The copper and lead spot markets in the United States have diverged, with the premium for copper cathodes declining amid low liquidity while the 99.97% lead ingot premium has risen due to strong demand from automotive battery makers.
Fastmarkets assessed the copper grade 1 cathode premium, ddp Midwest US at 7-7.5 cents per lb on Tuesday 17 November, narrowing down from 7-8 cents per lb previously, where the premium had held since October 27.The spot trade of copper cathodes has been sporadic and minimal for several weeks while participants have been focused on 2021 contract negotiations,...