Why is the Fortescue Metals (ASX:FMG) share price sliding 5% today?

What is impacting the Fortescue share price today?

| More on:
Worker in hard hat looks puzzled with one hand on chin

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Key points

  • The Fortescue Metals share price is in the red nearly 5% today 
  • Global iron ore prices have plunged amid China COVID lockdowns 
  • Fortescue exported more than 93.1 million tonnes of iron ore in the first half of FY22

The Fortescue Metals Group Ltd (ASX: FMG) share price is well in the red on the ASX today.

The company's shares are currently swapping hands at $17.125, a 5.07% fall. In comparison, the  S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is down 0.56% at the time of writing.

Let's take a look at what could be impacting the Fortescue share price.

Iron ore prices

Iron ore prices appear to be impacting the Fortescue share price today. Fortescue exported more than 93.1 million tonnes of iron ore in H1 FY22.

However, global iron ore prices have plunged recently amid resurgent COVID-19 lockdowns in China, according to a report on NAB trade. A climb in infections is raising concerns about China's projected economic growth, the report stated.

Iron ore's top traded May contract on the Dalian Commodity Exchange dropped 7% to 759.50 yuan (AU$166.43) a tonne, the Australian Financial Review reported. The iron ore April contract on the Singapore Exchange also fell 8.8% to $US143.80 per tonne. This is a two week low.

At the same time, the share price of fellow ASX miner Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) is down more than 4% at the time of writing, currently trading at $106.66. BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares are also down more than 4%.

In other news, Fortescue founder Andrew 'Twiggy' Forrest met with Egypt's Prime Minister on Monday. As my Foolish colleague Tristan reported, the meeting explored potential green hydrogen opportunities.

Fortescue on the ASX recap

The Fortescue share price has lost 16% in the past year. It's fallen 24% in the past month alone, shedding 10.6% year to date.

Meanwhile, the benchmark ASX index has returned nearly 5% over the past 12 months.

Fortescue has a market capitalisation of about $53 billion based on its current share price.

The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on Resources Shares

A black cat waiting to pounce on a mouse.
Resources Shares

$2,000 in this ASX share two years ago would be worth $8,078 today

Two years ago, this ASX small-cap stock was worth 25.5 cents. Today, it's trading at $1.03.

Read more »

two people sit side by side on a rollercoaster ride with their hands raised in the air and happy smiles on their faces
Opinions

Up over 200% in 6 months: Are Pilbara Minerals shares still a buy?

How high can the lithium producer’s shares go?

Read more »

Image of young successful engineer, with blueprints, notepad and digital tablet, observing the project implementation on construction site and in mine.
Resources Shares

Expert lists its top resources shares to target in December

These resources shares could be set to benefit from improving market conditions.

Read more »

Three satisfied miners with their arms crossed looking at the camera proudly
Resources Shares

Major ASX 200 mining shares hit 52-week highs

BHP, Fortescue, and Rio Tinto shares set new 52-week highs today.

Read more »

Gold bars on top of gold coins.
Share Market News

Up 76% in less than a year and this ASX mining stock just revealed some "exceptional" gold news

“Outstanding” results.

Read more »

Two workers working with a large copper coil in a factory.
Resources Shares

Top fundie names 2 ASX 200 copper shares to buy today

A leading fund manager tips two ASX cooper shares to buy amid surging copper prices.

Read more »

Image of young successful engineer, with blueprints, notepad and digital tablet, observing the project implementation on construction site and in mine.
Resources Shares

Why are FireFly Metals shares pulling back from near-record levels today?

FireFly Metals shares have come off their record highs after a major capital raise to drive exploration was announced.

Read more »

Man with rocket wings which have flames coming out of them.
Resources Shares

Up 109% or more! These 4 ASX mining stocks are booming as the silver price hits all-time high

Riding the wave.

Read more »