Prices fell in five of six segments, most notably in Chemicals and Materials due to competitive pressure. Surface Technologies was the exception, where BASF increased prices primarily due to higher precious metal prices. Currency effects burdened sales across divisions, which management attributed mainly to depreciation of the U.S. dollar, Chinese renminbi, and Indian rupee. Portfolio effects slightly dampened sales growth, largely linked to the sale of the decorative paints business.Chairman of the Board o ...