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    Manufacturers/End Users

    December 22, 2025

    Metalformers' near-term outlook more bullish in December despite slip in shipping: PMA

    Written by Ethan Bernard

    Metalforming manufacturers are more upbeat on the prospect of improved near-term economic activity despite lower shipping levels in December, according to the Precision Metalforming Association’s (PMA) December report.

    The December report shows 26% of surveyed manufacturers expect an increase in general economic activity over the next three months, up from only 14% in November. Meanwhile, 57% predict no change in activity vs. 51% the prior month, and 17% predict a decrease, down from 35% in November.

    Ethan Bernard

    Ethan Bernard is managing editor for Steel Market Update. He previously worked for American Metal Market as a copy editor in the New York office for two years, starting in 2008. Later, he copy edited AMM’s monthly magazine on a freelance basis from 2015 until 2017. With experience in financial copywriting and textbook publishing, he holds a BA in Comparative Literature from UC Berkeley, and an MFA in Creative Writing from New York University. He can be reached at ethan@steelmarketupdate.com or 724-759-7871.

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