What is a commodities trader?

Commodities traders are professionals who buy and sell physical goods such as oil, metals, agricultural products, and other raw materials on behalf of clients or for their own accounts. They analyze market trends, negotiate contracts, and manage risk to maximize profits. Commodities traders may work on trading floors, for investment banks, hedge funds, or commodity-specific firms. Their work is vital for ensuring the efficient distribution and pricing of essential goods across global markets.