The 2017 financial results reported from tire manufacturers disappointed relative to initial expectations set for the year. Raw material volatility disrupted pricing strategies, and total 2017 volumes in the U.S. SEE MORE Oil prices steadied on Friday, consolidating after recent gains, as global supplies remained tight and the market awaited news from Washington on possible new U.S. sanctions against Iran. SEE MORE The future outlook for ongoing expansion in the global tire market is robust, according to the latest in-depth analysis from Smithers Rapra. SEE MORE London base metal prices made robust gains early on Friday as the dollar softened, making metals cheaper for holders of other currencies, while positive data from top metals consumer China helped spur a rebound from losses in the previous session. SEE MORE Unlike many commodities that have been heating up in recent times, prices of domestic natural rubber (RSS-4 variety) have been on a slide. The latest data available from the Rubber Board shows that prices have cooled down to about ₹124 a kg as of February 2018, from ₹159 a year ago. SEE MORE