The line graph illustrates the average monthly percentage change in the prices of three key metals – copper, nickel, and zinc – throughout the year 2014. Overall, all three metals experienced considerable volatility in their monthly price changes, with nickel showing the most dramatic fluctuations, particularly a sharp initial surge and subsequent plunge. While all generally saw positive changes at the beginning of the year and ended positively, there was a noticeable dip into negative territory for all in the middle months. At the outset of 2014, Nickel recorded the highest monthly price change, soaring by 6% in January. In contrast, Copper and Zinc registered more modest increases of 2% and 1% respectively. However, Nickel’s strong start was short-lived, as its price change plummeted over the next five months, dropping to approximately 1% by March and reaching a low of -3% in June, which was the most significant fall among the three. Zinc, after peaking at a 3% increase in February, also trended downwards, falling into negative territory at -1% in June. Copper, meanwhile, showed a more gradual decline, remaining above zero until May, then dipping slightly to -0.5% in June. The latter half of the year saw a general recovery in the monthly price changes for all three metals. From its June trough, Nickel’s change rebounded to just over 0% in July and, after a brief stability around -1% from August to October, it surged again to reach 1% by December. Copper, after its slight dip, recovered to 1% in July and largely maintained this positive change for the rest of the year, finishing just above 1%. Zinc also demonstrated a clear recovery pattern; after hitting its lowest point of -1% in June, it gradually climbed back, briefly touching 2% in July before settling around 0.5% until October, finally ending the year with a robust 2% increase, making it the highest performer in December.
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