Nucor Corporation: January 2026 Monthly Stock Report

Company Overview

Nucor Corporation (NYSE: NUE), headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, stands as a leading manufacturer and seller of steel and steel products within the Basic Materials sector. Established in 1905, Nucor has cemented its position in the steel industry through three distinct segments: Steel Mills, Steel Products, and Raw Materials. The company produces a vast array of steel items, including sheet, plate, and structural steel products while also engaging in steel trading and the distribution of rebar.

Nucor's Steel Products division delivers essential components used in construction and energy transmission, whereas the Raw Materials segment specializes in producing direct reduced iron and recycling various metals. With a significant market presence across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Nucor is well-positioned to leverage opportunities within a favorably projected steel sector, leading to a strong buy recommendation based on glowing growth forecasts.

52-Week Price Performance Analysis

52-Week Price Performance Chart

Nucor's stock performance over the past year has showcased a notable bullish trajectory. Currently trading at $168.21, the stock has experienced a remarkable increase of approximately 43.58% from its 52-week low of $97.59. It has also achieved a 52-week high of $168.07, reinforcing the company's robust market positioning.

Technical Insights

• Trends: An ascending green trendline illustrates a consistent pattern of higher highs and higher lows, reflecting strong investor confidence. The recent breakout above the $160 resistance level particularly signifies a rally driven by optimism and increased trading volume.
• Support and Resistance Levels: The key support level is positioned around $120, which has historically prevented any significant downward movements. As for resistance, a new benchmark emerged around $160 prior to the recent price breakout. Investors should monitor these levels closely.
• Momentum Indicators: The stock is currently trading above its 50-day moving average of $154.22, suggesting ongoing upward momentum. Recent volatility signals a bullish continuation could occur, particularly if Nucor's price holds above the moving average during potential pullbacks.

Financial Performance and Metrics

Nucor's solid financial footing speaks volumes about its operational capabilities:

• Total Revenues: Approximately $31.88 billion, showcasing a healthy revenue stream reflective of robust market demand.
• EBITDA: Around $3.98 billion, highlighting the company's effective cost management and profit-generating capability.
• Shares Outstanding: A total of 228,858,659 shares, with a float of 220,816,566 shares, of which only about 0.024% are held short, indicating favorable market sentiment.

Valuation Metrics

With a current stock price of $168.21, analysts project a target high price of $200.00. The mean target price is assessed at approximately $177.08, with a median price slightly lower at $176. This data highlights the potential upside available to investors.

Recent News and Developments

Nucor has made headlines in the recent months with several key announcements:

• Dividend Increase: Nucor has incremented its quarterly cash dividend to $0.56 per share, marking the 211th consecutive quarterly dividend and achieving a milestone of 53 years of uninterrupted dividend growth. This announcement not only signifies confidence in future earnings but also enhances its attractiveness to income-seeking investors.

• Stock Performance: The company reached a 52-week high of $166.31 on December 11, 2025, reflecting sustained investor interest and buoyed by strong market dynamics.

• Earnings Guidance: For the fourth quarter of 2025, earnings guidance is set between $1.65 and $1.75 per diluted share, down from $2.63 in the third quarter. Although this projected decline can be attributed to seasonal factors and reduced shipping days, the company maintains a positive outlook for 2026 due to increased order backlogs.

Market Sentiment and Analyst Recommendations

Current analyst consensus indicates a strong buy sentiment for Nucor's stock, averaging a score of 1.47 based on the opinions of 13 analysts. The projected earnings per share (EPS) for fiscal year 2025 stands at $8.37.

Investment Recommendations

• Upside Potential: With a projected target high price of $200.00, investors could see notable returns as the price aims for the upper limits of the spectrum.
• Short positions: The minimal short interest of approximately 0.024% of the float communicates robust investor confidence, suggesting limited bearish sentiment.

Risks

While the outlook is generally optimistic, investors should remain cautious of potential volatility due to macroeconomic uncertainties and seasonal impacts seen in the guidance figures.

Conclusion

Nucor Corporation represents a compelling investment opportunity for those looking to enhance their portfolios in the Basic Materials sector. Given the strong fundamentals, favorable technical indicators, and positive market sentiment, this stock is poised for future growth. However, prospective investors should stay aware of potential risks and remain informed about evolving market conditions. As always, conducting further personal research and considering one's financial situation is advisable prior to making investment decisions.

Publication Date: January 02, 2026