Nucor Expects Improved First Quarter Profits Driven by Steel Mills Segment Growth

Nucor Projects Stronger Q1 2026 Earnings

Nucor Corporation (NUE) has issued its earnings outlook for the first quarter of 2026, forecasting a notable increase in profitability. The company anticipates earnings per share between $2.70 and $2.80, a significant improvement over its net earnings of $1.64 and adjusted earnings of $1.73 from the fourth quarter of 2025. This optimistic projection is attributed to robust demand for steel and more favorable pricing trends, particularly benefiting its core steel mills division. In comparison, Nucor reported earnings of $0.67 per share and adjusted earnings of $0.77 per share in the same period last year.

The steel mills segment is expected to see sequential growth, driven by higher average selling prices and increased sales volumes. The steel products division is also poised for better results, supported by steady prices and stronger demand. Meanwhile, the raw materials segment is projected to deliver slightly higher earnings.

During the first quarter, Nucor repurchased approximately 700,000 shares at an average price of $175.19 each. Year to date, the company has returned about $250 million to shareholders through both share buybacks and dividend distributions, underscoring its ongoing focus on enhancing shareholder value.

The company is scheduled to announce its first-quarter 2026 financial results after the market closes on April 27, 2026.

Over the past year, NUE shares have climbed 32.8%, closely tracking the steel producers industry’s 33.6% gain.

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NUE’s Zacks Rank and Notable Alternatives

Currently, NUE holds a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold).

Investors seeking higher-ranked opportunities in the Basic Materials sector may consider the following companies:

• BHP Group Limited (BHP)
• Balchem Corporation (BCPC)
• Carpenter Technology Corporation (CRS)

Each of these stocks carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).

• BHP’s consensus earnings estimate for the current year stands at $4.93 per share, reflecting a 35.44% increase year over year. The stock has appreciated 37% over the past twelve months.
• BCPC is projected to earn $5.47 per share this fiscal year, up 6.21% from the prior year. The company has exceeded consensus estimates in two of the last four quarters, while falling short in the other two.
• CRS is expected to post earnings of $10.28 per share this year, representing a 37.43% year-over-year rise. CRS has surpassed consensus earnings estimates in each of the last four quarters, with an average surprise of 9.23%.

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