Copper futures rose above $5.2 per pound on Monday, reaching its highest level in four months supported by tight supply and elevated premiums. The advance tracked a record peak on the London Metal Exchange last Friday due to supply constraints, including lower output in Chile, planned cuts by Chinese smelters, and a weaker dollar. The dollar softened as markets positioned for a possible Federal Reserve rate cut next week. Since the end of August, copper has risen around 13% on the LME amid ongoing shortages. At the same time, traders increased shipments to the US to capitalize on elevated Comex prices amid ongoing uncertainty over potential future tariffs from President Donald Trump. Additionally, trading volatility increased following an hours-long halt on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, which reduced liquidity and heightened premiums on Comex.
