Iron Ore

Yancoal’s first interim profit result showed weak coal markets continue to impact while debt remains an issue.

A glance through the latest expert views and predictions about commodities with commodity price forecasts revised and updates on the outlook for iron ore, coal and copper.

One broker suggests BHP’s new iron ore chief is likely to put the US$20bn Port Hedland outer harbour project on hold.

Last week saw heavy coverage of the domestic mining scene as brokers took advantage of the lull before the full onset of the FY reporting season.

A glance through the latest expert views and predictions about commodities with Chinese economic indicators seen as capping base metals, and updates on gold, iron ore, base metals and thermal coal.

A better than expected profit, a confident outlook and measured approach to capex from Rio Tinto have analysts underlining their Buy ratings for the other “Big Australian”.

The Chartist suggests recent signs of recovery in the Australian Materials sector index do not change the downward trend.

World stainless steel output should rise this year but expectations for future Chinese steel demand growth appear optimistic, with pressure on the steel market to impact on iron ore.

Weekly update on recommendation, target price, and earnings forecast changes.

A glance through the latest expert views and predictions about commodities with further revisions to price forecasts and updates on the oil, base metal, coal and steel markets.