Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts
Written by John Packard
September 12, 2016
I spent a great deal of time on two projects: flat rolled pricing and steel mill maintenance schedules. I want to thank those companies who worked with me over the past few working days to be able to provide what I think is better data (both in pricing and in the schedules) than what has previously been available out in the market.
A note to our Premium level customers, we are reviewing and redoing much of the imports by port data we have on the website. If you have any questions about the data please contact Brett@SteelMarketUpdate.com
Our Steel 101: Introduction to Steel Making & Market Fundamentals workshop in Memphis, TN is close to being sold out. The dates on the workshop are November 15-16 and will include a tour of the Big River Steel mill just as it is about to come online and begin producing its first hot rolled coils. Details are on our website: www.SteelMarketUpdate.com or you can contact our office at 800-432-3475 or info@SteelMarketUpdate.com and we will do our best to respond to your questions.
As always your business is truly appreciated by all of us here at Steel Market Update.
John Packard, Publisher

John Packard
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Final Thoughts
Cliffs came tantalizing close to buying U.S. Steel in 2023. There were rumors in 2024 that Cliffs might buy NLMK USA before it ultimately purchased Stelco for $2.5 billion in November of last year. Who would have thought that asset sales would have been the focal point of discussion just six months later?

Final Thoughts
Given the news about tariffs and bringing back industries to the US, a brief look back in time may show how our economy changes with technological advances and the shifting economies of scale.

Final Thoughts
We’ve talked about tariffs ad nauseam for much of the year. And I’m afraid this topic isn’t going away anytime soon. There’s a feeling that the tariff “can” will just be kicked down the road again and again, and again.

Final Thoughts
Can technology help with pig iron and DRI/HBI tariffs?

Final Thoughts
Tariff-related noise aside, there is one basic factor keeping buyers on the sidelines. Despite recent declines, HR prices remain at historically high levels. And there is no obvious support to keep them there.