Of particular interest this week:
Nickel – political risk.
Oil – Opec’s breakeven costs
Iron ore – a new economic zone in China to feed.
Coal – mines but not rail/port so far.
SUMMARY
Copper Chile advised to upgrade technology and community relations, by and for Cu industry.
Nickel Philippines ordering miners to use NGO’s for mine-site rehabilitation. Absurdly high political risk.
Zinc & Lead Pt Pirie Pb smelter to recycle electronic waste.
Tin USA SEC suspending enforcement of elements of the conflict minerals rules.
Aluminium Underlying trend of China output is one of increasing, to feed China, and the world.
Gold Thai Govt to talk with KCN over the forced Chatree mine closure last year.
Platinum & Palladium Norilsk buying Pd from Russian central bank.
Oil OPEC’s budget breakeven costs. OPEC’s supply deal remains a key oil mkt focus.
Coal Force Majeure’s in Qld. Mines recovering quickly. Rail / Ports yet to get back up.
Iron Ore A new Economic Zone in China. Iron ore prices dropped Friday, forecasts are for lower.
Shipping Vessels returning to Qld after Cyclone Debbie. Though rail/ports yet to get fully back on track.
General
Baker Hughes – Worldwide drill rig count(s): total decreased but USA increased.
USA Construction Spending: continuing to grow, more from private than public.
USA Purchasing Managers’ Index: positive growth ahead.