U.S. steel and polymer producers have ridden a wave of higher prices for their products in 2021 as the economy recovers from the coronavirus pandemic and construction activity booms. The hot building market has resulted in increased demand for steel and polymers. But the fun couldn’t last forever. Rising interest rates are keeping inflation in check, and the construction industry is feeling the pain.
Kristen Hayes, Global Polymers Lead for S&P Global Commodity Insights and Nick Lazarus, US Metals News Editor, discuss recent trends in US construction activity and price volatility in the polymer and steel markets as the economy slows down after two years of heatwave. Dig into how it shows that it can eventually cool down. under.
Subscribe to Platts Dimensions Pro to access ratings and premium content covering US Hot Rolled Coil (STHRI00), US Polyvinyl Chloride (AAGZR00) and more.
Relevant content:
Dow Chemical cuts global polyethylene production by 15%: letter
Worse prices, inflation ‘double hit’ for North American steel market: Stelco CEO
Other listening options:
