Dow (NYSE:DOW) recently submitted a construction permit application for an advanced nuclear project in Texas, highlighting its push for clean energy. However, during the same period, the stock dropped 11%, coinciding with broader market shocks such as the U.S. imposing tariffs and China's retaliatory measures impacting global trade sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell into correction territory, declining over 4% amid concerns of a global trade war that could stymie economic growth. Dow Inc.'s removal from the S&P 100 may also factor into its recent performance. Despite the nuclear initiative's potential, these market reductions influenced its share value.

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Over the last five years, Dow's shares achieved a total return of 12.03%, reflecting a combination of share price evolution and dividend payments. This performance comes amid a challenging period marked by various strategic actions. A significant development was the 2025 sale of Gulf Coast assets, generating US$3 billion, aimed to enhance financial flexibility for future investments. Such moves illustrate the company's efforts to position itself for sustained growth despite facing headwinds from geopolitical uncertainties and rising cost pressures that have influenced margins.

Throughout 2024, Dow also pursued business expansions, including the start-up of an 80,000 tons per year capacity expansion in Thailand, aimed at increasing production capabilities. Meanwhile, the repurchase of over 38 million shares through buyback initiatives underscored a commitment to return capital to shareholders. However, on a one-year basis, Dow's return lagged behind both the US market and the Chemicals industry, indicating broader sector challenges over the past year.

Understand Dow's track record by examining our performance history report.

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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