A Day in the Life of a Coffee Trader — Scott Biffin

In the fast-paced world of global trading, few commodities are as rich in history and significance as coffee. For Scott Biffin, a veteran coffee trader based in Singapore, every day is a journey through the complexities of the global coffee market — a market where weather patterns in Brazil can impact prices in Singapore, and where a deep understanding of both economics and human behavior is essential.

Early Morning: Setting the Stage

Scott’s day begins well before the sun rises. The global nature of coffee trading means that somewhere in the world, markets are always open, and staying ahead of the curve is crucial. Scott starts by reviewing the overnight market data — analyzing price movements in major coffee exchanges, assessing reports from key coffee-growing regions, and checking the latest economic news that could influence the market.

By the time most people are waking up, Scott has already formulated his trading strategy for the day. His decisions are guided by a combination of technical analysis, market sentiment, and years of experience navigating the often-volatile coffee market.

Morning: Market Opens and Initial Trades

As the Singapore market opens, Scott is ready to execute his first trades of the day. Coffee prices are influenced by a myriad of factors — everything from global supply chains and political events to weather conditions in countries like Brazil, Vietnam, and Colombia. Scott closely monitors these variables, making swift decisions on whether to buy or sell coffee futures.

Timing is everything in trading, and Scott’s ability to read the market and anticipate its moves is what sets him apart. A sudden change in weather in Brazil or unexpected news from a coffee-exporting country can trigger rapid price shifts, and Scott’s job is to respond quickly and accurately.

Midday: Negotiations and Strategy Adjustment

As the day progresses, Scott shifts his focus to the people who keep the coffee market moving — suppliers, brokers, and fellow traders. Negotiating deals is a key part of his role, whether it’s securing the best price for a shipment of beans or hedging against potential market risks.

Scott’s strategy is dynamic, constantly evolving as new information becomes available. He may need to adjust his positions based on updated reports or shift his focus to another aspect of the market. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial in this line of work, and Scott has honed these skills over years of trading.

Afternoon: Market Close and Reflection

As the trading day comes to a close, Scott reviews the day’s activities, assessing what worked well and where there’s room for improvement. The market’s close doesn’t mean the work is over; it’s a time for reflection and preparation for the next day.

Scott takes this opportunity to study longer-term trends, research emerging markets, and plan for upcoming trading sessions. He also dedicates time to learning — whether through industry reports, financial news, or discussions with peers. In the world of trading, staying informed is key to staying ahead.

Evening: The Coffee Ritual

Despite the high-stakes nature of his job, Scott always finds a moment to enjoy the product he spends his days trading. His evening ritual includes brewing a cup of coffee, often sampling beans from different regions to appreciate the nuances in flavor and quality. It’s a reminder of the passion that fuels his work — coffee is more than just a commodity; it’s a global connection, a cultural staple, and a daily comfort for millions.

Conclusion: The Life of a Coffee Trader

Being a coffee trader like Scott Biffin is about more than just numbers and market trends. It’s about understanding the broader context in which coffee is produced and consumed, and the intricate web of factors that influence its value. It’s a challenging but rewarding career that requires a blend of analytical skill, intuition, and a deep appreciation for the product itself.

For Scott, every day is a new adventure in the world of coffee — a journey that starts before dawn and ends with the satisfaction of knowing he’s played a part in one of the world’s most beloved industries.