As a commodity expert with a focus on the metals market, I am well-versed in the pricing dynamics of various materials, including nickel. Nickel is a versatile metal used in numerous applications, such as stainless steel production, batteries, and various industrial components. Its price is influenced by a variety of factors, including supply and demand, geopolitical events, and market speculation.

To determine the cost of a pound of nickel, we first need to understand the current market price for the metal. The London Metal Exchange (LME) is one of the primary sources for such pricing information. According to the data provided, the spot price for nickel closed at $20,645 per metric ton on a specific Wednesday. It's important to note that this price is subject to fluctuations and can change daily based on the market conditions.

Now, a metric ton is equivalent to 2,205 pounds. To find the price per pound, we divide the price per metric ton by the number of pounds in a metric ton. Using the provided data, the calculation would be as follows:

\[ \text{Price per pound} = \frac{\text{Price per metric ton}}{\text{Pounds per metric ton}} \]
\[ \text{Price per pound} = \frac{20,645}{2,205} \approx 9.36 \]

This gives us an approximate price of $9.36 per pound of nickel. However, it's crucial to remember that this is a simplified calculation and the actual cost may vary due to additional factors such as transaction fees, taxes, and the specific form in which the nickel is being sold (e.g., ingots, powder, etc.).

It's also worth mentioning that the date provided, May 15, 2014, is outdated. Commodity prices are highly dynamic, and the price of nickel could have significantly changed since then. For the most accurate and current pricing, one should refer to the latest data from the LME or other reputable financial news sources.

In summary, while the calculation suggests a price of approximately $9.36 per pound based on historical data, the actual cost of nickel today would need to be verified with the latest market information. It's always advisable to stay informed about the current market trends and prices when dealing with commodities.

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Spot prices for nickel closed at $20,645 per metric ton on Wednesday on the LME. A single metric ton is equal to about 2,205 pounds so that's about $9.36 a pound.May 15, 2014read more >>