Accepted an offer from a physical commodities trading firm for a rotational program, would appreciate more clarity on the industry in general.
Hi everyone, I've recently accepted a full-time offer for a graduate rotational program at one of the larger physical firms (Glencore/Traf/Vitol/Merc) and quite excited about the opportunity. I would really appreciate it if someone could provide some more clarity on the questions below.
Before the questions, here is a little background about myself:
Location: Asia | UG: Double majored in engineering + econ (Tier-1 Uni in my country) | Internships: <1> 10 months at a European BB in credit risk <2> SDE/Product at a mid-sized startup | WorkEx: 4 months in the same team at the European BB.
Questions:
1. What are my options post the 2-year stint (both in the commodities space and beyond it).
2. What are the few things that I should be looking at in my workplace to gauge my fit in the commodities space?
3. Given an option, which commodity to choose and how/why? (I am most likely to be put in metals in the beginning).
4. What stuffs to look out for If I want to know If I have the aptitude to become a trader or not?
5. How does networking in the commodities space differ from that in IB/PE/VC?
I am asking for help here as I have very little visibility in this field and most of my information is from this forum and the internet in general, which speaks mainly about US or European hotspots.
I am also not able to connect with any traders or the big people. It was relatively easy for G10 FX folks, but not able to get through to the traders in this field.
I also understand that this is not a feeder program for a junior trader role. Hence, would like to have some advice tailored to it if possible :)
Also, any piece of advice for this new joiner would be much appreciated, thanks!
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's some insight into your first question about options post the 2-year stint in the commodities space and beyond it.
After a 2-year stint in a rotational program at a physical commodities trading firm, you have a variety of options. You could continue your career within the commodities space, perhaps moving into a more specialized role or taking on more responsibility within your current area. This could involve becoming a trader, moving into a management position, or specializing in a particular commodity.
Alternatively, you could leverage the skills and experience you've gained to move into a different area within the finance industry. For example, your understanding of commodities could be valuable in a role in investment banking or private equity that focuses on the commodities sector. Your experience in a trading role could also be useful if you wanted to move into a different type of trading.
Finally, you could also consider roles outside the finance industry. The analytical skills, understanding of markets, and ability to make decisions under pressure that you develop in a trading role are transferable to a wide range of other careers.
Remember, the path you choose will depend on your interests, skills, and career goals. It's a good idea to take advantage of the opportunities to learn and network that your rotational program offers to explore the different options available to you.
Sources: Physical Commodity Trading, Physical Trading: Best commodities to be in?, Physical Commodity Trading career: If you started over again.
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