Story perspectives

Steel Dynamics Projects Strong Q1 Earnings, Boosts Dividends

3/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Steel Dynamics, Inc. (STLD) issued Q1 2026 earnings guidance with EPS of $2.73 to $2.77.
The guidance is nearly double last year's EPS of $1.44.
The fabrication order backlog rose 35%.
The stock reacted neutrally as analysts’ higher expectations persisted and concerns about peak steel prices linger.
The company will raise its quarterly dividend by 6% and execute stock buybacks, while high interest rates and raw material price volatility remain risks.

History

Historical Context

The global steel industry faced a severe crisis in 2008, with prices dropping over 50% amid the financial downturn, leading to significant losses for companies like Steel Dynamics, Inc., which reported an EPS of $1.44. However, by 2023, the company projected an EPS of $2.73 to $2.77, reflecting a recovery driven by a 35% increase in fabrication orders, amidst ongoing market volatility.

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Story summary

Steel Dynamics, Inc. (STLD) issued Q1 2026 earnings guidance with EPS of $2.73 to $2.77.
The guidance is nearly double last year's EPS of $1.44.
The fabrication order backlog rose 35%.
The stock reacted neutrally as analysts’ higher expectations persisted and concerns about peak steel prices linger.
The company will raise its quarterly dividend by 6% and execute stock buybacks, while high interest rates and raw material price volatility remain risks.

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