Launch day for new LME lithium, aluminium duty-paid Fastmarkets-settled contracts

The London Metal Exchange launched new lithium and aluminium premium futures contracts on Monday July 19, which are cash-settled against Fastmarkets' assessments.

The lithium contract will be cash-settled against Fastmarkets' price assessment for lithium hydroxide monohydrate, 56.5% LiOH.H2O min, battery grade, spot price, cif China, Japan & Korea. Fastmarkets' most recent assessment for this price was $14.50-16.50 per kg on July 15, up from $8.50-9.50 per kg at the start of 2021.
The new LME lithium hydroxide cif contract is designed to bridge the need for risk management for battery and car manufacturers, and the growing interest from investors seeking exposure to the rapidly growing sector, the exchange said.

Fastmarkets previously reported that the lithium contract will help...

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