Copper falls on concerns about global demand

Copper prices are losing ground as global events such as Japan's crisis are renewing concerns about demand in the next few months.

Copper for May delivery fell 7.25 cents Wednesday to settle at $4.274 a pound.

Investors question whether copper demand may soften with Japan's recovery from the earthquake and tsunami, ongoing financial problems in Europe and rising oil prices.

Thousands of factories in Japan were idled by tsunami damage and power disruptions after this month's earthquake. That has left shortages of auto parts and technology components.

Copper is used in manufacturing a variety of products from construction materials to electronics.