Nippon Steel Corp. has upgraded its FY2026 net profit forecast by 32% to ¥290 billion (approximately $1.84 billion), citing stronger-than-expected earnings from its recently acquired U.S. Steel business and favourable market conditions in the United States. The revised guidance reflects improved profitability at the American operations, which have emerged as a key contributor to the Japanese steelmaker’s global earnings.
The company said a firmer U.S. steel market, supported by healthy demand and stronger pricing, has boosted the performance of U.S. Steel following its integration into the Nippon Steel Group. The improved outlook also reflects operational efficiencies and higher production levels across the U.S. business, which is expected to play an increasingly significant role in the group’s future growth strategy.
Alongside the revised profit forecast, Nippon Steel indicated that its underlying business profit for U.S. Steel is now expected to exceed earlier estimates, reinforcing confidence in the long-term value of the acquisition completed in 2025. The company expects overseas operations to become a major earnings driver in the coming years as it continues to strengthen its global manufacturing footprint and optimise production across key markets.
The upward revision underscores the resilience of the North American steel market despite ongoing global economic uncertainties. By leveraging U.S. Steel’s production capacity and integrating advanced manufacturing technologies across its international operations, Nippon Steel aims to accelerate earnings growth while reinforcing its position among the world’s leading steel producers.
