Daily FNArena News - Commodities

Local investors were heartened by this week’s ABARES crop forecast but Jonathan Barratt of Barratt’s Bulletin warns of a less inspiring global picture.

Between potential European collapse and further monetary stimulus, between central bank buying, jewellery demand and global mine disruptions, lies a price of gold in 2012.

A glance through the latest expert views and predictions about commodities with mixed views on the zinc and aluminium markets, some support for steam coal and a positive fertiliser market outlook.

With buyers drying up by the end of November, indicative medium and long term uranium edged lower.

Jonathan Barratt of Barratt’s Bulletin believes oil markets are yet to price in the potential fallout from global sanctions against Iranian crude exports.

Global growth uncertainty and the ongoing European debt crisis have impacted on commodity markets and lead National Australia Bank to forecast weaker prices in 2012.

Depending on the outcome of next year’s elections, the world’s leading proportionate consumer of nuclear power may see a radical policy reversal.

A glance through the latest expert views and predictions about commodities, with experts forecasting further volatility in commodity markets and JP Morgan lowering its iron ore expectations.

Jonathan Barratt of Barratt’s Bulletin notes robust copper demand from China, but is this enough to overcome European fears?

Prices have been volatile since September, but even allowing for some bearish short-term indicators analysts continue to see a favourable outlook for gold.