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The HC Commodities Podcast

The HC Commodities Podcast

337 episodes — Page 3 of 7

Ep 222Protectionism with Alex Tuckett

Commodities sit at the heart of global trade and as such are at the center of the rise of protectionism. After a long period of globalization and ever freer trade, there is a perceptible and growing shift back to mercantilism and protectionism. This is driven by great-power competition with the energy transition being a key driver. Tariffs, sanctions and direct market intervention are ever more commonplace. To discuss this trend, its causes and its impact on our sector is Alex Tuckett, Head of Economics at CRU, the independent commodity analytics, consulting and pricing agency. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Oct 22, 202441 min

Ep 221How Batteries are Changing Power Markets with Casey Keller

Utility scale batteries are proliferating across Western power grids, particularly in the US. And far more are set to come. These batteries offer the ability to manage grids, especially with the influx of renewables, or make economic returns on trading around them. Yet, their very presence is changing the dynamics of power markets. What are these batteries, where are they placed and who owns them? How and who trades around them and what do they mean for the future of power markets? All this and more is answered by our guest Casey Keller, Head of Assets and Development at Caerus Commodities. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Oct 15, 202445 min

Ep 220Punishing Putin with Stephanie Baker

Russia’s full scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 triggered an avalanche of economics sanctions by the West. What followed was an undeniably world-changing financial experiment that risked throwing the world into a devastating recession, testing the very limits of economic warfare and Western cohesion. Commodities sit at the heart of this story with profound ramifications for the global sector. But is it succeeding? Our guest is Russia expert and veteran Bloomberg investigative journalist Stephanie Baker who’s new book - Punishing Putin: Inside the Global Economic War to Bring Down Russia - explains in fascinating detail how this furious shadow-war unfolded: its causes, how it is being executed, and its ability to affect Russia and the course of history. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Oct 8, 202447 min

Ep 219US Natural Gas Trading in a Global Market: Live Event hosted by Six One Commodities

Over the next two years, the US is set to export some 12bcf/d extra of LNG. What does this mean for the US market? Where will it go? And can supply keep up? Will there be sufficient demand in Europe? And what does this mean for traders - is a global footprint now a must? Are the gas markets entering a new truly globalized era where US supply sets the price? All that and more is discussed in this special live event recording of The HC Commodities Podcast held on September 19th in Houston. The event was hosted by Six One Commodities and co-sponsored by Bridge Alternatives and Phillips66. Our panelists were Harrison DeStefano, CCO of Six One Commodities, Nathan Arentz, MD, Skylar Capital Management, Anne-Sophie Corbeau, Global Research Scholar at the Center on Global Energy Policy and Graham Fisher, Head of Natural Gas Trading at P66. To hear about future events, including one in NYC on October 16, sign up to the HC Group Newsletter. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Oct 1, 202449 min

Ep 218Shale 4.0 with Matthew Bernstein

Shale Oil & Gas has turned the US into an energy power house over the last 15 years. Will it disappear as quickly as it arrived or will it set to US apart for years to come? Within its short life, it has evolved quickly and our guest Matthew Bernstein now characterizes it as Shale 4.0. What were the previous iterations in participants, economics and output and what does the future hold? Matthew Bernstein is the Manager of Shale Analytics at Rystad Energy, the independent energy data and analytics firm. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Sep 24, 202448 min

Ep 217Coffee with Charlie Stephens

A commodity close to many of our hearts, but how does it end up in our mugs? Where is it grown, how is it processed and who trades it? How do the derivative contracts work and what might the future hold as climate, geopolitics and consumer tastes evolve? Our guest is Charlie Stephens, President of Amarella Café, an independent specialty coffee trader in the Americas. Still in his twenties, Charlie also shares his story on how he launched his own trading company. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Sep 17, 202449 min

Ep 216Strategy and AI with Dr. Seth Dobrin

Is the commodities world lagging behind in AI adoption? And if so, how should the sector’s leadership think about applications and use? What even is it and how is it being used by other sectors? Our guest is Seth Dobrin, CEO of QuantmA1, an AI consultancy and General Partner at 1Infinity Ventures, a VC fund. Seth was former Global Chief AI Officer at IBM and Head of Digital Strategies at Monsanto. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Sep 10, 202449 min

Ep 215Where are Oil Prices Headed? With Aldo Spanjer

As we head toward the end of the year and into 2025 where are oil prices headed? In this episode we recap the major events and decisions since COVID and the key drivers of oil prices. Then we turn to the outlook for the next two years. What is the supply and demand picture? What could OPEC’s upcoming decision mean – could a new price war start? And what are the potential disrupters in a more volatile geopolitical landscape. Returning to the show is Aldo Spanjer, Senior Commodity Strategist at BNP Paribas.To attend our upcoming HC Commodities Podcast Live Event please RSVP here: https://www.eventcreate.com/e/hc-commodities-podcast-houston For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Sep 3, 202445 min

Ep 214The Brazilian Power Market with Adriana Waltrick

Brazil has been steadily deregulating its power market over the last two decades. This combined with one of the largest share of renewables in the generation mix of any advanced economy, alongside hydrocarbon production in the ‘Pre-salt’ off the coast, has made it a hugely dynamic market with lots of opportunity for participants, both domestic and international. What is Brazil’s generation mix and power market structure? How volatile is the market and why? What pressures do participants face? How liberalization survived multiple political changes and what might the future hold? Our guest is Adriana Waltrick, CEO of SPIC, the fifth largest power generation company in the country. To attend our upcoming HC Commodities Podcast Live Event on September 19 in Houston please visit: https://www.eventcreate.com/e/hc-commodities-podcast-houston For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Aug 27, 202436 min

Ep 213Regime Change in European Power and Gas Markets

Are we seeing a regime change in Europeangas and power markets? Is Europe now entering a period of structurally lower energy prices and economic advantage as its decades long investment in renewables starts to pay off? Will other countries have to go through this journey? What does this mean for power trading opportunities? As we approach winter, is the European Energy Crisis in the rearview mirror? What of natural gas? Huge amounts of LNG are forecasted to arrive on European shores in the coming years. What will this mean for Europe’s gas markets and what’s the impact on the US, the main exporter, as well as other parties along the gas value chain? Our guests are Senior Commodities Strategists, Aldo Spanjer and James Huckstepp from BNP Paribas. To attend our upcoming HC Commodities Podcast Live Event in Houston on September 19 please RSVP here (in person event only):https://www.eventcreate.com/e/hc-commodities-podcast-houston For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Aug 20, 202452 min

SUMMER REPEAT The Hidden Demographic Problem for Commodities with Todd Thurman

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The UN predicts global population will peak sometime in 2080s around 10 billion people. Companies, countries (think global social security schemes) and the commodities sector predicates forecasts on these assumptions. Yet, there is a growing body of evidence that these assumptions are far too optimistic and that not only will global population peak earlier but will subsequently decline much more rapidly. Already much of the West and Asia is in decline and replacement rates of falling at an accelerated pace. Is this a long-range risk no board rooms are talking about? Our guest is analyst, futurist and swine consultant Todd Thurman who has become a global authority on the subject on how it will impact the commodities world. We also have an upcoming HC Commodities Live Event in Houston on September 19th. To RSVP (for free) please click here:https://www.eventcreate.com/e/hc-commodities-podcast-houston For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Aug 13, 202446 min

Ep 212Compliance & Enforcement in the Commodities Sector with Gerben Schreurs and Barry Vitou

Global regulators are narrowing their focus on the commodities sector and billions of dollars have been paid in fines. The world has become both more transparent and more risky in the wake of deglobalization, sanctions and the energy transition bringing its increased public scrutiny. The risks are enormous both the companies and individuals. And as such, compliance is an ever more important topic. To discuss compliance, enforcement and best practice is Gerben Schreurs, Partner at the Forensic Risk Alliance, or FRA, an independent forensics firm that conducts investigations, monitorships and compliance reviews, as well as Barry Vitou, Partner at HFW, the global law firm, where he is Head of Investigations, White Collar and Compliance. As always, you can really support the show by leaving us a positive review on the platform you're listening on. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Aug 6, 20241h 7m

Ep 211Commodity Professionals: The people behind the trade with Jonathan Kingsman

show. Jonathan’s new book - Commodity Professionals: The people behind the trade – is a collection of interviews spanning all the professions that create the commodity supply chains. How have these roles evolved in a more volatile world? How are the trading houses fairing since we last caught up with Jonathan?For more on HC Group visit: www.hcgroup.global For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Jul 30, 202444 min

Ep 210The Complexity in the Energy Transition with Marco Raugei

The energy transition is complex. That complexity tends to be papered over with simplifications and beliefs, even myths, both within the sector and the broader public on both sides of the debate. Yet, to make the right investments and decisions as companies and societies, it requires careful analysis and ultimately managing the inherent trade-offs. In this episode, we zoom in on the reality of the energy transition, the science required and the competing philosophies. Our guest is Marco Raugei, Senior Lecturer and Researcher at Oxford Brooks University. He is an Environmental Scientist with a PhD in Chemical Sciences and lectures on energy systems and Life Cycle Assessments. Marco has spent his career researching the very energy systems, particularly in transportation, that drive our economies today and in those of the future. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Jul 23, 202457 min

Ep 209The Super Charged Capex Cycle with Jeff Currie

Is the commodity super cycle, long heralded, a mirage? Or, super charged by a capex cycle, are we just at the start? What is the state of the commodity investment cycle? Why and how has geopolitics and dollar weaponization changed the landscape? If there is a global run up in prices will energy keep pace with metals? What does all this mean for the trading sector and investors? Returning to the HC Commodities Podcast to give his analysis of the commodities markets over the last year, and what the outlook is, is Jeff Currie, now Chief Strategy Officer of Energy Pathways at The Carlyle Group. He is the former Global Head of Commodities Research in the Global Investment Research Division at Goldman Sachs.For more on HC Group visit www.hcgroup.global For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Jul 16, 202447 min

Ep 208Data Centers: engines of change in power markets with Eugene McGrane

Data is the new the economic engine of the world. Globally, data centers are proliferating bringing their huge demand for energy – especially clean energy delivered reliably. Markets, policy and regulation are still adapting, often too slowly, to the changing energy mix and decarbonization demand. Could data centers be the engines of change to bring our power grids into a renewable ready world? Could this be the energy management opportunity of the decade for power traders? Our guest, Eugene McGrane argues just this. Eugene is an Executive Managing Director at Cushman Wakefield, supporting their power clients across all real estate categories. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Jul 9, 202442 min

Ep 207Commodities in Portfolio Construction with Hussein Allidina

In this episode we explore commodities’ role in asset management and portfolio construction? Why should asset managers and investors seek exposure to commodities within their portfolios? What are their historical long-term performance as part of a broader mix of equities and debt? Indeed, are institutional investors currently underweighted, especially as we enter a period of higher inflation and industrial restructuring? Our guest argues they are and outlines why: Hussein Allidina is Managing Director and head of commodities at Toronto Dominion Asset Management.For more on HC Group visit www.hcgroup.global For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Jul 2, 202438 min

Ep 206Hedging with Samuel Basi

Hedging is the basic tool of the commodity trader. Yet, outside that community it is little taught, little understood and underutilized – especially as raw material prices are becoming more volatile in an age of disruption. What is hedging? What are the costs and benefits and why is it not more exploited up and down the value chain. Our guest is Samuel Basi, author of the new book “Perfectly Hedged. A Practical Guide to Base Metals”. Samuel is the founder and CEO of Perfectly Hedged LLC a training consultancy for the sector and a former metals trader at both Trafigura and Greenwich Metals. For more on HC Group visit www.hcgroup.globalfor Perfectly Hedged visit: www.perfectlyhedged.com For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Jun 25, 202434 min

Ep 205Geographic Arbitrage with Michael Ferrari

In commodities, the lowest cost producer or shipper is king.This in turn drives siting assets, determined by human factors such as cost, legal and tax regimes and geographic factors like proximity to rivers, coasts, production and markets. However, today the world is becoming more volatile both in weather events and in policy. And in fact locations a few miles apart can have very different risk profiles – with those choosing wisely outstripping competitors as crucial times of disruption. And those risks are now being mapped down to the precise GPS coordinates. Our guest is someone who is leading the charge. Michael Ferrari is Chief Scientific Officer & Chief Investment Officer at AlphaGeo - AI-powered geospatial predictive location analytics platform that enables clients to assess location risks in the commodities sector and beyondTo visit AlphaGeo - https://alphageo.ai/ For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Jun 19, 202439 min

Ep 204The Unstoppable, Exponential Energy Transition with Kingsmill Bond

In this episode, our guest argues that not only is the energy transition happening, it’s happening faster and more profoundly that you can imagine…and it’s being led by China. The ‘age of renewables’ will be very different than the ‘age of carbon’ and the same forecasting assumptions do not apply. The energy transition is being driven by technology, economics, geo-strategy and, of-course, necessity. And the data proves it. Our guest is Kingsmill Bond, Senior Principal at the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI). Kingsmill’s latest analysis is available in the link in the show notes. https://rmi.org/wp-content/uploads/dlm_uploads/2024/06/RMI-Cleantech-Revolution-pdf.pdf For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Jun 11, 202447 min

Ep 203Russian Sanctions with Sarah Hunt

In a deglobalizing and volatile world, sanctions can upend commodity markets overnight. Commodities underpin global trade and are often themselves direct targets of sanctions or swept up in restrictions imposed on trade infrastructure, such as finance and shipping. In this episode, we do a deep dive on the suite of Russian sanctions imposed since the invasion of Ukraine. How do sanctions work? How are they imposed and by whom? What are the specific Russia related sanctions and what are their consequences for the commodities sector? And how should companies prepare for and manage them? Our guest is Sarah Hunt, commodity trade and sanctions specialist lawyer at HFW. To find Sarah's seminar on sanctions visit the podcast page at www.hcgroup.global For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Jun 4, 202452 min

Ep 202The Japanese Power Market with Xavier Veillard

In this episode, we are diving into the Japanese power market, which by virtue of its size, generation mix and recent liberalization, is fast becoming one of the most active power markets in the world, attracting a host of domestic and international energy merchants. What is the regulation that underpins the market? How does it function and who are the participants? Who is, and where do you get, the talent to build such a capability. Our guest is Xavier Veillard, Partner at Mckinsey, heading their global power and gas commodities offering. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

May 28, 202439 min

Ep 201Governmental Relations, Planning and Policy with Peter Stahley

Western Governments have enacted a slew of policies to support energy security and its transition to a greener future. These policies can radically shift the economic landscape for the commodity sector participants. However, the reality of implementing these policies, from the power lines needed to the mines for critical metals, requires navigating byzantine levels of planning and approval. What does this mean for the West’s ability to compete in the energy transition. What does this mean for commodity traders who have historically eschewed close governmental relations? Why does that need to change? Our guest is Peter Stahley, Senior VP at Cassidy & Associates, a governmental relations service. For pdf discussed visit https://www.hcgroup.global/hc-insider/hc-insider-podcast/governmental-relations-planning-and-policy-with-peter-stahleyFor more on HC visit www.hcgroup.globalFor more on Cassidy & Associates https://cassidy.com/ For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

May 21, 202454 min

Special: Enco Insights at 6 months with Bill Read

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To find our more about Enco Insights visit www.encoinsights.com For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

May 16, 202418 min

Ep 200200 Episodes with Paul Chapman

In this episode, to celebrate 200 episodes and a name change, our host Paul Chapman reflects on the podcast, its goals and development and the back catalogue. A body of work, still highly relevant, that has traced the trends, participants and individual commodities (some old and some new), through one of the most interesting periods in the sector’s long history. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

May 14, 202434 min

Ep 199Trade Finance in Uncertain Times with Kristofer Tremaine

Trade finance is the lifeblood of the commodity sector. Liquidity shrank throughout the last decade in the wake of regulatory changes. Now deglobalization and sanctions, environmental pressures and volatility threaten this key resource. How have the banks responded and what of alternative providers? What does this mean for commodity traders and the markets themselves? Kristofer is the founder of Kimura, an asset management business dedicated to the commodities sector, with a central focus on private credit trade finance.Kimura host a stable of successful podcasts which you can visit here: https://www.kimuraperformance.com/category/podcasts/ For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

May 7, 202441 min

Ep 198Dry Freight, FFAs and Technology with Mads Frank Markussen

In this episode, we do a deep dive into the dry freight market and how bulk commodities are shipped around the world and by whom. As the commodities markets themselves become more efficient, freight markets are starting to represent one of the biggest sources of risk and opportunity available to traders and charterers. This, in turn, is driving convergence between the traditional separation between ship owners, charterers and the traders. What is the structure of the market for dry freight? How do participants use Freight Forward Agreements? What is the impact on talent? And how could coming technology disrupt and develop this volatile corner of the commodities world. Our guest is Mads Frank Markussen, Head of Research and Market Intelligence at the European ship owner and freight trader, Navi Merchants For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Apr 30, 202453 min

Ep 197The Future of Switzerland as a Commodities Trading Hub: Live Event

links to SuisseNegoce commodities review: https://www.suissenegoce.ch/commodities/commodities-2024-enLinks to Allassohttps://www.allasso.com/homeLinkes to Artis Works https://www.artis.works/ For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Apr 23, 202447 min

Ep 196The Carbon Markets with Ariel Perez

In this episode, Ariel Perez, Head of Environmental Products at Hartree Partners, returns to update us on the state of the carbon markets over the last two years in a more inflationary and unstable world? Global commodity leaders are calling for a price for carbon – are we any closer? How have compliance markets fared in the energy crisis and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine? Have compliance markets expanded globally? How have voluntary markets fared? What were the key outcomes from COP28 and what does the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism mean for the world? Could this be the catalyst for a global carbon pricing mechanism that can provide the much needed basis for market based solutions to the energy crisis. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Apr 16, 202446 min

Notes from the FT Commodities Summit 2024

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To attend our HC Insider Podcast Live Event on the Future of Switzerland as a Commodities Trading Hub on April 16th, please RVSP here: https://www.eventcreate.com/e/hcinsider-podcast-geneva For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Apr 11, 202431 min

Ep 195AI and Commodities with Felipe Elink Schuurman

To sign up for our HC Insider Podcast Live Event in Geneva on the evening of the 16th April please RSVP here:https://www.eventcreate.com/e/hcinsider-podcast-genevaWe are discussing the Future of Switzerland as a Commodities Trading hub For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Apr 9, 202440 min

Ep 194Dedollarisation with Jonah Van Bourg

The US Dollar has been the world’s global reserve currency since the Second World War, underpinning global trade and US dominance. However, as our guest argues, its use as a global policy tool such as in sanctions, increasing geopolitical competition and political instability at home is threatening its status. Various countries and blocs are attempting to circumvent dollar trades. Yet, perhaps, the dollar’s biggest threat comes from blockchain and especially Bitcoin. What does that mean for commodities and the world? Our guest is Jonah Van Bourg, former oil derivatives trader at Goldman Sachs and Vitol, crypto and precious metals trader at DRW and now helping to build Onyx Commodities. Jonah is also the co-host of the 1000x podcast.To see the 1000x podcast visit: https://www.youtube.com/@1000xPodcastFor more on HC Group visit: www.hcgroup.global For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Apr 2, 202447 min

Special: The Baltimore Bridge Collapse

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You can request to sign up for Mercury Resources newsletter here: https://www.mercuryresources.com/contact-us For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Apr 2, 202421 min

Ep 193Uranium with John Cash

In this episode we address that very special commodity Uranium, crucial to the energy and defense industry alike. Nuclear’s role is the energy transition is increasingly recognized. But where will the needed Uranium come from in a more fragmented world?How is Uranium mined, processed and delivered to the nuclear energy plants. Where is it produced and who controls the supply chain? How is Uranium traded? How has the market fared and what does the future hold. Our guest is John Cash, CEO of Ur Energy (URG), the leading uranium miner in North America. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Mar 27, 202446 min

Ep 192Virtual Barrels with Ilia Bouchouev

In this episode, Ilia Bouchouev joins to discuss his new book, ‘Virtual Barrels: Quantitative Trading in the Oil Markets”. What are virtual barrels? How has oil trading been fundamentally changed due to them? What has that meant for flat price, participants and trading strategies? The book is a comprehensive exploration of quantitative trading in the markets and introduces innovative approaches to pricing oil options and advances the theory of storage. Ilia is Managing Partner at Pentathlon Investments, a Senior Research Fellow at Oxford Institute of Energy Studies and an Adjunct Professor at NYU.You can find copies of his book here:https://a.co/d/c5LKs44And follow his work here https://www.oxfordenergy.org/publications/energy-quantamentals-myths-and-realities-about-algorithmic-oil-traders/ For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Mar 20, 202445 min

Ep 191Are the markets forecastable? with Matteo Mazzoni

At the core of commodity trading is forecasting. The last decade of low prices and low volatility has transformed into a market of high volatility and higher prices. How has that changed the nature of forecasting? What does it mean for tools, models and skillsets. And are markets still forecastable? Our guest is Matteo Mazzoni, Director of Energy Analytics at ICIS, an independent commodity intelligence service that provides data analytics in energy and chemicals. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Mar 13, 202440 min

Ep 190The Path Forward: Driving Diversity in the Trading Community

On Tuesday 27th February, HC Group and bp hosted a breakfast and networking event for women in the trading and origination community. The highlight of the morning was a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring industry leaders Carol Howle, EVP Trading & Shipping at bp and Alice Acuña, EVP Trading at CEPSA. Moderated by Laura Berger, Portfolio Director, Liquid Fuels & Chemicals at HC Group, the panel delved into strategies for fostering greater diversity and inclusion within commodity trading. The discussion resonates with this year's International Women's Day theme, "Inspire Inclusion." Let's continue to work together in championing diverse perspectives and contributions, ensuring inclusivity for all women. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Mar 8, 202440 min

Re-release: Energy Transition & Geopolitics with Daniel Yergin

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Hydrocarbons have been a key driver of geopolitics and globalization over the past century. Even in the past decade, we have seen how US shale production and China’s energy security policies have dramatically changed the world. Now, peak demand and the energy transition is set to upend decades of global policy and economics – with a huge impact on the commodity markets. Will battery metals become the crucial natural resource? Will the electron revolution reverse globalization? We are delighted to have as our guest, Pulitzer Prize winning author and Vice Chairman of IHS Markit, Daniel Yergin at the time. We discuss Daniel’s latest book – The New Map, Energy, Climate and the Clash of Nations and explore his take on the future of hydrocarbons and the impact of energy transition.To find out more about HC and our talent advisory services in the energy & commodities sector visit www.hcinsider.global To connect with our host Paul Chapman, you can find him at www.linkedin.com/in/paulchapmanhc/ For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Mar 6, 202449 min

Ep 189The Trading Future of Critical Minerals: HC Insider Podcast Live Event hosted by Benchmark Mineral Intelligence

Why is it crucial to the energy transition that critical minerals that underpin it develop traded markets? What will it take to get there? And what are the challenges that this future faces - from uncertain policies, to supply chains and geopolitics? On February 22, in London, Benchmark Minerals Intelligence hosted the HC Insider Podcast in front of a live audience to discuss these questions. Our panellists were Guy Winter, Partner at Fasken, Jessica Fung, Head Strategist at Pala Investments, Matthew Ashley, Lead Cobalt Trader at Traxys and Caspar Rawles, Chief Data Officer at Benchmark.For more on HC Group go to: www.hcgroup.global For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Feb 28, 202448 min

Ep 188The World in a Grain: Sand with Vince Beiser

Sand has transformed modern civilization. It is the ubiquitous commodity; in our infrastructure, in our industry and even in our personal care products. Yet due to its characteristics, the supply chain is fragmented, disastrous for our environment and often corrupt. And by a tragic quirk of geometry, desert sand is unusable meaning we wreck our riverbeds and oceans to acquire it. In this episode, author and journalist Vince Beiser joins us to discuss sand and its role in the modern world. Vince is the author of The World in a Grain - the story of sand and how it transformed civilization. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Feb 21, 202446 min

The UK's Pumpwatch Scheme with Gideon Carroll

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CEO of Edge Petrol, Gideon Carroll joins Enco to discuss the UK's Pumpwatch Scheme proposed by the government. What is in it? And what will the impact be on consumers, fuel retailers and wholesalers?For more on Edge Petrol visit https://www.edgepetrol.com/For more on Enco Insights visit www.encoinsights.com For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Feb 16, 202414 min

Ep 187Neodymium, Gallium & Hafnium with Ellie Saklatvala

In this episode, we return to critical metals and how their fortunes are affected by the energy transition, technology and geopolitics. To tell that story we are focusing on three in particular: Neodymium, Gallium & Hafnium. Each has a key role in the modern world with demand set to grow but with challenges markets and policy makers are grappling with. Our guest is Ellie Saklatvala, Head of Non-Ferrous Pricing at Argus Media, the leading independent pricing agency. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Feb 14, 202440 min

Ep 186Private Equity's role in the Energy Transition with John Skrinar

The energy transition requires the mobilization of vast amounts of capital. It affords huge opportunity but also risks. The technological pathways, policy support and geopolitics are uncertain and volatile. How can these risks be managed? And opportunities be captured? In this episode, we go into the world of private equity and the thinking and strategies needed to participate in the most profound economic restructuring in modern times. Our guest is John Skrinar, partner at Cresta Fund Management, a mid-market infrastructure fund, investing in the energy transition.To find out more on HC Group visit: www.hcgroup.global For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Feb 7, 202444 min

Ep 185Data as a Strategic Asset with Jason Vogt

Information has always been the lifeblood of commodities trading. Today, the sources of data that provides the information and insight have grown exponentially - as has its value. So much so that companies are viewing data as a strategic asset, transforming how they value, collect, manage, and protect it. And once that mindset is in place, it can be transformative. To understand more about this key insight and journey, we are joined by Jason Vogt, Managing Director of Cargill Data Asset Solutions.To find out more about Cargill and Cargill Data Asset Solutions visit: https://www.cargill.com/data-asset-solutionsFor more information and to RSVP for our upcoming HC Insider Podcast Live event on Feb 22 in London visit: https://benchmarkevents.benchmarkminerals.com/TheTradingFutureForCriticalMinerals For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Jan 31, 202437 min

Ep 184Cheap Peak Oil, Geopolitics and China’s plan with Doomberg

In this episode, Doomberg joins us to discuss their most recent analysis and controversial views of the oil and commodities markets. Why Peak Oil is unlikely to happen and oil will remain cheap and abundant. How US oil production has changed the energy map and the in turn its role in global security – a gap which China is planning to fill. And how China’s grip on critical minerals for the energy transition is tightening at the expense of its environment – “Geopollutical Warfare”. Doomberg runs the leading paid Substack which is focused on energy, finance and economics (his voice is modulated to match their Green Chicken avatar).For more information on HC Group go to www.hcgroup.globalFor more information on Doomberg and content go to https://doomberg.substack.com/ For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Jan 24, 202443 min

Ep 183Singapore’s Role as a Key Commodities Trading Hub with Lee Pak Sing

Singapore has been a leading commodities trading hub for decades. Its strategic location, strong governance and connectivity have spurred the growth of a rich ecosystem of global trading firms in the city-state. How is Singapore navigating the changing world of commodities? Amidst deglobalization, digitalization and the energy transition, how is Singapore staying relevant and keeping ahead of the curve? And how does this impact its long-term strategy and talent development plans? Our guest is Lee Pak Sing, Assistant Chief Executive Officer of Enterprise Singapore, the Singapore government agency that champions enterprise development and supports the growth of Singapore as a hub for global trading and startups. For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Jan 17, 202434 min

The Evolution of Expert Networks

bonus

In this final bonus episode of Enco Insights, CEO Bill Read discusses the history of expert networks, the genesis of Enco Insights and its aims and goals.For future episodes of Enco Insights, please follow the podcast on your preferred platform. For more information on Enco please visit www.encoinsights.com For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Jan 16, 202412 min

2023 Annual Review: The Centrality of Talent

bonus

Our 2023 Annual Review is published and ready for download. The review contains key trend and market moves within the energy & commodities world alongside data driven analysis and editorials. Download here or on our website: https://www.hcgroup.global/hc-insider/market-reviews/access-annual-review-2023 For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Jan 14, 20241 min

Ep 182The Future of Food & Ag with Robert Berendes

What does the future hold for the agri sector and the food our plates? And what does it mean for the sector’s participants and investors? Robert Berendes, Executive Partner of Flagship Pioneering and longtime industry executive and investors sets out his views on the paradigm shifts the sector is going through. How has the last four years changed the sector and impacted investors? And what are the surprising views Robert holds on the availability of food, land and changing nature of commodity trading. To find out more on HC Group visit: www.hcgroup.globalTo find out more on Flagship Pioneering visit: https://www.flagshippioneering.com/people/robert-berendes For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Jan 10, 202446 min

Ep 181The Oil Market with David Wech

To start the New Year, in this episode we review the oil markets in 2023 and the likely major themes and trends in 2024. Why were forecasts for 2023 mainly wrong – 100$ oil never materializing? What were the major market, policy and geopolitical events that drove prices and what do these herald for 2024? Will the volatility continue? What are the trends in production, refining, shipping and consumption? Our guest is David Wech, Chief Economist for Vortexa, the ship tracking and data analytics firm For related content and to find out more about HC Group, a search firm dedicated to the energy & commodities sector, visit https://www.hcgroup.global

Jan 3, 202447 min