Markets
The coal sector, both globally and in the United States, has recently benefited from favorable market fundamentals. Coal prices in certain regions such as Central and Northern Appalachia are at the highest levels experienced in recent history. Certain recent developments, including developments in the eastern United States, that have created the current attractive coal market dynamics are summarized below:
- Continued strong demand in the United States.
- Growing export market.
- Proximity of eastern U.S. coal market.
- U.S. transportation logistics.
- Decline in production and reserve levels.
- High prices for alternative energy sources.