SMU Steel Buyers Sentiment Index: Optimism's a Bit Wobbly

Data from Steel Market Update’s latest market trends questionnaire shows industry sentiment—while still high by historical standards—wobbling a bit, mostly likely over concerns about the uncertain trade situation in the U.S.

SMU’s Current Steel Buyers Sentiment Index measures how buyers and sellers of flat rolled and plate steel feel about their company’s ability to be successful in the “current” market environment. The index registered +65 out of a possible +100 this week, down 1 point from mid-July and relatively unchanged for the past three months. Calculated as a three-month moving average (3MMA) to smooth out the data, the Current Sentiment index dipped further to +65.00, down from +66.33, and hit the lowest reading of the year. The Current Sentiment Index continues to be optimistic, but well below the 3MMA peak of +73.83 in mid-February.