Core Viewpoint - The article discusses how companies can effectively utilize futures and derivatives to manage price and cost risks amid a volatile global economic environment influenced by trade tensions and geopolitical conflicts [1] Group 1: Integration of Futures and Spot Business - Futures and derivatives are increasingly important for risk management and stabilizing operations, evolving from simple risk management to integrated supply chain finance [2] - Companies must plan their futures and spot business strategically, considering their production, raw materials, products, channels, and financial status to understand risk exposure and business needs [2] - It is essential to maintain the principle that futures serve the spot market, setting appropriate hedging ratios to prevent unlimited risk exposure [2] Group 2: Transaction Process Control - Companies should establish management systems and business processes to mitigate market, transaction, credit, and compliance risks [3] - Clear responsibilities must be assigned for various transaction stages, including contract signing and payment processes [3] - Hedging plans should be approved by the board and kept within the annual operational plan limits [3] Group 3: Trading Strategy Control - Companies need to have clear hedging objectives, which can include cost control, revenue protection, and market expansion [4] - A thorough analysis of the correlation between hedging tools and underlying projects is crucial for effective risk management [4] - Dynamic balance and effectiveness testing of positions should be conducted regularly [4] Group 4: Opening and Closing Position Control - Proper management of opening and closing positions is critical for the success of futures strategies [5] - Trading plans should specify the timing and conditions for opening and closing positions, requiring approval before execution [5] - Companies should establish processes to ensure compliance with these plans [5] Group 5: Spot Business Control - Spot business involves significant capital and regulatory risks, necessitating thorough research and planning [8] - Companies must distinguish between financial and trade activities, ensuring compliance with accounting standards [8][9] - Effective control over funds and goods is essential, with clear documentation of the flow of funds, contracts, and goods [9][10] Group 6: Risk Management - Futures are tools for risk management, but they also carry inherent risks due to leverage and market factors [11] - Companies should establish a risk management framework that includes risk identification, evaluation, hedging, and tracking [11] - Compliance with regulatory requirements is critical, especially regarding the prohibition of fictitious trading and financing activities [11]