For the Quarter Ending September 2024
North America
In Q3 2024, the North American Copper Rod market witnessed a significant uptrend in prices driven by a confluence of factors. The robust global economic recovery played a pivotal role in bolstering industrial demand for Copper Rod, with growing adoption of electric vehicles further boosting copper requirements for batteries and charging infrastructure. Additionally, increased industrial activity as businesses ramped up production for the fall season and strong demand from the construction sector accelerated prices. But when compared to the previous quarter, the prices witnessed negligible changes.
In the United States, the market experienced significant price fluctuations throughout the quarter, culminating in a substantial 4% rise in the latter half compared to the initial half. The quarter displayed positive overall trends, reflecting a stable pricing environment amidst fluctuating global economic conditions.
The latest quarter-ending price of USD 13,551/MT for Copper Rod (C110-1 inch) DEL Alabama in the USA underlines the prevailing upward trajectory in pricing, signaling a promising outlook for the sector.
APAC
Asia's copper rod market demonstrated resilience in Q3 2024, primarily influenced by China's export dynamics and regional industrial growth. The continent witnessed sustained demand from the expanding electric vehicle sector, particularly in ASEAN nations, while manufacturing activities remained robust despite global economic uncertainties.
Vietnam's copper rod market exhibited notable strength, recording a 1% increase between the first and second half of Q3, with a positive 1% change from the previous quarter. The market was characterized by strong demand drivers, including the flourishing automotive sector, boosted by government incentives on domestic vehicle registration fees. Infrastructure development, particularly post-Typhoon Yagi reconstruction efforts, further amplified demand. Supply dynamics were influenced by increased Chinese exports and higher overseas premiums, though weather-related disruptions created some constraints. The manufacturing sector's expansion and construction industry growth provided additional support to market fundamentals.
The emerging focus on electric vehicle exports and ongoing industrial expansion programs positioned Vietnam favorably in the regional copper rod market. The quarter-ending price of USD 10257/MT of Copper Rod (25 mm) CFR Hai Phong in Germany reflects a consistently increasing pricing environment in Q3 2024.
Europe
Throughout Q3 2024, the European Copper Rod market witnessed a significant upward trend in prices, driven by a confluence of factors. One key driver was the global surge in demand for industrial metals, particularly copper, fueled by the transition towards renewable energy, electric vehicles, and AI technologies. This increased demand, coupled with Beijing's economic easing measures and optimism surrounding Chinese demand, created a bullish market sentiment. Additionally, the announcement of Portus Data Centers' new facility in Hamburg further boosted local copper demand, adding to the positive price momentum.
In Germany, which saw the most substantial price changes in the region, the market experienced stable supply conditions amidst low demand. Despite challenges in key end-use sectors like automotive and construction, the quarter saw a notable 15% increase in prices compared to the same quarter last year. The slight variation from the preceding quarter in 2024 suggests a stable market condition, marked by a modest 4% escalation in prices during the latter half of the quarter as compared to the first. The quarter-ending price of USD 11844/MT of Copper Rod (25 mm) FD-Bad Berleburg in Germany reflects a consistently increasing pricing environment in Q3 2024.
For the Quarter Ending June 2024
North America
In Q2 2024, the Copper Rod market in North America experienced significant pricing fluctuations in a downward direction compared to the previous quarter driven primarily by intricate supply-demand dynamics. The quarter has been marked by a series of influential factors, including global supply chain disruptions, heightened inventory levels, and economic uncertainties. Copper prices initially surged due to supply constraints stemming from production challenges at key mines, particularly in Latin America, which exacerbated concentrate shortages. Moreover, increasing imports of copper scrap by smelters to circumvent these shortages further influenced market dynamics. A strong US dollar and the Federal Reserve's stance on delaying interest rate cuts added downward pressure on prices, balancing the supply-driven upward momentum.
Focusing on the USA, which has witnessed maximum price changes, the overall trend in Q2 has been predominantly stable yet slightly bearish. Seasonal influences and economic indicators, such as slow job vacancy rates and trade data variances from major consumers, have also played a critical role. Compared to the preceding quarter of 2024, the pricing registered a significant decline, indicative of a cooling market sentiment.
The slight price difference between the first and second half of the quarter, underscores this stability amidst fluctuating external factors. Concluding Q2, the Copper Rod (C110-1 inch) price stood at USD 12988/MT DEL Alabama, portraying a nuanced pricing environment that, while reflecting stability, has been influenced by a confluence of bearish market pressures and cautious economic outlooks.
Europe
During Q2 2024, the pricing environment for Copper Rod in the Europe Region has been notably positive, marked by an upward trajectory driven by several influencing factors. The primary catalysts behind the price surge include geopolitical tensions, labour strikes in key mining regions, and stringent mining regulations, all contributing to supply constraints. Additionally, the ongoing expansion of data centres and the electrification of the global economy have bolstered demand for copper, which is crucial for manufacturing electric vehicles, power grids, and wind turbines. Amidst these dynamics, European copper producers have faced challenges maintaining production levels, further tightening supply and driving prices upward.
Focusing specifically on Germany, which experienced the most significant price changes, the overall trend has been one of steady increase. The seasonality effect played a minor role, with demand remaining robust throughout the quarter. Correlation in price changes was evident, with a slight increase compared to the same quarter last year and a notable rise from the previous quarter in 2024, indicating sustained demand and constrained supply. The comparison between the first and second halves of the quarter showed an increase, reflecting consistent market strength.
Concluding Q2 2024, the price of Copper Rod (25 mm) FD-Bad Berleburg in Germany reached USD 11294/MT. This price trajectory underscores a positive pricing environment, driven by strong industrial demand and limited supply, cementing copper's critical role in the ongoing energy transition and industrial activities.
Asia-Pacific
During Q2 2024, the Copper Rod market in the APAC region experienced a period of relative stability. Several factors contributed to this equilibrium, including balanced supply-demand dynamics, cautious optimism in global economic recovery, and steady industrial activities predominantly in the automotive and infrastructure sectors. The supply side remained robust due to consistent production outputs, while demand was supported by the ongoing expansion in renewable energy and electric vehicle segments. Geopolitical stability and favourable macroeconomic policies further bolstered market confidence, mitigating extreme price volatility.
In South Korea, the Copper Rod market witnessed the most significant changes, albeit within a stable context. The general pattern showed an increase from the same quarter last year, highlighting a moderate but consistent growth path. When compared to the previous quarter in 2024, prices notably rose, indicating a positive sentiment driven by heightened demand and strategic inventory management by local manufacturers. Interestingly, the price comparison between the first and second half of the quarter showed no change (0%), highlighting a consistent pricing environment throughout the quarter. This stability suggests that any fluctuations were effectively balanced by market forces.
The latest quarter-ending price for Copper Rod (20 mm) FOB Busan in South Korea stood at USD 10078/MT. This figure indicates a stable pricing environment, largely attributed to concerted efforts by industry stakeholders to synchronize supply and demand and mitigate the impacts of global economic fluctuations. Overall, the Q2 2024 pricing environment for Copper Rod in South Korea has been stable, reflecting a well-managed market with positive undertones.
For the Quarter Ending March 2024
North America
The North American market for Copper Rod experienced a challenging first quarter in 2024, with prices consistently decreasing. Several factors contributed to this downward trend. Firstly, there was an oversupply of Copper Rod in the market, leading to a surplus of available inventories. Additionally, the strength of the US dollar put downward pressure on prices.
The uncertainty in the market, including the approval of a land swap for Rio's Arizona copper mine, created a pessimistic sentiment among buyers, who approached the market cautiously and placed minimal orders. However, uncertainties surrounding global supply chains, including disruptions from mine closures such as the Cobre Panama project, contributed to market volatility. The overall pricing environment for Copper Rod in North America has been consistently negative, with prices declining throughout the quarter.
The market has been influenced by factors such as oversupply, currency strength, and market uncertainty. The quarter-ending price for Copper Rod (C110-1 inch) DEL Alabama in the USA was recorded at USD 13745/MT, reflecting the downward trend in prices.
APAC
The APAC region's Copper Rod market in Q1 2024 experienced fluctuations in pricing due to various factors impacting supply and demand. Overall, the pricing environment for Copper Rods can be described as stable with moderate to high demand, but with some bearish sentiments. In the region, there were abundant supplies of Copper Rods. This surplus inventory led to a decline in prices, especially in Vietnam and South Korea. However, the supply situation varied across countries, with some facing supply shortages due to disruptions in trade routes and reduced production rates at mills. Demand for Copper Rods remained stable to moderate, with key sectors such as automotive and renewable energy driving consumption. However, the downstream construction and housing industries faced challenges, resulting in lower demand for Copper Rods in certain markets. In South Korea, the pricing environment was particularly volatile, with significant price changes observed. The country experienced a decline in prices due to increased supply rates and lower downstream demand. The production levels at local mills remained high, contributing to surplus inventory. Additionally, disruptions in trade routes and macroeconomic concerns impacted prices in the South Korean market. Overall, Q1 2024 saw a mixed pricing trend for Copper Rods in the APAC region. While some markets experienced stability, others faced price declines. Seasonality and correlation in price changes varied across countries. In conclusion, the latest quarter-ending price for Copper Rod (20 mm) FOB Busan in South Korea was recorded at USD 9922/MT.
Europe
The Europe region saw an overall positive trend in Copper Rod pricing during Q1 2024. Several factors influenced market prices, including increased demand from various industries and government initiatives to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. In Germany, which experienced the price changes, Copper Rod prices showed a stable trend throughout the quarter. The market in Germany was influenced by factors such as the brightening export market, improved new car registrations, and investments in raw materials by the government. These factors contributed to the stability and slight increase in prices. Market participants are anticipating further developments in global metal prices, especially in response to geopolitical events and supply chain disruptions. The quarter-ending price for Copper Rod (25 mm) FD-Bad Berleburg in Germany was recorded at USD 10888/MT. This reflects the overall increasing sentiment in the pricing environment for Copper Rod in Germany during Q1 2024.Overall, the Copper Rod market in Europe, particularly in Germany, experienced a positive and stable pricing environment during the first quarter of 2024.
For the Quarter Ending December 2023
North America
The fourth quarter of 2023 witnessed a nuanced landscape for Copper Rod in North America, marked by distinct factors shaping market dynamics. Market resilience emerged as a key theme, with steady demand and supply chain adaptability providing a stable foundation.
Geopolitical considerations added an element of caution, contributing to a carefully navigated pricing trajectory. The USA, at the forefront of these developments, experienced significant price adjustments, reflecting a calculated decline by 2% change from the previous quarter. This quarter's performance showcased a feeble correlation between market trends, seasonality, and pricing adjustments. As the quarter concluded, Copper Rod (C110-1 inch) DEL Alabama in the USA stood at USD 15,458/MT, encapsulating the quarter's dynamic interplay of factors.
The top reasons, intricately woven into the narrative, encompassed market demand resilience, strategic supply chain management, and geopolitical nuances. The comprehensive analysis highlights the intricate dance of factors that defined the North American Copper Rod market during the final quarter of 2023.
APAC
The APAC Copper Rod pricing landscape in the fourth quarter of 2023 unfolded with intricate dynamics that shaped market conditions. South Korea emerged as a pivotal player, navigating significant pricing changes influenced by heightened demand, geopolitical recalibrations, and intricate supply chain dynamics. An in-depth analysis revealed a nuanced pricing trend with inherent seasonality and correlations specific to South Korea. Despite the intricate global landscape, South Korea experienced a remarkable percentage change of 2% year-on-year, reflecting the adaptability of the market amid evolving conditions. Further exploration into halves of the quarter unveiled a 3.6% differentiation, elucidating temporal market shifts. The pivotal reasons behind these fluctuations encompassed disruptions in the supply chain, escalating demand pressures, and geopolitical uncertainties, offering a multifaceted understanding. As the quarter concluded, the pricing denouement materialized with Copper Rod (20 mm) FOB Busan in South Korea standing at USD 9853/MT, encapsulating the intricate dance of market forces, geopolitical intricacies, and industrial demands, providing a comprehensive view into the APAC Copper Rod pricing landscape in the closing quarter of 2023.
Europe
The final quarter of 2023 saw an intriguing landscape for Copper Rod in Europe, marked by pivotal factors shaping market dynamics. Market demand, though weak, encountered sluggishness with a minimal 2.3% change as compared to the previous quarter, reflecting a nuanced balance. Germany, as a key player, experienced distinctive pricing adjustments, exhibiting a calculated -3% change from the preceding quarter, influenced by market intricacies and geopolitical considerations. The correlation between market trends, seasonality, and pricing adjustments demonstrated a bearish interplay. The first and second halves of the quarter saw a resilient market, with a 6% price comparison in Germany. Copper Rod (25 mm) FD-Bad Berleburg in Germany concluded the quarter at USD 10,824/MT. The top reasons, intricately woven into the narrative, encompassed market demand moderation, strategic supply chain adaptability, and geopolitical nuances. This comprehensive analysis encapsulates the intricate dance of factors defining the European Copper Rod market during the final quarter of 2023.
For the Quarter Ending September 2023
North America
Copper rod prices in the German and US markets remained stable amid global economic challenges. Monetary tightening in Western countries and China's economic slowdown created market pressure. Investors adopted a cautious "sell the rally" approach, emphasizing the need to monitor US inflation data, central bank actions, and Chinese economic indicators. Recent US inflation temporarily boosted metal prices due to a weaker US dollar and improved sentiment. However, challenges persisted, with potential rate hikes and bearish market fundamentals. The resolution of the US debt ceiling crisis and the US Federal Reserve's pause in interest rate increases improved the outlook slightly. On the supply side, monetary tightening and the Federal Reserve's Quantitative Tightening policy strained the copper rod market. Fluctuations in market dynamics resulted from factors like demand, inflation, and global economic conditions, with the construction and automotive industries playing vital roles. Copper rod prices fluctuated based on inflation, interest rates, and economic stability, either stabilizing, falling, or rising as circumstances evolved.
APAC
The Chinese copper rod market encountered a stable price trend in the third quarter of 2023. In July, pricing stagnated due to an influx of imported copper, driven by macroeconomic variables. Weakening US non-farm payrolls and interest rate uncertainties affected copper prices, benefiting China due to its growing electric vehicle usage. However, global economic growth remained weak, and local services-led recovery showed little interest in copper. In August, demand for copper rods diminished, especially in consumer goods and construction, due to domestic policy downturns, slower import-export growth, and a decline in real estate. Rising foreign interest rates and decreased auto industry demand further lowered copper prices. September witnessed price stability as a balanced supply-demand outlook, positive macroeconomic signals, and domestic demand-stimulating policies countered overseas uncertainty. However, market sentiment wavered in late September as operating rates rose, affecting copper rod makers using scrap copper. In summary, the Chinese copper rod market experienced summer fluctuations driven by global economic factors, domestic policies, and supply-demand dynamics.
Europe
In the German copper market, Copper Rod prices remained stagnant in the first week of July due to economic pressures, including monetary tightening in the West and a sluggish Chinese economy. Investor sentiment was cautious, with a prevailing "sell the rally" mentality. Key factors affecting the market were US inflation data, central bank actions, and Chinese economic indicators. Despite a temporary surge after a drop in US inflation, ongoing challenges persisted due to upcoming rate hikes and bearish market fundamentals. In the subsequent weeks, copper prices fluctuated due to weak demand from the automotive and construction sectors in Germany. German automotive companies faced tough competition from China and the US, resulting in decreased market share and higher inventory levels. Inflationary pressures reduced buyers' purchasing power, impacting automotive sales and copper demand. The German government's stimulus package aimed to support the struggling construction industry impacted by high-interest rates and rising costs. Supply agreements for copper were delayed due to concerns about exceeding purchase requirements and subdued market conditions. In summary, the German copper market experienced stagnation, price fluctuations, and supply-demand balance issues due to economic and government-related factors, particularly in the automotive and construction sectors.
For the Quarter Ending June 2023
North America
In the second quarter of 2023, US Copper Rod showed stable price development against the background of macroeconomic factors affecting stability. At the beginning of the second quarter, the price increase was noticeable when there was an unexpected drop in the US producer price index, which removed the downward pressure caused by the production of copper rods. Demand supply was steady, suggesting that the US government is in the final stages of raising interest rates and plans to cut them in the coming weeks. At the same time, the market situation worsened dramatically in the second half of the second quarter, which pushed back the price increase from the first half of the quarter. In the second quarter, the US government found itself in a demanding financial situation, when the collapse of several major US banks created a debt crisis in the US spot market. Buyers were then left to wait and see, and the rate of purchase focused on need by demand. The development of infrastructure and the carbon removal effect of the electrification of various factories kept the level of consumption stable throughout the German spot market.
Asia- Pacific
In the Asian market, the price development of Copper Rod increased in the second quarter due to the optimistic atmosphere in the Chinese copper market. In China, the development of copper smelters was stable, while the level of domestic consumption was stable. The delivery failure of some domestic warehouses allowed the factories to be stabilized and brought back to full capacity. As a result of various government agreements and policies, production costs are rising in the Chinese spot market, which has provided strong cost support for copper rod production. Inventory levels remained slightly lower as production activity did not increase as much as demand. The supply of copper scrap remained stable, which helped the price of copper move north. The slight decline was seen on the back of an increase in import tariffs as shipments attracted more attention due to the Chinese government's import subsidy policy. Uncertain economic conditions have somewhat depressed the price of copper rod, as the overseas United States and Eurozone countries have banned the import of goods of Chinese origin, including copper rod, causing a build-up of local stocks in China. China's oversupply has prompted local mills to sell excess copper rods at lower prices to maintain the gap between supply and demand. Meanwhile, buyers avoided large orders as market sentiment weakened and China's spot market was limited to on-demand buying.
Europe
The price of Copper Rod remained stable in the German spot market in the second quarter, as macroeconomic factors contributed significantly to its stability. A weaker US dollar provided strong fundamentals to the Copper Bar price and was expected to be the final move for the German exchange rate. The stock of copper bullion remained stable, while the operation of copper smelters was stable. The demand for Copper rod was stable from the buyer's side as the buyers waited and the purchase was made according to the demand. At the same time, the decarbonization and electrification of various copper smelters kept the consumption rate high and contributed to the stability of copper bar prices. Due to the deterioration of the economic situation, domestic consumption was in a downward direction in the second half of the second quarter. The German economy fell into recession due to the continued acceleration of inflation. The terms of trade worsened as the economy weakened in both local and foreign markets. The purchasing power of consumers has weakened, which has led to an increase in the local inventory of copper bars. This prompted the German government to impose countervailing duties on cheaper copper products imported from overseas markets in China and Asia. The automotive industry below showed a market trend collapse as sales of electric vehicles fell, resulting in an oversupply of Copper Rod. The German government plans to conclude several contracts to increase the consumption of copper bars and improve the economic situation of the country.
For the Quarter Ending March 2023
North America
In the first quarter of 2023, the US market experienced a rise in Copper Rod prices due to the banking meltdown's impact on high inflation and high-interest rates. Market players had noted that lower copper prices led to increased market demand ahead of traditionally high-demand months, such as April and May. As market participants looked for signs of a solid post-pandemic recovery, a slowdown in inventory build-up had indicated a rise in demand, and lead times had also been reduced due to lower input demand and fewer logistical delays. This improvement was driven by a sharp drop in input purchasing by manufacturers. Firms had chosen to deplete inventories as stocks of purchased and finished goods contracted. Additionally, the failure of Silicon Valley Bank in mid-March had a modest impact. The US dollar had also risen against most major currencies, reversing recent losses. The market's preference for safe-haven assets had remained high due to continuing concerns about banking industry risks. Downstream businesses had taken a wait-and-see approach in the face of high copper prices. As a ripple effect, the Copper Rod (C110-1 inch) prices for Ex Alabama (USA) settled at USD 15698/MT.
Asia Pacific
In the first quarter of 2023, Copper Rod prices in the Chinese market increased due to a surge in Copper futures and limited global copper stocks. Initially, Copper prices began positively with the return of funds in anticipation of China's exit from a year of lockdowns. However, the Spring Festival holiday in January, coupled with off-season consumption, caused downstream replenishment to remain weak, and spot market transactions were scarce. As Q1 progressed, demand rose as terminals, processing plants, and downstream businesses resumed production, and orders for Copper Rods increased. The sellers prioritized the delivery of long-term orders, and downstream companies took a wait-and-see approach in the face of high Copper prices. With the Chinese economy improving steadily, downstream demand is gradually improving as well. Overseas availability remains limited, which supports copper prices. As a ripple effect, the Copper Rod (20 mm) prices for Ex Shanghai and FOB Shanghai were fixed at USD 7300/MT and USD 7346/MT at the end of the first quarter of 2023.
Europe
Throughout the first quarter of 2023, the Copper Rod prices in the US market rose owing to the uptick in the downstream construction and machinery inquiries amidst banking sector turmoil. Buyers chose long-term contracts, avoiding the spot market. Potential supply disruptions from protests in Peru and a planned Utah smelter outage were noted but delayed shipments from Peru and Chile led to increased interest in copper scrap, and US premiums remained stable. Silicon Valley Bank's failure had little impact, and the US Fed's interest rate hike had little influence. Traders dominated spot market trades, and downstream buyers restocked as needed. Sellers prioritized long-term purchases, and import losses increased, reducing the possibility of significant inflows of imported goods. High copper prices kept buyers cautious, and trading was sluggish, with Copper Rod (25mm) prices for Ex Berleburg and FOB Hamburg fixed at USD 11708/MT and USD 11769/MT at the quarter's end.
For the Quarter Ending December 2022
North America
In the North American market, the Copper Rod price inched up by more than 5.4% in the final quarter of 2022 compared with the previous quarter amid concerns over the global demand outlook and hawkish remarks from US Federal Reserve officials sent the dollar higher. According to market participants, key factors which provoked Copper Rod prices to increase include deposits becoming more expensive to develop and miners focusing on quality rather than quantity. However, the supply outlook remained bleak, as the current low prices in October were insufficient to spur investment in new production. Copper prices rose in mid-Q4 as investors predicted that central banks would slow the pace of interest rate hikes. Conflicts between miners and the Peruvian communities where they worked had been a major source of contention. Peruvian miners faced more acute problems with local discontent than most other countries due to the proximity of populated areas and mines. However, smelter transactions increased in December as a result of replenishment requirements following supply issues and slow discussions of annual term contracts, which increased demand for spot cargoes. This year, Peru's road blockade around the Las Bambas mine and the country's recent political turmoil has exacerbated spot supply concerns. Thus, the discussions of Copper Rod (C110-1 inch) for Ex Alabama (USA) settled at USD 15335/MT.
Asia Pacific
Copper Rod prices increased 5.6% in the fourth quarter of 2022 compared to the previous quarter, owing to limited inventory and a flat downstream demand outlook. In October, China's supply of copper concentrate was becoming increasingly inadequate, and downstream enterprises were still concerned about high prices and weak terminal procurement, limiting the rise in copper prices even further. The new production capacity was delivered in November, but the supply pressure delivery rate was slower due to maintenance and equipment transformation disruptions. The market's inventory remained low, which pushed up the price. Furthermore, the LME denied imposing delivery restrictions on Russian metal, so the risk of a market-position squeeze was reduced. After China's pandemic control measures were relaxed, market participants became increasingly concerned about the demand outlook. As the New Year approached, consumption was squeezing, and an increase in COVID-19 lockdowns had cut downstream companies' operating rates in half, squeezing demand. Thus, the Copper Rod (20 mm) prices for FOB Shanghai (China) settled at USD 6218/MT.
Europe
Copper rod prices in the German market rose in the fourth quarter of 2022 due to a combination of factors, including movement in the US dollar, China's zero-covid policies, persistent supply-side issues, and an uncertain macroeconomic outlook amid rising inflation and central bank interest rates. The supply outlook remained bleak, as current low prices were insufficient to spur investment in new manufacturing. Buyers claimed that if LME restricted Russian-produced metal, then Copper Rod prices would skyrocket in the global market. The LME, on the other hand, denied that Russian-produced metals were subject to any restrictions. Throughout October, market volatility remained a risk, and copper prices traded in a narrow range. Fears of a global recession, coupled with the global central bank's aggressive monetary policy, weighed on prices even more in November. Furthermore, global copper stocks fell to record lows in mid-Q4, with inventories only sufficient to meet global demand for a few days and shortage risks that do not reflect physical market tightness. This year's series of planned and unplanned smelter shutdowns in South America and Europe compounded the impact of increased supply on treatment charges. As a ripple effect, the Copper Rod (25 mm) prices for Ex Berleburg (Germany) settled at USD 10520/MT.
For the Quarter Ending September 2022
South America
During the third quarter of 2022, Copper Rod prices witnessed a mixed trend in the South American market. As per market players, Copper prices surged in August after tumbling in July amidst fears of the global recession. However, prices were down by roughly 10% in August from the same month of the preceding year. Prices did not see significant changes in September. According to market participants, higher average prices in August and September were driven by increased Chinese imports of the metal, as the Asian heavyweight capitalized on the sharp drop in prices from early June to mid-July to increase purchases. Furthermore, Chilean copper output fell 8.6% in July, likely keeping global supply tight and supporting prices. In recent months, Chilean production has been hampered by poor ore quality, water shortages, and lower refining rates. Finally, workers at the world's largest mine, Escondida, announced a strike in early September. Thus, the price of Copper Rod (C110-1 inch) for FOB Alabama Port (USA) settled at USD 15830/MT.
Asia Pacific
Copper Rod prices showcased a mixed price movement during the third quarter of 2022 as overseas copper mines are being disrupted, and a power outage has been affecting regional copper production; however, demand remained low. Investors remained cautious, with a global economic slowdown threatening to dampen demand. According to market participants, copper prices rose due to lower inventories, signs of improving demand in China, and fears that sky-high energy prices will force smelters to cut output. Since August, refined domestic copper production has hampered electrolytic copper production, high temperatures in many parts of the country, and growing concerns about sulfuric acid storage expansion. Domestic copper inventory remained high, and domestic mine supply was limited. Suppliers claim that most of the purchasing has been completed, and buyers have taken a bearish stance. As a ripple effect, the Copper Rod (20 mm) prices for FOB Shanghai (China) settled at USD 5810/MT.
Europe
In the European market, Copper Rod prices witnessed a rising trend amidst limited product availability during the third quarter of 2022. According to market participants, high power costs have already caused temporary shutdowns at European aluminum and zinc smelters. The rise in interest rates in advanced economies also weighs on commodity prices. However, given the low inventory levels in central warehouses, market participants believe that base metal prices are unlikely to fall further in the near term. At the same time, low prices put pressure on the margins of domestic base metal producers, and user industries benefit. Furthermore, because of the rising coal price, players will face cost pressures when purchasing coal from the market. Therefore, the discussions for Copper Rod (25 mm) prices for FOB Hamburg (Germany) settled at USD 10420/MT.
For the Quarter Ending June 2022
South America
In South America, Copper Rod prices witnessed a plunging trend during the second quarter of 2022. According to market participants, declining Chilean production activity and variance with locals near copper mines in Peru have worsened supply crises. Due to water scarcity in Chile's Antofagasta and Atacama regions, manufacturers must rely on seawater and desalination plants. In addition, Chilean state-owned copper mining company Codelco announced the closure of its Ventanas smelter, which had been closed for maintenance and operational adjustments following a recent environmental incident that sickened dozens in the region. Meanwhile, the Peruvian copper mine Las Bambas has been closed for more than two months, resulting in the layoff of approximately 3,000 miners. The suspension has disrupted Minerals and Metals Group's (MMG) supply of Copper raw materials and caused delays in delivering long-term Copper concentrate orders to some Chinese smelters, potentially affecting some Chinese smelters' long-term bookings in the second half of the year.
Asia Pacific
During the second quarter of 2022, Copper Rod prices in the Chinese market were on the plunge. The continued domestic pandemic in April reduced market demand, hampered logistical transportation, and noticeably decreased operating rates for downstream processing companies. Investors were concerned about stagflation as US stocks declined, the US dollar index increased, and the month of May saw both. Additionally, the current domestic epidemic keeps the demand for copper low, and the market is unenthusiastic. The low global copper inventory has eroded the support for copper prices. Fundamentally, concentrate supply is adequate, spot processing costs are consistent, and demand is moderate. Multiple spot transactions of copper ores between smelters and mines occurred in the market, with the traded Copper concentrate treatment charges (TC) and traded sources scheduled to ship in August and September. Domestic smelters and merchants primarily traded in mixed and non-standard copper ores.
Europe
The European copper Rod market declined due to low demand and few regional transactions despite inflationary pressures and supply constraints. Market players claim that the argument for the Federal Reserve's strong stimulus to reduce price coercion has been strengthened by mounting inflationary pressures in the US, escalating concerns of a recession. Administrators are rattling risk assets throughout markets as they adopt a more hawkish attitude. Fears of a recession, according to traders, are impacting pricing. Midway through the second quarter, supply and inflation are still constrained. However, as worries about a downturn in industrial activity across nations and a decline in Chinese demand rise, copper prices are declining. At the June meeting, the European Central Bank revised its projection for inflation and announced plans to begin a slow and persistent increase in interest rates. The assets were under pressure from the hawkish indicators.
For the Quarter Ending March 2022
South America
In South America, the Copper Rod prices increased primarily due to the halted mining activity, disrupted supply chain, and COVID-19-related restrictions. Due to the impact of COVID-19 in January and February, labour shortages severely impacted the development and mining sectors. The bullish trend for Copper is centered on sticky inflationary pressures, a lingering copper supply deficit, and slowing economic activity in the post-COVID period. Phoenix-based Southern Copper Corporation cited that the protest-related shutdown of one of its Peruvian operations resulted in a significant decrease in copper production during the first quarter. According to the firm, roughly 480 protesters seized the facilities at the Via Blanca reservoir in late February, cutting off the water supply to the approximately 4,800 people who live at its Cuajone operation. Another group had shut down a railway line near the mine. Due to the actions, the Peruvian government declared a regional state of emergency, and the mine was closed until late April. Thus, the mine's output dropped in the first quarter due to the shutdown.
Asia
In the Asian market, Copper Rod prices witnessed a rising trend owing to lower inventories, stretched supply chains, Chinese muted demand, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, all impacting the Copper Rod during the first quarter of 2022. The war's aftermath exacerbated ongoing supply constraints in the Asian copper market, raising concerns about supply disruptions due to international sanctions imposed on Russia. China, the world's largest copper consumer, saw an upsurge in COVID-19 cases in Q1 and enforced a new lockdown policy to combat the infection. Additionally, this has created significant headwinds for demand, as construction activity has slowed and consumer spending hampered during the initial three months of 2022; COVID-19-related restrictions limited mine production in several countries. As a ripple effect of limited inventories amidst robust demand, Copper Rod prices skyrocketed.
Europe
During the first quarter of 2022, the Copper Rod prices witnessed an upswing trend due to the higher inflation rate and rising energy and fuel prices amidst the combat between Eastern European markets. The copper market remained tight as supply-side cost-push inflation persisted. Additionally, prices have remained elevated due to the lower inventories and a volatile geopolitical environment. The Russia-Ukraine war and its repercussion, particularly on raw materials and logistics, exacerbated ongoing supply tightness in the Copper market amidst worries of supply disruptions due to international sanctions rolling out against Russia, which double folded the impact on copper prices. As per market players, the rising inflationary pressures persist in Q1 2022, and a conflict between Russia and Ukraine exacerbated the situation, negatively impacting metals, energy, and grain exports.
