Manganese highlights

摘要

There has been little change in US manganese alloy markets this month, with business levels quiet across the country. The silico-manganese market has gained some support from better-than-expected construction data for the third quarter, although that has been insufficient to lend much support to prices. In Europe, bulk alloys producers and traders are cautiously optimistic about the price outlook for the coming months, with many citing manganese ore as the standout market for strong demand. Although most markets are stronger than they were this time last year, it was followed by a depressed first half this year, which has been cautioning sentiment. Manganese ore prices have strengthened, but are not yet filtering through to manganese alloys markets. Steel mills are stubbornly holding down costs, capping smelters' profit margins.