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The price of copper is an economic indicator, and right now, it's falling

May 25, 2023
The problem? Too little demand, too much supply. Rising interest rates are also contributing to weaker demand around the world.
Over the past six weeks or so, the price of copper has fallen more than 10%, indicating a slowdown for the economy.
Denis Charlet/AFP via Getty Images

Surging demand for copper means its price is rising too

Jan 24, 2023
The metal is crucial renewable energy technology and the transition away from fossil fuels.
Copper is often referred to as “Dr. Copper,” because it’s considered a barometer for the health of the global economy.
Joel Saget/AFP via Getty Images

The prices of industrial metals are surging. That's probably good news for the world economy.

Nov 15, 2022
The increases are seen as an indicator of strength, though they might fuel more inflation.
Copper’s recent price surge hints at a strengthening global economy, boosted by an expected recovery of Chinese manufacturing. Above, a copper mining operation.
Ari Widodo/Getty Images

As an economic indicator, copper is worth its weight in gold

Aug 20, 2021
Copper has long been seen as an economic predictor. So why are prices dipping, and what are the implications?
Copper scrap left over from machining. The price of the commodity reached an all-time high in the spring but has recently declined.
Scott Olson via Getty Images

Copper’s soaring price points to recovery, green-economy demand

May 10, 2021
Copper, especially, is a key ingredient in electric cars, wind turbines and batteries. Suppliers are not ready to meet the demand.
A new copper mine can take five to 10 years to come online. Above, copper rods used in machine parts.
Scott Olson/Getty Images

Copper thefts a common and costly crime

Feb 7, 2019
The Missouri Department of Transportation spent almost $1 million last year on repairing street lights caused by thefts of copper wire.
The Missouri Department of Transportation spent almost $1 million last year on repairing street lights caused by thefts of copper wire.
beerphotographer/iStock/Getty Images Plus

Kobe Steel falsified data about the strength of its metals used in planes and cars

Oct 10, 2017
Copper and aluminum from the Tokyo-based company went into products at about 200 companies.

For public good, not for profit.

There are hidden treasures in our sewage sludge

Apr 8, 2016
Millions of dollars worth of valuable metals end up being flushed down the drain, some coming from our own bodies.
Gold bars.
Wikipedia

Commodities giants forced to suspend dividends

Nov 12, 2015
Glencore, Anglo American and BHP Billiton hoped that diversifying would work.

Coffee beans are cheaper, so why isn't my Starbucks?

Dec 31, 2013
From coffee to copper to corn, the price of commodities has fallen over the past year.