Chemicals

Fifty newcomers representing nearly two dozen firms have already distinguished themselves in the eyes of money managers.

Rising from third place to second is Jeffrey Zekauskas.

Robert Koort of Goldman, Sachs & Co. advances from runner-up to the third team.

Citi’s P.J. Juvekar, 43, finishes in first place for a second consecutive year. “The analyst makes timely calls, provides excellent written research and knows the industry better than his peers,” insists one portfolio manager. Juvekar upgraded PPG Industries to buy in January, at $59.97, telling clients that the Pittsburgh-­based producer of coatings for industrial, architectural and auto markets would benefit from increased auto production, as inventories had been depleted in 2009 because of the Car Allowance Rebate System, better known as the cash-for-­clunkers program. Juvekar also believed the company would reap benefits from rising industrial production, to which PPG’s earnings are highly correlated.

Money managers say “excellent knowledge” and “good stock calls” help keep Hisaaki Yokoo of Goldman Sachs in the winner’s circle for a second straight year — and for the third time in five years.

It’s the second straight year at No. 1 for Thomas Gilbert and the fourth for the UBS quartet he heads.