Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
Written by John Packard
January 11, 2019
I heard from one of my trading contacts who lives inside of China over the weekend. He had attended an economic lecture, the topic of which has been banned in China. China’s economy is a mess. I will have more on the Chinese economy and what it might mean for North America in the coming days.
The U.S. government is still partially shut down. This means no import data, TSA employees are beginning to call in sick (they are not being paid), food is not being inspected. Amazing that our government has become so dysfunctional.
The Jan. 29-30 Steel 101 workshop, which will be held in Starkville, Miss., and will tour the SDI Columbus steel mill and paint line, is close to being sold out. You can find more information about this workshop on our website: www.SteelMarketUpdate.com/Events/Steel101 or you are welcome to contact me at John@SteelMarketUpdate.com
A number of companies reached out to me late last week asking for speakers for their internal or supplier events. I will try to accommodate those needs where possible. I am also speaking to CRU about having some of their resources involved, as well. If you have an interest in obtaining a speaker, please contact me.
Note our SMU Steel Summit 2019 banner. Registration is open.
I was interviewed by National Public Radio (NPR) on Friday regarding the steel fence proposed by President Trump. I do not yet know when it will air.
I will be in my office all week. Please feel free to reach out to me should you have any questions, remarks or suggestions. As noted above, I can be reached at John@SteelMarketUpdate.com or by phone at 800-432-3475.
As always, your business is truly appreciated by all of us here at Steel Market Update.
John Packard, President & CEO
John Packard
Read more from John PackardLatest in Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
The US steel market has whipsawed upward on the prospect of expanded Section 232 tariffs of 25% being applied to imported steel - including downstream goods - on March 12. It seems pretty clear that domestic steel mills have the ear of the Trump administration when it comes to Section 232. The result? The much-anticipated Trump bump has finally arrived - and then some.
Final Thoughts
Some of you have told me that the current market feels about as crazy as early 2021 when demand snapped back after the initial outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. Others have said it might be more like late February/early March 2022, when Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine – and, in the process, caused […]
Final Thoughts
To say we’ve entered a “Brave New World” since Jan. 20 might be an exaggeration, but we’ve definitely entered a different one.
Final Thoughts
I think it’s fair to say that the last few weeks – and last week especially – have been among the most intense for any of us covering steel (or aluminum).
Final Thoughts
A look at how SMU survey respondents are reacting to President Trump's recent actions on tariffs.