Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
Written by Tim Triplett
June 25, 2018
John Packard is on an airplane somewhere over the Atlantic, on his way to meet with our new colleagues at the CRU Group, which is headquartered in London. I’m sure John would agree, as he travels far away, that this comment from a Steel Market Update subscriber hits very close to home.
Responding to our query this week about the current atmosphere for pricing and mill negotiations, one service center executive shared the following thoughts: “Domestically, there isn’t much to negotiate. The number is the number. For imports, it’s all about the continued uncertainty of what the next tweet could be and how to do business without knowing the rules. There has NEVER been a time when having good business partners, not just vendors but true business partners, has been more important.”
I think the message holds true for all types of relationships. Steel Market Update was acquired by the CRU Group less than a month ago, so our partnership is still evolving. But the synergies between the two organizations are unmistakable and the possibilities are limitless. When John gets back from London, I’m sure his head will be full of new ideas for new products and new programs to help Steel Market Update subscribers navigate today’s treacherous steel market.
Tim Triplett
Read more from Tim TriplettLatest in Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
I’m not sure how many different ways I can write that it’s been a quiet market ahead of Independence Day. There are variations on that theme. I’ve heard everything from the ominous “eerily quiet” to "getting better" and even the occasional “blissfully unaware” (because I’m enjoying my vacation).
Final Thoughts
What's going to be the next big thing in steel?
Final Thoughts
Based on the amount of ‘out of office’ replies we’ve been receiving and the results of this week’s steel buyers’ survey, those pesky summer doldrums have arrived for the steel industry.
Final Thoughts
Maybe some of this uncertainty will get ironed out ahead of Liberation Day tariffs resetting higher rates on July 9. But if I had to place a wager, it would be on more drama and last-minute brinksmanship - whether it comes to the Liberation Day tariffs or the various Section 232s that are in the works.
Final Thoughts
What should you keep your eye on, considering the latest geopolitical events?