Show Entire Article
Freeport-McMoran Copper & GoldCEO Richard Adkerson told CNBC’s “ Closing Bell ” he expects copper prices to be higher longer term.
Although the Chinese economy is slowing, the Freeport-McMoran CEO said it hasn’t had as big an impact on copper demand as it has had on other commodities.
“There’s continued spending on infrastructure,” he said, adding the markets are reacting to signs that the Chinese government will take actions to support growth.
With inflation under control, Adkerson is “optimistic about China.”
Copper demand in the U.S. is also running stronger than the overall economy because of a pick up in the automotive sector and the beginnings of a rebound in housing, Adkerson said.
Although Freeport-McMoran doesn’t make predictions about copper prices, Adkerson said that he’s very optimistic about the price of the red metal longer term.
Adkerson isn’t alone in expecting higher copper prices. Ephrem Ravi, Head of Metals & Mining Sector at Barclays, told CNBC Asia on Tuesday that copper is the commodity that both he and markets are most bullish on. (Related: Copper Will Stay Above $8,000 This Year ).
A main reason for copper's strength is structural. “Copper as a commodity is supported by limited supplies,” Adkerson said.
Page 1 of 2 | Next PageShow Entire Article
FCX News & Analysis
DATA IS REAL-TIME EXCEPT NOTED WITH *
* DATA DELAYED AT LEAST 15 MINUTES