Copper gained markedly as investors sought riskier assets, with the metal in particular getting a boost from positive manufacturing data from around the globe and a supply disruption in Chile. A strike at state-owned Codelco's Chuquicamata copper mine in Chile began Monday.

Chuquicamata produces about 4% of the world's copper supply. Inventories of copper stored in LME warehouses rose 75 metric tons, leaving them at 502,400. The most recent Comex inventory data, released late Thursday, were up 22 short tons at 99,182 short tons. For today market is looking for the support at 344.90, a break below could see a test of 342.50 and where as resistance is now likely to be seen at 349.50, a move above could see prices testing 351.70.

Trading Ideas:

Copper trading range is 340-355.

Chile's Codelco says strike halts Chuqui output which produces about 4% of the world's copper.

Copper is now having support at 345.80 and resistance at 349.20 level

Copper daily stock at Shanghai exchange came up by 1224 tonnes.

BUY COPPER FEB @ 344-345 SL 342 TGT 346.50-347.80-348.50-349.60. MCX