RTRS; India copper extends losses on economic outlook
India's copper futures extended losses on Thursday afternoon, after gaining for two continuous session, as a U.S. Federal Reserve forecast stoked fears about demand outlook.
The Fed cut its forecast for economic growth over the next three years on Wednesday, sparking a sell-off of Wall Street equities and denting hopes for a quick recovery from the downturn.
The most traded June copper contract MCCM9 was 2.48 percent lower at 216.15 rupees per kg at 3:32 p.m.. "Copper is pressured by easing equity markets and weak economic outlook, which may cut demand," Priyank Upadhyay, head of research with Commtrendz Research.
"Copper can go up to 210 rupees in a couple of days," said Upadhyay. "Resistance is pegged at 218/220 rupees."
LME copper inventories continued to decline and fell by 5,400 tonnes to 336,075 tonnes on Thursday.
Meanhile, a weak dollar overseas limited the downside for the red metal.
The dollar fell to its lowest in almost five months against a basket of currencies, extending a slide from the previous day, after the Federal Reserve said it considered buying more securities at its last policy meeting. [USD/]
The May zinc MZIK9 was 2.55 percent lower at 68.70 rupees per kg, while lead for May delivery MLDK9 was 2.60 percent lower at 67.30 rupees per kg at 3:32 p.m..