Spring has begun and various driving forces are active. However, the alloy surcharge is bobbing along and is not having a major impact on market prices, as the driving forces are still lacking honest, forward-looking goals from the new government and its leaders. Nevertheless, a slightly moving blue ribbon is making itself felt in the industry as a symbol of spring. The supply situation for stainless steel profiles is well secured and the stainless steel price is very stable. On Trump: even if he and his vassals say untrue things a thousand times, this does not make them true. The only good thing about Trump's statements is that, yes, we must act towards peace! However, we humans of all nations and origins must treat each other with respect and consideration. Such degrading, staged press conferences as yesterday with Selenskyi are reminiscent of the darkest times in Germany and Europe! 

We in Europe must show strength against every aggressor and put them in their place with prudence coupled with wisdom! That is why all the lamenting is useless, because the world is not waiting for us as spectators but for active, honest and positive participation. Let's tackle it, that's the only way to succeed!

And finally, what looks like the northern lights are actually fascinating reflections of light created by the internal grinding of stainless steel pipes, which glow in different ways depending on the incidence of light - a beautiful start to the new year that provides us with positive energy.

The start to 2025 has been quiet, allowing us to take a deep breath after an eventful December. With a slightly higher alloy surcharge of around €0.05/kg for the materials 1.4301 and 1.4571 for all profiles, this reflects the current market conditions. On a positive note, it should be emphasised that the market is continuing to develop stably, allowing us to look to the new year with confidence.

One highlight will be the Düsseldorf Stainless Steel Days from 19 to 20 February 2025, which will bring exciting new information and market trends. German and European market participants and observers will be on site to exchange ideas and network.

Although the outcome of the federal elections is not yet known, an important moment awaits us in Washington: On 20 January, Donald Trump will celebrate his inauguration, which will attract international attention.

We look forward to the challenges and opportunities ahead and wish you a successful start to 2025!

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

Braubeviale 2024 Europe's largest trade fair for the beverage industry will once again be held in Nuremberg this year. Stainless steel wherever you look. Very impressive systems for the industrial production of alcoholic beverages, especially beer, including home brewing systems. Of course, there is also a huge repertoire of agitator tanks, dosing systems for non-alcoholic beverages as well as beautiful craftsmanship. We always include a piece of stainless steel. Specialist seminars where wine and beer meet. Climate change and the effects on hop and barley cultivation will also be the topics.

The US Federal Reserve FED raised interest rates and the stock market reacted euphorically and with record highs. It remains to be seen whether this situation can be sustained through the autumn. The general global economy is not yet really gaining momentum. The upcoming US elections in November are casting their shadows ahead and are also leading to restrained purchasing behaviour for projects involving stainless steel profiles. As a result, the stainless steel price is nevertheless at a good level in terms of value and the stock of material in the warehouse and market supply can be described as good.

As already noted in the market observation in January and February, the nickel price is rising slowly but steadily. This is also reflected in the increase in the alloy surcharge for April 2024. Nevertheless, it is not clear why this makes sense, as a rise in prices does not appear to be justified to the same extent given the subdued market situation and volumes. We will be happy to exchange ideas with our suppliers at Tube and wire and will also have the best market information available for you afterwards. Our grinding centre is currently processing round tube bends with a diameter of Ø306mm. After processing, the tubes and elbows will have uniform Ra values < 1.2my.

As expected, the March 2024 alloy surcharge is moving slightly upwards, but this does not correspond to the current demand and economic situation. The price movement could be seen as a silver lining on the horizon, but this will not yet mean a major price surge.