The aluminium futures market operates on a fascinating and highly structured pricing system, offering unparalleled clarity for traders and stakeholders. Here’s a snapshot of how it works:

The Futures Timeline: Daily Prices for the Next Three Months

Every single working day has a dedicated aluminium price, whether it’s December 9th or February 20th. This allows precise short-term planning and transactions for the immediate future.

Weekly Prices Beyond Three Months

From the third to the sixth month (e.g., December to March in this example), prices are listed for every Wednesday.

Monthly Prices for a Decade

From the sixth month onward, prices are available for the third Wednesday of each month. This extends for 10 years and 3 months, up to March 2035!

Why the Third Wednesday Matters

The third Wednesday emerges as the most liquid day in the market. Here’s why:

• Consistent Pricing Structure: It aligns with all pricing intervals—daily (short-term), weekly (mid-term), and monthly (long-term).
• Market Focus: Most transactions during this period converge on this date, creating the highest trading volume and liquidity.

For aluminium stakeholders, this means the third Wednesday isn’t just a date; it’s a cornerstone of trading strategy.

This structured approach ensures that no matter your timeline—whether days, weeks, or years, you have reliable price points to guide decisions. In our next discussion, we’ll dive deeper into how this impacts long-term pricing trends. Stay tuned!