The more immediate concern for all metals traders is whether the LME can fix its broken nickel contract, writes Andy Home.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has led to a surge in prices of metals used in cars - from aluminum in the bodywork to palladium in catalytic converters to the high-grade nickel in electric vehicle batteries.

While the attack on Ukraine has caused a price spike in a broad array of commodities, Russia’s share of metals supply is greatest for uranium and palladium. 

The smelting firm has also signed a new deal to sell aluminum to Glencore, already a customer for its metal.

Aluminium Dunkerque has capacity to produce 286,000 tonnes of aluminium a year.