Industrial Metal Prices Show Mixed Movement Amid Supply Concerns

Copper, Nickel, and Tin Decline While Aluminium Rises

Industrial metal prices displayed varied movements in the latest trading session. Copper, nickel, and tin experienced declines while aluminium managed to edge higher despite overall market weakness. According to Bloomberg data, copper futures for three-month contracts on the London Metal Exchange (LME) fell 1.28% to $12,720 per ton on January 8, 2026. Similarly, tin prices weakened by 2.28% to $43,750 per ton, and nickel dropped 3.31% to $17,155 per ton. In contrast, aluminium recorded a modest gain of 0.18% to reach $3,091 per ton.

Market Analysis and Future Prospects

Analysts from Doo Financial Futures attribute the declines in copper and tin to profit-taking activities following recent price rallies rather than any significant changes in fundamental market factors. Lukman Leong, an analyst at Doo Financial Futures, noted that the metals remain supported by tight global supply conditions. The slight increase in aluminium prices was attributed to ongoing supply constraints in the global market.

Market Implications

The mixed performance in industrial metals reflects the complex interplay between market sentiment and fundamental supply factors. While profit-taking led to short-term price corrections in some metals, the overall market remains supported by tight supply conditions. Investors and market participants will be closely watching future price movements and supply developments to gauge the market's next direction.