Group 1 - BASF SE entered into a long-term agreement with AltaGas Ltd. to secure butane supply for its production in Asia, with the deal involving procurement through the Ridley Island Energy Export Facility, expected to be completed by the end of 2026 [1][2][8] - The agreement allows BASF to source competitive and reliable butane from Western Canada, diversifying its cracker feedstock portfolio in the Asia Pacific and enhancing shipping reliability [2][8] - AltaGas benefits from the agreement by reducing export platform risk and adding a high-quality customer to its base of over 70 Canadian producers and Asian customers [3][8] Group 2 - BASF's stock has increased by 15% over the past year, contrasting with a 13% decline in the industry [5] - BASF currently holds a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold), while other companies in the Basic Materials sector, such as Royal Gold, Inc. and Coeur Mining, Inc., have higher rankings [6] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Royal Gold's current-year earnings indicates a 42% year-over-year increase, reflecting strong performance in the sector [7]