PGM recycling market remains constrained due to economic downturn

The global autocatalyst recycling market remained constrained due to the global economic downturn, recessionary concerns and sustained inflationary pressures which suppressed consumer demand for new vehicles, with fewer vehicles scrapped and older vehicles continuing in service for longer, reported Sibanye Stillwater.

This has resulted in its US recycling operations declining to accept material from certain sources pending proof of authenticity. In this regard we worked with a global legal firm to develop a strengthened set of responsible sourcing standards and framework within the London Platinum and Palladium Market (LPPM) and with its own Group responsible sourcing governance standards. We continue to work with the International Precious Metals Institute to promote policies regarding the prevention of catalytic theft, which is a growing challenge.

Reflecting these constraints, Sibanye Stillwater says the US PGM recycling operations fed an average of 10.7 tonnes per day (tpd) of spent autocatalyst material for Q1 2023, 55% lower than for Q1 2022. 3E ounces fed of 78,844 3Eoz, were 59% lower than the 190,871 3Eoz fed for Q1 2022. At the end of Q1 2023, approximately 33 tonnes of recycle inventory was on hand, compared to 74 tonnes at the end of Q1 2022. PGM recycling ounces sold declined by 46% to 79,405 3Eoz with the average basket price received for Q1 2023 of US$2,972/3Eoz 3% lower than for Q1 2022. Recent auto sector statistics indicate a possible recovery in industry sales for 2023, with March 2023 auto sales reflecting an annual sales run rate of 92.5 million vehicles globally. China’s economy is also showing signs of impending recovery, with GDP growth for Q1 2023 of 4.5%, the strongest in over a year. Continuation of these positive economic trends would support an improvement in recycling rates in H2 2023.