Will Persistent Demand Drive Copper Prices to Rs 980-Rs 1,020 per kg?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Copper prices are expected to surge to Rs 980-Rs 1,020 per kg.
- Supply shortages are contributing to price increases.
- The US dollar's decline is favoring commodity trading.
- Inventory levels are at a two-year low.
- Market sentiment is shifting towards optimism.
New Delhi, July 5 (NationPress) Following a notable bullish trend, nearing the psychological barrier of $10,000, copper prices are set to surge to Rs 980-Rs 1,020 per kg domestically and $10,800-$11,000 per metric tonne on the London Metal Exchange (LME) shortly, according to a report released on Saturday.
Favorable factors, such as a balance between surplus forecasts and ongoing demand worries, a dip in the US dollar, and anticipations of interest rate reductions, are propelling the upward momentum for copper, as highlighted by Motilal Oswal Financial Services.
“The US Dollar Index has significantly dropped to its lowest in three years, driven by moderated Treasury yields and expectations for rate cuts amid lower growth forecasts. The interplay of a weaker dollar and a growing risk appetite among investors is creating a favorable environment for further price increases,” the report noted.
There is a shortage of copper supplies, resulting in strong backwardation in futures prices. The LME cash–3M spread has expanded beyond $100, indicating a lack of copper for immediate delivery.
“Commodity trading advisors and systematic funds have changed their strategies as stronger demand and reduced inventories have prompted a reevaluation of their positions,” stated Navneet Damani, Group Senior VP–Commodity Research at Motilal Oswal Financial Services.
“This change in sentiment typically precedes longer price rallies, especially when the broader economy is on the upswing,” he added.
The report indicates that while COMEX stocks are growing at a faster pace, LME warehouse inventories have plunged below 100,000 tonnes, marking the lowest levels in nearly two years.
The primary reason for this supply crunch is traders rushing approximately 400 kilotons of copper into the US market, anticipating potential import tariffs due to the Trump administration's probe into copper imports initiated earlier this year.
“Despite ongoing volatility and uncertainties in the supply chain, the odds increasingly favor further price gains,” the report concluded.
aps/na