Outlook 2026 is available for free now.  Download your report  →

StoneX logo

Why Palladium and Rhodium Face a Bleak Demand Outlook

Why Palladium and Rhodium Face a Bleak Demand Outlook

Rhona O’Connell, StoneX Head of Market Analysis for EMEA & Asia, discusses the changing fundamentals behind palladium and rhodium prices.

 

Key Takeaways

  • Palladium and rhodium are highly exposed to the automotive sector
  • Net zero timelines and rising EV sales may turn carmakers into metal suppliers
  • Recycling will further weaken primary demand for these metals

Automotive Demand Dominates

Palladium and rhodium are produced as byproducts, primarily in South African platinum and Russian nickel operations. Despite their rarity, their use is highly concentrated. “It’s over 80% for palladium, and it’s over 85% for rhodium” notes O.Connell, largely due to their roles in catalytic converters for gasoline engines.

Net Zero Targets Pose Structural Risk

As nations aim to cut emissions, demand for internal combustion engines is projected to fall. This transition is expected to materialize by 2037 or 2038, even if the net zero goals themselves are delayed.

Recycling Adds to Surplus Pressure

In addition to falling new demand, scrapped vehicles will bring more palladium and rhodium back into circulation. O'Connell adds, “You're also going to get scrap coming back from old vehicles”, which could compound oversupply concerns, underscoring how this shift will alter the pricing structure of these metals.

Political and Consumer Barriers

O’Connell cites both “political issues at the top and trade tensions” along with consumer resistance as key reasons why net zero targets won’t be met on time. This creates uncertainty for automakers and metal producers alike. “Ford and GM are already considering changing the structure” of their transition plans.

Make Market Insights Your Competitive Advantage

Access live prices, supply and demand data and actionable market commentary across commodities, equities, currencies and more. Sign up for StoneX Market Intelligence today and receive a free 14-day trial.

 

Sign up for a free Market Intelligence trial today

 

See our financial videos hub

 

---- Written by: Gus Farrow

---- Expert: Rhona O'Connell, StoneX Head of Market Analysts, EMEA & Asia

  • Precious Metals

The subsidiaries of StoneX Group Inc. provide financial products and services, including, but not limited to, physical commodities, securities, clearing, global payments, risk management, asset management, foreign exchange, and exchange-traded and over-the-counter derivatives. These financial products and services are offered in accordance with the applicable laws in the jurisdictions in which they are provided and are subject to specific terms, conditions, and restrictions contained in the terms of business applicable to each such offering. Not all products and services are available in all countries. The products and services offered by the StoneX Group of companies involve risk of loss and may not be suitable for all investors. Full Disclaimer. This content is not intended for residents of any particular country, and the information herein is not advice nor a recommendation to trade nor does it constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any financial product or service, by any person or entity in any jurisdiction or country where such distribution or use would be contrary to local law or regulation. Please refer to the Regulatory Disclosure section for entity-specific disclosures. No part of this material may be copied, photocopied or duplicated in any form by any means or redistributed without the prior written consent of StoneX Group Inc. The information herein is provided for informational purposes only. This information is provided on an ‘as-is’ basis and may contain statements and opinions of the StoneX Group of companies as well as excerpts and/or information from public sources and third parties and no warranty, whether express or implied, is given as to its completeness or accuracy. Each company within the StoneX Group of companies (on its own behalf and on behalf of its directors, employees and agents) disclaims any and all liability as well as any third-party claim that may arise from the accuracy and/or completeness of the information detailed herein, as well as the use of or reliance on this information by the recipient, any member of its group or any third party.


© 2026 StoneX Group Inc. all rights reserved.

Satellite view of Earth at night showing illuminated cities across Asia and the Middle East

Discover more insights

Our subscribers have access to comprehensive market analysis from StoneX spanning commodities, equities, currencies and more.

StoneX: We open markets

Our market expertise, advanced platforms, global reach, culture of full transparency and commitment to our clients’ success all set us apart in the financial marketplace.

Reach

With access to 40+ derivatives exchanges, 180+ foreign exchange markets, nearly every global securities marketplace and numerous bi-lateral liquidity venues, StoneX’s digital network and deep relationships can take clients anywhere they want to go.

Transparency

As a publicly traded company meeting the highest standards of regulatory compliance in the markets we serve, our financials and record of accomplishment are matters of public record. StoneX’s commitment to “doing the right thing over the easy thing” sets us apart in the industry and helps us build respect, client trust and new partnerships.

Expertise

From our proprietary Market Intelligence platform, to “boots on the ground” expertise from award-winning traders and professionals, we connect our clients directly to actionable insights they can use to make more informed decisions and achieve their goals in the global markets.