Daily Market Report

Nickel prices dipped 0.22% to $15,705/mt, while copper remained steady at $9,409/mt. Stainless steel prices remain firm, with 304 CR at Rs 197-199/kg (ex-Delhi) and SS 316L HR at Rs 318-322/kg. Demand for the 200 series is rising due to limited imports, while 300 and 400 series show gradual improvement. Experts expect 300 and 400 series prices to stay strong.

Nickel prices fell by 0.38% to $15,815/mt, while copper saw a 1.23% increase, opening at $9,391/mt today. Stainless steel prices remain steady, with 304 CR wider 2B at Rs.197-199/kg, while SS 316L HR is priced between Rs.318-322/kg. Demand for 200 series remains strong due to limited imports, while the 300 and 400 series show marginal improvements.

Nickel and copper opened higher today, driving positive sentiment in the stainless steel market. The 200-series continues to see strong demand due to limited imports, while the 300 and 400 series show steady growth. With a high USD, stainless steel prices, particularly in the 300-series, are expected to rise. Meanwhile, Maharashtra signed a major INR 12,000 crore deal for a new stainless steel plant.

Nickel opened higher today, boosting stainless steel price sentiments. Imported 200-series stainless steel remains in short supply, driving up domestic demand. Cash constraints have limited significant improvement in 300-series demand, while 400-series prices stay strong due to BIS regulations. Meanwhile, Taiwanese mills have raised 300-series prices, citing currency fluctuations and global cost pressures.

Stainless steel prices remain stable, with 200 series demand continuing to rise due to limited imports. Global trade policies, including EU anti-dumping duties and U.S. tariffs, are shaping market conditions. Prices are expected to increase in the coming days.

Zinc prices declined last week across major markets, with LME zinc closing at $2,823.5/mt and MCX zinc falling to Rs. 269/kg. Demand has weakened, particularly during China’s New Year, while inventory levels remain a key factor. A narrowing global zinc deficit signals potential market shifts. The market is also awaiting clarity on U.S. tariff plans and upcoming policy decisions.

Aluminium prices on MCX fell by 1.06%, driven by increased global production and higher stock levels. China and Japan reported production and inventory surges, while the EU plans to include Russian aluminium in its sanctions package. Rising production costs in China are causing losses for the first time in three years. Experts forecast aluminium support at Rs 251.4 and resistance at Rs 254.

Zinc prices saw declines across major markets, with LME dropping by 1.68% and MCX by 1.6%. Trading volumes rose in LME and SHFE, but market volatility increased amid economic uncertainties and risk aversion. Zinc production in China rose, but the global deficit narrowed. The market faces pressure due to rising production and market uncertainty.

Zinc prices saw a slight rise across LME, SHFE, and MCX markets, supported by falling inventories and global supply disruptions. The global market deficit widened, with ILZSG revising its 2024 outlook to a 164,000-mt deficit due to reduced output and weak Chinese demand. Experts predict resistance at Rs 279.5, with potential for further gains.

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.

Aluminum prices held steady despite mixed trends in the global market. Supply constraints at LME warehouses and strong Chinese production shaped price movements. Declining alumina costs and ongoing U.S. tariff discussions further influenced market sentiment.

Zinc prices exhibited mixed trends across LME, SHFE, and MCX markets, influenced by fluctuating inventories, Chinese production trends, and global economic conditions. Refined zinc production saw modest gains in China but dropped significantly year-on-year. Experts highlight the importance of Chinese demand in shaping near-term trends.