Base metal prices were lower on the London Metal Exchange at the close of trading on Thursday April 19, despite aluminium volumes reaching a record-high 41,000 lots.

Good morning from Metal Bulletin’s offices in Shanghai as we bring you the latest news and pricing stories on Thursday April 19

Base metals prices on the Shanghai Futures Exchange were broadly up during Asian morning trading on Thursday April 19, with nickel and aluminium leading the gains on sanction-related concerns.

The latest news and price moves to start the Asian day on Thursday April 19.

Base metal prices on the London Metal Exchange surged higher at the close of ring trading on Wednesday April 18, with nickel recording the highest intraday price difference since 2009.

Cash-strapped zinc smelters in China have brought forward and extended their planned maintenance to avoid further squeezes to margins as a result of softer treatment charges (TC), tight concentrate supply and low zinc prices, multiple sources told Metal Bulletin.

Base metals prices on the London Metal Exchange are on divergent paths so far this morning, Wednesday April 18, despite the strong risk sentiment seen across wider financial markets following solid earnings results and the surprise monetary easing announced by China’s central bank.

Good morning from Metal Bulletin’s office in Shanghai as we bring you the latest news and pricing stories on Wednesday April 18.

Base metals prices on the Shanghai Futures Exchange were mostly down during Asian morning trading on Wednesday April 18 after the generally positive Chinese data released yesterday failed to motivate investors to chase prices higher.

The latest news and price moves to start the Asian day on Wednesday April 18.