LME copper ends 2025 up 42%, a record year, with US demand and a weaker dollar behind it

Three-month LME copper rose 0.9% to $12,537 a tonne on January 2, 2026, after a 2025 rally of about 42% that took prices to record highs. Reporting on the rally cited a weaker US dollar, demand from AI and renewable energy, and mine supply disruptions. For traders the starting point for 2026 was already near record territory.

• LME three-month copper up 0.9% to $12,537 a tonne on January 2, 2026
• LME copper rose about 42% in 2025 and hit a record high
• Drivers cited: a weaker US dollar, AI and renewable-energy demand, mine supply disruptions