Iron Ore

China’s recovery took a step back yesterday with news of extensive loan write-downs by the country’s biggest banks and another Shibor scare. Dow down 54. (Accessible only for subscribers before 10:15 AEDST)

BHP Billiton posted a robust September quarter production report with iron ore the stand out, leading some brokers to ease off on their preference for Rio Tinto.

A weak US jobs number suggests Fed tapering is very much a 2014 consideration, if even that soon. Nothing to do but buy it. Dow up 75. (Accessible only for subscribers before 10:15 AEST)

Wall Street took a breather last night as trades await tonight’s delayed non-farm payrolls data. Dow down 7. (Accessible only for subscribers before 10:15 AEST)

Atlas Iron is juggling developments on several fronts and brokers evaluate what is required to keep all the balls in the air.

Wrap of events affecting the market on Friday night and the weekend and a preview of the week ahead.

Dollar down, gold up, Aussie up, bonds up, S&P at a new all-time high. Dow down 2. (Accessible only for subscribers before 10:15 AEST)

Brokers speculate about what Mount Gibson might do with its cash pile.

Coal market still in oversupply, iron ore pricing looks firm, Australia’s steel market is cautiously optimistic and nickel prices may get much-needed support.

It appears Congress is about to pass a bill reopening the US government and raising the debt ceiling until early next year, pending further negotiations. Dow up 205. (Accessible only for subscribers before 10:15 AEST)