Week-in-Review and Thoughts for the Upcoming Week of 01/26/2026
A weekly review of global political developments, market volatility and key macroeconomic data shaping equities, commodities, energy and trade heading into the week of Jan. 26.
Category: Global Trade
Rio Tinto says Quebec smelter expansion on track for Q1
The smelter is expected to be fully ramped up by end of the year, the mining company said.
Alcoa reports full-year 2025 results, details 2026 outlook
Alcoa's full-year 2025 results show higher aluminum production yet lower shipments as the company outlines its 2026 outlook and capital posture.
The logic behind US government investment in Atlantic Alumina
Let’s unpack the facts behind this move.
EU targets small packaging in new recycling partnership
The move comes as pressure is increasing to keep scrap at home but US tariff exemptions have made exports more appealing.
Join AMU Thursday for a Community Chat with Greg Wittbecker and Edward Meir
The soaring Midwest premium, scrap bans, tariffs and geopolitical issues—we have plenty to talk about in 2026.
LME high grade aluminum: How high is high in a post-China cost curve?
Rising global capital and power costs, driven by China's production cap and higher-cost expansion in Indonesia, are structurally resetting aluminum's incentive price, making higher LME levels necessary to unlock new primary capacity outside China.
China sees trade surplus as more partners shift from US
China's expanding trade surplus reflects a strategic rotation away from US markets and toward higher-value exports, even as domestic demand remains under pressure.
Edward Meir: Aluminum outlook for 2026
Trade deals, substitution, and the Midwest premium in the year ahead
Trump administration takes stake in Atalco to boost alumina, gallium production
Atalco is getting a $450 million infusion to expand production in Louisiana