This represents “a significant improvement compared to the fourth quarter of 2012,” officials said in Friday’s release.
For the fourth quarter last year, AK Steel reported a net loss of $230 million, or $1.89 per diluted share of common stock.
AK Steel said it anticipates steel shipments to be approximately 1,275,000 to 1,300,000 tons this quarter, compared to shipments of 1,406,100 tons in the fourth quarter of 2012.
The company is seeing increased shipments to the automotive market. But AK Steel said it projects its first quarter shipments to the spot market will decrease from the prior quarter.
Also, AK Steel is seeing higher average selling prices primarily due to a higher-priced product mix compared to the previous quarter. The company also has lower raw material costs.
First quarter earnings are scheduled for release April 13.
AK Steel is headquartered in West Chester Twp., operating seven steel plants including Middletown Works. It employs 2,400 full-time workers in Butler County.