SHANGHAI, Mar 27 (SMM) - The weekly average discount of high-grade NPI stood at 601.9 yuan/mtu against refined nickel last week, which widened by 21.1 yuan/mtu from a week earlier. In terms of refined nickel, nickel prices hovered at lows last week on overseas market sentiment. SHFE nickel prices grew apace last Friday amid eased market risks, which further led to a sluggish spot pure nickel market. The improved macro sentiment and low inventory will limit the downward space of nickel prices in the short term. Traded prices of NPI fell further last week as the bearish traders successively shipped at low prices to ease the financial pressure. Besides, the loss-making stainless steel mills were less willing to buy high-priced raw materials. Ore prices dropped last week, easing the NPI plants' cost pressure. The NPI prices will be stable with occasional drops. The premiums of high-grade NPI against pure nickel will continue to shrink.



