SMU Data and Models
June 21, 2018
SMU Market Trends: Future Sentiment Wavers
Written by John Packard
The data from Steel Market Update’s latest market trends questionnaire shows some erosion in Future Sentiment. The SMU Steel Buyers Sentiment Index measures how buyers and sellers of flat rolled and plate steels feel about their companies’ ability to be successful both now and three to six months into the future. Buyers and sellers of flat rolled steel generally remain optimistic about their chances for success, but looking ahead, fewer are as confident in light of the uncertainty on the trade front.
SMU’s Steel Buyers Sentiment Index registered +66 out of a possible +100, up 4 points from early June. Calculated as a three-month moving average (3MMA) to smooth out the data, the index remains at +67.00, just slightly above the low reading of the year, which was 66.50.
