Copper is on fire, tracking gold as a precious metal hitting record-high values. Should you start investing in it?

Core Insights - Copper is emerging as a key metal to watch, following a significant price surge of 35% in 2025, reaching $11,771 per metric tonne, driven by supply and demand dynamics [1] - A predicted shortfall of 150,000 tons in global copper supply in 2025 highlights the increasing demand for copper, which is essential for various applications including power grids and electronics [1] Group 1: Demand and Supply Dynamics - BHP forecasts that global demand for copper will increase sixfold by 2050, largely due to the growth of data centers and improving living standards in developing economies [2] - The launch of the world's first physically backed ETF for copper by Sprott Asset Management in 2024 has seen a price increase of nearly 46% in 2025, reflecting strong market interest [2][3] Group 2: Market Trends and Investor Sentiment - In the U.S., stockpiling of copper is occurring as investors anticipate potential tariffs by mid-2026, which is exacerbating supply challenges and driving prices higher [3] - Copper is increasingly viewed as an economic indicator, reflecting investor sentiment regarding the performance of the U.S. market [3] Group 3: Safe-Haven Asset Perspective - Similar to gold and silver, copper is gaining recognition as a safe-haven asset amid concerns over tariffs and geopolitical tensions affecting the stock market [5] - Analysts suggest that investors interested in AI should consider investing in copper-related ETFs, indicating a strategic shift towards this metal [6]