Coronavirus and the oil price crash: what does it mean for aluminium smelter costs?.

The destruction currently being wrought by the Corona virus on demand and logistical supply chains combined with the impact of the crash in the oil price (and energy) has fundamental implications for the aluminium value chain. There are a number of hurdles a smelter or refinery must first overcome in this environment. Price and cost are the first determinants. We have conducted an appraisal of costs in order to broadly indicate the health of the aluminium and alumina sectors in light of weak prices. However, we note that some assets may be shielded against spot price movements in power, fuel and raw materials through contractual arrangements.