US scrap trends outlook: July 2025

Here are the key takeaways from market participants on US ferrous scrap metal prices, market confidence, inventory and more from our July survey

Market predicts modest increase amid stability in fundamentals

Following a flat performance in June, the US ferrous scrap market anticipates a moderate price uptick of 2.8% in July, according to the latest survey data. The Trend Indicator rose slightly to 55.6, signaling mildly bullish expectations. Sub-indexes across the market—buyers (54.41), brokers (56.3), and sellers (56.3)—reflect a relatively unified sentiment.

Read on for some highlights from our US ferrous scrap market survey for June or click here to download your copy of the full US scrap trends outlook.

Market stability prevails amid equilibrium inventory levels and consensus alignment

Inventory levels remain near the equilibrium mark at 49.8, and the predominant market driver this month is “All Unchanged,” pointing to a broadly stable environment. The consensus reading of 69% suggests stronger-than-usual alignment among respondents, reinforcing the lack of major shifts in market dynamics.

Inventory levels remain near the equilibrium mark at 49.8

Survey participant

Seasonal steadiness and cautious optimism define July market outlook

Qualitative responses emphasize seasonal steadiness and balanced flows in key regions, with many noting that scrap and demand are moving in tandem. Geopolitical and tariff-related uncertainties persist but are not currently exerting a significant directional pull on the market.

The outlook for July is one of cautious optimism. While no strong push from supply or demand is evident, the expectation of a small price increase suggests some resilience in pricing as the market settles into summer.

What to read next
The additional kilogram-based prices, to be calculated from existing pound-based assessments, are intended to improve clarity and align the assessments more closely with prevailing commercial practices in Mexico’s non-ferrous scrap markets. Market participants commonly reference kilogram-based prices in submissions, transactions and negotiations, particularly in key regions such as Monterrey and Bajío. Publishing complementary peso per […]
Blue Moon Metals’ acquisition of the past-producing Apex mine in Utah from Canadian miner Teck Resources is the latest example of the push to boost gallium and germanium production in the West. But for miners seeking to cash in on higher prices of these metals, smelting arrangements remain a question.
The global tungsten market in 2026 is marked by extreme volatility driven by geopolitical tensions, trade disputes, and resource nationalism, especially between China and the US. These dynamics have caused significant supply disruptions and price surges across tungsten products.
In the past year, trade policy has and continues to fuel change and dynamics in the North American steel market. Meanwhile, inflation has remained at or above 2.7% while the Fed Fund rate hovers around 2.64. The consumer continues to bear a growing burden to keep the economy from stalling, as finished goods markets search for their own nadir, stability and potential growth paths.
The US military is seeking proposals to expand domestic production of 13 critical minerals used in defense and high‑tech applications. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on foreign supply chains amid heightened geopolitical tensions and growing risks to global commodities trade.
Feedstock markets extended gains on Thursday February 26 as compliance optimism and stronger energy fundamentals continued to fuel buying interest.