How to Launch a Physical Commodity Trading Firm Without Network & Experience

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In this video, a former physical commodity trader provides a realistic blueprint for starting a physical commodity trading firm without a network or prior experience.

Timestamps :

00:00 – Cold open: How to launch with no network or experience
00:24 – Intro: who I am & why I’m legit
01:34 – What I’ve built (AcuMaterial, Chromatic Dragon) + student wins
02:11 – Quick CTA: download the SACA brochure
02:37 – Format for today (mini-deck + Q&A)
03:11 – The core rule: VALUE = de-risking the transaction
03:41 – Example: refinery → tanker → small pump (why traders exist)
05:23 – How margin works (risk taken × capture %)
06:16 – Trader vs Broker (and how to sniff brokers)
07:38 – The entry paradox: need a market to find an opportunity
08:15 – The solution: start from a real buyer need
09:06 – Step 1: find an anchor buyer (no network? no problem)
09:32 – Outbound playbook: Chambers, associations, events, LinkedIn search
11:21 – Use trade data tools (e.g., shipping records) the smart way
11:51 – Goldmine: inspectors, forwarders, free-zone directories
13:11 – Underrated: packaging/lab suppliers as intel hubs
14:04 – Inbound engine: launch a niche B2B newsletter
15:02 – Growing it: CTAs, LinkedIn outreach, paid ads
16:39 – Publish small wins to attract real players
17:26 – CTA recap + transition to Q&A

— Q&A —

18:59 – How much capital do you actually need to start?
19:40 – I have a buyer …do you really? how to validate
20:12 – Certifications e.g., GlobalG.A.P.: useful or bureaucracy?
22:34 – How traders de-risk (the couch from Algeria analogy)
24:24 – Copper cathode reality: spot? discounts? don’t get trapped
25:18 – Can banks finance your first trade? what to ask instead
26:42 – Should you follow geopolitics? sources vs signal
27:57 – Hiring vs apprentices (and why I hire from SACA)
28:13 – Remote teams vs in-office for juniors
29:57 – Advice to miners/processors: mine, process, don’t trade
30:59 – How to get local market intel when data is thin
31:41 – Geneva Master in Commodity Trading: who it’s for
32:45 – Why online marketplaces fail in commodities
35:37 – More on copper: allocations and why you won’t get them
36:41 – Insurance and performance bonds (what’s realistic)
37:24 – Do small traders need futures or hedging?
37:54 – Time split: analysis vs relationships and execution
38:19 – Romania steel mill closure: is there an angle?
38:59 – What to say on outbound so buyers don’t ignore you
39:37 – Non-bank financing options for SMEs
40:30 – Using Chambers of Commerce effectively
41:09 – Most profitable vs most risky parts of the chain
43:04 – Pricing niche stuff e.g., tire chips: how to triangulate
44:00 – Wrap-up: no live next week Dubai + request topics

Disclaimer
The content of this video is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, legal, or other professional advice. Nothing in this video should be interpreted as a specific recommendation to buy or sell any investment or financial product. Always consult with a qualified professional regarding your individual circumstances before making financial decisions. All views expressed are my own and do not necessarily reflect those of my employer or affiliated institutions. Investments carry risk, and past performance is not indicative of future results.