As a business that specialises in adapting metal tubes, including offering services like tube expansion, we have to keep an eye on the wider metals markets. Things like prices, supply, and demand have a massive impact. We want to have a closer look at a couple of key points here because there are potential signs that shortages could be on the horizon. If that does happen, it could be a tricky time for businesses in various industries.

Rising values

The key piece of news is there have been increases in the values of various metals recently. Crucially, both copper and silver hit new record highs. The estimate is they could cool slightly in 2026, but rise again towards the end of the decade. In fact, many experts are estimating that this could be the start of a bull market for key metals. Long term trends in the last ten years point to steadily rising prices. As a result, there is plenty of optimism from investors.

There are a couple of key factors behind the recent record high prices for copper and silver. Let’s explore them.

The increase in the value of copper is largely due to higher demand and big investments in electrification around the world. The main driver here is EVs because they use far more of it than vehicles with combustion engines. Similarly, EV infrastructure such as charging stations relies on it. Demand from the construction sector, green tech, and other industries is also pushing up prices. We help clients in many industries with services like tube expansion.

Silver has always been the cheapest of the major precious metals, and by a significant amount. However, it did achieve a new record high. The major reason is there is so much demand for it from the solar industry. A typical PV panel can contain a surprising amount of silver. Crucially, it is made into a paste and formed into electrodes to create solar cells. Its impressive conductivity makes it one of the best materials for the job.

Problems on the horizon?

While demand is high and pushing up prices, the supply side of key metals like copper and silver is tricky. The estimate is there could be a shortfall next year. If that happens, values could increase even more.

A key factor here is there was a massive global dip in exploration for metals in the middle of the last decade. As a result, it will take time for newer discoveries to have a meaningful impact on supplies. Plus, it takes more time for projects to get approval in the first place.

There are also a number of other factors at play that have an impact on different copper producing nations. For example, Peru is one of the main producers and has dozens of mines. However, there has been a decade of political unrest in the country.

Get in touch if you need services like tube expansion

Multiform Tubes Engineering Ltd appreciates how vital different metals are. They are significant resources for all kinds of applications, from power and vehicles to furniture, food production, and construction. Without them, the modern world would be a very different place.

Solutions like bending, rolling, and tube reduction are equally important to adapt basic metal products into components. We’re proud to help, specialising in working with tubing. We can adapt various materials, including copper, steel, aluminium, and more. So, get in touch if you have a project in mind.