European flat steel prices remained largely stable at the beginning of the week, while hot-rolled coil (HRC) and cold-rolled coil (CRC) prices posted modest increases. HRC prices held steady at EUR 710/mt EXW in Germany and EUR 705/mt EXW in Italy, while CRC prices were assessed at EUR 820/mt EXW and EUR 825/mt EXW, respectively.
According to market sources, HRC and CRC prices increased by approximately EUR 5-10/mt during the week of July 27. However, the upward movement was attributed not to a significant recovery in demand but rather to controlled supply conditions and producers' efforts to maintain pricing discipline. Market participants also reported that several Italian mills concluded August-delivery HRC sales at EUR 730-750/mt delivered to service centers equipped with slitting and cut-to-length lines, tube manufacturers, and strip steel consumers. Although these transactions are not yet considered representative benchmark levels across the broader market, they indicate that producers are continuing to defend higher price levels despite weak seasonal demand.
Meanwhile, the impact of the summer holiday period continues to weigh on the European market. As the market moves into late July and early August, purchasing activity remains limited, with many service centers and end-users maintaining lean inventory strategies. Trading volumes remain subdued, and buyers are entering the market only to meet their immediate requirements.
Comments
No comment yet.