The two contracts have gained momentum on high volatility in the physical market that attracted greater futures interest.

The London Metal Exchange is to launch a number of new initiatives to boost the screen liquidity of its cash-settled ferrous futures contracts, it announced during the LME Focus Day event on Oct. 27.

Earlier this year, the association had forecast steel demand to drop by 1.7% in 2022.

Semiconductor shortages, as well as other logistical issues, have roiled automotive production in the US and around the globe since 2021. Lower automotive production rates have subsequently cut demand for steel in the sector.

At present, of the 17,244 tonnes of on-warrant nickel in LME warehouses in Rotterdam, briquette accounts for more than 92%.

A high backwardation continued to dampen import appetite, leading to thin liquidity, although offers were quoted higher.

Fastmarkets sources continued to insist that prices were in parity, as rare as the phenomenon is.

“As a nation are very clear and very respectful of our treaties and our agreements,” Hernando said.