Market News Today

Stainless steel prices firmed following mill hikes and rising nickel costs. The 300 series remains supported, while 200 series demand strengthens due to limited imports. The 400 series shows gradual improvement. Availability constraints persist in select sizes, and overall sentiment stays positive with expectations of further price increases in coming weeks.

Structural steel channels remain firm as improved February bookings and controlled mill dispatches support prices. Secondary markets show selective tightness in small sections while infrastructure and fabrication demand stay healthy. Domestic consumption continues to lead the market, with buyers advised staggered or advance booking amid an emerging upward price bias.

Indian HRC and CRC prices remained unchanged across major markets as stable demand met expanding supply. Structural demand from infrastructure, construction, and manufacturing continues to grow, but rising domestic capacity and cautious buyer behavior are limiting price upside. The market remains balanced to mildly oversupplied.

Stainless steel prices remained steady to firm, supported by higher nickel prices and stable domestic demand. The 200 series continued to outperform amid import shortages, while 300 series sentiment stayed positive. JSL’s latest price hikes reinforced bullish expectations, particularly for nickel-linked grades.

TMT prices moved higher across regions as post-monsoon demand revival and tight distributor inventories strengthened market sentiment. Mills are operating with full order books and limited capacity flexibility, restricting supply response. With minimal stock overhang and firm demand, near-term price bias remains upward.

Primary channel prices remained stable with a mild upward bias, supported by controlled dispatches and steady infrastructure demand. Secondary markets stayed firm due to selective rolling and tight availability in key sizes. Fabrication-led buying continues to anchor demand, while cautious credit conditions limit aggressive stocking.

TMT prices have moved higher across major regions as post-monsoon demand improves and distributors operate with limited inventories. Mills are running with full order books and constrained production capacity, restricting near-term supply. Strong sales performance by SAIL further reinforces positive sentiment, supporting a firm-to-upward price outlook.

Stainless steel prices stabilised after JSL cut ₹3/kg in 304 and ₹5/kg in 316L. Demand remains mixed—soft in 300 series, improving in 400, and strong in 200 due to tight imports. Globally, Asian markets remain quiet amid high inventories. Overall, the domestic outlook stays stable to firm depending on the series.

Flat steel prices remained unchanged across major regions as domestic demand held steady but cautious. Imports dropped sharply by 54% YoY, easing competitive pressure, yet buyers stayed conservative due to muted manufacturing activity. Weak export deals in Vietnam and the Middle East further weighed on sentiment, keeping the overall market stable but subdued.

Structural steel prices remain steady with a mildly positive trend in primary mills, supported by active replenishment in several regions. The secondary market stays firm to bullish due to tight supply in Raipur, Gobindgarh, and Durgapur. Liquidity has improved post-festive season, keeping trade flow strong despite limited credit availability.