Belgian chemicals group Solvay reported higher than expected first-quarter results on Thursday and said it was raising its full-year guidance for profits and cash.
ArcelorMittal, the world’s second largest steelmaker, said it had a "good growth" in the beginning of the year as it reported higher than expected first-quarter earnings.
Australia's exports to China surged to record highs in March as the Asian giant sucked in more iron for its steel industry and lowered barriers to thermal coal shipments amid thawing diplomatic relations.
Indian gold futures hit a fresh all-time high on Thursday, tracking gains in overseas markets, but the rally dampened demand in the world's second-biggest consumer of the precious metal, dealers said.
Tata Steel expects its European operations to improve from the next quarter on the back of falling energy costs, its chief executive and managing director said on Thursday.