Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts
Written by John Packard
January 13, 2016
After reviewing the results of last week’s flat rolled market analysis (our survey) I continue to be optimistic that business conditions will continue to improve as 2016 progresses. We broke the negative trend in our Sentiment Index, we are seeing more optimistic results from manufacturing as they look out three to six months into the future and the erosion of prices has stopped.
I do agree with Spencer Johnson in tonight’s HRC Futures article. The domestic steel mills have to remain reasonably competitive with foreign steel or they will do nothing more than invite domestic buyers to return to foreign products. The countries may be different but the results for the domestic mills will be the same.
A note that I will be in Mississippi early next week as we conduct another one of our Steel 101 workshops. We will be touring the SDI Columbus steel mill and we are looking forward to working with our friends at SDI and at the Columbus facility once again. We hope to be able to announce our next Steel 101 workshop in the coming days. Later this year (probably October) we will host our first workshop at the brand new Big River Steel mill in Arkansas.
I want to remind everyone to take a few minutes to register for our Leadership Summit Conference in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. The dates are March 7-9th and our exceptional program can be found on our website. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me at 800-432-3475 or by email: John@SteelMarketUpdate.com.
For those attending ASHRAE I will be attending the Orlando, Florida show for at least the opening day.
As always your business is truly appreciated by all of us here at Steel Market Update.
John Packard, Publisher
John Packard
Read more from John PackardLatest in Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
SMU’s hot-rolled coil price increased for a third consecutive week. And the gains were more pronounced this time following a price hike initiated on Friday by NLMK USA.
Final Thoughts
SMU digs into the vault to look back at an old survey, and to tell what exciting things are still to come.
Final Thoughts
Below are some other issues that should be on your radar. Because while prices have been steady, a lot is going on when it comes to news that could impact them.
Final Thoughts: Survey says edition
It's can-kicking at its finest. And it’s been drawn out! Some are getting so good at it, they’re kicking cans and taking names.
Final Thoughts
We just wrapped up another Steel 101 workshop, easily the most hands-on industry workshop on steelmaking and market fundamentals.
