The Benefits & Pitfalls of Commodities Trading

A commodity trader at a food company observed that prices of coconut oil, an ingredient in most of the company’s products, was forecast to trend higher.  He, therefore, ordered more than two (2) months’ supply of coconut oil, buying from several vendors who offered the lowest prices.  When the coconut oil price indeed increased daysContinue reading “The Benefits & Pitfalls of Commodities Trading”

Negotiating Needs Time

One important thing the expert hostage-negotiator, Chris Voss, teaches in his book, Never Split the Difference, is to exercise empathy with whom we negotiate with.  Mr. Voss advises we listen intently, ask questions, and mirror what the other party says as the latter cites whatever demands he or she puts on the table. Easier saidContinue reading “Negotiating Needs Time”