Metals Outlook

As we enter Q4 2024, several trends from the previous quarter continue to persist. The central banks began their interest rate cutting cycles, with the Fed initiating a 50bps cut at its first meeting. The ECB is on a similar path, but it is facing strong pressures to cut due to the weakening performance of the Eurozone, which is creating a larger yield differential compared to the US. In China, authorities are aiming to stimulate the economy through fiscal and monetary policy measures; however, they are struggling to restore market confidence, particularly in the construction sector. These factors, combined with the upcoming US elections in November, create a strong likelihood of increased volatility. In this report, we will examine the potential trajectories for base, ferrous, and precious metals in the final months of the year.

As we head into Q3 2024, the markets are dealing with a different reality than what was initially expected at the beginning of the year. With Biden stepping out of the US Presidential Race, all eyes are likely to stay focused on the US until November. Additionally, there is a growing case for an increasing number of interest rate cuts this year, with major banks expected to start the cutting cycle by the end of this quarter. While this should help alleviate some of the pressures felt by the commodity space, China's muted economic performance is weighing on the base metals’ narrative. From September onward, we expect macroeconomic factors to relieve some of the pressures on the commodity market, leading to a modest increase in the latter part of Q3. We expect Q4 to bring greater market volatility.

Our daily commentary, covering market news and closing prices of LME aluminium, copper, lead, nickel, tin, zinc, iron ore, steel, and precious metals.

Our daily commentary, covering market news and closing prices of LME aluminium, copper, lead, nickel, tin, zinc, iron ore, steel, and precious metals.