[Ferro-alloys.com]The western antimony market has kept the upward momentum as price and demand seems to be steadily increasing. Sources noted that they have seen some additional downstream interest as the Chinese market begins to shutter due to the approaching Chinese New Year holiday in late January. Prices for material within Europe are presently at $9,650-9,850 per mt, ex-warehouse Rotterdam, compared to $9,600-9,800 per mt last week. According to sources, transactions remained mostly in partial truckload and truckload volumes, as suppliers have indicated little interest for multi-truckload inquiries. “There are some questions surrounding demand and the Chinese holiday,” said a source. “With many Chinese participants already stepping out, demand could tick up substantially over the next couple of weeks.”

 

The US market continues to trail the European market as prices have only seen marginal increases. Prices for US domestic material is currently at $4.45-4.55 per lb, compared to $4.45-4.50 per lb the week prior. Sources noted that there are a slew of open inquiries as consumers are actively seeking supply, although most are still cautious and unwilling to over-pursue material.

 

Many speculated that additional increases are likely in the near-term as prompt availability will remain limited but, nevertheless, buyers should continue working primarily hand- to-mouth. Several smaller lot transactions were indicated slightly above the $4.50 per lb mark, with a truckload sale noted at $4.49 per lb.