[SMM Lead Afternoon Brief] Muted Asian Trading Session Keeps LME Lead in Volatile Momentum

Published: Apr 13, 2026 18:59

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Future market: As of April 13, during the Asia session, LME lead 3M prices showed a volatile trend, fluctuating within range of USD 1,913-1,921 per ton, lowest at USD 1912 per ton. The price was unable to increase beyond the previous Asia session’s high. The market opened around USD 1,919 per ton and quickly declined, as selling pressure dominated morning Asia session. Session closed at USD 1,922 per ton, decreased at -0.44% compared to the previous close.
Asian lead spot market: Remelted lead is in shortage, smelters forced to cut on spot sales of refined lead in order to prioritize long-term contracts, resulting in high spot prices, quoted at premiums of USD 140-160 per ton over LME price. Also, rising energy costs make smelters cautious about operating at full capacity.

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