Of particular interest this week:
Australian exploration expenditure to the June Qtr – down heavily on current prices and uncertainty. Details by commodity and state.
World steel production – August data.
Copper – Chinese plans for solar & wind.
SUMMARY
Copper Chinese demand down 1%. Plans for major solar & wind capacity will increase demand for Cu.
Nickel Turning point for Ni market delayed until 2016?
Zinc & Lead MTA progressing graphite and Zn projects. IGB negotiating finance and offtake.
Tin Repairs at the Pitinga mine will hamper capacity there for 9-12 mo.
Aluminium MMI now must submit a full EIS for Bauxite Hills.
Gold Gold demand declined in June. Price fall appears to have renewed investment interest.
Platinum & Palladium The ‘Volkswagen debacle’ is just that.
Oil USA drilling declined, and production is beginning to reduce.
Coal NHC is in M&A mode. Sept thermal reference contract talks dragging on.
Iron Ore Vale to cut production costs to USD 13/t.
Shipping Capesize spot rates lower, driven by China’s iron ore imports.
General
Australia – Mineral Exploration Expenditure – June Qtr – hampered by uncertainty.
World Steel Production – August
USA – August – Orders to: Durable Goods, Vehicles, Computers & Electronic Products.
Japan – Electricity Demand – August