Copper holds steady after copper supply deficit persists
Copper (HG) is trading at $6.6178, marking a modest gain for the session. The price is currently positioned above its key short-term average but remains below its medium-term trend line, and is still well supported versus the long-term average.
Highlights
- Copper futures set a new high above $14,300 per tonne for August 2026 due to ongoing supply deficits and expectations of new U.S. tariffs.
- The U.S. Commerce Department recommends phased tariffs on refined copper imports, starting at 15% in 2027 and rising to 30%, raising import costs and affecting global flows.
- Technical indicators show consolidation with mixed momentum signals, forecasting price action between $6.5201 and $6.7155 in the near term.
Record highs sustained as US tariffs tighten supply outlook
Copper futures recently achieved new record highs above $14,300 per tonne in August 2026, a milestone driven by a continued supply deficit and heightened anticipation of new U.S. tariffs on refined copper imports, according to Proactiveinvestors Co. The U.S. Commerce Department’s recommendation for phased universal tariffs starting at 15% in 2027 and rising to 30%, as reported by Cnbc, is expected to raise import costs and potentially shift global trade flows. Together, these factors sustain a tight supply environment and keep price pressures elevated despite modest day-to-day movements.
Support holds as technical signals diverge on momentum
On the technical front, HG has crossed above the MA-20, remains below the MA-50 on the H4 chart, and holds well above the MA-200 on the daily timeframe. The Ichimoku Kijun at $6.605 serves as immediate support. MACD continues to print a Sell signal, while ADX remains Neutral, and RSI and CCI both indicate Sell. Stochastic RSI flashes a Buy, highlighting short-term oversold conditions amid divergence in momentum signals. Bull/Bear Power still shows buyers having a slight advantage in today's subdued volatility environment.
Range-bound trading seen as breakout risk persists
In the near term, copper prices are expected to consolidate within the $6.5201 to $6.7155 range as momentum and oscillator signals remain mixed. With a 53% probability favoring further upside, a breakout above resistance may lead to a bullish scenario, while a drop below the $6.605 support would open room for short-term downside. Overall, the baseline scenario points to range-bound volatility within these levels.
Earlier, analysts noted that copper was facing near-term downside risks as supply restoration and mixed technical signals contributed to a cautious outlook. With fresh highs now driven by structural supply deficits and looming U.S. tariff policies, traders should monitor potential breakout conditions above current resistance for confirmation of a sustained upward trend.