Electrical Utilities

PET bottle chip prices showed mixed movement during early November, with a mild recovery driven by rising crude and PX costs. Demand remains weak due to the seasonal lull and cautious procurement by end-users. Supply remains ample, and the short-term outlook is stable to slightly firm, supported by feedstock recovery and moderate operating rates.

India’s structural steel market remained steady to firm in early November 2025, supported by improved liquidity and steady post-festive demand. Primary mills maintained current price levels, though an upward revision of ₹200–₹300/MT is anticipated in the coming week if buying momentum holds. Secondary markets, especially in Raipur, Durgapur, and Mandi Gobindgarh, showed a bullish tone with tight supply in small channels and equal angles amid strong fabrication demand. Stock replenishment continued moderately in western and southern regions, while trade in the east and NCR stayed cautious due to fund rotation issues.

India’s flat steel market remains steady, with no major changes in HRC and CRC prices across key cities. Demand is stable but cautious, supported by infrastructure and housing projects. While imports and maintenance shutdowns influence supply, mills may adjust output to balance weak demand and maintain pricing stability.

Polypropylene (PP) prices continued to decline amid weak demand, high inventories, and subdued global sentiment. Domestic producers reduced prices to clear stocks, while feedstock propylene costs softened. Despite slight sentiment improvement from trade developments, oversupply persists, keeping the PP market range-bound with limited recovery expected through November 2025.

Nickel prices stood at $15,250/ton, while Copper was priced at $10,891/MT. The INR opened at 88.79 against the USD. The current retaail price for 304 CR wider 2B is approximately ₹200–205/kg (basic), and HR around ₹194–197/kg (ex-Delhi). Narrow coils are about ₹8–10/kg cheaper, plus GST. SS 316L HR (imported) material is being retailed around ₹350/kg for HR wider, while Indian material is ₹5/kg costlier.

India’s steel market continues to face pressure from oversupply and muted trade sentiment, with both flat and long products extending losses through October. While post-festive demand could offer short-term relief, structural challenges such as inventory overhang and global surplus are expected to keep prices subdued in the coming quarter.

TMT bar prices across major regions - Mumbai, Delhi NCR, and Vizag - remained steady amid continued demand weakness and sufficient inventory. Despite subdued construction activity and raw material constraints, manufacturers are maintaining price stability. Market sentiment remains cautious, though medium-term prospects hinge on infrastructure and housing demand recovery.

Zinc prices held firm across major exchanges on October 29, 2025, supported by tight LME inventories (~37 kt) and steady downstream demand in China. SHFE zinc maintained strength within the ¥22,200–22,600/mt range, while MCX futures traded near ₹308.25/kg. Analysts expect consolidation with an upward bias amid limited fresh supply.

Global polyethylene (PE) prices remained largely stable through mid-October 2025, with Asian markets showing marginal declines and U.S. prices holding steady. Supply remained sufficient despite limited demand recovery. Higher crude oil costs offered some support, but overall market sentiment stayed cautious amid weak downstream activity and moderate import interest.