Futures and options commodity trading advisors are a must in today's investment landscape. If your business is planning to invest in commodity futures or options, take advantage of the "inside information" of CTA advisors. They have the commodities trading tips to make your business's investment decision successful.

Options commodity trading advisors offer industry expertise to help your company leaders understand the commodities market. They will help you interpret the research and commodity performance history. Futures trading advisors will monitor the environmental and political influences that impact commodities, such as weather, currency issues and armed conflicts. As your company looks for futures and options commodity trading advisors, keep the following things in mind:

1. Most futures traders lose money, so a futures trading advisor is essential.

2. Your options trading consultant can offer a range of potential investments, some relatively settled, others more speculative.

3. Because of the predictive nature of the business, commodity trading advisors base expectations on historical figures.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find commodity trading advisors to train your staff

The commodities, futures and options markets are more involved in many ways than the stock market. Because prices rely on production, which is often vulnerable to uncontrollable elements, trading is tricky. Have your staff learn the ABCs of trading and then find a consultant to help with your investment.

I recommend: Learn the scoop about trading commodities at Commodity Trading Pro. The website offers a complete curriculum on commodities trading and links to advisors and other useful information. Trust Mari to dedicate a futures trading advisor to your company's account. It specializes in futures account management services.

Hire options trading consultants to help your company invest

It's a good idea to have an options trading consultant as part of your investment team. When major market events happen and you do need advice, your consultant is available and brings a knowledge of your business to the recommendations. However, if your company has a 'do-it-yourself' approach, use one of the many online investment tools.

I recommend: Use Trade Finder from Providio Trading Consultants to manage your custom account. It will recommend account changes on an agreed-upon schedule, or whenever its advisors think is best. Contact Lind Waldock about its managed futures service. Charles Schwab has a suite of online tools for futures trading. Get familiar with them and dive right in.

Consult futures trading advisors for futures investment know-how

At least at first, turn your company's commodity portfolio over to an expert. Consider assigning an in-house account manager to work with the consultant to 'learn the ropes' of trading commodities, options and futures. If you're outsourcing your investments, build a relationship with a successful account manager.

I recommend: Talk to the consultants at World Link Futures for an education in futures trading. It offers video and print courses as well as live consulting. Russell Sands of Sands Turtle Futures is a consultant with a confirmed track record in futures trading. Review information on his success and contact him for advice.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Account managers become well known for their successful histories. Ask your commodity trading advisor about his or hers.