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    February 18, 2014

    SMU Price Ranges & Indices: Flat to Down Slightly

    Written by Brett Linton

    Flat rolled steel prices were mixed compared to this time last week. The combination of our survey coupled with direct channel checks found hot rolled and galvanized prices slightly weaker while cold rolled and Galvalume prices remained the same as last week. The SMU Price Momentum Indicator continues to reference prices as moving lower over the next 30 days – although we believe prices will not drop sharply as inventories seem to be balanced and not all mills are participating in moving prices lower.

    We are hearing reports of hot rolled price offers at $620 per ton this week but did not collect actual sales at that number before we concluded our numbers for today. Hot rolled is the weakest product and we are hearing of buyers pushing for sub-$600 per ton numbers from the mills (which they are resisting). On the flip side – plate products are quite strong right now and lead times are out into May.

    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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