Iron Ore Futures Hit One-Week Low Amid Concerns Over Chinese Demand

Highlights:

• Iron ore futures prices hit lowest levels in over a week amid persistent concerns about Chinese demand.
• Declines attributed to weak steel prices, narrow steel margins, and increased ore shipments.
• Despite better-than-expected industrial data, market sentiment remains subdued, emphasizing ongoing demand worries.

In Beijing, iron ore futures prices witnessed a continued decline, reaching their lowest levels in over a week. The drop was attributed to ongoing worries regarding demand in China, the largest consumer of the commodity, with limited policy interventions aimed at stimulating steel consumption.

Market Performance

The May iron ore contract on China's Dalian Commodity Exchange (DCE) experienced a notable decline of 3.53%, settling at 805.5 yuan ($111.43) per metric ton during daytime trading. This marks the lowest level since March 19. Similarly, the benchmark April iron ore on the Singapore Exchange recorded a 2.1% decrease, reaching $101.95 per ton, as of 0754 GMT, hitting its lowest point since March 18.

Analyst Insights

Cheng Peng, an analyst at Sinosteel Futures based in Beijing, pointed out that weak steel prices, narrow steel margins, and high ore shipments have collectively suppressed demand and subsequently driven down prices. Analysts at consultancy Mysteel projected a decrease in average daily hot metal output for April compared to the same period last year, contributing to the downward pressure on ore prices.

Supply-Side Dynamics

Analysts at Huatai Futures highlighted persistent pressure on ore prices from the supply side, with both overseas shipments and domestic arrivals rebounding. They also noted expectations of increased shipments from major suppliers such as Australia and Brazil as the quarter draws to a close.

Industrial Data vs. Market Sentiment

Despite some positive industrial data, indicating better-than-expected performance, the iron ore market continues to exhibit weakness, reflecting prevailing concerns over demand in China.

As the market remains influenced by both domestic and international factors, investors closely monitor developments in policy measures and demand indicators for insights into future price movements.

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