US physical coal markets were mostly flat to higher in the week ending Dec. 11, with hopes for economic rebound and cold weather in key coal-burning states buoying forward deliveries, even as early 2010 was pressured by still-heavy inventory. Central Appalachia markets weakened for nearby delivery, but firmed for late 2010 and calendar 2011 deliveries. Most Illinois Basin and Northern Appalachia specifications were steady in the week, although higher sulfur Pittsburgh Seam coals remained under pressure. The Powder River Basin and Colorado-Utah meanwhile firmed on expectations generators would return to the market in the second half of 2010.
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