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    July 10, 2026

    SMU Survey: Continued optimism in Buyer Sentiment Indices

    Written by Brett Linton

    SMU’s Steel Buyers’ Sentiment Indices were once again strongly optimistic this week, based on responses collected from steel executives in our latest market survey. Both indices show that steel buyers remain confident in their companies’ prospects both today and in the coming months.

    Our Current Steel Buyers’ Sentiment Index eased one point but remains strong, still within a few points of a multi-year high. Meanwhile, our Future Buyers’ Sentiment Index inched up two points to the highest reading seen since late 2024.

    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.

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