SMU Data and Models

SMU MoMo Index Jumps as HRC Prices Move Higher

Written by Brett Linton

October 18, 2013

The Steel Market Update Price MoMo Index for flat rolled steel in the U.S. turned positive this week after 4 consecutive weeks in negative territory. MoMo, a trailing indicator, is based upon the current hot rolled coil price weighed against the previous 12-week average spot price as recorded by Steel Market Update. MoMo was measured at 1.68 percent this week, meaning that the current HRC price is above the average price from the previous 12 weeks.

The change in MoMo can be a useful indicator in depicting the severity of price movements. Looking at this change on a 3-week moving average, we see that the trend in HRC price fluctuation has began to rise after being flat for the past few weeks. The 3-week average change in MoMo is 0.69 percent, meaning that the change in HRC prices over the previous 12 weeks had been modest.

The graph below demonstrates the relationship between the SMU hot rolled coil price and the three week moving average change in MoMo. Our HRC price range for this week is up slight to $640- $670/ton with an average price of $655/ton.

Brett Linton

Brett Linton is a senior 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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