Four contracts saw futures volume growth of more than five per cent on 2004. These were the aluminium alloy contract which grew 16.9% to 501,960 lots; the tin contract which grew 12.7% to just over 1 million lots; the nickel contract which grew 9.6% to around 3.5 million lots and also the copper grade A contract which grew 5.8% to trade over 19 million lots. Traded options saw growth of around 72% overall to almost 8 million lots traded and TAPOs (Traded Average Price Options) grew by 114% to a total of 263,123 lots traded.
Commenting on the results, Simon Heale, LME Chief Executive said:
“2005 has proved to be another strong year for the Exchange, following the high volumes achieved in both 2004 and 2003. These results further highlight the high levels of liquidity at the LME and the important role that we play in the world of non-ferrous metals and plastics.
I am particularly encouraged to see that volumes for the recently launched plastics contracts are growing steadily, as expected, with 15,770 lots of polypropylene and 7,626 lots of linear low density polyethylene traded since their launch in May.
We look forward to building on this strong performance in 2006 through our ongoing commitment to review and enhance existing contracts and by pursuing new opportunities and products where the Exchange can add real value.”
