Aluminium billet premiums were steady across the globe on Friday November 19, remaining close to all-time highs.
Europe
European billet premiums are unchanged this week at record highs but liquidity is low, with most buyers covered until the end of the year.
Fastmarkets assessed the aluminium 6063 extrusion billet premium, ddp North Germany (Ruhr region) at $1,450-1,500 per tonne on November 19, unchanged from the previous week.
"I am sold out and everyone is covered - the market is quiet but strong," a trader said.
"Everyone is getting ready to close the year. Much like the LME, billet premiums are trading sideways - everyone is covered and we are seeing a more sustainable momentum," a producer said.
Fastmarkets assessed the aluminium 6063 extrusion billet premium, ddp Italy (Brescia region) at $1,470-1,540 per tonne on November 19, also unchanged from the previous week.
Demand remains strong. Falling freight rates could make Europe a more attractive destination for billet, with shipments of material expected soon, some participants noted....