Upward momentum that has propelled copper prices to within a whisker of the psychological $10,000 a metric ton mark is expected to be sustained by the appearance of shortages over the coming months.Copper prices have recently been bolstered by expectations of tight supplies and optimism about demand prospects from energy transition applications such as electric vehicles and new technology such as artificial intelligence and automation.A pick-up in manufacturing activity, particularly in top consumer China where surveys of purchasing managers have started to show expansion has also contributed to enthusiasm for copper which this week hit a two-year peak at $9,988 a ton for a gain of 25% since early October.Copper's gains have been partly triggered by the reversal of short -- bets on lower prices -- positions taken when the outlook for Chinese demand looked decidedly gloomy due to shrinking manufacturing activity.Copper industry sources say tight supplies will soon be seen in draws on stocks in LME approved warehouses and those monitored by the Shanghai Futures Exchange .