Gold prices are rising rapidly in March. The massive attack by Israel and the US on Iran is giving the price spiral in all areas a powerful boost. Although the upper echelons of the regime in Iran have been eliminated, the second tier of leadership is now stepping up, and unfortunately there is no end in sight to the suffering of the people. The spiral of violence continues unabated. Iran's firepower and technology were not as severely impaired as hoped, because the attacks against neighboring countries where US bases are located were very intense, including the oil refinery in Ras Tanura, Saudi Arabia. This means rising oil prices and impacts the energy-intensive European and global economies. The slight increase in alloy surcharges in March 2026 is not yet leading to price increases in the stainless steel market, as the market situation is more like a spring breeze than a spring storm. Reducers are used in pipeline construction to expand or reduce cross-sections. The definition depends on the direction of flow. Here, we have ground the inner surfaces of the reducers to RA<0.4µ .

Our company has been registered with the Chamber of Crafts since 24 February 1997. Continuous development in surface treatment and expansion in the storage of stainless steel profiles has enabled us to grow into a strong partner for industry and trade. The alloy surcharge is increasing by an average of just over 0.30€per kg. This will place a considerable strain on the stainless steel market. The future market situation will be decisively influenced by the FED's interest rate policy, among other things. President Trump and his advisor Stephen Miran are calling for a reduction in the base rate. Currently, however, the key interest rate has remained in the range of 3.0-3.25% despite massive pressure from President Trump. A weak dollar makes goods from the eurozone more expensive and thus reduces sales opportunities. A continued weak dollar will lead to imported inflation in the medium to long term. This, in turn, could prompt the Fed to raise interest rates. The advantage of a strong euro can be seen in the purchase of goods from the US dollar economic area and in energy sources such as oil. The economic agreement with India will lead to a reduction in 96% of products from the EU area and a revival of supply chains. This will result in savings of almost 4 billion annually. Agricultural products and motor vehicles are excluded from the tariff reductions. Remain vigilant in dealing with all the assets entrusted to you.

The Ifo Index fell by 0.3 points to 88.1 points, according to the Ifo Institute in Munich. However, the current situation in November was assessed as slightly better than in October. The increasing peace plans, which could stimulate the economy, may also contribute to this. The luxury market is shrinking worldwide. This includes yachts, aircraft, and, of course, exclusive cars. Statistics show €1.4 trillion, but in 2023 this figure was already €54 billion lower. Rich people are now spending more on travel and food than on possessions. Growing figures for luxury hotels bear witness to this, with over €250 billion spent on them. For jets and luxury yachts, the expected turnover is €34 billion, an increase of 9 percent. The stainless steel market remains unaffected, which is also reflected in the alloy surcharge. As in November 2025, the tonnage volume and price per kilo for stainless steel profiles remain moderate, with no turbulence. In December, we are taking inventory, and the company holidays from December 20th to January 11th. 2026, will give us all a chance to relax. We wish you and your loved ones a joyful Christmas and a peaceful Advent season.

Key interest rates in the eurozone remain unchanged and stable at 2%, but in the US, the Federal Reserve is under constant pressure from President Donald Trump to lower key interest rates. The Fed announced a reduction to between 4.0 and 4.25% in September 2025. This is intended to stimulate the weakening economy and revive the labour market. The positive effect of the euro has become more valuable, with the result that holidays and economic goods in the dollar segment are becoming cheaper. The stainless steel market is unaffected by this and is showing stable tonnages. The price movements due to the almost unchanged alloy surcharge in the higher alloy range roughly reflect the increases in the market segment. Thus, the stainless steel market is growing, but not spectacularly. Duplex grades and higher-alloyed materials are becoming more important because they offer a wide range of performance in mechanical engineering for pharmaceutical products and offshore applications.

The IAA Motor Show in Munich runs until Sunday, September 14th. 2025. New developments, particularly from Bosch with its by-wire system for autonomous driving and Mahle with its range extender system, which achieves ranges of 1.300 km without rare earths, are sparking a desire to experience emotions and innovations in everyday life. With the start of September 2025 and the end of the holiday season in Baden-Württemberg, there are signs of a slight upturn in alloy surcharges. The increases in alloy surcharges average between 1.5 per cent and just under 4 per cent for higher-alloy materials. An absolute must, of course, is DRINKTEC in Munich, which takes place from 15 to 19 September. Preparations for the Fachpack trade fair in Nuremberg are now in process.

The trend of slightly falling alloy surcharges is also evident in August, although these are only cosmetic corrections. As usual, the order situation during the summer holiday months is characterised by a very high frequency with extremely tight delivery schedules. The holidays also leave their mark on logistics, which means that delivery times will be somewhat longer. The inflation situation is stable. Nevertheless, the current cost of living is a whopping 2 per cent. Nevertheless, consumer prices will only rise by 0.3% compared to July 2025. Excluding energy and food, core inflation was around 2.7% in July. There is almost a similar price-performance ratio for stainless-steel alloy surcharges and market prices.

In a nutshell, the alloy surcharge is behaving in a similar way to the stainless steel market: movement in a stable position with a very slight downward trend. We can still report good capacity utilization for projects that were planned in late autumn and have now been implemented since spring. Frankly, it is understandable that clients are hesitant due to the current hot global political issues. Due to structural and economic challenges, there will continue to be stressful moments. In the Rems-Murr district, the rate at the end of June was 4.5%, compared to 4.1% at the same time last year. A propo “dent” when pipes are transported unprotected there are the following side effects dents caused by inadequate load securing and care as our pictures show.

Import duty surcharge Trump's statement to increase the tariffs on foreign steel products from 25 to 50 percent. The Supreme Court will probably have to deal with this issue more often. This should also apply to aluminum products. This was announced yesterday at a steelworks in Pennsylvania. Canada, the United Arab Emirates, China and South Korea are among the most important aluminum producers and suppliers for the USA. Marginal fluctuations in 1.4301 profiles and sheet of €0.06/kg, but a drop of €0.15/kg for 1.4571 corresponds to a double reduction. Crude steel production fell by 0.3% to around 156 million tons in April 2025 compared to the previous month. Despite all this, there is a small ray of hope on the horizon as the German economy is being driven by the stock market. On Tuesday, the DAX reached a new high of 24,161 points. The relief is based on the announcement of the postponement of the tariff threat for the Europeans.

The nickel price slump in mid-March 2025 has recovered and is making its way upwards in a consolidation phase, albeit with some difficulty. In February to March, the price in € was around 15.000€, in March it was €13.800 and in May it was back at around €13.500. This price movement is not yet noticeable on the stainless steel market. The market continues to be guided by economic forecasts and is keeping a close eye on share prices. Waren Buffet has led the way with his Berkshire stocks, the most expensive share in the world at 800,540 Dollars.

Nickel prices at the end of March 2025 are currently at the level of October 2024 and, as in October, are on a slight downturn, which will lead to a leveling out of prices. The market situation for polished stainless steel profiles remains high and unchanged. Together with our customers in the pharmaceutical and food sectors, we are able to support their market growth. Our laser protection film in particular is being used more and more as a result. 

KIT patents a new process for producing methanol from waste water. The production plant from ICODUS  a startup company currently produces 50 liters of methanol per day and can therefore be described as a demonstration plant called Mannheim 001. The plant can be admired in sewage treatment operation. 

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.