There had been an expectation that this week might set benchmarks for July and possibly into summer.
That didn’t really seem to happen, but might in future weeks.
Unexpectedly, some paper grades increased in price when most had thought recent price falls would mean values would stay the same or go further.
Plastics were largely the same underlying prices apart from changes for PRN-able grades.
It was also a similar picture for metal grades with not many changes there.
Even FX rates were unchanged compared to a week ago at $1.28 and €1.16.
Recycled plastics
There was some thought that underlying prices might change this week and set the value for at least the month ahead. But that didn’t happen and they were broadly the same as this time a month ago.
For grades that attract the PRN/PERN, a £10 or so fall in the value of that helped to push them down by the same amount.
All eyes are now on the next few weeks before the full holiday period begin and European plants shutdown. Will there be an impact on the market in the coming weeks or will the market keep ticking over?
Recycled paper
Most expected trading for OCC to be broadly where it was last week when they started the buying and selling this week.
But then one Asian exporter started paying £5 to £10 above the rest of the market to secure tonnage and quickly swept up a lot of the fibre available. People were happy to sell at that rate.
Some others were securing material more around last week’s levels, but others were missing out. The question now is whether this week was a one off or if others will need to respond next week.
Mixed has also gained a bit with some seeking more value out of it, especially with it still difficult to get hold of OCC.
Before the summer period begins, there is now uncertainty around where the market is headed, and it will be fascinating to see what happens.
Recycled metals
Brass was down £50 per tonne this week, but that was the only grade seeing any change.
Recycling prices
For recycled paper prices, click here
For recycled plastic prices, click here
For recycled metal prices, click here
For recycled glass prices, click here
For PRN/PERN prices, click here
