SMU Buyers Sentiment Index Steady, Future 3MMA Up

Steel Market Update’s (SMU) Steel Buyers Sentiment Index remained roughly steady this week, as it has seen since mid-September. Our Future Buyers Sentiment Index inched down three points but remains in line with levels recorded in late September. Buyers Sentiment peaked earlier this year. It has trended downward since May but nonetheless remains in positive territory. Buyers continue to express concerns about profitability, high-priced inventory, and weakening demand.

SMU’s Buyers Sentiment Index measures how steel buyers feel about their company’s ability to be successful in today’s market, as well as three to six months down the road. We poll steel buyers about sentiment every other week and have historical data going back to 2008.