STEEL

USX to Raise Steel Prices: The nation’s largest steelmaker announced much-anticipated price hikes for sheet steel, reflecting the strong market outlook for steel. USX-U.S. Steel Group said that beginning in January, it will raise prices by $30 a ton for all sheet products, as well as on the base price of all plate products, including carbon and high-strength low-alloy. Sheet steel, by far the largest steel market, is used in automobiles and appliances. USX had remained silent on its pricing plans since June, when AK Steel Holding Corp. and Inland Steel Industries Corp. both announced price hikes effective Oct. 1.