MARKET TALK: LME Copper Eases, Likely To Range $7,800-$8,000

LME copper eases slightly from morning highs, some players looking to sell short-term as upward momentum not strong at moment, says Hong Kong-based trader. Says "people are hesitant to get long at the top of the market," adding until sentiment changes copper will struggle to break $8,000. But adds downside supported by buy-on-dips as latest Chinese copper data bullish, provides underlying support to copper's 2-month bull run, though data was mostly expected by market; tips range trade between $7,800, $8,000, copper likely to pare losses in London trade. LME 3-month copper down $120 on London Friday PM kerb at $7,830/ton.