Five Copper ETF Options Worth Monitoring as Industrial Demand Surges

Why Copper Remains Critical in the Energy Revolution

Copper’s role in the global clean energy transition cannot be overstated. The industrial metal possesses four fundamental characteristics that position it as essential infrastructure for renewable technologies: superior electrical conductivity (highest among non-precious metals), ductility (can be formed into wires, sheets, and pipes), exceptional thermal efficiency (approximately 60% more efficient than aluminum), and complete recyclability with zero performance degradation.

From solar installations to wind turbines, electric vehicle manufacturing to bioenergy systems, copper serves as a backbone component. Market Intelligence data projects that copper demand will surge approximately 82% between 2021 and 2035 due to accelerating clean energy adoption.

Recent price weakness in copper reflects temporary headwinds—primarily China’s economic slowdown, as the country dominates global copper consumption. March futures contracts recently touched their lowest point since mid-November before recovering some losses. For investors seeking exposure to this industrial metal through conventional investment vehicles, several ETF options merit attention.

A Comprehensive Copper ETF List for Investors

Direct Futures Exposure: US Copper (CPER)

Established in October 2012 by USCF Investments, CPER provides straightforward access to copper futures markets. The fund exclusively holds copper futures contracts, tracking the commodity’s price movement after accounting for operational costs. Currently managing $125.1 million in assets with a 0.88% expense ratio, CPER remains relatively flat on a year-to-date basis.

Large-Cap Miners: GX Copper Miners ETF (COPX)

Since May 2011, Global X ETFs’ COPX has tracked the Solactive Global Copper Miners Total Return Index, providing broad exposure to major copper extraction companies worldwide. With $1.4 billion in assets under management and a competitive 0.65% expense ratio, COPX’s portfolio includes industry giants like Southern Copper, Freeport-McMoRan, and Ivanhoe Mines. Year-to-date performance shows a 2.8% decline.

Emerging Miners: Sprott Junior Copper Miners ETF (COPJ)

Launched in January 2023 by Sprott Asset Management, COPJ focuses on smaller opportunities within the copper sector. Tracking the Nasdaq Sprott Junior Copper Miners Index, this ETF concentrates on mid-cap, small-cap, and micro-cap companies engaged in copper development and exploration. With $4.9 million in assets and a 0.75% expense ratio, COPJ holds positions in Compania de Minas Buenaventura, Ero Copper, Capstone Copper, and Hudbay Minerals. The fund is down 4.1% year-to-date.

Diversified Metal Mining: iShares Copper and Metals Mining ETF (ICOP)

BlackRock’s ICOP provides broader exposure to both copper and metal ore mining operations globally. Managing $4.9 million with an attractive 0.47% expense ratio, this ETF captures both U.S. and international copper mining equities. Top holdings span Grupo Mexico, Freeport-McMoRan, BHP Group, Ivanhoe Mines, and Antofagasta. ICOP has declined 4% year-to-date.

Beyond Copper: iShares Global Select Metals & Mining Fund (PICK)

BlackRock’s PICK, launched in January 2012, extends beyond pure copper exposure to encompass diversified metals and mining operations worldwide, excluding precious metals. With $1.1 billion in assets and a low 0.39% expense ratio, PICK provides sector diversification while maintaining copper mining exposure through holdings like BHP Billiton, Rio Tinto, Freeport-McMoRan, and Nucor. Year-to-date performance stands at minus 7.4%.

Positioning for Long-Term Copper Appreciation

The copper ETF list above offers multiple pathways for investors to capture potential gains from surging industrial demand. Whether targeting direct commodity exposure, pure-play mining companies, or diversified metal sector participation, these vehicles provide mechanisms to benefit from copper’s essential role in global decarbonization efforts.