Nickel increased 995.38 USD/MT or 6.51% since the beginning of 2025, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Nickel - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on March of 2025.

In May 2024, the price of one metric ton of nickel stood at some 19,586.98 U.S. dollars. In comparison, in December 2016, the price of nickel was just below 10,000 U.S. dollars per metric ton. Thus, the nickel price has increased considerably in recent years, though it continuously fluctuates. In the beginning of 2022, however, the price of nickel skyrocketed due to disruptions to supply chains and a wide scarcity of raw materials and metals. Overview of nickel Discovered in 1751, nickel is a base metal with a silvery-white lustrous appearance that has a slightly golden tinge. The metal is crucial for many global industries, especially, for example, for the production of stainless-steel. Nickel is highly corrosion-resistant and is used to plate other metals in order to protect them. Because of these useful traits, nickel is used in more than 300,000 products worldwide, spanning from architectural, industrial, military, transportation and aerospace, marine, currency, and consumer applications. Nickel price dynamics Though nickel is the fifth most abundant element found on Earth, as with any commodity, the price of nickel can vary widely depending on global market conditions. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, exports of nickel increased dramatically, dropping the price of nickel in the mid-1990s to below production costs. Nickel production in the Western Hemisphere was reduced during that period. Prices then increased again, up to a high of 52,179 U.S. dollars per metric ton in May 2007. Since then, nickel prices have decreased, and have remained between a low of 8,299 U.S. dollars per metric ton and a high of 18,584 U.S. dollars per metric ton between 2016 and 2021. It is forecast that the price of nickel will amount to more than 17,000 U.S. dollars per metric ton in 2025.

During the last quarter of 2024, the nickel prices in the USA reached 21688 USD/MT (H2 2024 Avg Price) in December. As per the nickel price chart, the prices fell by around 0.92% compared to the same quarter last year. The demand for nickel from various downstream sectors, including stainless steel production and the electric vehicle (EV) battery industry, is influencing the prices.

Explore IMARC’s newly published report, titled “Nickel Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2025 Edition,” offers an in-depth analysis of nickel pricing, covering an analysis of global and regional market trends and the critical factors driving these price movements.

In recent years, nickel prices have hit some of their all-time highest numbers, at an average of almost 26,000 U.S. dollars per metric ton throughout 2022. This was driven by a large spike in prices at the end of that year, where they peaked at 31,275 U.S. dollars per ton in mid-November. The recent surge in nickel prices has been driven by several factors, including disruptions to Russia's (the world's third-largest nickel producer) export industry following its invasion of Ukraine. Additionally, demand for nickel has grown alongside the growth of lithium-ion battery production, driven by the growth of the electronic car market. However, these recent peaks are still well below the all-time annual high of more than 37,000 U.S. dollars in 2007, where low international supply coupled with high demand from China's stainless-steel manufacturing industries caused prices to soar.

The current price for nickel is volatile and subject to various factors that influence supply and demand in the global market. Discover the factors that impact the price of nickel and its use in industries like stainless steel, battery manufacturing, and electronics. Stay informed on real-time price fluctuations and industry news to make informed decisions about nickel investments or purchases.

The article provides an overview of the nickel stock market price, highlighting the factors that influence it, such as supply and demand dynamics, government policies, and global economic conditions. It also discusses the recent volatility in nickel prices due to the electric vehicle industry, the COVID-19 pandemic, and geopolitical events. Investors and traders interested in nickel stocks can use this information to make informed investment decisions.

In 2023, nickel had an average price of approximately 21,521 U.S. dollars per metric ton, a decrease of more than 4,000 U.S. dollars compared to the previous year. Top nickel producing regions In 2023, Indonesia produced the largest volume of nickel from mines in the world, totaling 1.8 million metric tons, while the Philippines produced 400,000 metric tons. Norilsk Nickel (also known as Nornickel) from Russia is one of the largest producers of nickel in the world. One of its largest mining operations is located in northern Russia within the Norilsk-Talnakh area. Nickel life cycle Nickel is a lustrous metal and is used for various applications, such as in plating metals, due to its resistance to corrosion. Nickel is not mined directly but is extracted from ores such as iron ore limonite. The metal can be extracted through roasting and reduction processes. Most often, nickel is used as part of nickel steels, including stainless steel, in alloys, and in electroplating. The worldwide consumption of nickel exceed three million metric tons in 2023. Historically, nickel has been used since 3500 BCE as a natural nickel-iron alloy.

The market price of nickel is influenced by supply and demand dynamics, economic conditions, geopolitical factors, and market speculation. This article discusses the factors affecting nickel prices and explores the role of the EV industry, supply disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and investor sentiment. As the demand for cleaner energy solutions grows, nickel prices are expected to rise.

The price of nickel powder in the USA reached 23095 USD/MT in the final quarter of 2023.

Explore IMARC’s newly published report, titled “Nickel Powder Pricing Report 2024: Price Trend, Chart, Market Analysis, News, Demand, Historical and Forecast Data,” offers an in-depth analysis of nickel powder pricing, covering an analysis of global and regional market trends and the critical factors driving these price movements.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global nickel market size is USD 35695.2 million in 2024 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.00% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market of more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 14278.08 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a share of over 30% of the global market size of USD 10708.56 million.
Asia Pacific held the market of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 8209.90 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America market of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 1784.76 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa held the major market of around 2% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 713.90 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% from 2024 to 2031.
The Electrical & Electronics End-Uses held the highest nickel market revenue share in 2024

Market Dynamics of Nickel Market

Key Drivers for Nickel Market

Increased Demand for Nickel Batteries to Increase the Demand Globally

One key driver in the nickel market is increased demand for nickel batteries. It is an essential component in the manufacture of lithium-ion batteries, which power electric vehicles. As the globe moves toward greener transportation and E.V. usage grows, so does the demand for nickel. Battery manufacture is projected to be a significant driver of nickel use in the coming years. Historically, the stainless steel sector was the major consumer of nickel. Nickel gives strength and corrosion resistance to steel, making it essential for a variety of applications. As global infrastructure development and industrial activity continue, demand for stainless steel, and thus nickel, remains high.

Boom in Electric Vehicles to Propel Market Growth

Another key driver in the nickel market is the increasing demand for electric vehicles. The worldwide electric vehicle (E.V.) boom is having a big impact on the nickel market, increasing both demand and prices. As the global demand for E.V.s grows, so does the demand for nickel to build these batteries. Major mining corporations such as BHP expect nickel demand to skyrocket in the coming decades, fuelled by the E.V. revolution. This boost in demand is putting strain on nickel supply, resulting in price increases. Nickel prices have already risen in recent years, and some predict that trend to continue as E.V. usage rises. Nickel has traditionally been used primarily in the stainless steel sector. However, the E.V. industry is expected to be the primary growth driver for nickel in the future.

Restraint Factor for the Nickel Market

Environmental and Health Issues to Limit the Sales

One key restraint in the nickel market is the challenge of Environmental and health issues. Nickel is an important metal in today's world. It is an important component of stainless steel, used in a variety of sectors, and used in lithium-ion batteries that power electric vehicles (E.V.s). The worldwide nickel market is expanding as demand for E.V.s rises. However, this expansion has a substantial drawback: environmental and health risks linked with nickel mining and processing. Nickel mining can pollute the air and water via dust, acid mine drainage, and inappropriate waste management. These pollutants can degrade ecosystems, taint drinking water, and impair respiratory health in adjacent communities. Nickel extraction and refining require a lot of energy, and it frequently uses fossil fuels, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.

Impact of Covid-19 on the Nickel Market

The Nickel Market experienced both challenges and opportunities due to the impact of COVID-19. On one hand, the initial increase in nickel prices in early 2020 may have favored current inventory holders. While the pandemic caused a temporary delay, the long-term demand for nickel is likely to expand because of the increasing usage of electric vehicles (E.V.s) that use nickel-based batteries. However, on the other hand, Lockdowns and an economic downturn resulted in a substantial drop in nickel demand across a variety of industries, particularly stainless steel (the largest user). This resulted in a nickel...

Nickel Mines stock price, live market quote, shares value, historical data, intraday chart, earnings per share and news.

The gram price of nickel is determined by various factors and is subject to market fluctuations. It is an essential metal in the production of stainless steel and has potential for increased demand in the future due to the growth of EVs and renewable energy technologies.

China Settlement Price: Shanghai Future Exchange: Nickel: 1st Month data was reported at 128,830.000 RMB/Ton in 25 Mar 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 129,380.000 RMB/Ton for 24 Mar 2025. China Settlement Price: Shanghai Future Exchange: Nickel: 1st Month data is updated daily, averaging 112,760.000 RMB/Ton from Mar 2015 (Median) to 25 Mar 2025, with 2430 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 263,290.000 RMB/Ton in 25 Mar 2022 and a record low of 62,400.000 RMB/Ton in 15 Feb 2016. China Settlement Price: Shanghai Future Exchange: Nickel: 1st Month data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Shanghai Futures Exchange. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Financial Market – Table CN.ZB: Shanghai Futures Exchange: Commodity Futures: Settlement Price: Daily.

Nickel price in the United States: Find info from the world's biggest and most esteemed business intelligence tool. 2 million reports updated monthly.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Nickel Sulfate Market size is USD 9981.2 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.20% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 3992.48 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 2994.36 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 2295.68 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share for more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 499.06 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.6% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa hada market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 199.62 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.9% from 2024 to 2031.
The dominant category is Electroplating. Electroplating accounts for a significant share of nickel sulfate consumption due to its widespread use in various industries such as automotive, electronics, and aerospace.

Market Dynamics of Nickel Sulfate Market

Key Drivers for Nickel Sulfate Market

Increasing Demand from the Electric Vehicle (EV) Industry to Increase the Demand Globally

The global push towards sustainable transportation has fueled the demand for electric vehicles (EVs), driving growth in the nickel sulfate market. Nickel sulfate is a key component in lithium-ion batteries, particularly in the cathode material. With the rising adoption of EVs worldwide, the demand for nickel sulfate is expected to surge. This trend is further supported by government incentives and regulations promoting the use of electric vehicles to reduce carbon emissions.

Growing Application in the Electroplating Industry to Propel Market Growth

Nickel sulfate is extensively used in the electroplating industry for providing a shiny, corrosion-resistant surface to various metal objects. The increasing demand for electroplated products across industries such as automotive, electronics, and aerospace is a significant driver for the nickel sulfate market. Moreover, the superior properties of nickel sulfate in providing uniform coatings and improving the durability of plated objects make it a preferred choice in the electroplating industry.

Restraint Factor for the Nickel Sulfate Market

Volatility in Nickel Prices and Supply Constraints to Limit the Sales

The Nickel Sulfate Market faces a significant restraint due to volatility in nickel prices and supply constraints. Nickel, a primary raw material for nickel sulfate production, experiences frequent price fluctuations influenced by factors such as global demand, supply disruptions, and economic conditions. These price variations impact the overall production costs of nickel sulfate, affecting its market dynamics and profitability. Additionally, supply constraints, including limited nickel ore reserves and production capacity, further exacerbate market challenges.Fluctuating nickel prices and supply shortages create uncertainty for market players, leading to hesitancy in investment and expansion plans.

Impact of Covid-19 on the Nickel Sulfate Market

The Covid-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the global Nickel Sulfate Market. The market faced disruptions in the supply chain due to lockdowns and restrictions imposed by governments to contain the spread of the virus, leading to a decrease in production and availability of nickel sulfate. The demand for nickel sulfate also experienced a decline, primarily due to the slowdown in industrial activities across various sectors, including automotive and electronics, which are major consumers of nickel sulfate. However, as the economy gradually recovers and industries resume operations, the nickel sulfate market is expected to witness a gradual recovery, supported by the increasing demand for electric vehicles and the growing electronics industry. Introduction of the Nickel Sulfate Market

The Nickel sulfate is an inorganic compound with the formula NiSO4. It is a blue, crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. Nickel sulfate is primarily used in the ...

Examination of copper, nickel, lead and zinc (base metals) exploration expenditure and discovery in Australia over the period 1976-2005 reveals some significant trends. Australia's base metal resource inventory grew substantially as a consequence of successful exploration over the period, both through addition of resources at known deposits and new discoveries, notably a small number of very large deposits that underpin the resource base. In 2005, Australia had the world's largest economic demonstrated resources (EDR) of nickel, lead and zinc, and the second largest EDR of copper. Growth in nickel resources has been especially strong owing to discovery of large laterite resources in the late 1990s. Resource life, in average terms based on current EDR and production, is approximately 30 years for lead and zinc, 40 years for nickel sulphide (120 years for all nickel EDR) and 50 years for copper. Despite this success, major increases in production over the period (copper, nickel and zinc output increasing 3-4 fold, lead output doubling) and a fall in discovery rates during much of the 1990s means that resource life for lead and zinc is lower and nickel sulphide comparable now to that in 1976; only the resource life of copper has grown substantially over the period. Current published ore reserves are sufficient for at least 15 years operations at current production levels, but only a small number of the largest deposits currently being mined are likely to still be in production in 20 years. However, several mines have substantial inferred resources that may allow production beyond current mine reserves and there is a substantial number of undeveloped deposits that may provide the foundation for extended or new mining operations. The discovery record is strongly cyclical with resource growth for all the base metals punctuated by the discovery of giant (world-class) deposits each decade: these underpin current and future production. Recent higher metal prices and renewed interest in base metals, especially nickel, has reversed a 10 year decline in base metal exploration attended by reduced rates of discovery and resulted in record expenditure, new nickel, copper and zinc discoveries, and increased resources at a number of existing deposits, notably the Olympic Dam copper-uranium-gold deposit. With the exception of the Prominent Hill copper-gold and West Musgrave nickel-copper deposits, most of the recent discoveries, especially zinc (-lead) deposits, are of small tonnage (some of high grade). Nevertheless, these new discoveries have helped stimulate further exploration and also highlight the potential for further discoveries in little-explored provinces, especially those under regolith and shallow sedimentary cover.

Explore the Nickel Market trends! Covers key players, growth rate 9.1% CAGR, market size $60.69 Billion, and forecasts to 2034. Get insights now!

The global nickel market size was valued at USD 37.0 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 55.5 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.6% during 2025-2033. Asia Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share of over 72.0% in 2024. Rapid technological advancements and innovation, favorable government policies and regulations, burgeoning investments in infrastructure and development projects, and the rising demand for stainless steel products are some of the major factors propelling the market.

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global nickel market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional and country levels from 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on product type, application and end-use industry.

The price of nickel is influenced by supply and demand dynamics, trade policies, macroeconomic factors, and environmental regulations. This article explores the factors affecting nickel prices and key trends in the market, including the impact of the EV revolution and the shift towards renewable energy. Investors and industry players are advised to closely monitor these developments in order to navigate the nickel commodity market effectively.

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Nickel Market Size 2024-2028

The nickel market size is projected to increase by USD 16.55 billion, at a CAGR of 4.06% between 2023 and 2028. Market growth hinges on multiple factors, notably the surge in infrastructure development and urbanization in emerging economies, broadening electroplating applications of nickel, and the prevalence of stringent regulations. Emerging economies' focus on infrastructure drives demand for nickel in construction and urban development projects. Additionally, the expanding use of nickel in electroplating applications across industries enhances market prospects. However, stringent regulations, particularly concerning environmental and labor standards, present challenges, potentially restraining market expansion despite favorable growth drivers.

What will be the Size of the Market During the Forecast Period?

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Market Segment

The nickel (element) is intertwined with various industries, including lightweight vehicles, solar panels, and food and beverage. Alongside chromium (metal) and titanium, nickel contributes to the production of solar panels and other applications. However, concerns persist regarding sulfur dioxide emissions, urging the industry to adopt more sustainable practices in nickel and chromium extraction.

By Type

The primary nickel segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Primary nickel, a key segment in the market, encompasses various types like nickel pig iron (NPI), ferronickel, and nickel matte, each serving distinct industrial purposes. NPI, notably favored for stainless steel production, is cost-effective and widely utilized, particularly in regions like China.

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The primary nickel segment was the largest segment and was valued at USD 29.52 billion in 2018. Further, ferronickel, produced via nickel ore reduction, finds applications in stainless steel and alloy manufacturing. Noteworthy vendors such as Eramet and Vale SA invest in ferronickel production, driving market growth alongside nickel matte usage by companies like PJSC MMC Norilsk Nickel.

By Application

Stainless steel, a significant segment in the market, finds widespread use across industries like construction, automotive, healthcare, and food processing due to its corrosion resistance, strength, and durability. With nickel playing a pivotal role in stainless steel production, its alloying process accounts for a substantial portion of global stainless steel output. Key vendors like BHP Group plc and PT Indonesia Asahan Aluminum provide various nickel grades tailored for stainless steel applications, driving market growth.

By Region

APAC is estimated to contribute 93% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio's analysts have provided extensive insight into the market forecasting, detailing the regional trends and drivers influencing the market's trajectory throughout the forecast period.

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Indonesia and China are major contributors to the market in the APAC region, collectively dominating global nickel output. Indonesia's vast nickel reserves drive its significant production levels, with the country boasting the world's largest nickel reserve according to the US Geological Survey. China's robust stainless steel industry, fueled by infrastructure development and urbanization, heavily relies on nickel imports. Additionally, China's rapid progress in electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing boosts demand for nickel-based batteries, further amplifying nickel's importance in the APAC market.

Market Dynamics

The market plays a pivotal role in various sectors, including the automotive industry and consumer goods industry. As a key component in lithium-ion batteries such as Nickel Cobalt Aluminum (NCA) and Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC), nickel powers the rise of electric cars and energy storage systems. Nickel plays a crucial role in secondary battery recycling, as it is a valuable material recovered and reused in the production of new batteries. Its applications extend to special steels, stainless steel (SS), and automobile batteries, ensuring lightweight and durable solutions. However, concerns over greenhouse emissions and health risks persist, prompting ongoing innovations in nickel usage across the construction industry, wind turbines, and medical industry.

Key Market Driver

An increase in infrastructure development and urbanization in emerging economies is the key factor driving the market. The rapid economic expansion in emerging economies such as China, India, and Southeast Asia is fueling urbanization and industrial development. Nickel, known for its corrosion resistance and strength, is witnessing heightened demand due to the surg