Copper Hits Record $13,000/Ton Amid Supply Fears & Energy Transition Demand

• Benchmark copper futures on the LME surged by up to 4.3%, reaching an unprecedented $13,000 per ton for the first time.
• The price hike is driven by global supply concerns, fears of potential US tariffs, a strike at Chile's Mantoverde mine, and increasing demand.
• Accelerated shipments to the US due to tariff fears have reduced supply in other regions, while the US holds half of global inventory.
• Copper, vital for energy transition, saw its best year since 2009, jumping 42% in 2025, with demand expected to grow.
• Analysts predict a global copper market deficit of over 100,000 tons in 2026 due to supply shortfalls and regional imbalances.

Why It Matters: Copper hits record $13,000/ton, driven by supply concerns, US tariffs, and energy transition demand.