The Metals Markets in 2024 and Beyond with David Wilson

Key Talent Takeaways

Increased Interest and Talent Demand in Metals

There’s a growing public and institutional interest in metals due to the energy transition narrative, which has spurred demand for talent, especially within industrial metals like copper, aluminium, and nickel. This trend is driven by metals’ key roles in renewable energy infrastructure and electric vehicles.

Shift Toward Financially Savvy Talent

With financial sentiment increasingly impacting metal prices, firms are seeking professionals who can navigate both fundamental analysis and market sentiment. Experienced traders who can interpret price signals beyond physical supply and demand, including algorithmic trading patterns, are particularly valued.

Specialised Roles in Battery Metals and Energy Transition

As battery metals (such as copper, nickel, and lithium) gain importance, there’s a rising demand for specialised roles focused on these areas. This includes analysts and strategists who can assess long-term supply-demand shifts driven by new battery technologies and electric vehicle market shifts.

Expansion of Metals Trading Teams

Some firms, including new players in the metals space, have been building metals trading teams from scratch, with aggressive hiring in 2024. These expansions are driven by the goal of positioning early in the energy transition market, balancing between current oversupply in some metals and expected future demand surges.

Adaptation to Regional Policy Uncertainty

Policy changes and global economic factors, such as potential shifts in U.S. trade policy and China’s economic policies, are creating a demand for talent who can operate amidst uncertainty. There’s a premium on talent skilled in policy analysis and in adapting trading strategies accordingly, as these policies could impact supply chains and production costs.