Global Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Viscosity Grade;
ISO VG 32, ISO VG 46, ISO VG 68, ISO VG 100, ISO VG 150, ISO VG 220, ISO VG 320, ISO VG 460, ISO VG 680, and ISO VG 1000By Additive Package;
Anti-Wear, Antioxidant, Anti-Foam, Corrosion Inhibitors, and Viscosity ModifiersBy Performance Level;
Standard, High Performance, and Ultra High PerformanceBy Application;
Compressor Oils, Hydraulic Oils, Metalworking Fluids, Diesel & Petrol Engine Oils, and OthersBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market Overview
Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market (USD Million)
Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market was valued at USD 2,377.09 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 3,550.73 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.9%.
Global Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 5.9 %
Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
---|---|
Base Year | 2024 |
CAGR (%) | 5.9 % |
Market Size (2024) | USD 2,377.09 Million |
Market Size (2031) | USD 3,550.73 Million |
Market Concentration | Medium |
Report Pages | 308 |
Major Players
- Exxon Mobil Corporation
- Shell International Petroleum Company Limited
- TotalEnergies SE
- BP plc
- Chevron Corporation
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Global Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market is expanding steadily, supported by increased industrial automation and the growing need for high-performance lubrication. Known for their exceptional thermal and oxidative stability, synthetic esters are increasingly replacing conventional lubricants. Their superior performance has led to adoption in over 40% of critical machinery applications where reliability and reduced downtime are crucial.
Growing Preference for Eco-Friendly Solutions
Environmental regulations are influencing lubricant choices, with synthetic ester lubricants gaining traction due to their biodegradability and low toxicity. These lubricants emit up to 60% fewer volatile compounds, aligning with green manufacturing goals. Industries with stringent compliance requirements are showing increased preference for ester-based formulations, helping to reduce environmental impact without compromising efficiency.
Operational Efficiency and Enhanced Durability
Synthetic ester lubricants deliver notable benefits in machinery performance, including up to 70% higher film strength and consistent viscosity at extreme temperatures. These features lead to longer service intervals, lower maintenance, and improved energy efficiency. As businesses seek to optimize equipment uptime, demand for these high-performance lubricants continues to rise.
Innovative Formulations Accelerating Adoption
Advances in formulation technology have enabled the development of application-specific synthetic esters, offering better wear protection and thermal management. Custom lubricant blends have experienced a 35% surge in demand, particularly in industries requiring precise performance under harsh conditions. These innovations are broadening the applicability and relevance of synthetic esters across diverse industrial environments.
Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market Recent Developments
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In 2021, ExxonMobil announced a partnership with Avelo Airlines to become the sole supplier of aviation lubricants for the airline's fleet, aiming to enhance performance and reliability.
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In 2024, the Synthetic Ester Lubricants market saw significant advancements with the development of innovative lubricants featuring improved viscosity index, superior wear resistance, and enhanced biodegradability, catering to industries focused on performance and sustainability.
Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market Segment Analysis
In this report, the Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market has been segmented by Viscosity Grade, Additive Package, Performance Level, Application and Geography.
Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market, Segmentation by Viscosity Grade
The Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market has been segmented by Viscosity Grade into ISO VG 32, ISO VG 46, ISO VG 68, ISO VG 100, ISO VG 150, ISO VG 220, ISO VG 320, ISO VG 460, ISO VG 680, and ISO VG 1000.
ISO VG 32
ISO VG 32 is a widely used viscosity grade in the synthetic ester lubricants market, particularly favored for its application in industrial machinery such as hydraulic systems and compressors. This grade offers impressive thermal stability and excellent anti-wear performance, making it ideal for moderate temperature conditions. With a market share of approximately 12-15%, ISO VG 32 continues to see strong demand due to its ability to improve machinery efficiency and reduce friction in medium-speed operations.
ISO VG 46
ISO VG 46 lubricants are extensively used in both industrial and automotive sectors, especially in hydraulic systems and gear applications. Known for their excellent thermal stability and performance at moderate to high temperatures, these lubricants contribute significantly to energy efficiency and reduced friction. Representing 18-22% of the global market share, ISO VG 46 is increasingly preferred for its versatility and cost-effective performance in demanding applications.
ISO VG 68
One of the most popular viscosity grades, ISO VG 68 is highly valued in both automotive and industrial sectors for its durability and stability. This grade performs exceptionally well in a range of machinery, including bearings, gears, and turbines. ISO VG 68 offers enhanced oxidation stability and resistance to high temperatures, making it suitable for a wide range of operational environments. With a market share of 25-30%, its versatility ensures continued demand across various industries.
ISO VG 100
ISO VG 100 is designed for machinery operating at higher speeds and loads, commonly used in sectors like automotive, power generation, and engineering. Known for its excellent anti-wear properties and shear stability, it’s favored in specialized industrial applications. ISO VG 100 makes up about 10-12% of the market share, with increased demand in high-performance environments requiring efficient lubrication and protection under demanding conditions.
ISO VG 150
With its medium to high viscosity, ISO VG 150 is a go-to choice for automotive gearboxes and hydraulic systems, where superior lubrication is crucial under moderate load conditions. It stands out for its high viscosity index and thermal stability, ensuring reliable performance even in extreme operating environments. ISO VG 150 commands about 7-9% of the global market share, with increasing demand in industries requiring strong protection against wear.
ISO VG 220
ISO VG 220 lubricants are primarily used in high-performance machinery, such as turbines, compressors, and circulating lubrication systems. This grade’s reliability in preventing wear and rust, combined with its overall performance stability, makes it highly popular in industrial settings. Holding around 6-8% of the market share, ISO VG 220 continues to be in demand due to its effectiveness in protecting equipment in harsh operating environments.
ISO VG 320
Ideal for heavy-duty industrial applications, ISO VG 320 lubricants are commonly used in large gearboxes, compressors, and hydraulic systems. Known for their excellent thermal stability and anti-wear capabilities, they are especially suitable for machines that endure high pressures and temperatures. ISO VG 320 holds approximately 5-7% of the market share, driven by the growing demand for high-quality lubricants in industrial machinery requiring robust performance.
ISO VG 460
ISO VG 460 lubricants are essential for applications that demand superior performance under extreme operating conditions, such as in mining and construction equipment. These lubricants are renowned for their durability and ability to handle high-pressure environments. The segment holds around 4-6% of the market share and continues to grow as industries push for more efficient, long-lasting lubrication solutions for heavy-duty machinery.
ISO VG 680
ISO VG 680 is a high-viscosity grade used in heavy-duty applications, including turbines and large-scale hydraulic systems. Known for its load-bearing capacity and superior protection against wear, it is designed for extreme environments where high viscosity is essential. This grade makes up about 2-4% of the market share, with demand growing in sectors like construction and mining, where heavy-duty equipment is common.
ISO VG 1000
The highest viscosity grade, ISO VG 1000, is tailored for use in the most demanding industrial machinery, such as large-scale mining and heavy-duty equipment. This lubricant is prized for its oxidative stability and capacity to carry heavy loads, making it ideal for ultra-high viscosity applications. ISO VG 1000 accounts for about 1-2% of the market share, with its use being driven by specific, niche applications requiring premium lubrication for maximum performance.
Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market, Segmentation by Additive Package
The Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market has been segmented by Additive Package into Anti-wear, Antioxidant, Anti-foam, Corrosion Inhibitors, and Viscosity Modifiers.
Anti-wear
Anti-wear additives are crucial in synthetic ester lubricants as they help protect machinery parts from wear and friction, ensuring longer operational life and enhanced performance. These additives form a protective layer on metal surfaces, reducing direct contact and minimizing wear. The segment holds a significant share of the market, accounting for approximately 25-30%, as demand for improved machinery longevity and reliability continues to rise in industrial and automotive sectors.
Antioxidant
Antioxidants play a vital role in enhancing the oxidative stability of synthetic ester lubricants, preventing the breakdown of oils under high temperatures. These additives help to extend the lubricant’s service life by slowing down the formation of sludge and deposits. Antioxidants account for around 20-25% of the synthetic ester lubricant market, driven by their essential function in extending the lubricant's effectiveness, especially in high-performance machinery and environments requiring high thermal resistance.
Anti-foam
Anti-foam additives are used to reduce foam formation in synthetic ester lubricants, which can negatively impact the performance of hydraulic systems and engines. By eliminating excess foam, these additives maintain the lubricant’s effectiveness and protect equipment from damage caused by air pockets. This segment makes up about 10-12% of the market, with growing adoption in both automotive and industrial applications where foam reduction is critical for system efficiency.
Corrosion Inhibitors
Corrosion inhibitors are essential for protecting machinery from rust and corrosion caused by moisture and other contaminants. These additives form a protective barrier on metal surfaces to prevent deterioration, ensuring smoother operation of machinery. The corrosion inhibitor segment represents approximately 18-22% of the market, with increasing demand in industries like automotive, marine, and manufacturing, where equipment is exposed to harsh environmental conditions.
Viscosity Modifiers
Viscosity modifiers are used to adjust the viscosity of synthetic ester lubricants, ensuring that the lubricant maintains its effectiveness over a wide range of temperatures. These additives help improve the flow properties and maintain consistent lubrication performance, making them essential for high-performance machinery. The viscosity modifier segment holds around 15-18% of the market, as industries increasingly demand lubricants that can adapt to varying operational conditions and temperatures.
Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market, Segmentation by Performance Level
The Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market has been segmented by Performance Level into Standard, High Performance, and Ultra High Performance.
Standard
Standard performance synthetic ester lubricants are ideal for applications with moderate operational demands, offering reliable protection and efficiency for general machinery. These lubricants are commonly used in industries where high performance is not a critical requirement. Standard lubricants account for about 40-45% of the global market, as they provide an affordable option for many industrial sectors seeking to optimize performance without the need for specialized, high-end lubrication solutions.
High Performance
High-performance synthetic ester lubricants are formulated to meet the needs of machines operating under more challenging conditions, such as extreme temperatures and high-speed environments. These lubricants deliver superior wear protection, oxidation resistance, and enhanced stability, making them essential for industries that require more reliable performance. This segment holds around 35-40% of the market, with growing adoption in automotive, industrial machinery, and power generation due to their ability to extend equipment life and reduce maintenance costs.
Ultra High Performance
Ultra-high-performance synthetic ester lubricants are designed for the most demanding applications, such as aerospace, motorsport, and specialized industrial machinery. These lubricants offer exceptional protection against wear, extreme temperatures, and oxidation, ensuring optimal performance in harsh environments. Although making up about 15-20% of the market, ultra-high-performance lubricants are vital for industries where maximum reliability and longevity are crucial, driving demand for advanced technological solutions.
Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market, Segmentation by Application
The Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market has been segmented by Application into Compressor Oils, Hydraulic Oils, Metalworking Fluids, Diesel and Petrol Engine Oils and Others.
Compressor Oils
Compressor oils are essential in ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of compressors across various industries. Synthetic ester lubricants used in compressors offer enhanced thermal stability and wear protection, extending the life of the equipment. The compressor oils segment holds around 25-30% of the global market, driven by their widespread use in refrigeration, air compression, and other industrial applications.
Hydraulic Oils
Hydraulic oils play a critical role in hydraulic systems, where they help transfer power, reduce wear, and maintain smooth operation of machinery. Synthetic ester-based hydraulic oils provide superior performance, particularly in high-pressure and high-temperature environments. This segment accounts for approximately 20-25% of the market, with increasing demand in construction, mining, and industrial machinery sectors due to the growing need for efficient fluid power systems.
Metalworking Fluids
Metalworking fluids are essential in machining processes, providing lubrication, cooling, and rust protection for metalworking equipment. Synthetic ester lubricants are preferred in this segment due to their excellent lubricity, oxidation resistance, and environmental benefits. The metalworking fluids segment holds about 15-20% of the market, driven by rising industrial manufacturing activities and growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly fluid solutions.
Diesel and Petrol Engine Oils
Diesel and petrol engine oils are designed to reduce friction, prevent corrosion, and enhance engine performance in automotive and industrial engines. Synthetic ester-based engine oils offer superior oxidative stability and better fuel efficiency. This segment represents around 25-30% of the global market share, driven by their growing adoption in both automotive and heavy-duty engine applications that require high-performance lubrication.
Others
The "Others" segment includes various niche applications of synthetic ester lubricants in industries like aerospace, marine, and agriculture. These applications require lubricants that can perform under extreme conditions, offering high stability and protection. This segment holds around 5-10% of the market, with demand growing in specialized machinery and equipment across different sectors that require customized lubrication solutions.
Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market Share (%), by Geographical Region
North America
North America is a prominent region in the synthetic ester lubricants market, driven by significant demand across industries such as automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. The region accounts for approximately 30-35% of the market share, with key players in the U.S. and Canada focusing on innovation and technological advancements in lubricant formulations. The high adoption of high-performance and ultra-high-performance lubricants in critical machinery and equipment continues to fuel growth in the region.
Europe
Europe represents a substantial portion of the synthetic ester lubricants market, with countries like Germany, France, and the UK being key contributors. The region's strong industrial base, particularly in automotive, heavy machinery, and manufacturing, drives the demand for synthetic ester lubricants. Europe holds about 25-30% of the global market share, with increasing emphasis on environmentally friendly and energy-efficient lubricants due to stricter regulatory standards and sustainability initiatives.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing region for synthetic ester lubricants, propelled by rapid industrialization and growing manufacturing sectors in countries like China, Japan, and India. The region is expected to hold around 35-40% of the market share, driven by the rising demand for lubricants in automotive, construction, and energy sectors. With a growing middle class and infrastructure development, the market in Asia Pacific is projected to expand significantly in the coming years.
Middle East and Africa
The Middle East and Africa (MEA) region represents a smaller yet steadily growing segment in the synthetic ester lubricants market, primarily due to the expanding oil and gas, and automotive industries. This region accounts for approximately 5-7% of the global market share. The increasing focus on enhancing equipment efficiency and performance in harsh environments is driving the adoption of synthetic ester lubricants, particularly in energy-intensive sectors.
Latin America
Latin America is a developing market for synthetic ester lubricants, with countries like Brazil and Mexico showing growing demand for industrial lubricants, especially in automotive and manufacturing sectors. The region holds around 5-7% of the market share and is expected to experience steady growth as industries modernize and demand more advanced lubrication solutions to improve operational efficiency and machinery longevity.
Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Comprehensive Market Impact Matrix
This matrix outlines how core market forces—Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities—affect key business dimensions including Growth, Competition, Customer Behavior, Regulation, and Innovation.
Market Forces ↓ / Impact Areas → | Market Growth Rate | Competitive Landscape | Customer Behavior | Regulatory Influence | Innovation Potential |
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Drivers | High impact (e.g., tech adoption, rising demand) | Encourages new entrants and fosters expansion | Increases usage and enhances demand elasticity | Often aligns with progressive policy trends | Fuels R&D initiatives and product development |
Restraints | Slows growth (e.g., high costs, supply chain issues) | Raises entry barriers and may drive market consolidation | Deters consumption due to friction or low awareness | Introduces compliance hurdles and regulatory risks | Limits innovation appetite and risk tolerance |
Opportunities | Unlocks new segments or untapped geographies | Creates white space for innovation and M&A | Opens new use cases and shifts consumer preferences | Policy shifts may offer strategic advantages | Sparks disruptive innovation and strategic alliances |
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers
- Environmental Regulations
- Increasing Demand for High-Performance Lubricants
- Advancements in Lubricant Formulations
- Growth in Automotive and Aerospace Industries
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Rising Awareness about Energy Efficiency - A key driver of the synthetic ester lubricants market, as industries and consumers seek advanced solutions to reduce energy consumption and enhance operational performance. Synthetic ester lubricants offer superior thermal stability, low volatility, and excellent lubricity, which help minimize friction and wear in high-performance machinery. This leads to lower energy requirements and longer equipment life, making them an ideal choice for sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and industrial manufacturing.
As governments and organizations implement stricter regulations and sustainability targets, the demand for energy-efficient lubricants is gaining momentum. Synthetic esters, known for their biodegradability and low toxicity, align with global energy-saving and environmental protection goals. Their growing use in gear oils, compressor oils, and refrigeration systems underscores their pivotal role in improving energy efficiency while meeting modern performance and sustainability standards.
Restraints
- Compatibility Issues with Some Materials
- Limited Availability of Raw Materials
- Challenges in Disposal and Recycling
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Perception Challenges Compared to Conventional Lubricants - A notable restraint in the synthetic ester lubricants market, as many end-users continue to view synthetic options as expensive or unnecessary upgrades. Despite their superior performance and environmental advantages, synthetic ester lubricants often face resistance from cost-sensitive industries that prioritize immediate affordability over long-term efficiency and maintenance benefits. This perception barrier limits wider adoption, especially in developing regions and among small-scale manufacturers.
There is a general lack of awareness and technical knowledge regarding the specific advantages of synthetic esters over conventional mineral-based lubricants. Many users are unaware of their enhanced oxidation stability, low-temperature fluidity, and extended service intervals. This knowledge gap, coupled with limited exposure to field performance data, makes it difficult for synthetic esters to gain traction against well-established lubricant alternatives, thereby slowing their market penetration.
Opportunities
- Expansion in Emerging Markets
- Development of Bio-based Synthetic Esters
- Technological Innovations in Lubricant Additives
- Increasing Applications in Wind Energy
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Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations - Emerging as significant opportunities in the synthetic ester lubricants market, enabling companies to accelerate innovation, expand their distribution networks, and meet evolving customer demands. By aligning with automotive OEMs, industrial equipment manufacturers, and research institutions, lubricant producers can co-develop customized ester-based formulations tailored to specific machinery and performance needs. These alliances help manufacturers differentiate their offerings while addressing both functional and environmental requirements.
Collaborations also allow for resource sharing and reduced development timelines, particularly for next-generation lubricants that meet energy efficiency, biodegradability, and low-toxicity standards. Strategic partnerships with regional distributors and logistics providers can facilitate market expansion into emerging economies, where local insights and regulatory understanding are crucial. This is especially beneficial for scaling up production and improving accessibility in rapidly industrializing regions.
In the aerospace and defense sectors, long-term supply agreements and technical collaborations enable the integration of synthetic ester lubricants into mission-critical systems where reliability under extreme conditions is non-negotiable. Such partnerships not only strengthen the technical credibility of lubricant suppliers but also secure a stable customer base through specialized, value-added solutions.
As the market becomes more competitive and technology-driven, strategic collaborations will be essential for achieving sustainable growth. Companies that leverage partnerships to drive innovation, ensure regulatory compliance, and enhance customer satisfaction will be better positioned to lead the synthetic ester lubricants market in both established and emerging applications.
Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market include,
- ExxonMobil Corporation
- Shell plc
- British Petroleum (BP)
- TotalEnergies SE
- Chevron Corporation
- Fuchs Group
- Amsoil Inc.
- Valvoline Inc.
- INEOS
- International Lubricants Inc.
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Market Share Analysis
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Viscosity Grade
- Market Snapshot, By Additive Package
- Market Snapshot, By Performance Level
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Environmental Regulations
- Increasing Demand for High-Performance Lubricants
- Advancements in Lubricant Formulations
- Growth in Automotive and Aerospace Industries
- Rising Awareness about Energy Efficiency
- Restraints
- Compatibility Issues with Some Materials
- Limited Availability of Raw Materials
- Challenges in Disposal and Recycling
- Perception Challenges Compared to Conventional Lubricants
- Opportunities
- Expansion in Emerging Markets
- Development of Bio-based Synthetic Esters
- Technological Innovations in Lubricant Additives
- Increasing Applications in Wind Energy
- Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market, By Viscosity Grade, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- ISO VG 32
- ISO VG 46
- ISO VG 68
- ISO VG 100
- ISO VG 150
- ISO VG 220
- ISO VG 320
- ISO VG 460
- ISO VG 680
- ISO VG 1000
- Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market, By Additive Package, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Anti-Wear
- Antioxidant
- Anti-Foam
- Corrosion Inhibitors
- Viscosity Modifiers
- Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market, By Performance Level, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Standard
- High Performance
- Ultra High Performance
- Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Compressor Oils
- Hydraulic Oils
- Metalworking Fluids
- Diesel & Petrol Engine Oils
- Others
- Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN(Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Synthetic Ester Lubricants Market, By Viscosity Grade, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- ExxonMobil Corporation
- Shell plc
- British Petroleum (BP)
- TotalEnergies SE
- Chevron Corporation
- Fuchs Group
- Amsoil Inc.
- Valvoline Inc.
- INEOS
- International Lubricants Inc.
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market