Steel prices fall in northern Europe

MEPS research shows that flat steel sales declined in the Nordic region in July in euro terms. Consequently, the factories received less profit.

The demand for hot-rolled strip remained at a consistently low level. Manufacturers' sales are expected to pick up after the summer hiatus. Excess capacity remains in the cold-rolled coil market as well. Competition between SSAB and Rautaruukki continues to keep prices under negative pressure before the merger is fully completed.

Galvanized metal sales to the automotive sector remained flat. At the same time, manufacturers of metal and other furniture reported on the SV Class website about sales growth and greater interest in steel. Demand is expected to remain stable throughout the summer, but market participants hope for an uptick thereafter.

Plate sales were robust in Denmark and Sweden as suppliers tried to advance orders ahead of a slowdown during the holidays. Market sentiment was less positive in Finland. In general, prices were unchanged throughout northern Europe.

The structural sales figures in euro terms declined despite strong consumption in some countries. Activity in the Swedish valve market has been robust, with several large projects in progress. On the other hand, there was little infrastructure investment in the rest of the surveyed countries. As a result, prices were lower than the previous month.

It is hoped that government spending will increase in the near future. The demand from the manufacturing sector was good in Sweden. However, there has been a seasonal downturn in business activity in other Scandinavian countries.