Infrastructure & Construction

Aluminium prices gained slightly on the LME and in India as Hindalco and Balco raised ingot rates by ₹3,500/MT. Domestic premiums remained firm due to healthy local demand, while the LME Asian Reference price declined 1.8%, reflecting regional weakness. BALCO’s new 525 kA smelter signals future capacity expansion.

Stainless steel HRC and CRC prices remained steady across Delhi, Mumbai, and Kanpur, supported by firm realizations despite minor volume drops. Jindal Stainless expanded fabrication capacity in Mumbai, signaling confidence in infrastructure-led demand growth. Shyam Metalics reported lower sales but higher realizations, indicating stable pricing strength amid short-term supply pressure.

Zinc prices held steady across global exchanges as tightening inventories and improved domestic demand supported sentiment. LME futures hovered above $3,000/MT, while HZL and Vedanta reported record production for H1 FY26. Despite firm fundamentals, upside potential appears limited unless fresh supply disruptions emerge in key producing regions.

Channel steel prices remained steady this week, with the secondary market showing renewed firmness post-monsoon. Primary mills maintained base levels amid cautious trading. Tight supply in Raipur and Mandi Gobindgarh supports a mildly bullish near-term outlook. Buyers are advised to secure short-term needs before potential price increases mid-October.

Markets reported no price changes in HRC and CRC compared to the previous day in a few geographical locations. India’s HRC demand is expected to remain strong in the medium term, but short-term consumption is limited due to cautious buyer sentiment.

ADC12 aluminum alloy prices held steady near RMB 20,800–21,000/t as pre-holiday buying faded and inventories rose sharply. Scrap supply remains tight, supporting costs, while extended downstream holidays and weak die-casting demand limit consumption. Import losses widen, and silicon metal supply growth adds pressure, keeping near-term prices largely range-bound.

Ductile Iron (DI) and Mild Steel (MS/ERW) pipe prices remain steady, with DI up to 150 mm at ₹67/kg and MS primary at ₹57–58/kg. October demand is projected 8–15% above September levels as delayed projects resume. Supply is adequate but specialty ERW grades and large diameters may face localized tightness.

TMT steel prices remain stable across regions, with Ex-Mumbai at ₹46,500–47,000/ton, Ex-Delhi NCR at ₹47,000–47,500/ton, and Ex-Vizag at ₹44,000–44,500/ton. Weak seasonal demand keeps sellers cautious, while distributors maintain steady inventories. Shree TMT earns a 5-Star Green Steel Certificate, reinforcing sustainability leadership despite subdued market activity.

The stainless steel trade shows mixed signals. Nickel hovers at $15,325/t and copper at $9,964/t, while 304 CR wider 2B retails near ₹200–205/kg. Domestic demand is soft in the 300 series but stronger in the 200 and 400 series. Global tariffs are prompting order delays, and EU import-control measures may tighten in October.