Apr. 3, 2025 at 2:02 PM ET6 min read

Cleveland-Cliffs Stock Plummet: Time to Re-evaluate?

Tim BohenAvatar
Written by Tim Bohen
Reviewed by Ben Sturgill Fact-checked by Ellis Hobbs

Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.’s stocks have been trading down by -12.71 percent amid ongoing challenges in the steel industry.

Latest Developments and Forecasts

  • New tariffs proposed by the U.S. President could hit companies like Cleveland-Cliffs working in the steel sector. The global trade tensions continue to rise.
  • Hyundai’s new steel mill in Louisiana might cut into the market share of Cleveland-Cliffs, particularly influencing U.S. auto production rates and profit margins.
  • Cleveland-Cliffs is preparing for a slowdown by temporary halts in operations at its Michigan steel plant, affecting about 600 workers due to lower auto demand.

Candlestick Chart

Live Update At 13:01:53 EST: On Thursday, April 03, 2025 Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. stock [NYSE: CLF] is trending down by -12.71%! Discover the key drivers behind this movement as well as our expert analysis in the detailed breakdown below.

Financial Insights and Analysis

As Tim Bohen, lead trainer with StocksToTrade, says, “Success in trading is more about cutting losses quickly than finding winners.” This philosophy emphasizes the importance of effectively managing risk and making timely decisions to minimize losses, which can significantly impact a trader’s success. Instead of solely focusing on identifying the most profitable trades, traders should prioritize strategies that allow them to exit trades that aren’t performing as expected, thus preserving their capital and maintaining a positive balance in their trading activities. This approach highlights the necessity of discipline and quick decision-making in the fast-paced world of trading.

Turning our attention to Cleveland-Cliffs’ recent financial performances, there’s an undeniable storm cloud lingering overhead. The company’s financial performance over the last quarter painted a rocky picture. A decrease in revenues, underscored by a staggering net loss emphasized in its income statements, reflects the current market uncertainties.

However, let’s break it down further. The gross profit tells a tale of two cities – a struggle to balance revenue losses amidst fluctuating expenses. A deep dive into the company’s key ratios shows indicators like return on assets and equity declining, prompting questions about future strategic direction. Moreover, with beleaguered operating cash flow and an alarming free cash flow, it’s apparent that Cleveland-Cliffs is wading through challenging financial waters.

Zooming into the stock behavior, the figures in the stock chart streak red. The stock prices have shown noticeable volatility, with the latest figures underscoring a tilt towards a bearish sentiment. Interestingly, a delve into the financial strength indicators reveals the company is barely staying above water. A high debt-to-equity ratio and a low quick ratio hint at liquidity constraints.

More Breaking News

To compound the issues, Cleveland-Cliffs has been impacted by an unfavorable global landscape. The ongoing trade wars place traditionally stable revenues in a precarious position. Furthermore, Hyundai’s entry with its new steel mill could usher unexpected competition into Cleveland-Cliffs’ playground. Such dynamics are weighing heavy on its shares, making recovery seem a steep hill to climb.

Trade and Market Impact: Deciphering the Moves

Turn back the clock, a fleeting moment when Cleveland-Cliffs appeared somewhat insulated from the tumultuous steel sector. But fast forward to today, whispers of tariffs are rattling investors. The U.S. President’s potential policy could act like a storm, compelling steel companies to bunker down until clearer skies emerge.

Think about Hyundai’s steel mill for a second. It’s like a new kid on the block showing up with grand plans. This venture can impact how Cleveland-Cliffs operates, especially if U.S. auto builds oscillate. Such factors fuel speculation that Cleveland-Cliffs might need to adjust its game plan, striving for resilience amid impending challenges.

Adding to the mix, operational changes in Minnesota and Michigan signal the company’s shift towards cost management. Temporarily shutting facilities hints at Cleveland-Cliffs’ quick maneuver to control inventory before market dynamics spiral beyond control.

These chess moves reflect an attempt to mitigate the cash and inventory bottlenecks. Navigating these murky waters demands deft execution; however, only time will reveal if these strategic pauses translate into long-term stability.

Conclusion: Facing Headwinds or Tailwinds?

So, what’s the prism through which we should view Cleveland-Cliffs’ situation? Financially, there’s potential turbulence. The company is balancing its act amid competitive pressure from Hyundai, industry-wide uncertainties brought on by trade talks, and a marked reliance on auto builds that could change how revenues shape up.

The path forward might be peppered with thorns requiring deft risk management. Traders contemplating positions in Cleveland-Cliffs should weigh potential risks against possible rewards, recognizing the complexity that underpins every decision. As Tim Bohen, lead trainer with StocksToTrade says, “I never chase price. The best opportunities allow me to enter on my terms, not when I’m feeling pressured.” This philosophy is particularly relevant as markets remain reactionary, with some traders wondering whether the steep decline presently offers them paths to opportunity or liability.

As markets unfold, the narrative surrounding Cleveland-Cliffs promises to stay intriguing. Are traders in for a roller-coaster ride, or is this a moment of lurch before an eventual sigh of relief? Only time will reveal the full spectrum. Armed with insights, observers might find their compass for navigating these waves, making informed decisions as Cleveland-Cliffs rides this storm.

This is stock news, not investment advice. StocksToTrade News delivers real-time stock market updates tailored to highlight the key catalysts driving short-term price movements. Our coverage is designed for active traders and investors who thrive in fast-moving markets, with a focus on volatile sectors like penny stocks, AI stocks, Robinhood stocks and other momentum plays. From earnings reports and FDA approvals to mergers, new contracts, and unusual trading volume, we break down the events that can spark significant price action.

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