FRESH EYES
Since 1995, Platinum Equity has demonstrated a knack for generating huge returns from corporate castoff businesses. Now, it's doing it again with two of the largest metals service centers, Ryerson and PNA. by Steven B. Weiner

BREAKING NEW GROUND
Booming energy and materials costs and looming greenhouse gas penalties spark a variety of projects. by Janet Kreiling

BUBBLE UP OR UNDER?
The metals industry, riding high on the current wave of strong prices and demand, can’t help but hope the good times never end. But they will end—won’t they? by Steve Lawrence

Publisher’s Note

THE MEANING OF CHANGE
by M. Robert Weidner, III, publisher

Under the Radar

STANDARD DEVIATION
The SEC’s push for International Financial Reporting Standards could mean an end for LIFO in the not-too-distant future.

Under the Radar

SHELF LIFE
Forward editors review the latest books on business, economics and trade.

Workplace

HARD SELL
Manufacturing seems to have lost its luster in the eyes of young job seekers, but trade groups and metals companies are working hard to bring it back.
by Maya Payne Smart

Guest Column

THE NEXT BIG IDEA
How businesses can best find opportunities in innovation.
by Clark Gilbert