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Copper declines

NEW YORK: COMEX copper fell by midday in quiet trading as the market drifted along on the lack of fundamental news and market interest, traders said.

"It's lower but it's dead. The market is straddling 140 cents but can't get above it so there is no follow through. There is a lack of interest," a floor source said.

At 1222 EDT December was at 136.90 cents a lb, off 0.50 cent, traded 137.90 to 136.40 cents. September was off 0.75 cent at 138.80 after reaching a high of 139.90 cents.

"There is no fundamental rationale for the market moves today," the floor source said.-Reuter