RE: IMF Raises Global Growth Forecast And that's not the complete picture. Although I am not an economist, I suspect the faster growing segments within the greater global econonmy are those which are more likely to use base metals, particularly copper. When we start looking at the emergence of third world countries such as China and India, their growth will involve the use of copper for building materials, vehicle demand, and consumer electronics, including battery technology. Bear in mind that many of the homes in China and India are currently making the progression from "outside plumbing" to modern systems utilizing copper pipes and fittings. And car ownership, which was only a dream for many of them ten years ago, is quickly becoming a reality.