Commodity Review 20180810 by Andrew Pedler – Now Available
This week’s comments of particular interest are noted with ‘*’.
SUMMARY
*Copper BHP requests Chilean govt mediation at Escondida. Workers at Codelco’s Chuquicamata on strike.
*Cobalt Diverse end-uses. Demand growth to 2030 from EVs and stationary batteries is strong.
*Nickel Ni miners market optimism has increased, more so for sulphide producers.
Zinc & Lead NCZ resumed operations at Century Zn mine in Qld. WA EPA approves Paroo Stn Pb mine.
Tin Reuters discontinues its NY spot tin price publication.
Aluminium Strike at Alcoa (Australia) and potential Rusal (Russia) shutdowns.
Gold Potential interest in Au, regarding Turkey’s TRY collapse and USA sanctions on Turkey.
Platinum & Palladium Political storm brewing in Sth Africa over Implats’ decision to cut costs, jobs and production.
Oil IEA raised demand outlook and supply of non-OPEC oil.
*Coal pot prices for SSCC & LVPCI are below Newcastle thermal!. Market is out of wack!
*Iron Ore China’s imported iron ore market gradually stabilize after unexpected rally this week.
Shipping Cape & Panamax rates down this week.
General
*Battery Minerals – Cobalt, Lithium, Graphite and Rare Earths: Summaries of supply.
*PinchPoint updates: Most metals (except Sn) are pushing toward volatile ‘noses’ of their curves.
*Port Hedland – Iron Ore shipments: India increasing imports markedly.
Japan – LNG Prices: increased ‘contract’ and ‘arrival’ prices.