Important fundamental factors for copper price include economic conditions as well as supply conditions. Like other metals, any political or social issues in the country in which copper is mined can also affect price and volatility. Beyond these concerns, you may also wish to consider the following:
Environmental Issues: Mine waste and possible water pollution has often led to controversy over mining operations. Emissions from smelting and refining are also areas of concern and either of these may cause producers to have to review procedures and practices.
Key Industry Reports: Like many other markets, copper stockpiles or supply and demand data can have significant impact on the market. The International Copper Study Group releases a monthly bulletin and the NYMEX has fact sheets that are worth reviewing.
Potential World Supply: Like oil, copper has a "peak" theory which suggests that production will reach a maximum level and then decline as it is a finite resource. This information would have to be balanced against knowledge of the available copper for recycling as well as the possibility of substitutive metals i.e. aluminum was used in place of copper for wiring during certain periods.
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