Commodities Trading

Commodity trading involves the trade of essential primary products such as metals, grains, oil etc. and intangibles such as interest rates, stock market indices etc. Participation in the global commodity trading business is a key mechanism used by modern organisations to accept or avoid additional risks arising due to uncertain prices of key core commodities. Given the global interconnectivity between commodity markets and capital markets, finance professionals need a sound understanding of how these markets function and the determinants of price movements and risk factors within these markets.

This course aims to critically analyse the structure and features of key commodity markets, factors which influence the prices of commodities, inherent risks associated in different commodities and the role played by key regulators in ensuring end to abusive speculation within the commodity markets. 

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course, you will be able to:

1. Critically evaluate the functioning of different types of commodity markets and how derivatives are traded in these markets
2. Specify factors which effect commodity price
3. Critically appraise the mechanisms of delivery and settlement in commodity trading
4. Critically evaluate the impact of key regulators and regulatory changes within the commodities market

Course content

You will cover the following topics:

• Skills for studying at masters level (including numeracy skills)
• Commodities as a new asset class and types of commodities
• Structure and features of metal, dry bulk trade and other major commodity markets
• Unique features of the energy and oil markets
• Commodity trading platform
• Risks associated in various commodity markets
• Factors which impact commodity prices
• Commodity derivatives
• Key regulators in the commodity markets
• Contemporary issues within the commodity market
• Regulatory changes

Pace of study

For this short online course, we recommend about 20 hours of study per week to complete one 20-credit module over a 10-week trimester.

Assessment method

This course is assessed through 100% coursework with a range of methods, such as essays, research reports, presentations, group work and practical reports which will be handed in and assessed at the end of the 10 week trimester. There will be 1/2 virtual classrooms over the 10 week trimester and if you are unable to attend you will be able to download the session to view in your own time.

^‡2023/24 for new entrants

Starting between September 2023 and August 2024.

UK/EU fee: £1,055

International fee: £1,055

About your fees

Prices are correct for the year of entry shown. These are subject to annual increase in subsequent academic years.

You will need one of the following qualifications:

• UK degree from any subject area or equivalent overseas qualification
• ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) F1-F9
• CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) Strategic Level

Entry is possible if you have HND or level 5 and two years of relevant managerial experience within finance.

Apply directly to the University.

Apply now

For support with completing your application, view our guide to the application process.

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