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Commodity Prices In Australia

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Abstract The commodity prices are on a declining trend in London Metal Exchange with iron ore losing more than 45%, Brent crude oil by 35% and exports of coal falling by 25% since mid-2014. Reducing commodity prices and excess capacity in global markets have remained significant influences on the relative performance of economies and their impact felt global. This article highlights the impact of industrial commodity prices resulting in slower growth, poorer corporate earnings, and a higher risk of a financial crisis on economies like Australia and other dependent economies. Introduction Commodity price is having a negative impact on economic growth, especially on major countries that derive more than 75% of their export earnings from commodities …show more content…

This has not only impacted the marginal cost of production, but also the future mineral exploration plan which is likely to have a cascading impact or negative implications for investment in the mining sector. Impacting Free Trade Agreements Though Australia has signed multiple FTA`s and is currently in negotiations (bilateral and multilateral agreements) to make their exports globally more competitive, they are facing challenges in exporting to major destinations i.e., Australia has witnessed nearly ~50% drop in industrial commodities exports, particularly in iron-ore and coal markets due to stringent corrective measures taken by the Chinese government on “coal quality”. However, exports are likely to grow in the future since most of the FTA`s are into consideration with developing economies like India, which is likely to trigger trade flows and global investment in the future. Impact on Government …show more content…

Hence, commodities prices are further restraining economic growth that leads to a slower national economic expansion. Considering developed economies, Western Australia used to be preferred investment location for commodities like iron ore and coal by largely contributing to GDP in the form of high regulatory taxes like royalties, levies, and fees before suffering from currency depreciation and rising labor costs. Impact on Financial Markets Falling commodity prices test purchasing strategies and lead to questions about whether to lock in prices or adopt a wait. In other words, should investors be a buyer of the asset class or seller? According to London metal exchange (LME) index (including ferrous and non-ferrous metals like copper, aluminum, iron ore, tin, nickel, zinc, lead, and uranium) has fallen steeply in double digits and bottoming out to the lower level due to slackness in global buying behaviour, primarily from Chinese construction industry. Moreover, the recent decline in Chinese stock exchange by 30%, in 2015, when compared to the same period last year, has reduced the investment and development opportunities and softer near-term consumer

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