S&P Global warns of a looming 'systemic risk' to global economies due to a major copper shortage. The data group forecasts a staggering 10 million tonne deficit by 2040, a gap equivalent to nearly one-third of current global demand. This forecasted shortfall is driven by the rapid expansion of green energy technologies and electric vehicles, which heavily rely on copper for wiring and motors, while new mining projects fail to keep pace.

The implications for the global economy are severe, threatening to derail the energy transition and fueling inflation as manufacturers face soaring input costs. Investors and governments are now urged to prioritize supply chain resilience and invest in new mining capabilities to avert a crisis that could stifle economic growth and technological advancement.