Copper fell to its lowest since December as Middle East conflict and soaring
energy prices raised global economic risks. Strikes by Iran and Israel on energy
facilities pushed industrial metals lower, with copper down 1% to $12,274/ton in
Shanghai, shedding over 8% this month. Rising oil fuels inflation concerns,
while potential supply disruptions clash with slowing manufacturing. Chinese
metals demand, previously soft, may recover as lower prices improve consumption
expectations and help draw down record stockpiles.
