Commodity prices have risen quite sharply these past few days. But some analysts say this hike may be temporary, citing a possible rollback in the second half of the year.
According to recent data, prices for food, goods, housing and even agriculture soared to all-time highs, surprising many people. Corn, soybean and wheat hit eight-year highs, while coffee reached almost a four-year high. Chinese steel, meanwhile, climbed to ten-year highs.
But the Federal Reserve said the situation will turn around because of supply disruptions.
Goldman Sachs, on the other hand, argued that prices will continue to rise in the next six months due to strong demand.
BMO Capital Markets also forecasts commodities to grow this first half of the year. For example, iron will be up by 17%, aluminum by 6%, copper by 5% and palladium by 4%. But, like the US Fed, they expect prices to begin declining in the second half of the year.
Capital Economics also agree, projecting prices to fall by the end of next year, returning to normal levels.
TD Securities said it could be because of serious supply problems, or by other obstacles such as a stronger US dollar and higher yields on Treasuries.