The ETRM/CTRM software category comprises a wide range of solutions, from those that attempt to cover multiple commodities, broad functionality and geographies to those that are specialized point solutions. A few years ago, ComTech wrote a paper about this entitled “CTRM as an Architecture” and recently followed it up with a CTRMRadio edition looking at this issue again. For buyers, the dilemma is often about procuring a single integrated solution suite versus seeking best-in-class functionality for a specific use case. The first can be pricey, deliver much more than is required and yet still be missing deep commodity-specific functionality — therefore requiring enhancements or additional software and, very often, spreadsheets. The latter approach can result in an integration issue if trading multiple commodities. Of course, for commodity players focused on a single commodity or commodity group, the specific solution is always the way to go. An additional consideration of the issue these days is the growing importance of the supply chain. For many commodities, a profitable trade can be made unprofitable by supply chain issues such as late delivery, specification penalties, higher than estimate costs and so on. The geopolitical environment in place right now, including sanctions, tariffs, threats of tariffs and Brexit, can… continue reading
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