Labor Day

Labor day began in the 1800s to honor workers who fought for fair wages and safer conditions during the Industrial Revolution.

In commodities, this holiday serves as a good reminder of a few things:

1) Commodities are not just numbers flashing on a screen. Behind each price there are workers drilling, mining, smelting, harvesting, all to produce the very items that allow society to function.

2) While most of us in the US enjoyed a well-deserved day off yesterday, commodities don't take holidays. Commodity markets are running 24/7, which requires the ability to stay engaged while relaxing - easier said than done I know!

3) Regardless of your opinions on labor unions themselves, collective efforts drive results. Whether that's among your direct trading desk, the different departments that you work with, or company direction as a whole - united teams almost always outperform solo efforts.

4) Know your value. If the quality you are bringing isn't being recognized, don't just accept it. I'm not saying every request for a raise or promotion is deserved, but if you can demonstrate your contribution and it's overlooked, it's probably time to take those skills elsewhere.

I hope my US connections were able to enjoy the unofficial end of Summer the last couple of days...my head is certainly telling me that I did!