SMM Nickel Market Morning Review (2015-9-28)

Valterra Platinum’s 2010–2025 record shows how plant interruptions, inventory backlogs and changing reporting rules shaped refined output across South Africa and Zimbabwe. Platinum, palladium and rhodium followed different price cycles, so output alone could not explain value. Prices for ruthenium and iridium add context, though their separate production is undisclosed. Stronger prices and refining lifted H1 2026 results; lasting gains depend on safety, cost control and disciplined investment.

Jubilee Metals said in its 14 September operational update that several companies had expressed interest in its Tjate PGM project and that it was reviewing the approaches as part of a strategic review. Jubilee retained the South African asset after selling its other chrome and PGM operations; Miningmx reported that a disposal is under consideration as the company focuses on Zambian copper. A sale could transfer responsibility for developing Tjate. Expressions of interest are neither a sale agreement nor financing commitments, and no production timetable has been announced. Any contribution to PGM supply depends on future development decisions.

Sylvania Platinum said in its 15 September annual results that an updated geological model indicated chrome and PGM feed grades at its Thaba joint venture could be below original assumptions. Miningmx reported estimated shortfalls of 15–20% for PGM grades and 8–12% for chrome grades against earlier targets. Sylvania’s FY2026 group output of 95,885 4E PGM oz includes operations beyond Thaba. The partners are reviewing the mine plan, with an updated life-of-mine plan expected in three to six months. Management says Thaba remains profitable under current assumptions. Lower grades could reduce recoverable metal and project returns; the revised plan and profitability outlook remain subject to that review.