Close Dialog with the Capital Market

• Virtual formats facilitate dialog during coronavirus pandemic
• BASF issues first green bond

Our corporate strategy aims to create long-term value. We support this strategy through regular and open communication with all capital market participants. In light of the coronavirus pandemic, we mainly used virtual formats such as video or conference calls for dialog in 2020. We engage with institutional investors and rating agencies in numerous one-on-one meetings, as well as at roadshows and conferences worldwide, and give private investors an insight into BASF at informational events.

In 2020, we offered special events aimed at investors who base their investment decisions on sustainability criteria. We outlined in particular our programs to reduce CO₂ emissions and on the circular economy. In addition, we issued our first green bond in 2020 and took this opportunity to inform credit analysts and creditors about our targets and measures for a more sustainable future. The bond has a term of seven years, a volume of €1.0 billion and an annual coupon of 0.25%; it serves to finance sustainable projects and the development of sustainable products in the BASF Group.

Analysts and investors have confirmed the quality of our financial market communications. The Investor Relations Society recognized BASF with the Best Practice Award 2020 in the categories “Best Communication of ESG” and “Most Effective Use of Digital Communications.” In the annual survey conducted by Britain’s IR Magazine, we were named the best company for IR in the materials sector. Institutional Investor magazine also honored BASF with first place in the categories “Best Investor Day” and “Best IR Program” in the chemicals sector.