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| US Scrap Market |
Stable Market Sentiment with Modest Price Increase Forecast
The US scrap market outlook for August 2025 suggests a slightly positive trend after a flat July. The Trend Indicator at 52.3 forecasts a modest 1.3% month-on-month price increase, signaling cautious optimism among market participants. Meanwhile, a strong consensus of 63% agreement underlines the general market stability without significant volatility.
Divergent Views Between Sellers, Buyers, and Brokers
Market sentiment reveals contrasting perspectives: sellers remain upbeat with a 62.5 score, reflecting confidence in potential price gains. Conversely, buyers show restrained optimism at 51.47, while brokers adopt a cautious stance at 42.9. This divergence indicates sellers may expect tighter supply or higher demand, but buyers and brokers hesitate amid uncertain short-term drivers. Inventory levels hold steady near neutrality at 51.1, suggesting balanced mill stocks.
Market Drivers Remain Static, Indicating Limited Price Movement
No significant market factors currently drive prices, as reflected in the “All Unchanged” sentiment. Therefore, the US scrap market faces a stalemate with limited upward pressure. Participants mostly adopt a wait-and-see approach, implying that near-term price volatility will remain low. This environment favors stable operations but tempers speculative trading or aggressive purchasing.
ScrapInsight Commentary
The slight upward bias reflects stable supply-demand fundamentals in the US scrap market amid global economic uncertainties. Prices may inch higher but lack strong catalysts for a rally. Regulatory trends supporting circular economy practices could provide medium-term tailwinds, reinforcing scrap’s role as a key raw material.
