Copper futures traded higher on Tuesday on expectations of strong demand amid a sustained US economic recovery after data showed an acceleration in hiring in the world's biggest economy. The number of nonfarm payrolls in the US in June increased by 8,50,000 versus the estimate for 7,06,000, while the unemployment rate unexpectedly rose to 5.9% versus the 5.6% estimate. Further, subdued dollar also supported red metal prices.
Copper futures for September delivery gained $0.0810 or 1.89% to $4.3570 a pound on the Comex metals division of New York Mercantile Exchange. Copper on the London Metal Exchange was up 0.4 percent at $9,546.50 a ton.