0524 GMT - Aluminum supply losses amid the Middle East conflict could persist through 2026, say Morgan Stanley analysts. Timelines to restart disrupted operations--accounting for roughly 4% of global supply--could be up to 12 months, MS says. As a result, MS analysts "see upside risks to aluminum prices for 2026." The bank highlights rising regional premiums in Japan, Europe and the U.S. versus the London benchmark, as the market for physical metal tightens. To be sure, softer global growth could cap gains via weaker demand, MS adds. Among Australian stocks, South32 is the bank's preferred way to bet on higher aluminum prices, while Rio Tinto also stands to benefit, MS says.(rhiannon.hoyle@wsj.com; @RhiannonHoyle)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

April 07, 2026 01:24 ET (05:24 GMT)

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