Copper adn Industrial Metals Prices Decline Amid Banking Concerns and Trade War Fears
BEIJING - October 17, 2025, 15:06:15 (GMT+8) – Prices for copper and other industrial metals are under pressure following concerns sparked by recent turmoil in the U.S. banking sector and escalating trade tensions between the United states and china. The combined impact of these factors is fueling economic uncertainty and dampening demand for key commodities.
The downturn comes as two U.S. regional banks faced difficulties linked to loan fraud involving defaulted mortgages, raising questions about the creditworthiness of borrowers and potentially tightening lending conditions. Simultaneously, a renewed trade dispute between Washington and Beijing-with China’s Minister of Commerce, Wang wentao, blaming the U.S. for recent escalation-is adding to global economic anxieties. The absence of key U.S.economic data due to the ongoing government shutdown is further exacerbating the situation.
As of 11:33 a.m. in Beijing, copper futures fell 0.8% to $10,567 per ton.Zinc also experienced a decline,dropping approximately 0.6% to $2,951.50 per ton, with most base metals traded on the stock exchange following suit.Iron ore futures, however, bucked the trend, rising 0.7% to $104.25 per ton in Singapore, although yuan-denominated contracts on the Dalian Stock Exchange also decreased.
These metals are critical components in manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure growth globally. A sustained decline in prices could impact mining companies, producers, and related industries, potentially slowing economic growth. Investors are closely monitoring developments in both the banking sector and trade negotiations for indications of future market direction. China’s recent $1.4 billion investment to revitalize a railway line in Africa for copper transport highlights the continued importance of these commodities in global trade, even as prices fluctuate.
