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Copper Prices Skyrocket Amid Deficit and EV Demand

Copper, the 'Dr. Copper' economic indicator, has seen its value nearly double since 2015. The recent surge in prices raises questions about global economic health and the future of copper in electrification and sustainable infrastructure.

In the foreground of the picture there are road, railing, plant, wall, text and footpath. In the...
In the foreground of the picture there are road, railing, plant, wall, text and footpath. In the center of the picture there are trees, buildings, iron frames, banner, streetlight and cable. In the background there are machinery and sky.

Copper Prices Skyrocket Amid Deficit and EV Demand

The copper market has witnessed a remarkable shift from overproduction to a substantial deficit, with prices soaring to around $5.00 per pound. This change is driven by factors such as production disruptions and increased demand, particularly from the electric vehicle industry.

Copper, often dubbed 'Dr. Copper' for its role as an economic indicator, has seen its value nearly double since 2015, reaching over $3.20 per pound by 2018. The recent surge has been even more dramatic, with prices skyrocketing from $2.20 per pound in 2020 to a record high of over $4.90 per pound in 2021, a 120% increase.

Analysts predict that without new mining operations, the stock market of copper could face annual shortfalls of 2-4 million tonnes by the late 2020s. This is due in part to the increased demand for copper in electric vehicles, which use 3-4 times more copper than traditional cars. The question for investors is no longer if copper will decrease in value, but if it will rally significantly.

Copper's role in electrification, sustainable infrastructure, and international manufacturing makes it a crucial commodity. With recent supply disruptions and increased demand, copper prices have experienced their largest weekly increase in three months. As the market adjusts to these new dynamics, investors and consumers alike watch the 'Dr. Copper' indicator for signs of global economic health.

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