Asian stainless cold-rolled coil prices rose in the week to Feb. 3, as Chinese domestic prices rose despite weak demand.

          Platts assessed 304 grade 2 mm 2B stainless CRC up $50/mt week on week at $2,650/mt CFR East and Southeast Asian ports Feb. 3.

          "Trading is weak, but prices should be rising in the short term as China Wuxi and Foshan's inventory data were lower than pre-holiday period," a southern China trader said.

          The same source added that as mill resources gradually stock up, prices might come down.

          "Demand is very weak, buyers are slow in purchase," a Hong Kong trader said.

          The official nickel cash price on the London Metal Exchange fell $15/mt, or 2%, from Jan. 26 to $28,735/mt Feb. 2.