Update January 2017

After two price increases of approximately $200/ton (total)  in late 2016, the flat rolled producers have put through another $40 to $50 increase effective January 2017.  It remains to be seen how the market will accept the latest increase.

People keep asking why the rash of increases?  It appears the flat rolled producers are confident the new Trump administration's protectionist posturing will discourage offshore competition, at least short term.

We will see....