Tantalum Market Update (August 16, 2012)

In contrast to some other minor metals, tantalum prices appear to be continuing along the road to recovery. As opposed to the $108 to $115 range for tantalite basis Ta2O5 seen in July, prices in August have ticked up to as high as $115 to $125, Metal-Pages states. Large quantities, forward delivery and documented conflict-free materials are reportedly grounds for higher price levels.

Chinese data for H1 shows that imports of tantalum-niobium concentrates declined by 7 percent during the first six months of the year. Prices were down over 19 percent and revenues were over 25 percent lower.

Investors should also note that August 22 is the day that the SEC is set to vote on rules regarding the conflict-minerals provision of the Dodd-Frank Act.