In the first six months of ’09, palladium’s value could range from $125 to $300 per ounce. The outlook for palladium is positive in some of its applications, however, a worsening economic climate and the possibility of a stronger US dollar could send palladium to as low as $125/oz during the next six months.
Spot palladium rebounded on Monday, up more than 5 per cent from New York’s notional close of $168.00. Palladium hit $176.50 per ounce as technical buying emerged after demand worries stemming from an ambiguous auto industry vote hit platinum group metals on Friday.
Palladium and platinum values have tumbled on world markets as auto sales continue to stall, and the proposed 700 billion dollar bailout by Congress may or not be reconfigured to pass into law.
The decline in auto industry sales is having a profound effect on palladium values in the world market. Palladium and platinum are used in catalytic converters and other auto parts: the demand for the precious metals is slackening as a result of higher gas and oil prices.
Even with the current price drops and uncertainty surrounding when they will make a turn around, some are still bullish about precious metals in the long-term. Given the recently doom and gloom headlines regarding the American economy, an end to the downward slide could be in sight.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009