Gas trading today is a dynamic process that involves the buying and selling of natural gas through both physical and financial markets. In the physical realm, actual delivery of natural gas takes place based on negotiated contracts. On the financial side, participants engage in trading various instruments like futures and options without the need for physical delivery.
Gas prices are influenced by factors such as supply and demand, geopolitical events, weather conditions, and regulatory changes. The advent of liquefied natural gas (LNG) has globalized the gas trade, allowing for efficient transportation across regions.
The gas trading process involves a series of steps, encompassing both physical and financial aspects. Here is an overview of the typical gas trading process: