EU FeTi prices rebound on scrap squeeze and supply uncertainty

EU FeTi prices rebound amid higher offers

EU FeTi prices rebound as producers raise offers across the European market.
Ferro-titanium prices climbed about 7% since early January.
Prices were assessed at $4.65–4.90/kg Ti delivered Rotterdam on January 22.

Producers reacted to tighter titanium scrap availability.
Meanwhile, some steel mills reviewed supply risks after insolvency news.
As a result, market sentiment turned firmer despite weak demand fundamentals.

However, underlying steel demand remains subdued across Europe.
Market participants still question whether EU FeTi prices rebound sustainably.
Most buying activity reflects routine spot and first-quarter requirements.

Supply disruptions and insolvency fears support EU FeTi prices rebound

EU FeTi prices rebound partly due to uncertainty around LLR-Ecotech.
Its Austrian parent, LL-Resources, filed for insolvency on January 5.
Although LLR-Ecotech confirmed stable operations, buyers reassessed supplier exposure.

Scrap suppliers responded by withholding material or lifting offers.
Consequently, ferro-titanium producers adjusted prices to protect margins.
Some producers secured deals around $4.75–4.90/kg Ti.

One supplier reportedly closed a transaction near $5.60/kg Ti.
However, most buyers resisted prices above $5/kg Ti.
Meanwhile, other sellers prioritized long-term contracts over spot sales.

Scrap availability remains the key variable

Titanium scrap shortages continue to shape pricing dynamics.
Titanium turnings were assessed at $1.70–1.90/kg ddp NWE.
Seasonal inventory drawdowns reduced scrap generation in late December.

A weaker US dollar also lifted euro-denominated scrap costs.
Producers warned that scrap above $2/kg could trigger further offer hikes.
However, higher raw material costs carry financial risk if FeTi prices soften.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

EU FeTi prices rebound on short-term supply anxiety rather than demand growth.
Scrap availability will determine whether higher prices hold into spring.
Without stronger steel consumption, ferro-titanium gains may prove temporary.