SMU Data and Models
October 10, 2017
SMU Market Trends Survey: Bearish Signs
Written by Tim Triplett
Responses to several subjects in last week’s Steel Market Update flat rolled steel market trends questionnaire shared a common thread. Comments on demand, pricing, purchases of foreign steel and inventory levels all tended to reflect a bearish attitude among many flat rolled and steel plate service center executives.
· On the subject of steel demand, 34 percent of service center respondents reported that their manufacturing customers are reducing orders. The majority, 53 percent, said OEMs are maintaining their order flows. Only 13 percent have seen an increase in orders from manufacturers.
