Tracking a weak global trend, copper prices softened by 0.17% to Rs 444.40 per kg in futures trade today as speculators trimmed positions.
Sluggish demand at the domestic spot markets put pressure on the metal prices.
At the Multi Commodity Exchange, copper for delivery in February shed 75 paise, or 0.17%, to Rs 444.40 per kg, with a business turnover of 261 lots.
November copper traded lower by 70 paise, or 0.16%, to Rs 439.35 per kg, with a business turnover of 4,384 lots.
Marketmen said positions offloaded by speculators in tandem with a weak global trend ahead of data that may add to signs of economic weakness in Europe, reduced demand for industrial metals, leading to a decline in copper futures prices.
Subdued domestic demand put pressure on the metal prices, they said.
Meanwhile, copper for delivery in three months declined 0.4% to $8,294.25 a tonne on the London Metal Exchange.
