The metal price increase is due to China buying up huge amounts of metals for their enormous economic boom. Their economy is increasing about 10% a quarter, an astronomical amount. And they're buying up all the metals and other resources they can from around the world to supply it. This has caused prices to rise since mining companies can't keep up with the demand. If you don't believe me, compare the price of copper wiring today with a few years ago, it's gone up several hundred percent. I actually work in the mining industry, and have seen the mining boom first hand.