In this episode of the Strong Source podcast, we welcome Alex Sanfeliu, President of the World Trading Group at Cargill, where he oversees one of the largest agricultural trading operations in the world. With over 30 years at Cargill, Alex has led global teams through major market shifts, crises, and transformations in how commodities are traded.We discuss:The traits that define great tradersA high-stakes moment involving 31 Panamax vesselsHow Cargill is integrating AI and quant strategiesThe evolving role of leadership on global trading floorsWhat the next generation of traders needs to succeedTune in for a masterclass on resilience, decision-making, and how tech is changing the future of commodities.
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Episode 26 with Denis Zaica
In this episode, we welcome Denis Zaica, Chief Trading Officer at FincoEnergies and former Commercial Director of Biodiesel at Cargill. Denis shares his remarkable journey from Moldova to leading global commodity trading operations, beginning with cocoa trading at Cargill and now spearheading biofuel strategies at Finco. We discuss his transition from agriculture to energy, the role of trading in the energy transition, and how biofuels are influenced by global market dynamics—including current geopolitical tensions.
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Episode 25 with Martijn Noordhoek
In this episode of the Strong Source podcast, we welcome Martijn Noordhoek, a veteran in the global sugar trade with experience at Cargill, Sucden, Glencore, and now Viterra. Martijn shares how he stumbled into the world of commodities via a freight role and soon found his calling in sugar trading. He reflects on the steep learning curve for young professionals, the nuances between raw and white sugar, the role of ethanol and Brazilian crop cycles, the effects of geopolitics and logistics on trade flows, the rise of Ozempic and its impact on demand, and the cultural contrasts across major trading houses.
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Episode 24 with Richard Allen
In this episode of The Strong Source, we welcome Richard Allen, President of Fonterra Global Ingredients — the world’s largest dairy exporter — for an open conversation about the future of dairy, volatility in commodity markets, and the complexity of global supply chains.From his 18-year journey across continents with Fonterra to the bold decision to divest the company’s consumer division, Richard shares powerful insights on the evolution of the dairy industry, risk management, and what it takes to lead in uncertain times.
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Episode 23 with Daan Struyven
In this episode we’re joined by Daan Struyven, Co-Head of Commodities Research at Goldman Sachs, for insights on gold, oil, AI-driven power demand, and how shifting geopolitics are shaping the global commodity landscape. Daan breaks down what’s driving markets—and where the signals matter most. *This episode was recorded on March 11, 2025.
Our mission with the Strong Source podcast is to educate and inform, by creating a community where experts and guests from the entire commodity industry can share their unique perspectives. Martijn, ex-cacao trader, and Alexander, ex-dairy trader and founder of Vesper, have a deep-passion for this industry, which inspired them to start this venture: "We’ll be sharing our personal experiences, the valuable lessons we’ve learned along the way, and give you a glimpse of what to expect in our future episodes." This podcast is powered by Vesper, the leading commodity platform.
Netherlands