[Ferro-Alloys.com] Spot APT prices firmed while FeW prices softened last week. US suppliers reported that sales had been made at USD22-22.30 per lb compared to USD22.25-23. A tender in Europe reportedly was concluded at just above USD40 per kg. At the same time, some consumers resumed buying APT after months of saying they were loaded with inventory.

 

European traders reported making volume sales at just over USD350 per mtu. Another trader said that his offer of USD350 was countered with USD330. A seasoned trader said the reason for what appears to be a USD50 jump in spot prices is that published prices at yearend 2012 probably were not accurate. “No one was buying, and people were throwing out crazy numbers. I’m not sure any real business was done at the low prices,” he commented.