[Citigroup Turns Bullish on Copper Prices for the First Time Since 2026, Targeting $15,000/ton] BlockBeats News, June 1: Citigroup's latest report reveals that the bank has turned bullish on copper prices for the first time since 2026. It predicts that copper prices will rise to $14,500/ton within the next month and further increase to $15,000/ton over the next 12 months, leaving more than 10% upside potential compared to the current LME three-month copper price. Citigroup believes that uncertainty surrounding U.S. refined copper tariff policies, combined with expectations of the Strait of Hormuz returning to normal navigation, will provide support for copper prices. The bank anticipates that the U.S. government may continue to maintain a "strategic ambiguity" stance on tariff policies to encourage companies to keep higher inventory levels. Meanwhile, Goldman Sachs has also raised its copper price forecast, increasing its year-end 2026 target price from $12,465/ton to $13,735/ton. Citigroup points out that the construction of AI data centers, grid expansion, electric vehicles, and the development of the renewable energy industry are continuously driving copper demand. The report suggests that AI infrastructure, electrification transitions, and energy system upgrades will become key drivers of future copper demand growth. However, Citigroup also warns that factors such as the ongoing deterioration of the Middle East situation, slowing global economic growth, and fluctuations in inventory and demand could still pose downside risks to copper prices.