SMU Price Ranges & Indices: High Spreads Between HR and CR/Coated

Benchmark hot rolled coil rose this week as we saw the lower end of the range move much higher compared to what we collected last week. We found most data points on HRC between $540-$570. We continue to see high base price spreads between hot rolled and cold rolled/coated steels. Cold rolled, with its $175 average spread, is the lowest with galvanized and Galvalume $15 to $20 per ton at the high end at $190 and $195 per ton. Looking back at history, the normal spread between HR and CR/coated base prices has been $100-$140 per ton. SMU’s Price Momentum Indicator on all flat rolled products is for higher prices. Plate momentum continues to be at Neutral.

Here is how we see prices this week:

Brett Linton

Brett Linton is a digital operations analyst for Steel Market Update, where he began his career. Linton has been in the steel industry since 2010. He has held roles as a category manager and strategic insights director at Reibus before returning to SMU in 2024. He is a graduate of The University of North Georgia with a degree in Finance and Accounting. Brett can be reached at brett@steelmarketupdate.com or 724-314-0179.

Brett Linton

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