Copper prices were lower by 80% in cable companies in early 2013

What's the current trend for copper prices? According to a recent survey, 80% of wire and cable companies believe that copper prices will continue to fluctuate in the near term, maintaining their volatile nature. These companies point out that recent positive data from the U.S. real estate market and personal consumption expenditures have provided some support for the metal. Additionally, the Chinese central economic conference highlighted the promotion of new urbanization, which is expected to provide a boost to copper demand. However, concerns remain. The resolution of the U.S. fiscal cliff issue and the ongoing European debt crisis still cast uncertainty over global markets. Meanwhile, China’s slowing domestic consumption continues to weigh heavily on the copper market. As the Spring Festival approaches, market liquidity has tightened, and spot premiums have gradually widened, indicating a sharp decline in supply and demand dynamics ahead of the holiday season. The remaining 20% of companies surveyed expressed difficulty in predicting short-term price movements, citing the unpredictable nature of global economic conditions and the impact of geopolitical factors. Overall, while some fundamentals suggest potential for recovery, the market remains highly sensitive to macroeconomic shifts and regional uncertainties.