SMU Data and Models
February 8, 2018
SMU Steel Buyers Sentiment Index: Optimism Near Record Highs
Written by Tim Triplett
Current and future sentiment among flat rolled steel buyers remains at or near record highs, according to the latest Steel Market Update Steel Buyers Sentiment Index. The index measures changes in buyers’ optimism levels, which offers insight into their likely decision-making. Three out of four respondents to SMU’s flat rolled market trends questionnaire this week said their company’s chances for success in the current market environment are good, if not excellent. The other 25 percent feel their prospects are fair. None had a negative outlook.
Current sentiment, measured as a single data point, averaged +75 this week, down just a tick from +78 in mid-January, which was an all-time high for the index.
