Commodities & Futures

The surge in precious-metals prices this year comes alongside rising exchange-traded-fund purchases and increased volatility, factors that some investors say point to a bumpy ride ahead.

Following a growing season last year filled with record-breaking rainfall and bitter trade wars, U.S. farmers hoped 2020 would provide them an opportunity make up ground. Instead, the situation has only grown worse for many.

Natural gas prices have shot up 66% since late June, and speculators are betting they will keep climbing. But the companies that control the country’s spigots aren’t so sure.

Copper rose above $3 a pound for the first time in more than two years, extending a recent rally driven by steady Chinese demand and disruptions to global supply.

A guide to the market for the precious metal, whose price hit an all-time high during the coronavirus pandemic.