In futures trading at the Multi Commodity Exchange, nickel for delivery this month was trading 40 paise higher, or 0.07 per cent up, at Rs 598.50 per kg, in a business turnover of 2,037 lots.
The metal for delivery in July was trading higher by 20 paise, or 0.03 per cent, to Rs 609.30 per kg in 192 lots.
Analysts said the rise in nickel prices at futures trade was mostly attributed to strong demand from alloy-makers at the domestic spot markets coupled with covering-up of short positions in view of June expiry.