Copper: Tight supply keeps prices elevated – ING

ING analysts Warren Patterson and Ewa Manthey report Copper prices trading above $14,000/t on the LME and near record levels on Comex, driven by metal diversion into the US ahead of potential tariff decisions. Tight physical markets, low inventories outside the US and ongoing supply-side challenges are seen as supporting prices and possibly increasing volatility in coming sessions.

Record-level prices on supply constraints

"In base metals, copper prices also extended gains, with LME copper trading above $14,000/t and Comex futures remaining close to record levels. The market continues to be driven by the diversion of metal into the US ahead of potential tariff decisions. This is leaving availability tighter elsewhere and supporting prices across global exchanges."

"Improving sentiment around the Middle East provided a boost to industrial metals. Hopes for progress in negotiations over the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz have weighed on the US dollar. Lower energy prices have reduced inflation concerns and improved the outlook for global growth-sensitive assets."

"Copper fundamentals remain supportive. Tight physical markets, low inventories outside the US and ongoing supply-side challenges should keep prices well supported. Developments in US tariff policy could also trigger increased volatility in the near term."

"Aluminium and zinc also moved higher alongside copper."

(This article was created with the help of an Artificial Intelligence tool and reviewed by an editor. Know more.)