We believe the rise in Chinese crude oil imports in October signals a period of stronger Chinese apparent demand figures over Q4 2005 and Q1 2006.
After the very strong pickup in U.S. growth data over the past few weeks, we believe the risk of a sharp slowdown in commodity demand looks negligible in the short term.
After the very strong pick-up in U.S. growth data over the past few weeks, we believe the risk of a sharp slowdown in commodity demand looks negligible in the short term.
U.S. gasoline inventories have fallen further below their five-year average, while U.S. oil demand remains strong. Our estimates of current market balances indicate a significant tightening relative to a year ago.
The current high levels of U.S. inventory is of little comfort given that it is the product of an unusually high level of seasonal maintenance. Although crude stocks are rising, product stocks are falling and U.S. oil demand is growing strongly.
While strikes in Chile rarely tend to last for very long, any disruption to production or shipments will lend support to copper prices given the strong demand environment and lack of spare material.
Don't miss the boat, again. Supply and demand fundamentals remain constructive for the price up-trends to persist.