LME Asia Week: LME to launch cobalt, lithium cash-settled contracts

HONG KONG, May 17 (SMM) – The London Metals Exchange is looking to launch two cash-settled contracts on cobalt and lithium in a bid to “be a big part of this growth area”, according to CEO Matthew Chamberlain.

Addressing delegates at the LME Asia Week conference on Thursday May 17 in Hong Kong, Chamberlain said that he believes the LME “is uniquely positioned to service the growing lithium-ion battery market”. This is part of the growth strategy that the exchange has outlined in its “strategic pathway” in September last year.

Under the plan, Chamberlain said the exchange is “committed” to the Ring, which will continue to form the official lunch-time settlement prices. However, there will be a three-month trial period next year when the LME settles the end-of-day prices electronically.

“We would only move (away from the Ring for end-of-day settlement) if the data (from the trial period) shows (a stronger member preference),” he said.

Chamberlain added that the LME’s strategic principles are serving the physical market, ensuring fairness, increasing user choice, and maximising trading efficiency.

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