# Analysis of Major Materials Companies by Market Capitalization: Linde and POSCO

## Introduction

Market capitalization, often referred to as market cap, is the total market value of a company's outstanding shares of stock. It is calculated by multiplying a company's shares outstanding by the current market price of one share. The investment community uses this figure to determine a company's size, as opposed to using sales or total asset figures. In the materials sector, which includes businesses involved in the manufacturing and processing of raw materials, market capitalization can vary significantly across different countries and regions depending on the resources available and the scale and technology of the companies involved.

## Linde Plc

### Overview

Linde is a multinational chemical company that is one of the largest in the world when it comes to the production of industrial gases, including oxygen, nitrogen, argon, hydrogen, and specialty gases. Founded in 1879 in Germany, Linde's operations now span across more than 100 countries globally. The company merged with Praxair in 2018, leading to a significant increase in its market capacity and geographic footprint.

### Market Capitalization and Performance

As of 2020, Linde holds a substantial position in market capitalization within the materials sector of various equity markets, particularly in countries with advanced industrial sectors like the United States and Germany. The merger with Praxair created a giant in the global industrial gases market, expanding Linde's reach and operational efficiency. The company's strategic expansion activities, along with consistent product demand, particularly from the healthcare and technology sectors, have contributed to its large market capitalization.

### Contributions and Impact

Linde’s innovative technology and services in managing industrial gases are crucial for a variety of industries, including healthcare, petroleum refining, manufacturing, and food processing. It also plays a significant role in environmental technologies that aim to reduce harmful emissions and advancing energy-efficient applications.

## POSCO

### Overview

POSCO, originally Pohang Iron and Steel Company, founded in 1968, is a leading global steel-making company based in South Korea. As South Korea's largest steel producer, POSCO operates two integrated steel mills in Pohang and Gwangyang and engages in high-tech industries, and processing materials such as lithium for batteries, lightweight magnesium sheets, and advanced high-strength steel.

### Market Capitalization and Performance

By 2020, POSCO held the position of having the largest market capitalization in South Korea's materials sector. The company's influence stretches beyond mere steel production, venturing into future innovation technologies such as lithium-ion battery components, a critical resource for electronic vehicles and renewable energy systems.

### Contributions and Impact
POSCO is not only influential within South Korea but also plays a significant role in the global steel industry, introducing eco-friendly and high-efficiency production methodologies. The company's commitment to sustainable practices and its advancements in steel technology contribute significantly to global supply chains in the automotive and construction industries.

## Conclusion

Both Linde and POSCO are exemplary leaders in their respective markets and sectors, demonstrating the variable nature of market capitalization in the materials sector depending on regional economic strengths and industrial focus. Linde, with its robust position in the industrial gases market, influences various other industries, including healthcare and energy, across numerous countries. Meanwhile, POSCO leads in the innovations of materials like steel critical to infrastructural and technological development, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. Their roles underline the diverse dynamics of market capitalization within the global economy’s materials sector, showcasing different facets of industrial advancement and economic impact.