Chemical giant Dow Inc reported strong Q1 earnings with adjusted earnings per share of 58 cents from $11.9 billion in sales, beating Wall Street estimates of 36 cents and $11.4 billion, respectively. This comes as a positive surprise amid concerns of an economic slowdown. The company's success also highlights the need for companies to rely on themselves in 2023 as the economy remains uncertain. As per Asis Ghosh, this optimism may have contributed to the surge in Dow Future to 34,023. While some sectors may still be struggling, the job market and GDP growth remain robust. However, China may be a key factor to watch moving forward, given its significant impact on the global economy. Tariffs and escalating tensions between the US and China have weighed on Dow's sales in the past. If relations between the two nations improve, it could provide a much-needed boost for the company and the wider economy. Overall, Dow's earnings offer a positive outlook for the chemical industry and the economy, even as clouds loom on the horizon.