Feb 5 (Reuters) - ArcelorMittal , the world's second largest steelmaker, reported fourth-quarter core profit above market expectations on Thursday, as growing steel demand helps lift expectations for 2026.

The Luxembourg-headquartered group posted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $1.59 billion for the quarter, beating analysts' average estimate of $1.51 billion, according to data compiled by LSEG.

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The company sees global demand, excluding China, growing by 2% in 2026. It expects to benefit in Europe in particular, as it aims to progressively regain market share for its domestic mills through the year.

Although global trade volatility hurt their visibility last year, European steelmakers have welcomed an increase in EU measures to protect the bloc's domestic industry, from the recently enacted Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) to the European Commission's proposal to cut import quotas.

The CBAM, in place since January 1, is the European Union's tool to levy carbon-intensive goods entering the bloc to even the playing field for domestic producers, who have to adhere to stricter environmental criteria than some rivals.

"While the ongoing geopolitical volatility brought significant challenges, important foundations were also laid for a more supportive operating environment moving forwards," ArcelorMittal CEO Aditya Mittal said in the earnings statement.

https://www.reuters.com/business/steelmaker-arcelormittal-books-higher-than-expected-profit-fourth-quarter-2026-02-05/