The Rise of Commodity Trade and Its Complex Dynamics

This chapter explores the evolution of powerful commodity traders, particularly in the oil industry, detailing the impact of Mark Rich's presidential pardon and the nationalization of oil by Middle Eastern countries. It discusses the post-Soviet Union landscape, the financialization of the global economy, and the repercussions of events like the Russian export ban, linking them to significant shifts in commodity trading dynamics. Additionally, it highlights the opportunistic nature of traders in conflict zones, emphasizing their navigation through political complexities while providing crucial resources amidst chaos.