[SMM Aluminum Flash News] MMP Industries Q4 Profit Jumps 64% on Strong Industrial Demand

[Bullish and Bearish Factors Intertwined — Aluminum Prices Maintain LME Outperforms SHFE with Volatile Trend in the Short Term] On the fundamentals side, the supply gap outside China and low inventory continued to provide bottom support, but elevated inventory levels in China remained the core factor suppressing significant price rallies. In addition, weak trading performance in the spot market further limited the upside room for aluminum prices. Aluminum prices are expected to continue the pattern of LME outperforming SHFE and fluctuate at highs in the short term.

Sortera Technologies has brought its new recycling facility in Lebanon, Tennessee into full operation this month, doubling the company’s annual processing capacity to about 240 million lbs. The plant uses AI-driven sorting, data analytics and advanced sensor technology to convert mixed aluminum scrap into high-purity recycled materials for the automotive, construction and aerospace sectors. The company said the facility strengthens domestic recycled aluminum supply chains in the US “Battery Belt” and southern automotive corridor, helping reduce reliance on imported materials. Sortera added that its recycled aluminum production uses about 95% less energy than primary aluminum production.

Norsk Hydro remains in focus after recent quarterly results highlighted its continued push into low-carbon and recycled aluminum. As one of the few fully integrated aluminum producers covering bauxite, alumina, primary aluminum, extrusion and recycling, Hydro is leveraging Norway’s hydropower resources to strengthen its low-carbon aluminum position. The company said recycled and low-emission aluminum products could become a major long-term earnings driver, while scrap collection and remelting operations continue expanding in Europe and the US. However, the aluminum industry still faces pressure from weak construction demand, oversupply concerns and volatile energy prices. Hydro believes renewable energy access, recycling and downstream processing will remain key competitive advantages.