June 2025 Commodities Snapshot: Trends, Tariffs, and Market Signals from ASA’s Materials Market Digest

The June 2025 issue of ASA’s Materials Market Digest highlights key economic indicators and material trends shaping the industrial piping and PVF sectors. Economic conditions in Q2 were relatively stable, with U.S. GDP trending ahead of expectations at 2.9%. However, purchasing managers remain cautious, largely due to ongoing tariff pressures and global uncertainty. Retail sales showed modest growth, but sectors like home improvement and vehicle sales have begun to cool. Meanwhile, housing permits and starts are mixed, with single-family construction lagging behind multi-family.

On the materials front, carbon steel prices were slightly higher, and stainless steel markets are facing price pressures from added tariffs and uncertain trade conditions. Nickel prices remained stable due to production cost floors, despite a surplus. The copper market experienced upward price momentum, though forecasts vary due to oversupply risks. Tubular products showed modest price increases and stable production utilization, while ferrous scrap and plastics markets softened under weak demand and lower prices. Oil and fuel prices saw slight increases, driven by seasonal demand and geopolitical instability, but long-term forecasts show downward price pressure.

Distributor sentiment remains mixed. While many report steady demand and active project pipelines—particularly in healthcare, education, and data centers—concerns over tariffs, supply reliability, and pricing persist. Some distributors report record sales, while others express caution ahead of potential mid-year slowdowns. The ASA Materials Market Digest—co-written by Armada Corporate Intelligence—offers this vital monthly analysis. For companies not part of ASA’s Industrial Piping Division, a 12-issue subscription is available for $450 annually. To subscribe, contact ASA’s Bri Baresel at bbaresel@asa.net.