Copper headed for a weekly gain as signs of a rebound in Chinese demand helped offset hawkish Federal Reserve messaging about further interest rate rises. Benchmark futures were little changed near $14,460 a ton on the London Metal Exchange on Friday, on pace for the 11th weekly advance in the past 12. That streak saw the metal advance to a record earlier this month.

The return of Chinese buyers to the fore provided key support amid broader market uncertainty. Analysts noted that improved demand from China’s manufacturing and construction sectors is balancing tighter monetary policy expectations from the U.S. central bank. The London Metal Exchange remains the primary benchmark for global copper pricing.

Market participants are watching for further cues from Chinese economic data and Fed communications. Copper’s resilience highlights its sensitivity to both industrial demand and interest rate trends. The metal’s performance underscores ongoing volatility in commodities markets.

Traders are positioning for potential continued gains if Chinese demand sustains. The weekly advance reflects a broader trend of metal strength despite macroeconomic headwinds.