Daily Market Report

Aluminium prices remain volatile amid global trade tensions, with LME opening higher today at $2,373.6/ton. Despite the U.S. raising aluminium tariffs to 25%, India's producers remain largely unaffected due to minimal U.S. exposure. Analysts see strong international demand and tightening supply in Asia, but caution that further price direction depends on trade policy clarity and China’s production limits.

Stainless steel prices are showing firmness across grades, especially in the 200 and 300 series, driven by supply shortages and increased demand for PVC-coated material. Jindal Stainless has raised prices by Rs 2/kg for 304/316L as demand improves. 304 CR wider 2B now trades at Rs 189–194/kg, while 316L HR imported is around Rs 330/kg. Scrap purchase prices have also increased, reflecting cost pressures.

Toluene prices dropped by ₹1/kg this week due to weak sentiment and lower replacement costs. Despite soft liquidation, downstream demand—especially from pharma and coatings—is recovering. While margins remain under pressure, rising crude oil and demand may support price rebound. Importers remain cautious amid fluctuating market signals.

PET bottle flake prices in Asia show slight volatility amid oversupply and weak demand. Indian PET prices remain range-bound, with Hyderabad reporting the highest. High production rates, ample feedstock, and sluggish end-user demand are capping price growth. Market remains bearish, but oil price rebounds could offer limited upside.

Petroleum product prices in India show wide regional and packaging variations, with VG40, base oils, and lubricants trading at distinct levels. OPEC+ output hike and subdued demand are shaping global supply dynamics. Despite regional geopolitical tensions, oil prices remain stable due to unaffected supply chains and sufficient global inventories.

Domestic methanol prices dropped ₹0.50/kg amid healthy market activity and steady supply. Strong liquidation in Kandla and stable demand from formaldehyde and bulk drug sectors supported near-term stability. However, softening Asian futures and incoming Iranian cargoes signal a possible correction by mid-May 2025.

Oil and bitumen prices witnessed a sharp decline, driven by economic factors like increased inventories and reduced Chinese demand. Brent crude fell to a 2021 low, impacting global and Indian bitumen prices. Despite geopolitical tensions, market behavior remained largely economic. Iran’s port disaster adds further instability to regional pricing.

Structure steel prices remain firm across regions, with primary mills in Chennai and Vizag reporting full bookings until mid-May. Demand from EPCs and infrastructure projects is keeping rolling mills busy, while secondary markets in Raipur and Gobindgarh see brisk sales. With rising coking coal and freight costs, mills may introduce a second round of price hikes by mid-May.

Zinc prices remained steady across global exchanges, supported by a sharp rise in Chinese refined zinc output, which increased nearly 14% MoM. On the MCX, prices hovered near Rs 246.5/kg amid a short-covering trend. Domestic production growth was driven by resumed operations and better economics for smelters. Technical indicators suggest prices may face resistance ahead.

Ethyl Acetate prices have surged up to ₹4/kg due to rising feedstock costs, production constraints, and higher freight rates. Manufacturers are cautious about large-volume deals amid supply uncertainties and a major shutdown. Substitution from Acetone is increasing demand. Price volatility is expected to persist through June 2025.

Primary TMT prices dropped slightly across key regions, reflecting a stagnant demand environment and high distributor inventory. Distributors across North, West, and South India adjusted rates downward as inquiry volumes declined. Supply remains stable, with no material shortages expected. Meanwhile, JSW Steel’s mining violation notice was set aside but raised investor concerns, leading to a dip in its stock.

Stainless steel prices across all major series (200, 300, and 400) remain firm in May 2025, with demand improving and supply tight, especially in the 300 series. While 200 series sees upbeat demand due to reduced imports. As global trade tensions mount, the industry pushes for tariff protections to safeguard local manufacturers.