<p><strong>Copper</strong> is a reddish, malleable industrial metal, primarily known for its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity. It's often used as an economic indicator, referred to as a <em>bellwether</em>, due to its wide range of applications in various industries, including construction, electronics, and manufacturing.</p>
<p>Copper matters to investors and traders because its price movements can reflect the overall health of the global economy. When economic growth is strong, demand for copper typically increases, driving up its price. Conversely, during economic downturns, demand and prices often decrease. For instance, during the 2008 financial crisis, copper prices plummeted by over 50% within a year, reflecting the global economic slowdown. Thus, tracking copper prices can provide valuable insights into economic trends.</p>