Daily Market Report

Oil prices rose for the fourth straight week as US sanctions on Russian producers tightened supply. Rising shipping costs, cold-weather kerosene demand, and potential Federal Reserve interest rate cuts further boosted the market. Supply concerns around Trump’s policies on Iran and Venezuela add uncertainty, while China’s growth data offered mixed insights.

Methanol prices have risen by ₹0.25/kg following a surge in futures contracts and natural gas prices. Asian CFR futures climbed $6/MT as potential sanctions on Russian and Iranian supplies spark concern. In India, bulk consumption is rising despite production constraints, and traders are actively building inventories anticipating further price increases.

Polymer prices in India are rising due to speculative inventory hoarding ahead of a potential duty hike targeting non-BIS-compliant materials. Market trends suggest further price increases through February, with close attention to fiscal policy announcements.

Structure steel prices remain stable in the secondary market, while primary prices saw an increase of Rs. 500/mt. Supply issues in the primary market are being resolved, with heavy beams and channels expected to arrive soon. Secondary mills face no raw material shortages but are offering discounts due to subdued demand.

Flat steel prices remained stable across major Indian markets, with HRC and CRC showing no significant changes. Demand is stable but cautious due to seasonal factors, while domestic supply is sufficient to meet needs.Industry experts note steady demand from infrastructure and manufacturing sectors, emphasizing inventory management as a key factor amid fluctuating global trends and raw material costs.

Nickel prices rise by 1.11% to $15,965/mt, while copper sees a 0.99% increase. Stainless steel prices remain steady, with 304 CR at Rs.195-198/kg in Delhi. The demand for stainless steel is improving in the 200 and 400 series, driven by domestic shortages and rising enquiries. Despite challenges like weak global demand and high nickel inventory, local market conditions suggest possible price increases.

Primary TMT prices stay steady across major regions, including Mumbai, Delhi NCR, and Vizag. Demand has increased noticeably over the last few days, supported by rising enquiries. Government efforts to restrict Chinese steel imports through heavy taxation may lead to a price surge. Experts predict an upward trend in prices as demand strengthens and the financial year draws to a close.

PVC prices range between ₹74-77.75/kg, with a notable oversupply in the Asian market due to increased production and declining real estate demand. Despite a 2.5% rise in production to 20.5 million tons in 2024, apparent consumption fell, exacerbating inventory build-ups and pressuring prices downward in a sluggish economic environment.

Oil prices steadied after hitting multi-month highs driven by U.S. sanctions on Russia and unexpected crude stock declines. Tightened global supply contrasts with OPEC+ caution on raising output. Demand grows for festive travel in India and China, while the market braces for a projected supply surplus of 750,000 bpd in 2025.

Zinc prices saw minor declines across LME, SHFE, and MCX markets due to increased production and subdued demand. Although global refined zinc faced a deficit in October, production recovery and seasonal factors have kept prices under pressure. Experts anticipate price consolidation.

The Acrylonitrile market shows mixed performance across regions, with prices stable in Asia and Europe but subdued in North America due to reduced global demand. Automotive sector growth offsets weaker demand from paints and coatings. Experts predict a January price dip, recovery starting March, and stronger market dynamics post-winter.

Steel structure prices have seen a Rs 500/mt increase in the primary market this month, while secondary market prices remain stable across regions today. Supply issues are being resolved, with the SAIL IISCO facility coming back online and secondary mills having ample material. India’s steel demand is expected to rise by 8-9% in 2025, driven by sectors like construction and infrastructure.