Hrc futures sentiment index rose to 62 from 58

HRC futures sentiment index rose to 62 from 58 last week, reflecting gradual optimism among market participants. The index correlates strongly with subsequent two-week price appreciation historically. “We believe the current Civic Type R-GT can be further improved for next year. However, within the current regulations where all teams compete at an extremely high level, we see potential to achieve a higher level than the Civic Type R-GT by applying the knowledge gained over these past two years to the development of a Prelude-based Super GT machine,” said HRC’s Super GT project leader Masahiro Saeki. "Iron ore": In early September, after the production restrictions for the military parade ended, hot metal output is expected to rebound rapidly, supporting iron ore prices. In mid-to-late September, pre-holiday restocking demand may drive ore prices slightly higher. Overall, iron ore prices are expected to hold up well in September. "Coking coal and coke": The earlier impacts of "anti-rat race" competition and safety inspections have gradually weakened. Recently, online auctions showed mixed performance, with some coal varieties failing to sell. However, frequent mine accidents recently, coupled with slow production resumptions at previously idled mines, have limited significant supply growth for coking coal. Mines remain reluctant to budge on prices, leading to passive rangebound fluctuations in the short term. In September, policy changes and hot metal trends warrant attention. HRC prices have upside potential in September, with the most-traded contract expected to range between 3,330-3,580. HRC futures contracts for Q3 delivery have gained 0.8% this week, underpinned by a rebound in construction steel orders. Spot market tightness suggests buyers may lock in forward positions to hedge against possible supply constraints in late summer.