What is happening?

I don't know why it still takes time before things will be really moving within our machine manufacturing industry. OECD is saying that industries are making investments pretty well, but I have not seen it yet within our sector.

What I have understood is that in China there is huge demand of the basic tube and pipe material and this has made situation where output is not enough for demand. Because of that, Rautaruukki is expecting that Stainless steel price will still rice much more.

On the other hand, many European industries who need tubes and pipes on a regulary basis, are saying that it is getting very difficult to find sources. So, not only that material prices are expected to get higher, but it also effects to machinery investments. The common comment is often: Why to make machinery investments when it is so damn difficult to get even the basic stuff - tubes and pipes.

The feeling I have is that when the output will increase to meet the demand, the investments will return.

Stockholm Marathon

Well, those who have been wisiting TubeNet for years, knows that I get this strange idea to run marathons. Atlanta year 2001 was the first and now there are 14 of them. Last one was Stockholm two days ago when writing this. I guess there is pretty much endorphene left in my blood since if feels good even now. But the run was one of the hardest for me. Shoes were too loose and I got large blisters under both feet. I am satisfied with the time thoug: 3:33. Not my best but considering all, it feels just fine.

Cheers,
Juha