Basic Materials Sector Review: China’s PMI Positive, Steel Demand Slowing

February 01, 2012

United States Steel Corp. (NYSE:X): Steel demand worldwide is growing slower than forecast, affecting producer profits, and forcing investors to revise their 2012 outlook, reports Bloomberg. Steel usage will increase 4.5% in 2012, below the 5.4% forecast last fall by the World Steel Association, according to the median estimate of 14 steelmakers, analysts and traders surveyed by Bloomberg. Growth could be just 1.2%.

The shares closed at $31.17, up $0.98, or 3.25%, on the day. Its market capitalization is $4.49 billion.

Gerdau SA (NYSE:GGB) seeks to sell 40% of mining unit for $2.5B, Bloomberg reports.

The shares closed at $10.16, up $0.66, or 6.95%, on the day. Its market capitalization is $17.32 billion.

Schweitzer-Mauduit Intl (NYSE:SWM): In a ruling posted to its site, the U.S.International Trade Commission said that Julius Glatz and its LIPtec unit did not violate Schweitzer- Mauduit’s patent rights for certain cigarette papers.

The shares closed at $66.92, down $2.61, or 3.75%, on the day. Its market capitalization is $1.08 billion.

Newmont Mining Corp. (NYSE:NEM): China’s January PMI increased to 50.5 from 50.3 in December versus a consensus estimate of 49.5, reports Reuters.

NEM shares closed at $61.12, down $0.36, or 0.59%, on the day. Its market capitalization is $30.24 billion.

FCX shares closed at $46.16, down $0.05, or 0.11%, on the day. Its market capitalization is $43.76 billion.

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To contact the reporter on this story: Stella Mariz at staff.writers@wallstcheatsheet.com

To contact the editor responsible for this story: Damien Hoffman at editors@wallstcheatsheet.com