Why Commodities with James Cordier

James Cordier
  • 5.0 (2)
  • INVESTING
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Join "Why Commodities," hosted by James Cordier, a seasoned trader, author, and founder of Alternative Options and the Cordier Commodity Report. This podcast explores the world of commodity markets. James will explain how crude oil, gold, soybeans, and more drive the global economy. Learn how global events impact market trends and get insights into commodity fundamentals like supply and demand. "Why Commodities" aims to provide an alternative option to financial wisdom. Whether experienced in the market or just starting, James and his guests will help you understand an underused instrument to find new investment opportunities. Subscribe to "Why Commodities" now.

Episodes

  1. 7H AGO

    How Energy and Gas Prices Move During Conflict

    Oil prices jumped to $120 a barrel. Gas prices followed immediately. Most people blame conflict in the Middle East. Commodity trader James Cordier explains why the real story runs deeper.In this episode of the Courtier Commodity Report, host Joe Pardavila asks the question many people ask during market chaos. Why do prices rise instantly even when supply still exists?Cordier explains the role of trader psychology, media hype, global reserves, and investor panic. He also breaks down why gold and silver surged earlier in the year, why Bitcoin money moved into metals, and what oil prices likely look like months from now. Topics include: • Why oil jumped so fast • The role of conflict in energy markets • Panic buying and trader psychology • China’s massive oil reserves • Floating storage holding hundreds of millions of barrels • Why prices rise fast but fall slowly • The link between the dollar and commodities • What copper reveals about the global economy Whether this commodity boom tops soonIf you follow energy markets, commodities, or the global economy, this conversation gives a clear look at what drives the headlines. Chapter Breakdown 00:00 Introduction 00:30 Where people actually buy gold 02:00 Oil prices explode to $120 03:30 Why metals surged earlier this year 04:30 Bitcoin money moving into gold and silver 05:00 Middle East conflict and market psychology 06:00 Do fundamentals support $120 oil 07:30 Floating oil storage and global reserves 09:00 Why markets react before facts appear 10:30 Media hype and panic buying 12:00 How fast prices fall after conflict ends 14:00 Why gas prices drop slower than they rise 15:00 Central banks and gold demand 16:30 The dollar’s influence on commodities 17:30 Trader psychology during volatile markets 19:00 The "Get Me Out" panic trade 20:30 Why traders struggle with emotional decisions 21:30 Commodity boom compared with the 2000s 23:00 Future oil supply from Iran and Venezuela 25:00 Stable oil price scenario ahead 26:00 Why copper matters for the global economy 27:30 Final thoughts

    29 min
  2. What Gold, Oil, and Copper Reveal About Inflation

    FEB 10

    What Gold, Oil, and Copper Reveal About Inflation

    Markets feel shaky. Headlines move fast. Noise feels nonstop. In this episode of the Cordier Commodity Report, Joe Pardavila sits down with veteran commodities trader James Cordier to break down what is actually driving gold, silver, oil, and inflation right now. James explains why commodities often signal economic reality faster than stocks or headlines, and why real assets sit underneath every major shift, including AI, energy policy, and global conflict. The conversation covers why copper and silver matter more than many tech stocks, how interest rates and the US dollar move commodity prices, and why inflation shows up at the grocery store long before it shows up in reports. You will hear why beef prices are not coming down anytime soon, why politicians cannot flip a switch on supply, and why gold behaves differently than almost every other commodity. James also explains who really uses futures markets, why hedgers matter, and how investors think about commodities without chasing speed or leverage. This episode strips away buzzwords and focuses on supply, demand, and incentives. If you want to understand inflation, commodities, and the real economy without hype, start here.

    32 min
  3. What’s Actually Driving Gold, Silver, and Oil in 2026

    FEB 5

    What’s Actually Driving Gold, Silver, and Oil in 2026

    In this episode of the Cordier Commodity Report, Joe Pardavila sits down with veteran commodities trader James Cordier to break down what truly moves gold, silver, oil, and the global economy beyond headlines. James explains why most market commentary looks backward and how indicators like open interest reveal who is buying with conviction versus who is scrambling to exit losing positions. He walks through his recent call on gold’s historic pullback, the emotional forces behind precious metals, and why silver moves in explosive bursts while gold trends more steadily. The conversation traces James’s journey from collecting silver coins as a teenager to building a decades-long career in commodities, including the early soybean trade that launched his path. Together, Joe and James unpack how fear narratives distort oil prices, why supply and demand still rule energy markets, and which commodity trends investors continue to chase too late, including coffee after Brazil’s drought. You’ll also hear James’s outlook on crypto flows into gold, the role of central banks, the impact of political cycles on markets, and why commodities are becoming a core part of modern portfolios. A grounded, data-driven look at how real market structure beats noise, hype, and headlines every time.

    31 min

  4. 11/10/2025

    Warren Buffett Does It Too: Selling Options on Commodities Explained

    Options trading in commodities is no longer an insiders-only strategy. In this episode of Why Commodities, James Cordier of OptionSpreaders.com talks about how he evolved from a young investor analyzing coffee and crude oil data into a leading voice in structured, leveraged option selling. James explains why selling options, not buying them, has been the key to consistent alpha over decades, how high net worth investors use commodities to diversify beyond stocks, and why seasonality matters when you’re picking strike prices. He also shares his advice for stock option sellers making their first move into commodities, the signals he watches for in the market, and why even Warren Buffett and Carl Icahn rely on options to generate returns. Whether you’re new to commodities or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers a clear, practical look at how to apply data, timing, and discipline to a market that often flies under the radar.

    31 min

  5. 03/26/2025

    Corn, Cattle, and Commodities: The Cow Guy’s Take on Agriculture, Markets, and the Future of Farming

    In this episode of Why Commodities with James Cordier, James and Joe are joined by Scott Shellady, affectionately known as "The Cow Guy." Together, they dive deep into the world of commodities, focusing on corn and cattle markets. Scott shares his fascinating journey from trading in Chicago to running a Japanese bank in London, and how he became an accidental commentator on agricultural markets. The discussion covers the current state of cattle herds, record-high prices, and the challenges of expanding production to meet growing demand. They also explore the impact of weather, inflation, and global trade dynamics on commodity prices. Scott and James provide valuable insights into why commodities remain a critical investment, especially in today's economic climate, and why they believe the agricultural sector is often overlooked despite its potential for significant returns. Whether you're a seasoned trader or just curious about the commodities market, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective on the industry. Tune in to hear why Scott thinks farmers might just be the ones driving Lamborghinis in the future!

    40 min

  6. 02/20/2025

    Brewing Profits: The Coffee Industry from Farm to Futures

    In this episode of Why Commodities, expert trader James Cordier takes a deep dive into the global coffee industry with agronomist and coffee consultant Jonas Leme Ferraresso. Jonas shares his firsthand insights into coffee farming in Brazil, from his family's deep-rooted history in the industry to the challenges farmers face with climate change, specialty coffee production, and organic farming. The discussion covers how Brazil has become a powerhouse in coffee production, the role of technology and irrigation in maximizing yields, and the impact of shifting consumer demand on the market. James and Jonas also break down the latest trends in coffee trading, commodity pricing, and what the future holds for one of the world’s most beloved beverages. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or a commodities investor, this episode is packed with valuable insights on how coffee makes its way from the farm to your cup.

    49 min

  7. 01/16/2025

    Powering 2025: Energy, Commodities, and Economic Opportunity with Phil Flynn

    In this electrifying episode of Why Commodities, James Cordier is joined by Phil Flynn, senior energy analyst at Price Futures and Fox Business contributor, for a deep dive into the world of energy, commodities, and economic policy in 2025. The two industry veterans discuss the pivotal role energy plays in commodities markets, the intersection of geopolitics and oil, and the evolution of energy policies under new leadership in Washington. From the dynamics of natural gas and gold markets to the ongoing impact of climate change on commodities like cocoa and coffee, Phil and James unpack it all with humor, insight, and decades of expertise. Tune in to learn about the infrastructure challenges, the future of coal, and why the U.S. is positioned for an energy revolution. This episode is a must-listen for investors, market watchers, and anyone looking to understand the complex and ever-changing world of energy and commodities.

    43 min

  8. 12/19/2024

    Exploring Commodities: Judy Ganes on Coffee, Markets, and Long-Term Trends

    James Cordier welcomes renowned commodities and futures analyst Judy Ganes to share her remarkable journey from selling jewelry in high school to becoming a trusted expert in agricultural and food markets through her firm, J. Ganes Consulting. With over 30 years of experience and a reputation for sharp market analysis, Judy provides an insider's view of the factors shaping commodities today. In this episode, Judy discusses how shifts in the market have redefined trading, the unique appeal of coffee as a commodity, and the critical impact of climate change on crops like cocoa. She also explores how advancements in trading technology and global events continue to disrupt supply chains and influence prices, offering valuable takeaways for investors and enthusiasts alike. Whether you're passionate about coffee, curious about global markets, or looking for ways to diversify your portfolio, this conversation delivers fresh, actionable insights into the dynamic world of commodities. Tune in to hear from one of the industry's most respected voices and learn why commodities remain a key player in the global economy.

    48 min

  9. 11/21/2024

    Commodities 101: Learning from James Cordier’s Wins and Losses

    In the debut episode of Why Commodities, James Cordier, founder of Alternative Options, joins Forbes Books podcaster Joe Pardavila to share his journey through the highs and lows of trading commodities. James recounts how a childhood fascination with silver coins sparked a passion that led to a career managing commodity option portfolios. He reflects on his professional setback in 2018, revealing how it reshaped his approach to trading and deepened his commitment to calculated risk management. James also explains the appeal of commodities like crude oil, gold, and coffee, highlighting how their price movements often defy traditional market trends. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just curious about alternative strategies, this episode offers real-world lessons from one of the most experienced traders in the field. Tune in to hear James’ unique take on commodities and how they can play a vital role in a well-rounded investment strategy.

    38 min
  • 9 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Join "Why Commodities," hosted by James Cordier, a seasoned trader, author, and founder of Alternative Options and the Cordier Commodity Report. This podcast explores the world of commodity markets. James will explain how crude oil, gold, soybeans, and more drive the global economy. Learn how global events impact market trends and get insights into commodity fundamentals like supply and demand. "Why Commodities" aims to provide an alternative option to financial wisdom. Whether experienced in the market or just starting, James and his guests will help you understand an underused instrument to find new investment opportunities. Subscribe to "Why Commodities" now.

Information