Used as a chiral building block in organic synthesis, particularly in the development of pharmaceuticals. Its epoxide ring allows for regioselective ring-opening reactions, enabling the construction of complex molecules with defined stereochemistry. Commonly employed in the synthesis of β-blockers and other bioactive compounds where stereochemical control is critical. Also utilized in the preparation of optically active α-hydroxy esters through catalytic asymmetric hydrolysis or reduction. Its phenyl and ester functionalities provide handles for further chemical modifications, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry and drug discovery.