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    Prime Scrap Prices Fall as Much as $150/Ton in July, Bottom Near?

    Written by Brett Linton


    Steel Market Update sources reported ferrous scrap prices fell significantly in July, the third consecutive month of declines since peaking in March and April. Prime grades declined as much as $150 per gross ton, while obsolete grades decreased $30-50 per ton. Scrap prices are now in line with levels seen in the first two months of 2021.

    SMU’s scrap price ranges for the month of July are as follows:

    Brett Linton

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