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Steel, Aluminium stocks in focus as US signals possible tariff tweaks

Published on 17/02/2026 10:30 PM

Steel, Aluminium stocks in focus as US signals possible tariff tweaksJamieson Greer signaled possible US tariff adjustments on steel and aluminium, impacting Indian stocks like Vedanta Ltd, Hindalco Industries, JSW Steel, and Novelis Inc. Markets await further clarity.By Ajay Vaishnav  February 17, 2026, 10:30:25 PM IST (Published)2 Min ReadSteel and aluminium stocks on Indian bourses may remain in focus after signals from Jamieson Greer that the Trump administration is open to adjusting broad-based tariffs on the two metals.

Speaking on CNBC, Greer indicated that while the core tariffs would remain in place, the administration is considering changes to ease compliance burdens for companies. Businesses have argued that calculating duties, particularly on derivative products containing steel and aluminium, has been complex and costly.

Greer’s comments triggered a sharp reaction in US markets with shares of Alcoa Corp. fell as much as 7.9%, while Kaiser Aluminum Corp. and Century Aluminum Co. declined up to 4.5% and 4.3%, respectively. Steelmaker Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. also dropped more than 3% in early trade.

For Indian metal producers such as Vedanta Ltd, Hindalco Industries and JSW Steel, any rollback or recalibration of US tariffs could have mixed implications. A moderation in tariffs may prevent demand destruction in global markets by easing price pressures on downstream industries. Improved trade flows could also stabilise export dynamics.

However, Hindalco could face some headwinds through its US subsidiary, Novelis Inc. The company had been poised to benefit from elevated Midwest aluminium premiums driven by tariff-induced supply tightness. If duties are eased and premiums retreat from record highs, margins at Novelis could come under pressure.

While the administration has reiterated that the underlying 50% tariffs on foreign steel and aluminium will stay, markets are likely to track further clarity on scope and implementation.Continue ReadingTagsSteel stockstrump tariffs