Italian hot-rolled coil (HRC) prices have seen a slight increase as mills raise their offers. The Argus daily Italian HRC index rose by €2.75/t to €628.50/t ex-works. Despite this uptick, the derivatives market remains stagnant, with low demand and minimal activity.
Market participants report that the overall sentiment is negative, and many buyers are hesitant to make significant purchases due to the current economic climate. Production cuts and extended maintenance closures are expected as mills attempt to balance supply and demand.