价格刷新历史高位！50%关税引爆这一市场套利“狂欢”

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant impact of the U.S. imposing a 50% tariff on imported copper, leading to volatility in the global copper market and affecting prices on various exchanges [1][2]. Price Movements - As of July 10, COMEX copper futures rose to $5.59 per pound, with a weekly high of $5.89, marking a historical peak [1]. - Conversely, LME copper futures experienced a weekly decline of approximately 1.2%, closing at $9,734 per ton, rebounding from a low of $9,553 [1]. - The main copper contract in Shanghai fell by 0.39%, settling at 78,600 yuan per ton, with a cumulative weekly drop of about 2% [2]. Market Dynamics - The announcement of the 50% tariff by President Trump deviated significantly from market expectations of around 25%, leading to an increase in U.S. refined copper prices [2]. - The price spread between COMEX and LME copper expanded to $2,500 per ton, previously nearing $3,000, far exceeding the average stable spread of $300 [4]. - Traders are engaging in arbitrage by buying spot copper and shorting LME to lock in profits, causing LME and domestic copper prices to decline while COMEX prices continue to rise [4]. Inventory Changes - As of July 7, COMEX copper inventory reached 221,000 tons, up from less than 100,000 tons in February [5]. - LME copper inventory decreased sharply from 270,900 tons in mid-February to 97,400 tons, a reduction of over 64% [5]. - The increase in COMEX inventory is not keeping pace with the decrease in LME inventory, indicating potential supply chain issues [5]. Supply Chain Implications - The U.S. tariff policy may lead to a restructuring of the global copper supply chain, with potential cost increases in sectors like automotive and renewable energy [7]. - It is projected that U.S. copper imports could reach 1.36 million tons this year, significantly higher than last year's 900,000 tons, which may lead to increased inventory levels in COMEX [7]. - The global supply of refined copper is not currently short, with expectations of a weakening supply-demand balance by 2025 due to recovering copper mine supplies [7]. Domestic Market Outlook - If the copper tariff is implemented on August 1, there may be delays in the transportation of spot copper, limiting price support in the domestic market [8]. - The decline in Shanghai copper prices has alleviated some cost pressures on downstream processing companies, but price volatility remains a concern [8]. - Companies are advised to closely monitor the price differences between COMEX, LME, and Shanghai copper, particularly for risk management in trading positions [8].