Huntsman's Trial Against European Banks Begins

Huntsman claims, as a second part of its lawsuit, that the European banks also interfered with the Basell deal. The company has asked for a separate $3.6 billion in damages related to that claim.

The Texas jury could find that the banks interfered with either the Hexion or Basell deals, or both. If it finds for Huntsman on both counts, the company would have to choose between the $4.6 billion payout for the Hexion claim, or the $3.6 billion for the Basell claim.

If the jury finds in favor of Huntsman, the award will far exceed the company's $1.6 billion market capitalization.