The fundamental raw material for the global steel industry, iron ore is the primary source of iron used in countless construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure projects worldwide. Its price and trading volumes are closely linked to economic growth and the demand for steel, making it a key commodity for traders to monitor.

Primarily valued for its ability to impart corrosion resistance and a lustrous finish to steel (producing stainless steel), chrome is a critical component in numerous industrial applications. Its unique metallurgical properties and limited geographical distribution contribute to its significance in the commodity trading landscape.

An essential alloying agent in steel production, manganese imparts crucial properties like strength, hardness, and wear resistance. Beyond steel, it finds applications in battery cathodes and various chemical processes. As a vital industrial input, manganese ore presents unique trading opportunities driven by global manufacturing demand and infrastructure development.

A highly versatile and widely used non-ferrous metal, copper is prized for its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, as well as its malleability and ductility. From power transmission and electronics to construction and transportation, copper's extensive applications make it a bellwether for global economic activity and a dynamic commodity for trading.