What is Commodities Trading?

Commodities trading is the buying and selling of raw materials or primary agricultural products. There are hard commodities, which are generally mined natural resources like gold or oil, and soft commodities, which are livestock or agricultural goods.

Commodities trading predates all other forms of trading, as burgeoning civilizations would barter for food and supplies. In modern times, the physical commodities market is hugely dependent on futures prices, enabling producers (such as farmers) to secure a price from buyers in advance.

However, the sophisticated network of commodities exchanges that exists today enables speculative traders to access the price movements of these assets in the short term.

Trading on commodities gives you exposure to the prices of oil, gas, metals, and more, without ever having to take physical delivery of the asset or worry about storing them. Unlike futures contracts, CFDs do not have a specified expiry date, giving you flexibility on when you close your position.

Many investors view commodities as a potential hedge against inflation, as their prices are not highly correlated with other assets. Gold in particular has historically been considered a safe haven, as it tends to retain its value during times of economic uncertainty.

Trading CFDs on commodities also enables you to use leverage to amplify your exposure. This can magnify your profits but also your losses, as both will be based on the full value of the position.