RUSSIA FLAT STEEL: Prices move up on improving domestic demand, strong exports

Domestic prices for flat steel in Russia's Central Federal District around Moscow edged up in recent deals, supported by improved buying appetites and surging exports, sources told Fastmarkets on Tuesday March 9.

Hot-rolled sheet
Buying activity in the region has started to recover with trading sources noting "higher shipments" over the past week.
"Mills are saying April volumes will be limited because of maintenances, buyers want to secure volumes in stock," one trader said. "Besides, prices are expected to rise further, partially because of booming exports" he added.

One of the major suppliers to the region, Novolipetsk Steel (NLMK) is expected to halt its hot-rolling mill for seven days in April, Fastmarkets understands, while Severstal, another key supplier, is expected to perform maintenance at its...

Base metals outlook for 2026 opaque after decent rise last year

Gold and silver stocks far outpace the major markets

Bank of Japan boosts rates, continuing an unwinding carry trade

Gold stocks outperform equity market slide

Silver inventories rebound in UK, output from major producers rises