The bismuth market seems to have reignited after the standstill seen during the year-end holidays. Buyers and sellers alike have reported increasing activity as consumers are reportedly looking to cover for first quarter production requirements. “The market had died down in December,” said a source. “It seems like buyers are back and in need of material.” Prices have not necessarily varied as of yet; however, should demand continue to rise, sources speculated that prices could reach the $10 per lb mark in the near-term. Prices forbismuth are presently firm at $9.30-9.50 per lb. Several partial truckload deals have been reported slightly below the range; however, smaller lot spot transactions have been reported at or above the $9.50 per lb mark. According to sources, activity has been quite robust, yet many question if the recent growth can be sustained for the long-haul.