MARKET TALK: China Restocking May Aid Copper Through 1Q

Copper restocking in China expected to be bullish for copper in 1Q, says Shanghai-based trader; "restocking will continue as consumers currently have extremely low stock levels, but weak oil prices may be a negative influence on sentiment." For now, current bounce in LME copper keeping some local investors on sidelines, skittish amid volatility of recent uptick and as prices again nearing $6,000/ton short-term psychological barrier. LME 3-month copper last at $5,830/ton, down $69 from PM kerb.