HC Commodities Podcast - Cross commodity industry
Category: Podcast

Navigating Trump 2.0: Part 2 - Trading Cognitive Dissonance with Nick Kumleben

In Part 2, we continue our discussion on navigating the new Trump Administration. Why are metals and critical minerals central to the administrations agenda? What does it mean to prioritise security over economics and sustainability?  How to manage the inherent internal conflicts between co-existing policies and statements, and what the trading opportunities might be for the energy & commodities sector.  

Our host, Paul Chapman, welcomes back Nick Kumleben, the Energy and Commodities Director at Greenmantle, the geopolitical and macro advisory firm that weaves in historical context to help organisations understand the current markets and opportunities within them.

Nick Kumleben, energy and commodities director at Greenmantle.
Nick Kumleben, energy and commodities director at Greenmantle.

Key Talent Takeaways 

Geopolitical Awareness is Essential

Professionals must now integrate geopolitical developments into core decision-making. Understanding the impact of tariffs, sanctions, and shifting global alliances is critical for navigating today’s commodities landscape.

Public-Private Fluency is in Demand

With growing government intervention, talent must be able to work across both public and private spheres. The ability to manage regulatory complexity and engage with agencies is becoming a key differentiator.

Intelligence-Led Strategy is Key

Success increasingly hinges on strategic foresight. The best talent will offer insight into government policy and market shifts, beyond traditional supply-demand models.

Evolving Priorities Require Adaptive Skills

Cost efficiency is being replaced by priorities like energy security and supply chain resilience. Leaders must adapt to new success metrics tied to national and strategic interests.

Talent Mobility Faces New Barriers

With rising trade barriers and geopolitical tensions, global mobility is no longer a given. Talent strategies must now account for regional risks and reduced international stability.

HC Group is a global search firm dedicated to the energy and commodities markets.

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