Copper prices are drawing significant attention in 2026 due to a predicted global shortage driven by increasing demand from electric vehicles and AI data centers. According to NS3.AI, experts anticipate a 10 million tonne deficit by 2040, exacerbated by supply constraints. Asia is expected to account for 60% of the demand growth. Analysts indicate that copper prices could potentially double in the near future if they manage to break out of a long-term rising channel.