Aluminum stockpiles have risen consistently this year amid the downturn in the auto sector; however recent evidence that the economy is improving combined with confidence in Chinese purchases have lifted aluminum demand.
Despite the recent recovery in LME aluminum prices; demand for the stainless steel component remains in the dumps. Without any idea of when demand may stage a comeback, aluminum miners are bracing for more tough times.
Aluminum producer’s cutbacks have done little to stabilize the metal’s free fall. In London, the price of aluminum fell to $1,321 per tonne from $1,345. In New York, it was selling for 59 cents per pound. Six months ago, the metal’s going rate was $1.50 per pound.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009