Base Metal Tips

The MCX Silver futures broke above Rs 61000 per kg levels today as a good amount of fresh buying helped the metal amid mostly positive movement in global risky assets. The US dollar slipped as US Congressional leaders met with President Barack Obama on Friday and said they would work to find common ground on taxes and spending. This boosted hopes that the world's largest economy would be successfully able to combat with the looming "fiscal cliff". Gains in other industrial commodities like Copper and Crude oil also boosted the metal. COMEX Silver futures are trading at $32.60, up 2.3 cents or 0.73% on the day.

Silver futures extended a downward run from its highs near $35 per ounce achieved in the first week of October 2012. LME Copper tested its two-month lows and kept Silver in tight ranges. Silver is linked directly to industrial activity and safe haven demand and a drop in copper is normally supposed to have a negative influence on the white metal. The commodity tested its two-month lows near $30 per ounce and closed at $32.37, up nearly 5% on the fortnight. The prices have been locked in a broad range of $30-35 per ounce over last few days and a break on the either side is needed for further direction.

Precious metals consultancy GFMS estimates that industrial demand for silver fell 6% in 2012, driven by weak economic growth in developed countries. Manufacturers continued to find ways to substitute cheaper raw materials in place of silver. Meanwhile, consumers have cut purchases of silverware and shifted away from costly precious metals in their jewelry purchases. The trend was partially offset by rising sales in emerging markets, particularly China, GFMS said. While the industrial demand dropped, silver mine supply rose for the 10th consecutive year in 2012, and is expected to total 797.0 million ounces, up 4.3% from 763.8 million ounces in 2011, according to the consultancy.

The white metal had neared $32.30 per ounce levels earlier in the session but edged up quite impressively thereafter, adding one full dollar during the day. The Asian equities added good gains following a near 1.5% surge in Japanese stocks while the European stocks are also up by nearly 1%. MCX Silver futures are trading at Rs 61038, up Rs 168 or 0.26% on the day. The open interest in the counter is up nearly 4% - indicating fresh buying.