Gas-producing and gas-hungry countries the world over are keenly watching what happens in China as it continues to negotiate with various suppliers over the price of its natural gas imports while examining the possibility of developing its unconventional gas reserves.

The US's Commodity Futures Trading Commission's new rules were passed by a slim majority of three to two and met with much chagrin as those opposing the changes threatened legal action. But with its position limit levels set wide, how will the reforms actually affect investment banks?

The UK is reported to be sitting on enough shale gas to cover its gas consumption for more than 60 years. But unlike the US, concerns surrounding mineral rights, a greater population density and its impact on the environment means pushing ahead with exploration is easier said than done.

As the eurozone crisis rages on, the commodities markets, long reliant on European banks for financing, have been thrown into a state of instability that is having major repercussions across the industry.

With global food prices hitting a record high in 2011, debate about the role of speculators in causing these spikes continues to rage. Is the 'financialisation' of commodities markets here to stay?