Analysis
April 23, 2024
Written by Michael Cowden
We’ve used the word “unprecedented” a lot over the last four years to describe steel price volatility. Over the last two months – despite earlier predictions of a price surge – we’ve seen unprecedented stability.
I’m not saying Nucor’s new, weekly HR price alone is the reason for that stability – although it has been stable. Because it’s not just US prices that have been roughly stable. Sheet prices abroad have been too.
Members of the Global Forum on Steel Excess Capacity (GFSEC) met in Wisconsin last week and unveiled an updated plan to combat market-distorting excess capacity. The Milwaukee Framework adds color to the 2017 “Berlin Principles.” It is also a positive step in the ongoing battle against global steel market distortions. However, the Framework is only a guidepost. It must be implemented correctly to make an impact as new problems loom.
This October, SMU is introducing a new way to keep you informed on the latest steel market news and insights: the Daily Digest. Beginning in mid-October, our new Daily Digest will replace the three newsletters currently delivered each week.
SMU’s Current Steel Buyers’ Sentiment Index fell this week, while Future Sentiment remained flat, according to our latest market survey.
The results of the latest Steel Market Update (SMU) flat-rolled market survey are now available on our website to all premium members.
This October, SMU is introducing a new way to keep you informed on the latest steel market news and insights: the Daily Digest. Beginning in mid-October, our new Daily Digest will replace the three newsletters currently delivered each week.