Plate sources say Q1 demand spike is imminent

Domestic plate market participants anticipate strong economic growth in the first quarter of 2026, which they say is the perfect reason for spot market price hikes now.

This week, SMU found domestic spot market plate prices ranged from $970-1,060 per short ton. The average price was assessed at $1,015/st. The current prices reflect a $5/st increase from the previous week. Market sources have reported consecutive price rises each week since Oct. 28, 2025.

Plate

Kristen DiLandro

Kristen DiLandro is a reporter for Steel Market Update. Kristen focuses on the micro and macro steel market conditions informing North American spot prices. Following her agency career in advertising, she attained an MFA in Writing from Savannah College of Art and Design. Kristen can be reached at kristen@steelmarketupdate.com or 724-221-8143.

Kristen DiLandro

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