The DRC is set to decide on the future of its cobalt export ban on June 22, potentially extending, modifying or ending the policy. Aimed at boosting local refining and value creation, the ban has left global markets uncertain, with stakeholders calling for clarity as cobalt prices fluctuate and concerns over long-term demand grow.

The Mexico Metals Outlook 2025 conference explored challenges and opportunities in the steel, aluminum and scrap markets, focusing on tariffs, nearshoring, capacity growth and global trends.

Fastmarkets is further extending the consultation period for its proposal to launch a monthly high-grade nickel matte payable indicator, 65-75% nickel contained, cif China, % of official exchange price assessment, following feedback from market participants. The initial proposal to launch the assessment was published on February 26, but following feedback related to market liquidity Fastmarkets extended the consultation […]

No feedback was received during the consultation period and therefore no changes will be made to the methodologies at this stage. Full details of the prices covered by this consultation can be found here. This consultation, sought to ensure that our methodologies continue to reflect the physical market under indexation, in compliance with the International Organization […]

Fastmarkets wishes to clarify details around the following aspects of the pricing calendar for its MB-MNO-0002 manganese ore semi carbonate index, 36.5% Mn, fob Port Elizabeth. Fastmarkets will publish the MB-MNO-0002 manganese ore semi carbonate index, 36.5% Mn, fob Port Elizabeth, on Tuesday April 22 as a replacement for publication on the UK Good Friday public holiday […]

The publication of Fastmarkets’ MB-CHO-0003 chrome ore South Africa UG2/MG concentrates index, cif China on Tuesday April 15 was delayed because of a technical issue. Fastmarkets’ pricing database has been updated. The following price was affected: MB-CHO-0003 Chrome ore South Africa UG2/MG concentrates index, cif China, $/tonne The price is a part of the Fastmarkets ores […]

Fastmarkets invited feedback from the industry on the pricing methodology for iron ore indices, via an open consultation process between March 10 to April 7 2025.This consultation was done as part of our published annual methodology review process. A full list of all the prices covered can be found in the original consultation. Fastmarkets received feedback […]

Fastmarkets’ March 2025 forecast lowers global crude steel production to 1.846 billion tonnes, reflecting trade policy impacts and economic uncertainties despite late 2024 production gains in key markets like China and the US.

The disconnect between spodumene and lithium salts prices has become a major focus in the global battery raw materials market, as discussed at the 2025 Fastmarkets conference in Shanghai. Factors like new pricing mechanisms, spodumene auctions and shifting supply-demand trends highlight the need for improved risk management tools and price transparency.

Cobalt market dynamics are intensifying as the DRC's export suspension fuels volatility, raises supply chain concerns, and impacts global pricing and investments