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    Buyers optimistic for strong scrap market in March

    Written by Brett Linton


    Buyers are optimistic for a strong scrap market in March, driven by limited scrap inflows from severe weather disruptions and increasing mill demand. Combine this with a strengthening steel market, and it sets the stage for rising scrap prices.

    According to last week’s survey, the majority of our respondents believe scrap prices will continue to climb into March, while a small portion expect a sideways market (Figure 1). Not a single buyer expected prices to decline.

    Brett Linton

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