Investing in copper may outperform other base metals this quarter, as Chile’s production slowdown coincides with robust European manufacturing data. Trading volumes on COMEX indicate increased institutional positioning toward copper-long contracts. BHP, the world’s largest listed miner, is now preparing to make a final investment decision by mid-2027 for a smelter and refinery expansion at Olympic Dam, with an aim to double copper output in South Australia to 650,000 tons by mid-2030s. Companies discussed in this article include SLS.TO . Market strategists project copper consumption growth of 4% in 2024, with renewable energy and EV sectors accelerating adoption. Investing in copper-linked equities now could provide portfolio diversification amid inflationary pressures and tight supply chains.
