Steel Dynamics shares jumped 2.6% after the steel producer delivered fourth-quarter earnings that topped analyst forecasts. Net income reached $266 million, or $1.82 per share, beating the consensus of $1.69. However, revenue of $4.4 billion fell short of the $4.53 billion expected, signaling mixed performance.

The quarterly results, while positive, showed a sequential decline from the third quarter's $404 million profit. Operating income for the steel segment dropped 35% due to lower selling prices and seasonal demand. For the full year, Steel Dynamics achieved record steel shipments of 13.7 million tons and generated $1.4 billion in operational cash flow.

CEO Mark Millett expressed optimism for 2026, citing improving market conditions and a favorable interest rate environment. The company anticipates solid domestic demand for steel and aluminum, suggesting the Q4 beat could mark a turning point after a challenging year for the industry.