Cleveland-Cliffs revenues surge on record shipments

Cleveland-Cliffs (NYSE:CLF), the largest flat-rolled steel producer in North America, reported a significant sequential increase in operational volume and revenue for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026.

The company achieved revenues of $4.9 billion, representing a $600 million increase over the final quarter of 2025, supported by a substantial rise in demand from the automotive and infrastructure sectors.

Steel shipments reached 4.1 million net tons during the quarter, an increase of 338,000 tons compared to the prior three-month period.

The volume growth underscores the company's success in leveraging its vertically integrated supply chain, from iron ore mining to finished steel production, to capture market share in a tightening domestic supply environment.

Despite the strong top-line growth, the company reported a GAAP net loss of $229 million, or $0.42 per diluted share.

Profitability was significantly hampered by external environmental factors; specifically, extreme cold weather events in the early months of 2026 resulted in an $80 million one-time energy cost impact.

Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter stood at $95 million, a figure that includes the aforementioned weather-related energy expenses.

Without these non-recurring costs, the company’s underlying operating performance remained steady, reflecting disciplined cost management across its manufacturing facilities.

As of March 31, 2026, Cleveland-Cliffs maintained a fortress balance sheet with total liquidity of $3.1 billion.

This capital position provides the company with significant flexibility to continue its share repurchase programs and pursue strategic investments in decarbonization and iron-making technology throughout the remainder of the year.