Copper prices are now up by 27pc year on year at $8,002/t as of 14 January, on an LME three-month basis, cracking the key price-resistance level of $8,000/t in early-2021 trade amid tight supply and robust demand. Argus-assessed copper premiums have also risen strongly, particularly in Europe. The Argus premium for copper cathode delivered to southern Europe has risen by 60pc year on year to $80/t as assessed on 12 January. Scrap prices for wire and tube in Asia have increased by 29pc to $7,517/t on a cif basis over the same period. The last time copper prices stood above $8,000/t was in February 2013 and prices of ... (full story)