South European HR coil prices hovered at low levels during July, as purchasing activity decreased significantly and only minimal orders to cover immediate needs were placed by buyers. 

By July-end, offers from the Italian mills reportedly stood in the €405-415 a ton range. 

Data from the German Association of Steel Distribution (BDS) showed that in June there was a slight increase in flat steel stocks to 1600kt (+1.1% m-o-m). 

Stocks of long steel products declined by ¨C3.8% m-o-m to 900kt. Distributors¡¯ sales grew to 928kt (+0.5% m-o-m).