The result of Scotland’s independence referendum could have a significant impact on the European aluminium market. As Hotline went to press voters were still at the polls – so we’ve provided two alternative takes depending on what the result is. Delete as appropriate.

Zinc producer Nyrstar is merging its marketing, sourcing and sales (MSS) team with those in operations and, as a consequence, the company's senior vp MSS Bob Katsiouleris has left with immediate effect.

Niron Metals PLC, an investment vehicle with shareholders including former Xstrata chief executive officer Mick Davis, is in exploratory talks with the government of Guinea to develop the Zogota iron ore project.

Key talking points in the iron ore market before the annual Singapore Iron Ore Week, which takes place on May 6-10, 2019.

French infrastructure group Bolloré has signed a contract with Guinea’s Port Authority to build rail line from the capital Conakry to the dry port of Kagbelen, a spokeswoman for the company told Steel First.

South Africa and New Zealand’s non-exemption from the United States’ Section 232 import tariffs is likely to have limited impact on Asian aluminium supply, and hence premiums, market participants told Metal Bulletin.

The Australian government expects benchmark prices for hard coking coal to average at about $150 per tonne fob Australia in 2014, in response to “a plenitude of seaborne supply”.

Spot iron ore prices could come under further market pressure as Chinese mills cancel contracted shipments after making cuts to their own steel production.

The government of Guinea is in the final stages of preparing a tender for blocks 1 and 2 of the Simandou iron ore project, sources close to the matter have told Steel First.

BHP Billiton is running iron ore operations with an “economic rationality” and should not be held accountable for pushing smaller and higher cost producers out of the market, according to a senior executive.