U.S. Uncoated Free Sheet Demand Still Weak, But Prices Edge up

According to Wilde, repro bond estimated prices rose $5 - $15/ton to $1,075 - $1,130/ton in July, -1.6% y/y. So far, he notes, producers have implemented $30 - $35/ton out of the $60/ton June 1 price hike. While demand remains weak, higher prices are aided by supply cuts, lower inventories, and favorable trade flows. In offset papers, estimated prices are up only $25 of a $40/ton April 1 price hike. "Looking ahead, a key variable will be the extent of pulp price declines. If pulp falls sharply, it could ripple over into UFS prices," Wilde says.

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