Core Viewpoint - BASF and IFF have formed a strategic partnership to accelerate the development of IFF's Designed Enzymatic Biomaterials™ (DEB) platform, focusing on high-performance, sustainable enzyme and bio-based polymer solutions for various applications, including fabric care, personal care, and industrial cleaning [2][6]. Group 1: Technological Collaboration - The DEB platform, launched in September, aims to commercialize unique polysaccharides that mimic natural components, replacing non-degradable ingredients in laundry formulations with bio-based solutions [5][6]. - The collaboration will expand the application of DEB technology into personal care, fabric washing, and industrial cleaning sectors [6]. Group 2: Innovation in Raw Materials Driven by Biotechnology - Enzymes are increasingly used in beauty and cleaning products, enhancing performance while reducing reliance on chemical ingredients, aligning with consumer demand for natural and eco-friendly products [6][7]. - In the beauty sector, enzymes facilitate biochemical reactions that improve skin conditions, with applications in exfoliation, antioxidant effects, anti-inflammation, whitening, and enhancing moisture retention [6][7]. Group 3: Market Trends and Growth - The anti-aging cosmetics market in China is projected to reach CNY 307.57 billion in 2024, growing by 17.2% year-on-year, while the whitening cosmetics market is expected to reach CNY 106.92 billion, with a growth rate of 6.0% [7]. - Recent advancements in biotechnology have led to the introduction of new bio-based raw materials, such as BASF's Verdessence Maize and Evonik's TEGOSOFT BC MB emulsifier, which significantly reduce carbon footprints compared to traditional chemical processes [9].

Group 1: Product Launch and Innovation - BASF SE has launched three new natural-based products for personal care: Verdessence Maize, Lamesoft OP Plus, and Dehyton PK45 GA/RA [1][2] - Verdessence Maize is a plant-based styling polymer made from renewable feedstocks, offering performance comparable to synthetic polymers [3] - Lamesoft OP Plus is a biodegradable opacifier dispersion that enhances the appearance of formulations, while Dehyton PK45 GA/RA is a betaine derived from Rainforest Alliance Certified coconut oil, suitable for shampoos and cleansers [3] Group 2: Market Position and Performance - BASF's focus on biodegradable solutions aims to capture the conscious consumer market in the personal care sector [3] - The company's stock has declined by 18.4% over the past year, slightly worse than the industry average decline of 17.1% [4] - BASF currently holds a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold), with better-ranked stocks in the Basic Materials sector including Ingevity Corporation, Axalta Coating Systems, and Carpenter Technology Corporation [5]