Nucor Forecasts Strong Second Quarter Earnings Growth

Adjusted earnings, which strip out the Helion-related benefit, are expected to land between $4.50 and $4.60 per share. This performance marks a notable improvement from the $3.23 per share reported in the first quarter of 2026 and the $2.60 per share seen in the same period last year. Management attributes the gains to broad-based growth across all three operating segments.

The steel mills segment leads the positive trajectory, bolstered by higher average selling prices and a $130 million cash refund related to prior raw material procurement. The steel products and raw materials divisions also anticipate higher earnings driven by increased volumes and pricing. Beyond operations, the company continues to prioritize capital returns, having repurchased 1.12 million shares at an average of $223.47 so far this quarter, contributing to $630 million returned to stockholders year-to-date. Nucor will finalize these results on July 27, 2026.