Pressure easing at auto, consumer appliance firms as input costs cool down

Manufacturers, however, remain watchful of inflationary trend, even as their prices hikes begin to outpace incremental costs

After a persistent increase in commodity prices, automobile and consumer appliances firms are expecting the cost pressure to ease as prices of the key inputs including steel, aluminum, copper, plastics and some precious metals, show signs of softening. They however, continue to tread with caution and remain watchful of the inflationary trend. As the price hikes taken by the manufacturers begin to outpace the incremental cost pressures, margins of companies are expected to expand in the current quarter, said analysts.

“Commodity prices are expected to remain volatile but one is unlikely to see the steep hike one has seen in