The volatility of nickel prices has long been a critical factor influencing the stainless steel supply chain. Recently, with raw material prices holding steady and downstream demand showing signs of recovery, stainless steel futures prices have started to climb.
European steelmakers are cautiously optimistic following a series of recent developments that may mark the beginning of a de-escalation in global trade tensions.
For over 30 years, the European Union has touted the vision of a seamless “single market”—a space where goods, services, capital, and people can move freely.
Nickel prices on the Shanghai Futures Exchange (SHFE) saw a notable increase on Monday, rising by approximately 2%. Spot market prices also saw a rise of up to 2.1%.
The UK steel industry is urging the government to clarify when the recently announced removal of US steel tariffs will take effect, following last week’s trade agreement with the United States
Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and competitive pressure from imports, leading European stainless steel producers Acerinox and Outokumpu delivered solid performance in the first quarter of 2025.
Hot-rolled coil (HRC) prices in the United States fell toward the end of April, with producer offers dropping from $975/metric ton to $952/metric ton ex-works (EXW) between April 11 and April 25.
On April 9, U.S. President Donald Trump initiated a 90-day pause on the implementation of "reciprocal" tariffs. This move was initially attributed to ongoing efforts to negotiate trade agreements with 75 countries that had reportedly approached the White House.