The price for indium remained sideways for the second consecutive week despite ample supply availability, sources said. Prices for indium held at $680-700 per lb; however, decreases are still anticipated should demand remain weak. “The market has been a bit slow,” said a seller. “I’m surprised prices have not dipped.” Many sources have pointed to growing discrepancies at the Fanya Exchange and, as a result, have been slow to procure supply. Consumers are reportedly covered for the fourth quarter and are likely to keep a watchful approach toward buying in the interim. “Supply should be scarce right now with the volumes being stockpiled at the Fanya Exchange,” said a source. “But there is material available. So something has to give.” With growing questions, demand should remain calculated and some speculate a price slide in the interim.

The Chinese indium market supposedly surged this past week as investment buying was reignited; tightening spot supply, as a result. Spot prices have firmed to 4,500-4,550 yuan per kg VAT included, compared to 4,350-4,430 yuan per kg a week ago. In complete contrast to western market participants, Fanya stock holders are withholding sales due to their bullish short-term outlook. “The indium market is completely controlled by investment activity and investors were very active this week,” said a producer.

A producer in Guangxi province sold 600 kg of refined metal at 4,550 yuan per kg late last week, while another producer in Hunan province reported a sale of 200 kg at 4,450 yuan per kg. Elsewhere, a producer in southern China sold 1 mt of material at 4,500 yuan per kg. The stock level of Fanya Exchange has reached 1,782 mt this week, compared to 1,750 mt a week ago.