High Priced & Stable

The second half of 2026 has begun with steel markets appearing considerably more stable than they did earlier this year. While prices remain elevated, the pace of increases has slowed considerably, giving contractors and fabricators greater confidence when planning future projects.

Steel Market

Hot Rolled Coil remains between approximately $1,100 and $1,170 per ton depending on mill and region. Plate pricing continues near $1,200 per ton, while structural products remain firm.

Compared to January, steel pricing has increased roughly 20%, illustrating just how much the market has shifted during the first half of the year.

Futures Market

Current futures indicate that steel pricing may gradually soften toward the end of 2026. However, there is little evidence suggesting a return to the significantly lower pricing experienced in previous years.

Stainless Steel

Alloy surcharges remain elevated, and stainless continues to be heavily influenced by nickel markets rather than carbon steel fundamentals.

Aluminum

Aluminum remains the metal to watch. Although supply conditions have improved modestly, geopolitical uncertainty and global logistics continue creating volatility.

What This Means for Customers

For contractors, fabricators, and manufacturers, today's market rewards planning ahead.

While steel appears to have entered a period of relative stability, aluminum pricing can still change quickly. Obtaining current pricing before bidding projects remains the best strategy.

At TVB Metal Solutions, we continue monitoring domestic mills, futures markets, and global supply trends so we can provide our customers with current pricing and reliable availability.