Raw Steels MMI Reflects Decline in Market Prices

The Raw Steels Monthly Metals Index (MMI) experienced a decline over the past month, registering a 3.82% decrease from April to May. While U.S. steel prices largely moved sideways during April, market sentiment increasingly shifted toward the downside, largely driven by reduced buyer activity in response to tariff pressures. Following a peak in late March, U.S. steel prices have gradually begun to reverse the gains previously attributed to tariff-related factors that emerged earlier in the year. Despite the overall sideways trend, bearish indicators have become more pronounced, with little evidence supporting a potential upward reversal. Since reaching their recent high, hot rolled coil prices have declined by approximately 2%.

Though the downward movement since late March has been relatively modest, the accumulation of negative market signals suggests further weakening is likely. Should the current trajectory mirror the pattern observed after the 2018 implementation of Section 232 tariffs, steel prices may continue to decline in the coming months and potentially return to their pre-tariff levels.

Significant Developments in Raw Material and Steel Price Trends

• Chinese steel slab prices recorded the only increase within the index, rising marginally by 0.3% to $515 per metric ton as of May 1.

• London Metal Exchange (LME) three-month primary steel scrap prices declined by 6.61%, reaching $339 per metric ton.

• Chinese coking coal prices experienced a significant decrease of 7.16%, falling to $131 per metric ton.

• U.S. shredded scrap prices dropped by 8.89%, settling at $420 per short ton.

• Korean steel scrap prices registered the most substantial decline, falling by 10.5% to $164 per metric ton.