The demand for copper and fiber optics has surged to unprecedented levels in 2026, driven by the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure. Copper prices have soared, with LME three-month copper nearing $14,000 per ton and COMEX copper reaching $6.63 per pound, marking a 41% increase over the past year. This surge is attributed to the growing need for copper in electric vehicles, power generation, and AI data centers, where it is essential for power distribution and cooling systems. Simultaneously, the fiber optic market is experiencing a "famine" as AI data centers require massive optical connectivity. Prices for fiber optics have more than doubled, with China's G.652D bare fiber increasing by over 80% in just three months. The demand for fiber optics is driven by the need for high-speed data transmission in AI clusters, which far exceeds the capabilities of traditional copper cables. This has led to significant supply constraints, with manufacturers unable to meet the soaring demand, resulting in extended delivery lead times.