Lead Prices

Lead prices averaged USD 1,988 per metric ton in December, unchanged from November. On 31 December, the commodity traded at USD 1,925 per metric ton, down 6.0% from 29 November.

December’s price average matched November’s, but prices were on a constant downtrend throughout the month. A stronger dollar—caused by more hawkish guidance by the Federal Reserve and a tight U.S. labor market—dented lead prices, making the metal less affordable to holders of other currencies. Additionally, China’s manufacturing PMI disappointed markets in December, pointing to a weaker-than-expected recovery.