Copper, dubbed “red gold” by market experts, is emerging as the next big investment play after gold and silver. Prices have skyrocketed in the first few
weeks of 2026, crossing $6 per pound on Comex and $13,000 per metric ton on the London Metal Exchange, fueled by soaring demand and tightening supply. Copper prices are hitting record highs in just weeks into 2026, positioning it as red gold, the next big investment play after traditional safe havens like gold and silver. The rally is being driven by three major pillars: AI infrastructure, green energy transition, and national security, creating a perfect storm for copper. Demand is up 30 per cent by 2030 from key sectors, while supply lags due to fewer discoveries and long mine development timelines. Recently, JP Morgan Global Research projected a global refined copper deficit of 330,000 tons this year, underscoring the bullish outlook Notably, governments like India and the US are now classifying it as a critical mineral for defense and tech resilience, amplifying its strategic value amid US-China tensions. Interestingly, unlike gold's digital rivals and silver's aluminium substitutes, copper has none. How to invest in Copper Retail investors can invest in copper-linked stocks or diversified miners. Another thing worth looking out for is commodity mutual funds that also include copper as part of a diversified basket. Investors can also invest in MCX copper futures alongside ETFs. While India does not have a copper ETF in particular, Investors can invest in metal ETFs which track the top metal stocks. There is also an option to invest in international ETFs or US-listed copper ETFs through international investing platforms that operate under the RBI's liberalised remittance scheme. Meanwhile, mixed economic signals continue to steer precious metal prices in India, with gold hitting a new record high almost every session. On January 15, 2026, gold prices across the country showed further uptick compared to the previous session. The price of 24-carat gold, which contains 99.9 per cent pure gold and is typically preferred for investment purposes, stood at Rs 14,401 per gram. Meanwhile, 22-carat gold, widely used in jewellery-making due to its durability, was priced at Rs 13,201 per gram. (Disclaimer: The above article is meant for informational purposes only, and should not be considered as any investment advice. ET NOW DIGITAL suggests its readers/audience to consult their financial advisors before making any money related decisions.)
