Wacker Chemie Stock Jumps on Report of US Polysilicon Tariffs

Shares of Wacker Chemie (WCHG) surged 5.8% to €95.65, reaching a three-week high, following a Reuters report that the U.S. government is preparing to implement new trade protections for polysilicon. The proposed measures are expected to directly benefit the company's manufacturing facility in Tennessee.

US Trade Protections

According to the report from Reuters, the Trump administration is moving to establish a minimum import price and impose tariffs on polysilicon and related products. A decision is anticipated later in August 2026.

The trade action reportedly stems from a year-long investigation by the Commerce Department under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act. The measures are designed to shield domestic polysilicon producers, including Wacker Chemie’s U.S. factory, from what the report describes as intensifying Chinese competition in the solar and semiconductor supply chains.

Strong Fundamentals and Analyst Support

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The news of potential tariffs comes as Wacker Chemie demonstrates a constructive financial outlook. The company recently raised its full-year 2026 guidance for earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) to a range of €625 million to €750 million.

This upgraded forecast followed a strong second quarter, in which EBITDA increased by 53% year-over-year, attributed to cost discipline, improved pricing, and higher volumes. Separately, analysts at Berenberg reiterated a Buy rating on the stock with a price target of €104, signaling continued confidence in the company.

Market and Sector Context

The rally in Wacker's stock was also supported by a positive sector-wide reaction to the tariff news, with peers in the solar and semiconductor industries also gaining. The broader market environment in Germany has been favorable, with the DAX 40 index trading near record highs, buoyed by strong corporate earnings and a recovery in technology stocks.