Trading up

In recent years, physical energy and commodities trading has entered into a new era of sophistication and scale. Changing global economic conditions are giving rise to exciting new opportunities, but also hazards. International trading houses -whether in oil, metals or soft commodities - are extending their reach and scope, while expanding control of supply chains. The expectation of stricter regulation, financing constraints, emergent resource nationalism and fierce competition reward agility and adaptability as never before. 

Issues covered include:

• greater optionality through assets;
• creative sources of funding;
• current risk and regulation challenges;
• information as a strategic asset; and
• places and people.