US SBR Prices Rise 3.56% in Late August on Tire Restocking and Higher Feedstock Costs

US styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) prices strengthened in late August after July weakness as tire-sector restocking, firmer feedstock costs, and higher import replacement values improved seller confidence. July remained pressured by ample overseas availability and softer butadiene economics, but buying interest improved as distributors prepared for the autumn replacement-tire season. The automotive backdrop remained mixed, with U.S. light-vehicle sales reaching a 16.3-million-unit annualized rate in July, down 1.4% year on year, while hybrid sales continued to expand. The more important support came from replacement tires, where distributors rebuilt stocks ahead of seasonal demand. Upstream economics also turned firmer: the U.S. September butadiene contract settled at 50.50 cents/lb, 2.50 cents/lb above August. Logistics remained supportive, with elevated Asia–U.S. freight raising import replacement costs. Looking ahead, the SBR market is expected to remain firm through September and October, although year-end destocking could eventually limit the rally.