Copper, base metals prices rise amid hope for stronger China demand; energy, grains mixed

Base metals rise on hope of growing China demand

DENVER — Prices of copper and other base metals are rising as traders speculate that demand may be growing stronger in China.

Prices settled higher Monday for copper, palladium and platinum — all of which are used in manufacturing.

China is a voracious consumer of commodities. Gains in China’s stock markets on Monday was interpreted by commodities traders as a sign that industrial production there could be improving.

Gold and silver also are higher, but energy and grains prices are mixed.