Of particular interest this week:
Nickel: Philippines closed 21 mines.
Gold: Jewellery demand changes.
Oil: Iranian tenders for projects will be made more difficult with Trump’s position on increased sanctions against Iran, (which are possibly in conflict with UN resolutions).
SUMMARY
Copper Potential supply disruptions at Escondida though smaller Quebra Blanca settles. PBOC action.
Nickel Philippines’ government closed 21 mines. Ni price jumped.
Zinc & Lead Trevali and Sandvik reviving Caribou. PBOC action (raised rates).
Tin Malaysia optimistic. A summary review of tin in 2016 & 2015.
Aluminium India to protect domestic Al industry.
Gold Jewellery for Dec Qtr up strongly though 2016 annual demand down.
Platinum & Palladium Indaba draws a crowd but not cheque books.
Oil Iranian tenders for oil & gas projects extended.
Coal Glencore prepping thermal contract pricing. Met coal eased for Golden Week.
Iron Ore Seaborne market lull during Golden Week.
Shipping Capes down, Panamax up.
General
USA – PMI: positive.
USA – Orders Durables, Vehicles, Electronics, Computers, Construction Spending: good.
Japan – Industrial Production: Best in two years.
Japan – Orders to Machinery: overall positive.