Commodities: What They Are, Examples, and How to Invest 2026

June 30, 2026

Have you ever considered investing in raw materials or commodities? Yes, the world of investments is vast and diverse; it's not all about currencies or stocks. While investing in commodities might seem complicated, the reality is that it's a very profitable and promising option. In this article, we'll explain what commodities are, what types exist, which ones are the most profitable, and how to invest in them correctly. 

Nueva llamada a la acción

What are commodities?

In simple terms, a commodity is a tangible material that can be traded, meaning bought or sold. Generally, they are used as raw materials in the manufacturing of more elaborate products, such as petroleum, which is the essential raw material for everything related to plastic production.

These commodities can be traded in both national and international markets by merchants and investors, either using money or different currencies. Furthermore, commodities can also be exchanged for other goods of equivalent value, as if it were a barter system.

What are the most profitable commodities to invest in for 2024?

It's very difficult to tell you which commodities are the most profitable to invest in for 2024, mainly because we don't know your risk tolerance, which industries interest you, or what your capital is. However, there are certain commodities that have offered a considerable profit margin so far, and all indications are that they will continue to do so. These are:

Crude Oil (Brent)

Crude oil maintains its investment appeal due to robust global demand, particularly in the transportation and airline sectors. In mid-May 2024, Brent crude prices exceeded USD 84 per barrel, driven by increased demand in China and the United States, along with inventory reductions in the latter country. Many experts anticipate that sustained oil demand, combined with supply cuts by OPEC+, will keep prices supported in the short to medium term. 

Oats

Oats are currently one of the most consumed cereals globally. In May of this year, oat contracts were trading at around USD 240 per ton. Their use in human and animal feed, along with their relative stability, makes them worthy of being on this list. Oat demand is boosted by population growth, increasing awareness of healthy eating, and the rising consumption of whole grains. 

Zinc

With increasing global production and a price hovering around USD 2,673 per ton in May 2024, zinc has gained considerable notoriety as a profitable investment. Its sustained demand ensures consistent long-term profitability, which is expected to continue growing in the future, driven primarily by urbanization, industrialization, and the rising demand for electric vehicle batteries. Zinc is a vital metal for the modern economy, with applications ranging from the construction industry to pharmaceuticals.

Natural Gas

Natural gas is considered the energy of the future, and therefore, it's an excellent investment option. The transition to cleaner energy and the growing demand for natural gas in electricity generation will drive long-term demand. Geopolitical events in the Middle East and operational issues at plants like Chevron's have contributed to its recent price increase; furthermore, Goldman Sachs projects that gas prices in Europe will double in 2024. 

Copper

Copper, essential for transportation infrastructure and electronics, enjoys high demand, especially in developing country markets. In May 2024, this metal reached USD 10,000 per ton, driven by expectations of interest rate cuts in the U.S. and potential supply shortages. Copper's relative short-term stability makes it an excellent option for investors with short to medium-term investment horizons. 

Gold

In May 2024, the price of gold hovered around USD 2,363 per ounce, with an upward trend driven by increasing demand from Chinese consumers. Gold, recognized for its ability to preserve net asset value in times of economic uncertainty, is almost always seen as a safe and lucrative investment. For the remainder of the year, it is expected to maintain its safe-haven function as geopolitical and economic uncertainties persist. So, there's no doubt that it's a good time to invest in gold.

Silver

Silver not only serves as a hedge against inflation but also offers short-term return opportunities. To be clearer, at the end of May 2024, its price was trading at USD 28.37 per ounce, having increased by 8.98% compared to its value at the beginning of that month. It is the industrial demand for silver, particularly in sectors such as electronics and battery manufacturing, that is expected to drive its long-term growth.

Nueva llamada a la acción

How to Invest in Commodities? Step-by-Step 

Investing in commodities can seem very attractive, but you need to know how to do it. If you're considering starting to invest in them, follow these steps:

Step 1. Define objectives and risk tolerance

To begin any investment, it's essential to first define clear financial objectives and assess your desired risk tolerance. This involves considering your investment horizon—whether you're looking for a short-term or long-term investment—the capital available to invest, and your preferred risk profile, determining if you are willing to accept the volatility of the commodities market. Establishing these aspects will help you select the most suitable investment strategy.

Step 2. Choose your investment method

There are various ways to invest in commodities. For example, physical investment involves the direct purchase of products like gold, silver, or oil, and requires considering logistical aspects such as asset storage and security. Futures contracts and CFDs allow you to speculate on price movements without acquiring the physical asset, offering leverage that can amplify both gains and losses. Commodity ETFs replicate the performance of an index or a basket of commodities, providing diversification and easy market access. 

Step 3. Analyze the market

To make informed decisions, you need to conduct a thorough analysis of the market for your chosen commodity. You should consider factors such as supply and demand, which determine the product's price; the regulatory and geopolitical environment, where government policies, climatic conditions, and international tensions can have a significant impact; and economic cycles. Ideally, you should consult reliable sources, follow expert analysis, and stay updated on market news to better understand trends.

Step 4. Select an investment platform

The first thing you should consider is the type of broker, whether they are stockbrokers for equities and ETFs, online platforms for CFDs and futures, or specialized dealers for physical assets. Next, compare commissions and fees associated with transactions and other services. Finally, it is crucial to choose regulated platforms with robust security measures to protect your assets and to verify the availability of analysis tools, research, and technical support.

Step 5. Execute the investment

Once you have defined your objectives, investment method, and investor platform and the commodity, you can then proceed with executing the investment. This includes opening an account on the chosen platform, completing the identity verification process, and depositing the necessary funds. Then, select the specific commodity to invest in and execute the order, either by purchasing the physical asset, taking a position in futures or CFDs, or acquiring shares of ETFs or producing companies.

Step 6. Monitor Continuously

The commodities market is very dynamic, requiring constant and close monitoring. It is essential that you monitor the performance of your different types of investments regularly and compare them with your established goals. Staying updated on market news, events, and trends is crucial for continuous analysis. Furthermore, it's important to periodically re-evaluate and adjust your investment strategy in response to changes in market and economic conditions.

Tips for Investing in Commodities 2024

We understand that knowing what commodities are and how to invest in them is not enough. The reality is that there are many factors to consider when investing, so to ensure you do so successfully, always keep the following tips in mind:

Understand the Fundamentals

Before venturing into the world of commodities, it's crucial to understand the economic fundamentals that underpin them. This involves analyzing factors such as global supply and demand, government policies, geopolitical conditions, and cyclical trends. The more information you have, the better decisions you can make. 

Analyze Economic Cycles

Economic cycles significantly influence commodity price behavior. To avoid making hasty decisions, you must thoroughly understand the different phases of the economic cycle (expansion, boom, recession, and depression) and how these affect the demand and supply of raw materials.

Invest with Social Responsibility

Consider investing in commodities from companies that adopt sustainable and responsible practices towards the environment and communities. Socially responsible investment not only benefits the planet but also encourages good practices, motivating other companies to do the same.

Seek Professional Advice

If you don't have enough experience or knowledge in the commodities market, don't hesitate to seek professional advice from a qualified financial expert. An advisor can help you develop an investment strategy tailored to your goals and risk profile. Additionally, you can clarify doubts, learn, and gain experience without making as many mistakes. 

Diversify Your Investments

Diversification, within the investment universe, is your best friend. Never put all your eggs in one basket. Distribute your capital among different types of commodities, such as energy, precious metals, grains, and agricultural products; in this way, you will mitigate the risk of loss and increase the overall stability of your portfolio.

Examples of Commodities

Since there are different categories of commodities, we will provide examples of them below, separated into their respective categories:

Metals

  • Gold: The precious metal par excellence, valued for its luster, ductility, and malleability. It is used in jewelry, electronics, and as a store of value.
  • Silver: A versatile white metal, used in jewelry, silverware, batteries, and electronic components.
  • Copper: A reddish metal essential for electrical conduction, found in cables, pipes, and industrial machinery.
  • Platinum: A rare and coveted precious metal, used in catalysts, jewelry, and the medical industry.

Energy

  • Oil: A primary non-renewable energy source, essential for transportation, heating, and industrial production.
  • Natural gas: A clean fossil fuel used for electricity generation, heating, and industrial production.

Agricultural products

  • Corn: A fundamental cereal for human and animal consumption, as well as a raw material for biofuels and industrial products.
  • Wheat: The basis of bread and other food products, crucial for global food security.
  • Soybeans: A protein-rich legume, used for the production of oil, flour, and animal feed.
  • Coffee: It is the second most popular non-alcoholic beverage globally, derived from coffee beans.

Livestock

  • Cattle: It is the third most consumed type of meat globally.
  • Pigs: Raised for their meat, bacon, and other derived products.
  • Derivatives: Some derivatives in this category include lard, milk, and leather.

Would you like your money to increase in value over time? Invest with Domoblock!

Do you want your money to grow over time? If your answer is yes, you should start to diversify investments your portfolio and consider investing in investment properties the real estate sector. Investing in real estate has never been so simple or accessible; with €200, you can be part of a growing market, earning profitable passive income exceeding 10% annually. At Domoblock, we handle the entire process, from property selection to sale, allowing you to invest from the comfort of your home.

Through the real estate tokenization and real estate crowdfunding we make real estate investment even more accessible, as it allows us to divide properties into small digital parts that any investor can acquire.

How can you get started? Register for free on our website and get priority in the private sale phase, where you'll have the opportunity to invest before the general public. Once the private sale is complete, the public sale begins, opening the door to new investors to complete the remainder of the project. Participating in this phase guarantees you priority access to future investments.

With over 470 satisfied investors, €3,600,000 invested, and a presence in 12 countries, at Domoblock we have successfully positioned ourselves as a powerful and reliable investment platform. 

Nueva llamada a la acción

Conclusion 

In conclusion, if you want to invest in commodities, you must first understand the different types available and the factors that influence their prices. If needed, seek professional advice, always remember to stay informed and open to new possibilities. Don't focus on just one option; diversification is key to investment success.

Sergio Navarro

Expert in blockchain, investments, and personal finance

Share on your social media

Do you like what you're reading?

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Do you like what you're reading?

Subscribe to our newsletter!

En curso

Madrid | Tres cantos

Calera, 3

DOMO-TCA-1
Flipping building

Funded

100%

598.506,15 €

Target

598.506,15 €

Rentabilidad estimada:
14,03%
Duración estimada
8 meses
Chat with other investors and ask your questions in our Telegram group

Related articles