Demand has begun to rise and spurred on a rally of sorts as cobalt prices have been steadily increasing since late August, and quite accentuated over the past week-or-so. Presently prices have reached the $13.80-14.30 per lb for Co 99.8% material compared to $13.10-13.60 per lb for the week prior. Buyer sentiment has leaped as of late as many sources noted active buying across all market segments. “Volumes are varying,” said a seller, “but I am movingmaterial in both small and large quantities. I am even seeing some forward buying interest starting to pick-up.” The supperalloys segment seems to be experiencing strong production requirements as the summer holidays end, sources commented. Others noted that downstream interest and the perceived buyer optimism that has rebounded could be largely in part due to the limited demand seen throughout the recent summer months. “Demand had really died down, and seller competition was very strong,” said a source. “Now that market is reestablished, sales have been rampant and as a result prices should keep the upward momentum. Many sources noted that, what had begun as inter-trade demand, has swiftly transitioned into consumer buying. Truckload and partial truckload volumes were reported above $14 per lb, while small lot sales were seen around the $14.80 per lb range. Despite the accentuated increases, many sources indicated that the current upward momentum is simply a price correction, adding that the decreases seen during August were not truly indicative of the largely steady demand experienced during the summer months. “Prices came down in August, mostly due to tradition more than demand,” said a seller. “The current rebound wouldn’t have been as strong had prices held, but now are in full-rally mode.” Sources added that consumer business should remain firm well into the fourth quarter, and as a result, additional growth is possible.