AL Circle Blog

In this blog of Hedging with Jorge, we conclude our exploration of the third core function of the London Metal Exchange (LME): delivery. After diving into cash settlement and reversing futures positions, we now take a close look at what it means to physically deliver aluminium when you’re short on the futures market. The delivery […]

In this blog of Hedging with Jorge, we explore the third critical LME role delivery. Learn what happens when you opt for physical settlement instead of closing your futures contract. From broker interactions to warehousing costs, this 6-minute breakdown with Jorge and Ian unpacks it all. Watch now to understand how delivery premiums work and […]

In this blog of Hedging with Jorge, we step into the real-world journey of acquiring aluminium and the often-overlooked costs that come with taking delivery. From LME warrants to consolidation charges, Jorge breaks down the concept of the equivalent premium, a cost that begins accruing the moment you decide to bring the metal home. Suppose […]

In Jorge’s blog, we’re diving into the third crucial role of the London Metal Exchange (LME): delivery. If you’ve ever wondered what happens if you don’t close your futures position on time, this one’s for you. Let’s start with a simple scenario. Suppose you’ve taken a long position in the aluminium futures market, expecting prices […]

In the previous blog, we explored the LME’s primary function, i.e., price discovery. Today, we shift our focus to its second essential role, hedging. The LME isn’t merely a platform for observing metal prices, it empowers participants to actively manage price risks through strategic trading. Hedging involves establishing long or short positions using futures and […]

The London Metal Exchange (LME), established 147 years ago, stands as a cornerstone in the global metals market. Its longevity and reputation have cemented its status as a trusted institution for price discovery and risk management. Price discovery is the process through which market prices are determined by the interactions of supply and demand. At […]

In the world of aluminium trading, understanding your strategic choices as a speculator is crucial. One of the key tools available to traders is the put option, a financial instrument that offers the right to sell, but not the obligation. In this blog of “Hedging with Jorge,” we delve into the fundamental dynamics of a […]

In previous blogs of Hedging with Jorge, we explored how put options function for investors and speculators. Now, it’s time to look at how these same tools can support hedgers, those who aim to protect value rather than speculate on market movement. Let’s start with the basics, like why would a hedger buy a put? […]

Introduction When navigating the aluminium market, hedging strategies play a crucial role in risk management. Two common methods used by traders and speculators are selling futures and buying put options. While both techniques are employed to benefit from a declining market, they function differently and carry distinct risk profiles. Let’s break it down. Selling futures […]

Introduction In the world of metals trading, particularly in aluminium, hedging strategies play a crucial role in risk management. One such approach involves using put options. But what exactly is a put option, and how does it compare to selling futures? In this episode of Hedging with Jorge, we dive deep into the mechanics of […]