During the third quarter of 2025, the price of nickel powder showed a pattern of fluctuation with slight upward pressure early on, followed by mid-quarter instability and a late-stage recovery.
At the start of July, prices were pushed up due to supply concerns stemming from Indonesia’s nickel ore quota limits and falling inventories both domestically and globally. This, combined with sentiment around supportive domestic policies, gave the market a short-term boost.
However, in mid-July, global macroeconomic uncertainty, particularly tariff tensions initiated by the U.S., increased market risk aversion. Weaker demand, especially from the stainless steel and new energy sectors, limited further gains.
The use of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries continued to replace nickel-heavy battery chemistries, reducing demand for nickel powder used in ternary battery production.
In late August and September, prices became more stable but remained under pressure. Domestic support through industrial policies helped to stabilize the market, while global trade risks and a cautious Fed outlook influenced sentiment.
Although production of stainless steel picked up during the traditional September peak season, nickel powder demand stayed moderate due to high inventories and oversupply of refined nickel. LME and Shanghai stock levels rose to historical highs, further dampening price growth.
By the end of Q3, the nickel powder market showed slight strength, supported by seasonal industrial demand, but overall conditions remained fragile due to persistent oversupply and weak downstream demand.