Copper prices today, January 21, 2025, increased by 0.82% to $9,268/ton on the London exchange. Copper demand increased thanks to positive economic prospects from China, leading the upward trend of industrial metals.
Update copper prices on the London Metal Exchange (LME)
Today, the price of MCU3 copper on the London Metal Exchange recorded an increase of 0.82% to 9,268 USD/ton. This is the eighth consecutive day of increase in copper prices, marking the longest streak of increases since 2017.
This strong rally was supported by positive economic data from China – the world’s top metal consumer. Optimistic signals from the world’s second-largest economy have created momentum for copper and other industrial metals to grow beyond expectations.
Reasons for the strong copper price increase
Positive economic data from China
GDP growth in 2024: China’s GDP grew by 5%, meeting the government’s target, with the fourth quarter growth rate reaching 5.4%, the highest in the past six quarters.
Industrial output and retail sales: These indicators both exceeded forecasts, reflecting a strong recovery in domestic demand.
Stable real estate market: House prices in China fell at a slower pace in December, contributing to boosting demand for industrial metals.
Economic stimulus
Support measures from the Chinese government have spurred a recovery in the industrial and real estate sectors – the two largest copper consuming sectors.
Influence from international policies
Copper prices have also been affected by political turmoil, especially tariff threats from President-elect Donald Trump. These moves have added pressure on global supplies, pushing copper prices higher on both the LME and Comex in New York.
Copper Price Trends and Outlook 2025
Outstanding growth at the beginning of the year: Copper prices have increased by about 6% year-to-date, leading the group of six other industrial metals on the LME.
Long-term outlook: With strong signs of recovery from China and increasing demand for industrial metals in the renewable energy sector, copper continues to be expected to be one of the attractive investment channels.
Risks: However, factors such as international political instability and fluctuations in global monetary policy may affect copper supply and prices in the coming time.
Copper prices continue to grow today thanks to positive signals from the Chinese economy and increasing global demand. This is a great opportunity for investors in the industrial metals sector, especially when copper is a key material in many industries and renewable energy.