U.S. Prevails in Steel Trade Case with China

Today’s decision upheld a decision announced in June that favored the U.S. argument.

AK Steel reports third quarter results next week and is expected to post an EPS loss of $0.35 on revenue of $1.47 billion. Allegheny also reports earnings next week and the consensus estimate calls for EPS of $0.40 on revenue of $1.31 billion.

Steelmaker Nucor Corp. (NYSE: NUE) reported adjusted EPS of $0.45 today on revenue of $4.8 billion, compared with estimates for EPS of $0.41 on revenue of $4.81. But the company’s outlook was weak, especially in the construction market.

AK Steel has been struggling with low prices and reduced demand for steel. Allegheny, a specialty steelmaker, has a bit more control over its pricing, but expectations for the third quarter are lower than third quarter 2011 results.

Both AK Steel and Allegheny have seen their share prices rise today. AK Steel is up 0.7% at $5.76 in a 52-week range of $4.44 to $10.33. Allegheny is up 1.7% at $33.75 in a 52-week range of $27.61 to $53.00.

Paul Ausick