CRU Senior Analyst David Leah said at the CRU World Aluminium Summit 2026 in London that automotive aluminum demand continues increasing, though growth is shifting unevenly between castings, extrusions and rolled products as automakers reassess vehicle designs.
CRU’s Ross Strachan and Paul Williams outline at the CRU World Aluminium Summit 2026 how GCC disruptions are tightening billet, slab and foundry alloy supply more sharply than primary aluminum availability, increasing pressure across downstream manufacturing markets.
Construction indicators strengthened entering Q2, though most momentum was concentrated in data centers and infrastructure projects.
Construction indicators strengthened entering Q2, though most momentum was concentrated in data centers and infrastructure projects.
ACT Research and FTR Intelligence data showed Class 8 truck orders increased sharply in early 2026 even as trailer demand, OEM deliveries and manufacturer shipments remained weaker.
Ball reported modest shipment growth and higher earnings, with North American volumes constrained by limited capacity and strong contract coverage.
Nexans plans to acquire Republic Wire to expand its US low-voltage wire and cable business.
Hydro's Q1 results show higher prices supporting margins despite weaker North American demand and ongoing Middle East curtailments.
Ford and GM's results show earnings supported by tariff timing and mix, while volumes, inventory, and cash flow point to a constrained supply and uneven demand.
Constellium held shipments flat in Q1 as automotive sheet constraints reshaped mix, while higher metal prices and scrap spreads supported earnings.