International Trade & Commodities Newsletter: In-Short v8

Introduction

The commodities market has had an improved start to the year following the increase in prices of a wide variety of commodities.

2017, as predicted, has seen a modest recovery for most commodities, as demand strengthens and supplies tighten. At the same time, sudden policy shifts, changing sanctions regimes and rapidly evolving technologies are presenting new challenges and opportunities for traders.

Political risk has been a significant factor throughout 2017 and this is likely to continue as we move into 2018. The perceived unpredictability of the Donald Trump presidency in the USA, continuing instability in the Middle East and uncertainties in the outcome of Brexit discussions are all likely to have some impact on global trade.

These factors together are creating both exciting opportunities and new challenges for players in the...