The bull run in commodities - led by precious metals - saw markets end "markedly higher" in December and experts predict that fundamental supply and demand pressures will continue to push up prices.
Nelson Louie, global head of commodities at Credit Suisse Asset Management said: "Global macroeconomic conditions and fundamentals were broadly supportive of commodities in December and we believe this theme is likely to continue heading into the New Year. Inventory levels generally remain tight, supply disruptions continue to add further supply pressure for multiple commodities, and demand generally continues to grow in emerging markets and recover in developed markets."
Christopher Burton, senior portfolio manager for the Credit Suisse Total Commodity Return Strategy added: "Heading into 2011, global growth prospects in developed and emerging regions seem to be improving, a scenario which should likely benefit commodities prices across sectors. Specifically, we would expect industrial metals and energy prices to continue to increase as developing countries seek to build out their infrastructures.
"Additionally, improving growth expectations for the US and Europe, due largely to the continued accommodative monetary policies of their central banks, may further benefit the precious metals sector as well as commodities overall."
Credit Suisse Asset Management noted that the Dow Jones-UBS Commodity Index Total Return rose 10.69% in December, bringing the year-to-date performance to 16.83%. Overall, all of the 19 index constituents increased in value.
The precious metals sector closed 2010 as the index's best performing sector, up 4.78% in December and 42.66% for the year, according to Credit Suisse Asset Management. Gold continues to be a highly sought commodity amongst investors and Central Banks alike, while silver continues to be coveted by investors for its dual usage as a store-of-value and an industrial metal.
The energy sector was found to be the only sector to finish in negative territory in 2010, decreasing 10.55%. natural gas, the year's worst performing commodity, lost 40.59% amidst rising inventory levels and diminishing demand.
