Copper Soars on Supply Issues

Copper prices are on watch today following a breakout move in the market which saw prices yesterday reaching new record highs. The move comes amidst a wave of risk on trading recently which has seen stocks and commodities soaring despite rising Fed rate-hike expectations, ongoing uncertainty over the Iran war and still-high energy prices. For copper specifically, it seems that supply side issues stemming from the Iran conflict have been a big driver of the move higher. While rising geopolitical tensions and surging inflation are dampening demand expectations, current supply issues are helping keep copper prices supported. Ine such issue is China’s recent restrictions on sulphuric acid exports (a key ingredient in coper refining process), which is hindering output levels in Chile, the world’s largest producer of Copper.

Trump/Xi Meeting

Looking ahead, traders will be monitoring headlines around the Trump/Xi meeting due to take place later today. Discussions are expected to cover a range of topics from trade and AI through to the Iran war and Taiwan. If the meeting goes well and we see positive headlines on the back of it, this should help drove copper prices higher as risk markets rally again. However, if the meeting runs aground and we hear any aggressive rhetoric from trump, this could see copper prices pulling back as USD pushed higher and risk markets recoil.

Technical Views

Copper

The rally in copper has seen the market breaking out above the prior 6.5830 highs. With momentum studies bullish, focus is on a continuation higher while prices holds above that level. If we see any correction back beneath it, 6.2845 will be the next support to watch.