the signing of a potash supply agreement between India and Russia.

The company is seen benefitting from rising potash and phosphate prices.

Merrill worries about higher raw material costs; Citi notes Makhteshim has "problems managing margins."

In January, the company cut its guidance because of the shekel's appreciation and rising raw material and energy costs.

Main roads in the area were also closed.

Citi sees opportunity at Makhteshim from rising crop prices worldwide.

GW director Hartwig told "Bloomberg" that rising potash prices made the mine attractive to buyers again.

Analysts at Clal Finance Batucha and IBI believe the increase in potash and phosphate prices worldwide could boost the company's bottom line.

A contractor broke a pipe carrying toxic waste from the company's factory in Beersheva to Ramat Hovav.

The Histadrut wants the CEO to confirm that the controlling shareholder will not sell the company.

This is Carmel Olefin's first acquisition under its strategy to expand internationally.

Potash Corp.'s investments in Israel Chemicals, Jordan's Arab Potash Co., and Chile's SQM contributed $28.6 million to its fourth quarter profit.

BPC will sell potash at $500/ton to Brazil, and Canpotex will sell potash to Southeast Asia at $525/ton.