Energy Trading Analyst - spot or forward?

Hey WSO,

I'm tossing up the decision between trading analyst roles at two utilities. One is supporting the spot desk and the other is supporting the forwards desk. Both teams are power/gas. Remuneration is the same, but the spot role is 24/7 shift work (same hours as the traders).

The forwards desk seems more data science focussed (this appeals to me and matches my skillset), but the spot desk seems like a great opportunity to really learn how physical markets work.

Long term goal is to work overseas. I got some great advice in my previous thread to target the bigger trading houses after getting a few years experience. Which role do you think would most easily facilitate this? Or are they both roughly equal in terms of future overseas opportunity? I'm pretty torn between them, I think I would truly enjoy both roles so I'd really love some help in making this decision. Would appreciate any insight you may have. 

Cheers!

 
Most Helpful

Physical or Financial?  Both?

I always recommened to folks that IF you plan on being in the industry for the long term, do the 24 hour desk first and THEN move up the tenor curve.  You will get a MUCH better sense of the market, asset bidding, phys dispatch, etc.

If you are more of a screen trader type with fundamental and technical tendencies, you do not need the 24 hour desk.

Simple Example:  If you care WHY the coal plant tripped, then go 24 hour.  If you just care THAT it tripped, then you can skip it.

Namaste. D.O.U.G.
 

Hey D.O.U.G, yeah after some more research and hearing your opinion it seems like going with the 24 hour desk is the best option. The how and why of the market is interesting to me so this role seems like the best fit. The forward stuff also sounds interesting though, so maybe after a bit of intraday experience I can move up the tenor curve as you said. I've been wrestling with this decision for awhile now so thank you for your input :) much appreciated.

 

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