Core Insights - PetroChina and China Oil and Gas Pipeline Network Corp. (PipeChina) have established two gas storage companies in China this week [1] Group 1 - The formation of the gas storage companies indicates a strategic move to enhance gas storage capacity in China [1] - This initiative may reflect the growing demand for natural gas and the need for improved infrastructure to support energy security [1]

Company Developments - Bayer (BAYN) shares faced a significant decline of 4%, marking their worst trading day since August 6, reflecting ongoing investor concerns [2][9] - Ayala Corporation (AC) is strategically ending its long-term dealership partnerships with Honda (HMC) and Volkswagen (VWAGY) by the end of 2025, focusing on electric vehicles (EVs) and next-generation mobility solutions [3][9] Industry Trends - China, the world's largest crude oil importer, is expanding its strategic oil reserves by adding eleven new sites, aiming to increase storage capacity by at least 169 million barrels by 2026 to enhance energy security amid global market volatility [4][9] - Political instability in France is escalating, with calls for President Emmanuel Macron to resign following the resignation of Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, which could impact the broader economic environment [5][9] - In Japan, the Komeito party expressed significant concerns to the new Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leader, Sanae Takaichi, regarding her conservative stances, which may affect the stability of the ruling coalition [6][9]

Group 1: Industry Overview - Africa is expected to contribute approximately 12% of global liquid storage capacity additions by 2030, driven by population growth, industrialization, and economic development [1] - The region is significantly investing in storage facilities to enhance energy security and manage oil supply fluctuations [1] Group 2: Uganda's Capacity Additions - Uganda is projected to lead in liquid storage capacity additions in Africa, with the Buloba terminal expected to have a capacity of 25.2 million barrels (mbbl) [2] - The Buloba terminal is strategically located in the Wakiso district to ensure a consistent supply to the Kampala market and other major consumption centers [2] - The Uganda National Oil Company operates the Buloba terminal and holds a majority equity stake of 51% in the project [2] Group 3: Nigeria's Capacity Additions - Nigeria is anticipated to follow Uganda in liquid storage capacity additions, with Lagos expected to add 6.3 mbbl by 2030 through expansion [3] - The Dangote Oil Refinery is the operator and total equity owner of the Lagos terminal, which focuses on crude oil and petroleum products [3] - Other significant projects in Nigeria include Eghudu, Koko I, and Kula, which will also contribute to liquid storage capacity during the outlook period [3] Group 4: Ghana's Capacity Additions - Ghana ranks third in liquid storage capacity additions, with nearly 19.4 mbbl expected to be added by 2030 through new-build projects [4] - The Jomoro terminal is a key project in Ghana, expected to commence operations in 2028 and is part of the Petroleum Hub Project aimed at economic transformation [4] - Petroleum Hub Development operates the Jomoro terminal and holds total equity in the project [4]