KUALA LUMPUR: Higher steel prices propelled Southern Steel Bhd's earnings in the July-September quarter, but while demand was projected to gradually improve coming months, raw material and product prices are expected to be volatile.

       The company posted a net profit of RM31.1mil in the first quarter compared to net loss of RM28mil made a year ago.

       Revenue increased to RM487mil from RM444mil previously.

       The steelmaker attributed the turnaround in the first quarter to higher selling prices and improved margin.

       "The Group expects demand to gradually improve in the coming months but continues to be concerned with price volatility of both raw materials and finished products," it said in a filing today.

       "Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the Board expects the Group’s performance for the financial year ending 30 June 2022 to be satisfactory," it added.