SMM, December 27, 2024
— During the day, the most-traded SHFE lead 2502 contract opened at 17,305 yuan/mt. Affected by news of production cuts at major downstream battery producers, bears significantly increased their positions, causing SHFE lead to plunge to a low of 16,825 yuan/mt before closing at 16,850 yuan/mt, down 3.02%, with a trading volume of approximately 65,000 lots. The weekly operating rates of both primary lead and secondary lead smelters declined, and daytime battery scrap procurement prices followed the downward trend, weakening support for lead prices. As the New Year holiday approaches, the expected holiday shutdowns of downstream battery producers may lead to a decrease in operating rates. With reduced lead ingot procurement, lead prices may struggle to rebound.