-Officially, or through strategic quoting, the second round of summer price increases was fully employed last week. As is the case during most early stages of price announcements, suppliers are showing discipline by seeking the published, higher spot numbers.
-Preparations in advance of a potential strike at ArcelorMittal and USS are already affecting the availability. As August and September sourcing tightens, price increases look more “justified” in the near term.
-Not all mill books have been buoyed by strike threats and pull-ahead demand in advance of increase pricing. After a brief respite, North America is again looking ripe for another round of imports.
-For the moment, the domestic market seems to be at peace with HRC pricing around $640.
-USA steel up – rest of the world on everything else down. Hmm?