For the Quarter Ending December 2024
North America
In Q4 2024, helium prices in North America exhibited varied trends, reflecting global supply improvements and fluctuating demand dynamics. In the USA, October prices remained stable as domestic production adequately supported steady demand from high-tech and medical sectors. The semiconductor industry, driven by advancements in AI technology, maintained robust helium consumption, while the healthcare sector ensured consistent demand for MRI systems. Despite sufficient inventories, cautious procurement from downstream industries reflected conservative market sentiment.
In November, helium prices increased moderately, influenced by tight global supply and strong seasonal demand. Pre-holiday logistics activity and heightened helium requirements for semiconductor manufacturing bolstered procurement levels. Imports remained steady, with global constraints sustaining pricing pressure. However, rising helium recycling initiatives in the USA's semiconductor industry slightly eased demand pressures on new supplies.
By December, prices in the USA saw a decline due to improved global production and year-end destocking activities. Increased contributions from Qatar and Russia alleviated supply tightness, while reduced industrial activity during the holiday season moderated demand.
APAC
In Q4 2024, helium prices in the APAC region exhibited mixed trends, reflecting global supply dynamics, seasonal demand patterns, and downstream industry activity. In October, prices in India declined due to stable market conditions, balanced inventory levels, and moderated demand from sectors like semiconductors and medical technology. Improved helium recycling initiatives in the semiconductor sector also supported supply stability, helping to alleviate price pressures. In November, prices saw a moderate rise, driven by increased import costs from Qatar and sustained demand from downstream industries. Robust performance in the healthcare and high-tech sectors, coupled with heightened seasonal procurement, supported this upward trend. Semiconductor manufacturing and AI-enabled chip production continued to be key drivers of helium consumption, underscoring its critical role in advanced technology applications. By December, prices eased slightly, influenced by lower import costs and improved global helium supply, particularly from Qatar and Russia. Reduced industrial activity during festive holidays in Europe and North America contributed to moderated procurement. While core sectors like medical technology maintained steady helium consumption, high inventory levels and strategic year-end destocking activities shaped the market, ensuring supply-demand alignment.
MEA
In Q4 2024, helium prices in the MEA region exhibited fluctuating trends, reflecting global supply dynamics and varying demand patterns. In October, prices in Qatar showed a moderate increase, supported by stable production levels and balanced procurement activities from key sectors such as semiconductors and medical technology. While global geopolitical tensions limited expansion efforts, efficient supply chain operations in Qatar ensured steady exports to importing nations, including India and the U.S. Demand from high-tech industries, particularly semiconductor manufacturing, contributed to the market's cautious recovery, with steady procurement strategies aligning with moderate inventory levels. In November, prices experienced a sharper increase, driven by tight global supply conditions and heightened demand from the healthcare and electronics sectors. Seasonal factors, including pre-Christmas preparations and robust semiconductor production, fueled procurement activity. Qatar maintained strong export performance, meeting elevated demand from Europe and India while global supply constraints sustained upward price pressure. By December, helium prices in Qatar declined as improved global supply and year-end destocking activities shaped market dynamics. Increased production from Qatar and Russia eased supply bottlenecks, while reduced industrial activity during festive holidays in Europe and North America moderated demand.
Europe
In Q4 2024, helium prices in Europe demonstrated a mixed trajectory, driven by evolving global supply and regional demand conditions. In Germany, October prices remained relatively stable, supported by consistent imports and strong helium consumption in high-tech industries, particularly semiconductors and medical applications. Germany's advanced electronics manufacturing sector sustained significant helium demand, although subdued construction activity across Europe limited broader market growth. November saw a modest price increase in Europe as global supply constraints combined with strong seasonal demand. In Germany, helium consumption remained robust across the medical and semiconductor sectors, with pre-holiday logistics and AI-driven chip production amplifying procurement. However, elevated inventory levels and cautious purchasing strategies moderated the extent of price increases in the European market. In December, prices in Europe, including Germany, declined as improved global supply alleviated market tightness. Increased exports from Qatar and Russia bolstered availability, reducing dependency on spot markets. Reduced industrial activity during the holiday season, combined with strategic year-end inventory adjustments, tempered procurement levels.
For the Quarter Ending September 2024
North America
In Q3 2024, the Helium pricing environment in North America experienced a significant downturn, primarily driven by an oversupply situation and diminished procurement efforts. This decline was exacerbated by weakened demand from vital sectors, including healthcare and high-tech manufacturing, which added to the prevailing negative sentiment. The United States, as a major player in the helium market, faced substantial price fluctuations amid excess supply and stagnant market dynamics.
Throughout the quarter, prices consistently fell, reflecting notable shifts between the first and second halves of the period. Seasonal factors and geopolitical tensions further complicated the landscape, contributing to a challenging pricing environment. Importantly, tepid demand and ample inventories have led manufacturers to refrain from initiating any price changes in the domestic market, with overall operating rates remaining low. However, prices remained largely unchanged compared to the previous quarter, signaling a lack of improvement in the market dynamics.
By the end of the quarter, the market sentiment reflected persistent negativity, underscoring the difficulties faced by the helium sector in North America. This continued struggle suggests that without significant demand recovery, the market may remain under pressure moving forward.
APAC
In Q3 2024, the APAC region witnessed a notable decline in Helium prices, with India experiencing the most significant fluctuations. This downward trend was influenced by a combination of factors, including high supply levels from key producers such as Qatar and a decrease in import costs. The market became oversaturated as consistent production levels and reduced freight charges contributed to the surplus availability of Helium. Additionally, stable natural gas prices supported continuous production, further pressuring prices downward. Throughout the quarter, there were also disruptions in production due to plant shutdowns, which impacted supply dynamics. In India specifically, the pricing environment remained negative throughout the quarter, characterized by steadily decreasing prices. Seasonal trends and market dynamics played crucial roles in these fluctuations, showing a direct correlation between high supply levels and low demand. Despite these challenges, prices remained stable compared to the previous quarter, indicating no significant improvement; however, there was an increase of 8% in comparison to the same quarter last year. The quarter-ending price of USD 94740/MT for Helium Gas CFR JNPT in India reflected the overall decreasing trend in pricing, underscoring the challenges faced in the Helium market during this period.
MEA
In Q3 2024, the Helium pricing landscape in the MEA region experienced a notable decline influenced by several key factors. This downturn was primarily driven by oversupply and reduced procurement activities, which exerted downward pressure on prices. The decrease in demand, particularly from critical sectors such as healthcare and high-tech manufacturing, further contributed to the overall negative trend. Qatar, a significant player in the Helium market, experienced the most pronounced price fluctuations as it struggled with excess supply amid subdued market dynamics. Throughout the quarter, prices consistently decreased, registering a notable -3% change between the first and second halves of the period. Seasonal factors affecting demand in key importing nations further exacerbated the downward price trend, while geopolitical tensions and global economic uncertainties added additional challenges to the market. Despite these difficulties, prices remained stable compared to the previous quarter, indicating no significant improvement, while they did increase by 8.5% compared to the same quarter last year. As the quarter ended, Helium Gas prices reached USD 92,500/MT FOB Doha in Qatar, reflecting a predominantly negative pricing sentiment and underscoring the challenging conditions faced by the Helium market in the MEA region.
Europe
In Q3 2024, the Helium pricing landscape in the European region faced a notable decline influenced by multiple factors. Oversupply and diminished procurement activities created substantial downward pressure on prices, particularly affecting key consuming sectors such as healthcare and high-tech manufacturing. The Netherlands experienced the most significant price fluctuations as it grappled with excess supply and lackluster market dynamics. Throughout the quarter, a consistent drop in prices was observed, particularly between the first and second halves. Seasonal influences further intensified the downward pricing trend. Additionally, geopolitical tensions and global economic uncertainties added to the adverse market conditions. Overall, tepid demand and sufficient inventories have prompted manufacturers to refrain from any price developments in the domestic market, resulting in persistently low operating rates. Furthermore, prices remained largely unchanged from the previous quarter, signaling a lack of improvement in market conditions. As the quarter concluded, the pricing sentiment continued to reflect a predominantly negative outlook for the helium market across Europe, highlighting the ongoing challenges in the region.
For the Quarter Ending June 2024
North America
In Q2 2024, the North American region experienced mixed sentiments regarding helium pricing, with slight fluctuations influenced by various factors. In the USA, where the most significant price changes occurred, helium prices showed a steady rise in the first two months of the quarter, while in the last month, prices declined slightly.
In April and May, key factors influencing helium prices included supply disruptions, increased demand from various industries, and geopolitical tensions. Supply disruptions, particularly in the Red Sea region, created an imbalance between supply and demand, leading to higher prices. Growing demand from industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and technology further fueled the price increase. Geopolitical tensions added to market uncertainty, along with the sale of the U.S. Federal Helium Reserve, which raised global concerns about future supply stability, contributing to price fluctuations.
Overall, the pricing environment for helium in Q2 2024 can be described as positive, with prices showing a steady rise influenced by supply disruptions, increased demand, and geopolitical tensions.
APAC
In Q2 2024, helium pricing in the APAC region has experienced a notable upward trend, influenced by a confluence of market dynamics and external factors. A significant driver has been the persistent supply constraints stemming from geopolitical tensions and production disruptions. Notably, the shutdown of the Amur facility in Russia, coupled with inconsistent output from Gazprom's units, has strained global helium supply chains. Additionally, the ongoing sanctions and trade restrictions imposed by the EU have exacerbated these supply issues, creating a robust upward pressure on prices.
Focusing on India, the helium market has seen the most pronounced price changes in the region. The overall trend has been distinctly bullish, underpinned by both seasonal demand spikes and broader market sentiment. The summer season has traditionally driven higher helium consumption in various industrial applications, contributing to elevated procurement activity. This seasonal uptick, combined with cautious market optimism, has resulted in a steady rise in prices. Compared to the same quarter last year, the price increase has been substantial, reflecting the compounded effects of supply constraints and sustained demand.
Throughout Q2 2024, helium prices in India showed a consistent upward trajectory. The first half of the quarter witnessed gradual price increments, which intensified in the latter half due to intensified procurement activities and supply pressures. The quarter concluded on a high note, with helium gas prices reaching USD 9,210,000/MT Ex-Bengaluru. This pricing environment, driven by both external disruptions and intrinsic market demand, has been predominantly positive, reflecting the ongoing challenges and opportunities within the helium market in India and the broader APAC region.
Europe
In Q2 2024, Europe experienced mixed sentiments regarding helium pricing, with slight fluctuations influenced by various factors. In the Netherlands, where the most significant price changes occurred, helium prices showed a steady rise throughout the second quarter of 2024.
In April and May, key factors influencing helium prices included supply disruptions, increased demand from various industries, and geopolitical tensions. Supply disruptions, particularly in the Red Sea region, created an imbalance between supply and demand, leading to higher prices. Growing demand from industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and technology further fueled the price increase. During this period, MEA countries operated on reduced schedules, and the construction sector experienced stability.
Overall, the pricing environment for helium in Q2 2024 can be described as positive, with prices showing a steady rise influenced by supply disruptions, increased demand, and geopolitical tensions.
MEA
The second quarter of 2024 has been marked by a pronounced upward trajectory in helium prices within the MEA region, driven by a confluence of key factors. A critical driver has been the ongoing geopolitical tensions, coupled with the strategic acquisition of essential helium reserves, which have collectively exacerbated supply constraints. The sale of the U.S. Federal Helium Reserve to the industrial gas company Messer, for instance, has created substantial market ripples, leading to heightened procurement costs as entities scramble to secure their helium supplies. Furthermore, industry-wide disruptions, including the performance challenges at the Amur facility in Russia and supply chain interruptions due to new EU sanctions, have further strained global helium availability.
In this context, Qatar has emerged as a focal point of significant price volatility, witnessing the most marked adjustments across the region. The overall trend in Qatar reflects a robust increase in helium prices, influenced by seasonal procurement activities and heightened summer demand. This uptrend correlates with a consistent escalation in global demand and tight supply scenarios. The quarter saw a notable 1% price increase from the previous quarter, underscoring the persistent bullish market sentiment. The first half of the quarter experienced a stable price environment, which subsequently surged by 1% in the latter half, driven by intensified market activities.
Concluding the quarter, the helium price in Qatar reached USD 94,000/MT FOB Doha, cementing a positive pricing environment propelled by complex interplay of supply-side constraints and robust demand dynamics.
For the Quarter Ending March 2024
North America
The North America region witnessed mixed sentiments for helium pricing in Q1 2024, with slight fluctuations influenced by various factors. In the USA, which experienced the most significant price changes, helium prices showed a steady rise in the first two months of the quarter, while in the last month, prices declined slightly.
In January and February, the key factors influencing helium prices were supply disruptions, increased demand from various industries, and geopolitical tensions. Supply disruptions, particularly in the Red Sea region, created an imbalance between supply and demand, leading to higher prices. The growing demand from industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and technology further fueled the price increase. Geopolitical tensions added to the uncertainty in the market, along with the sale of the U.S. Federal Helium Reserve, which raised concerns globally about future supply stability, contributing to price fluctuations. However, in March, helium prices declined by 1% after a steady rise over the last year due to the discovery of helium concentrations up to 13.8% by Pulsar Helium in Minnesota's Jetstream.
Overall, the pricing environment for helium in Q1 2024 can be described as positive, with prices showing a steady rise influenced by supply disruptions, increased demand, and geopolitical tensions.
APAC
The APAC region experienced mixed sentiments for helium pricing in Q1 2024, with slight fluctuations influenced by various factors. In India, which witnessed the most significant price changes, helium prices showed a steady rise in the first two months of the quarter, while in the last month, prices declined slightly.
In January and February, key factors influencing helium prices included supply disruptions, increased demand from various industries, and geopolitical tensions. Supply disruptions, particularly in the Red Sea region, created an imbalance between supply and demand, leading to higher prices. The growing demand from industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and technology further fueled the price increase. Geopolitical tensions added to the market's uncertainty, along with the sale of the U.S. Federal Helium Reserve, which globally raised concerns about future supply stability, contributing to price fluctuations. However, in March, helium prices declined by 1% after a steady rise over the past year due to the discovery of helium concentrations up to 13.8% by Pulsar Helium in Minnesota's Jetstream, largely influenced by Ramadan in the Middle East as India imports helium from Qatar. During this period, countries in the MEA operated on reduced schedules, and the construction sector experienced stability.
Finally, the quarter-ending price for helium gas in India was recorded at INR 7870000/MT CFR JNPT. Overall, the pricing environment for helium in Q1 2024 can be described as positive, with prices showing a steady rise influenced by supply disruptions, increased demand, and geopolitical tensions.
MEA
The MEA region experienced a mixed quarter for helium pricing in Q1 2024, with slight fluctuations influenced by various factors. In Qatar, which witnessed the most significant price changes, helium prices showed a steady rise in the first two months of the quarter, while in the last month, prices declined slightly.
In January and February, the helium market in Qatar encountered a positive pricing environment, with prices displaying a moderate increase. Several factors contributed to this upward trend. Firstly, there was a growing demand for helium across various industries, including scientific research, medical technology, manufacturing, and space exploration. This surge in demand raised concerns about potential supply shortages, particularly with the recent sale of the U.S. Federal Helium Reserve. However, in March, helium prices declined by 1% after a steady rise over the past year due to the discovery of helium concentrations up to 13.8% by Pulsar Helium in Minnesota's Jetstream. This decline was largely influenced by Ramadan in the Middle East. During this period, countries in the MEA operated on reduced schedules, and the construction sector experienced stability.
Finally, the quarter-ending price for helium gas in Qatar was recorded at USD 92000/MT, FOB Doha. Overall, the pricing environment for helium in Q1 2024 could be described as positive, with prices showing a steady rise influenced by supply disruptions, increased demand, and geopolitical tensions.
Europe
Europe witnessed mixed sentiments for helium pricing in Q1 2024, with slight fluctuations influenced by various factors. In the Netherlands, which experienced the most significant price changes, helium prices showed a steady rise in the first two months of the quarter, while in the last month, prices declined slightly.
In January and February, the key factors influencing helium prices were supply disruptions, increased demand from various industries, and geopolitical tensions. Supply disruptions, particularly in the Red Sea region, created an imbalance between supply and demand, leading to higher prices. The growing demand from industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and technology further fueled the price increase. Geopolitical tensions added to the uncertainty in the market, along with the sale of the U.S. Federal Helium Reserve, which raised concerns globally about future supply stability, contributing to price fluctuations. However, in March, helium prices declined by 1% after a steady rise over the last year due to the discovery of helium concentrations up to 13.8% by Pulsar Helium in Minnesota's Jetstream and largely influenced by Ramadan in the Middle East as Europe imports helium from the Middle East. During this period, countries in the MEA operated on reduced schedules, and the construction sector experienced stability.
Overall, the pricing environment for helium in Q1 2024 can be described as positive, with prices showing a steady rise influenced by supply disruptions, increased demand, and geopolitical tensions.
