This Week’s Scrap Metal Prices & Market News

Copper Prices Hold Strong at $5 — Is This the Calm Before the 2026 Surge?

Report Date: 11/12/2025

Hey Scrappers!

It’s great to be back — and even better to see that the government shutdown is finally ending. Before diving into the markets, we want to take a moment to thank and honor all of our veterans. Your service and dedication continue to protect and strengthen our nation.

Over the past two weeks, scrap markets have been remarkably steady. Copper, aluminum, and steel prices have shown little movement, while catalytic converter and carbide markets have held firm. This type of stability going into the end of the year is something both traders and scrapyards can appreciate, especially after several volatile quarters earlier in 2025.

Should you HOLD or SELL your scrap?

Non-Ferrous News:

Copper prices remain near $5.00 per pound, holding firm over the last two weeks. According to Kitco Metals, this steady level reflects a strong equilibrium between supply and demand. Traders appear confident that global infrastructure and electrification projects will keep copper well-supported through early 2026.

The U.S. energy grid expansion, AI data center construction, and EV-related power infrastructure are all contributing to ongoing copper demand. As Bloomberg reported last week, several domestic mining projects and recycling facilities are scaling operations to meet these growing needs — a long-term win for the scrap sector.

This balance has created consistency and clarity for scrapyards, allowing for smarter purchasing and pricing strategies. If these levels hold through the first quarter of 2026, scrappers could be looking at one of the most stable copper environments seen in years.

Aluminum

Aluminum markets have also stayed strong and steady, currently averaging around $1.20–$1.25 per pound depending on grade. Automakers are maintaining solid production levels, with MetalMiner reporting that North American vehicle output remains 6% higher than last year.

Demand from EV manufacturers continues to support pricing, especially for higher-grade aluminum scrap used in lightweight vehicle components and battery enclosures. The steady industrial activity suggests aluminum will remain consistent through year-end, barring major economic shifts.

Ferrous News:

Steel prices have seen a slight pullback after brief gains last month. Shredded and heavy melt steel are both trading near levels seen in mid-summer, around $330–$350 per metric ton.

Despite a short-lived uptick earlier this fall, weaker manufacturing output and limited export demand — particularly from Turkey and Asia — have slowed momentum. Recycling Today reports that many mills are still cautious about overstocking into the slower holiday months.

As the year winds down, it’s typical to see some choppy behavior due to seasonal slowdowns and traders taking profits before year-end. While that can lead to minor dips, it doesn’t signal a demand collapse — just a breather before Q1 2026.

Catalytic Converters:

Catalytic converter prices have remained flat week-over-week, which is welcome after a roughly 10% increase through September and early October. Precious metals — platinum, palladium, and rhodium — have all shown resilience even after gold’s recent rally cooled slightly.

The steady demand for converters has kept values firm, especially for OEM units tied to higher rhodium content. Traders expect continued support as the auto and recycling industries balance inventories heading into the slower winter months.

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Carbide & Rare Earth News:

Carbide, tungsten, and tin alloy prices have continued their upward climb. Manufacturing and oil production growth across the U.S. are helping drive steady consumption of these materials. MetalMiner noted a 4% rise in tungsten demand tied to precision tooling and medical equipment manufacturing.

The medical and aerospace industries, in particular, have been big buyers of tungsten due to its strength and heat resistance — a trend that shows no sign of slowing.

Get a quote from our team and take advantage of our free shipping options.

Wrap-Up:

The end of the year always brings mixed market behavior. With holidays, plant shutdowns, and year-end financial cycles, we often see pricing dip slightly as traders lock in profits and reduce positions. Don’t let temporary pullbacks discourage you — the overall demand for base and specialty metals remains healthy.

The combination of stable copper and aluminum, firm converter values, and strengthening carbide prices paints a very optimistic picture heading into 2026.

For scrappers, this is an excellent time to stay active, keep relationships strong with buyers, and continue moving material — because steady markets like these are where consistency pays off.

Scrap ya later!

Other Resources for Scrap:

Disclaimer: This material is solely for informational and educational purposes. It should not be interpreted as a suggestion or recommendation to buy or sell any commodity or associated securities. The author, Tom Buechel, holds no positions in the commodities or securities mentioned herein. His analysis often incorporates broad perspectives to foster diversity and objectivity. He may occasionally feature contrarian views and various market influences to maintain an unbiased approach. Content provided by iScrap App.