MARKET TALK: Base Metals Inch Up As Sentiment Stays Firm

Copper, other base metals inch up as EUR/USD, gold, near term fundamental outlook remain supportive, though volume fairly thin as players await cues from London, NY; "base metals continue to be supported by low inventory and the market perception that the global economy can mange a soft landing," says Shanghai-based trader. LME 3-month copper at $7,725/ton, +$65 on London PM kerb; Shanghai counterpart up just CNY80 at CNY71,720/ton. LME aluminum +$3 at $2,744; zinc +$15 at $3,965, nickel flat at $31,750.