While the multi-billion Nippon Steel's (OTCPK: NISTF) acquisition of U.S. Steel (NYSE:X) remains one of the hot topics in an election year, smaller transactions are confirming the positive merger and acquisition trend in the steel industry.

Acerinox's (OTCPK: ACRXF) U.S. subsidiary, North American Stainless (NAS), recently finalized the acquisition of Haynes International in an all-cash transaction. This acquisition, valued at approximately $970 million, reflects Acerinox's commitment to strengthening its global leadership in the manufacturing and distributing of stainless steel and high-performance alloys.

"Haynes has impressive and complementary business operations, R&D capabilities, and an experienced team. Their addition to Acerinox strengthens our global leadership in high-performance alloys and creates meaningful opportunities in the high-growth aerospace segment and the attractive U.S. market," said Bernando Velazquez Herreros, CEO of Axerinox.

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Meanwhile, the steel market witnessed significant consolidation in Canada with Varsteel's acquisition of Pacific Steel, a well-established family business based in Quebec. As a leading steel and pipe service center, Varsteel continues expanding its product range and geographic footprint, looking to utilize Pacific Steel's strong presence in structural steel distribution and fabrication. After the acquisition of Seaport Steel in 2022, this Canadian company gained a foothold in Oregon, so it wouldn't be surprising to see a further expansion into the U.S. market soon.

The European market isn't idling either, with global steel manufacturer ArcelorMittal (NYSE:MT) taking a significant stake in Vallourec, a leading provider of tubular solutions for energy markets and industrial applications.

The $1.03 billion (€955 million) investment gives ArcelorMittal a 28.4% stake, expanding the company's presence in downstream, value-added segments of the steel market. Vallourec's strong foothold in key markets such as the United States and Brazil, coupled with its focus on low-carbon production, aligns with ArcelorMittal's long-term sustainability goals.

"Vallourec is a quality, high added-value tubular business, with established positions of strength in the attractive Brazilian and US markets," said CEO Aditya Mittal, clarifying the potential in the company's role to play in the energy transition and rapidly growing markets like hydrogen and geothermal applications.

In an environment with a relatively high cost of capital and escalating de-globalization and de-carbonization, the steel industry's consolidation appears to be a logical outcome.

Expansion through strategic acquisitions, particularly into markets with strong public sector support (like Biden's administration's program), seems like an optional decision during such times.

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Photo: Unspalsh