Trading volumes have been sliding sharply since the nickel blow-out in March and there's lingering uncertainty as to the future of the exchange's iconic open outcry trading ring, writes Andy Home.
The European Commission is weighing a proposal by the European Chemicals Agency that would classify lithium carbonate, chloride and hydroxide as dangerous for human health.
Possible sanctions on Russian metal, lawsuits, a battle to recover trust and a slump in nickel trading after the March fiasco are just some of the headwinds facing the LME.