December 2011 - During the third quarter, the domestic steel market discontinued its recent growth from the first half of the year, as macroeconomic factors slowed and demand levels retreated. During the quarter, analysts witnessed the M&A market recovery slow somewhat, as it remained flat and transaction values decreased. Domestically, the number of U.S. transactions was unchanged during the period, though the outlook for M&A remains upbeat for the rest of 2011 and 2012. For the ninth quarter in a row, the U.S. economy showed continued economic growth, despite declining consumer sentiment, as the economy grew real GDP at 2.5 percent versus 1 percent in the second quarter. China’s economic growth continued to lose speed in the third quarter, with annualized GDP growth of 9.1 percent, as many still are concerned with the implications of substantial inflation.

To view the full report, click here.