Major Indian steelmakers saw a sharp increase in domestic sales in August, allowing them to focus more attention on the home market rather than having to rely on exports.

There was a large gap between bids and offers in the key Southeast Asian market of Vietnam in the week to Friday September 4, although buyers still purchased some quantities of bulk Japanese H2 scrap.

London Metal Exchange base metals prices were firmer this morning, Friday September 4, but this appears to be early bargain-hunting/consolidation after Thursday’s 1.5% average decline. Asian equities and base metals prices were weaker while they followed yesterday’s weakness in western markets.

The latest forecasts from Fastmarkets' team of analysts are ready to view.

Chinese battery materials producer GEM has signed an eight-year nickel and cobalt supply contract with Indonesia's Halamahera Persada Lygend (HPAL), starting from 2021.

After a consultation period, Fastmarkets has amended the frequency of its cobalt hydroxide index, min 30% Co, cif China to weekly.

Markets were mixed this morning, Thursday September 3, with the base metals prices on the London Metal Exchange generally firmer, albeit in fairly light volumes.

The United States Department of Commerce has proposed a sweeping set of new rules to clarify and streamline the administration and enforcement of anti-dumping and countervailing duty laws.

The United States steel market continues to forge ahead. On the heels of Section 232, Covid-19 and the subsequent recession, the market is showing strains through price pressure and volatility.

The latest forecasts from Fastmarkets’ team of analysts are ready to view.