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    Analysis

    August 22, 2025

    SMU Survey: Current Sentiment tumbles on tariffs, uncertainty, soft demand

    Written by Brett Linton

    SMU’s Steel Buyers’ Sentiment Indices moved in opposing directions this week. Our Current Steel Buyers’ Sentiment Index dropped to one of the lowest levels recorded in over five years, while Future Buyers’ Sentiment inched higher.

    Both indices continue to reflect optimism among steel buyers for their companies’ chances of current and future success, though that confidence is not nearly as strong as it was in February and March.

    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.

    Read more from Brett Linton

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