Of particular interest this week:
Coal – Debbie approaches Qld.
Copper: strike ends on ‘deferred’ terms not considered wise (for workers).
Nickel: It’s a mess. Philippines allow suspended mines to resume output.
Steel – positive growth.
SUMMARY
Copper Escondida strike ended, but not thought to be a good outcome (for the workforce).
Nickel Philippines allow more suspended Ni miners to continue production.
Zinc & Lead Noranda’s Quebec plant hobbled by strike. Cancelled Pb warrants at 58%.
Tin Indonesia’s decline in mining considered due to high political risk.
Aluminium China’s alumina capacity to increase.
Gold Uptick in Au price widespread, but premiums lower.
Platinum & Palladium Pt deficit for fifth year.
Oil OPEC expected to extend term of global agreement.
Coal Negotiations for thermal and coking afoot. Weather disruptions expected in Qld due to Debbie!
Iron Ore China’s steel output cuts likely to drive high quality import requirements.
Shipping Asian rates eased this week.
General
World steel – positive growth widening, though emerging’s have strongest growth.
USA industrial production – very slow growth rates for past 5 months.
USA New Housing Starts – strong.