SMU Data and Models
July 21, 2017
SMU Flat Rolled Steel Market Trends Analysis
Written by John Packard
Twice per month, Steel Market Update (SMU) conducts a detailed analysis of the flat rolled steel market. We invite 650 individuals representing approximately 625 different companies to participate by taking an online questionnaire. The questions cover a wide variety of topics that are germane to their unique industry segment. The two main groups asked to participate are manufacturing companies (ultimate end users/fabricators of the steel) and steel service centers and wholesalers. In the analysis conducted last week, 84 percent of the participants were from these two industry groups. To round out the participants, we also invite steel trading companies (8 percent last week), steel mills (4 percent) and toll processors (4 percent). We feel this provides a well-rounded view of the industry.
During the first segment of the questionnaire, we ask everyone to participate in a group of questions that are impacting today’s decisions. This includes our questions that result in our SMU Steel Buyers Sentiment Index, as well as questions regarding demand, reaction to price announcements, Section 232 related questions and one related to steel mill order books.
