Nickel Prices to Continue Rising (2017-9-4)

SHANGHAI, Sept. 4 (SMM) – The 11th environmental protection checks were started in Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei and surrounding regions from September 1. The first phase is during September 1-November 9, and the second phase is during November 10-March 29, 2018. NPI plants in Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei contributed at least 10% of domestic NPI output. This round of environmental protection checks may reduce nickel smelting output in more regions. Concerns are limited that stainless steel production will be affected because it generally meets environmental protection requirements. Stainless steel prices are expected to rise further. Industrial accident at blast furnaces pushed up rebar and hot-rolled coil prices, boosting stainless steel. Nickel prices will continue rising today. SHFE 1801 nickel should fluctuate between RMB 95,500-96,300/mt today, with spot prices between RMB 94,200-95,000/mt.