Masterclass on Working in Commodities by Dr. Patrick Lecomte

The Masterclass on Working in Commodities was held on Wednesday, 28 October at ESSEC Asia-Pacific. Led by Dr. Patrick Lecomte, Executive Director of the Advanced Master in Financial Techniques (Financial Engineering Asia Track), the Masterclass provided participants with a glimpse into the world of commodities and what it is like pursuing a career in commodities.

During the Masterclass, Dr. Lecomte gave an introduction to commodities, speaking about the ways to invest in commodities, the investment characteristics of commodities, the participants in commodity markets, as well as the role of investment banks in commodity markets.

Asia and Commodities

Addressing the topic of Asia and commodities, Dr. Lecomte spoke about the growing share of Asia’s global commodity consumption, with a growing proportion of commodity trading occurring during the Asian trading time zone. Highlighting the latest developments in commodities in Singapore, Dr. Lecomte also explained that many initiatives have been taken to develop Singapore as a regional hub in various commodities, including the SGX LnG Index Group (Weekly Spot Price Index). He also touched on the impact of China’s rapid growth on commodities markets worldwide, which makes it necessary for professionals working in commodities to constantly stay updated on the developments of China’s economy.

Working in Commodities

Speaking about where ESSEC graduates interested in commodities can work, Dr. Lecomte explained that they can work in Investment Banks, Trading Houses, Producers (Corporate), Users (Corporate), Commodity Funds, Hedge Funds, Private Equity Groups and Futures Exchanges. He highlighted that there is a significant difference in working in an Investment Bank and working in a Trading House due to distinctions in the working culture and nature of the job, with jobs in trading houses requiring a different mindset, and where skills are more applied.

Following the Masterclass, alumni from the Advanced Master in Financial Techniques (Financial Engineering Asia Track) Arthur Magnien, currently working in BTG Pactual, and Raymond Tsui, currently working in Societe Generale, shared their experiences of studying at ESSEC and how the program has prepared them for their current roles in commodities.