Copper futures settled higher on Friday as investors raised their expectations on the prospect of a US interest rate cut this month after the US economy saw strong job growth in November. Moreover, declines in Chinese inventories also supporting copper prices’ up-move. Meanwhile, investors are awaiting China’s Central Economic Work Conference next week, where China's top leaders may discuss economic targets and additional stimulus plans for 2025.
Copper futures for March delivery gained $0.004 to settle at $4.1965 a pound on the Comex metals division of New York Mercantile Exchange. Copper on the London Metal Exchange was up by 0.53 percent at $9,122.50 a ton.