In 2025, gold and silver hit new highs, but industrial metals like copper, aluminum, steel, and lithium also saw significant increases due to the AI build-out and energy transition.

Demand for metals like copper, steel, and aluminum is rising, with prices up more than 34% year to date, driven by AI and energy transition needs.

Global supply shortages, including environmental disasters and government suspensions of operations, have contributed to price increases in copper, steel, aluminum, and lithium.

Trump administration tariffs and geopolitical risks have impacted metal markets, with traders moving physical stores to avoid duties, leading to price fluctuations.

Glencore plans to boost copper production, while Indonesian aluminum smelters expand capacity. Demand from the AI build-out drives the metals complex, affecting prices and planning.

Aluminum faces challenges with AI-driven electricity demand, affecting smelters’ margins and prices. The interplay between financial and physical markets shapes the future of the metals industry. Demand for copper and steel is expected to rise due to power grid expansion, data centers, and AI chip wiring. Lithium, in short supply from China, is crucial for energy transition and EVs. Bloomberg notes the world’s reliance on metals. Supply may not meet future demand.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Gold and silver hit records in 2025. They aren’t the only metals having a massive year.