Wells Fargo Sees Pricing Recovery and Market Share Gains for Nucor (NUE)

Group 1: Company Overview - Nucor Corporation (NYSE:NUE) is North America's largest steel producer and recycler, manufacturing products such as rebar, structural steel, and sheet steel, primarily using recycled scrap and electric arc furnaces, which helps reduce its carbon footprint [5] Group 2: Market Dynamics - Wells Fargo analyst Timna Tanners lowered the price target on Nucor to $176 from $178 while maintaining an Overweight rating, citing management's Q4 guidance as lighter than expected due to contract timing affecting about 80% of sheet shipments [1] - Despite near-term softness, Wells Fargo anticipates stronger pricing and continued market share gains for Nucor as lower imports support the market setup for 2026 [1] - A new construction cycle is beginning to positively impact the steel sector, with high-growth markets like data center construction driving demand [2] Group 3: Growth Opportunities - Nucor's potential involvement in large capital projects, such as Eli Lilly's $6 billion facility in Huntsville, Alabama, aligns with its operational capabilities, as Nucor operates a major flat-rolled steel mill in Decatur [3] - Steel pricing is influenced by the balance of supply and demand, with rising construction announcements indicating increased demand, prompting steelmakers like Nucor to prepare for capacity expansion [4] - Nucor is on track to begin ramping production at a new mill in West Virginia by the end of next year, further supporting its growth strategy [4]