The Company enters into derivative financial instruments which are not designated as hedging instruments and are held for speculative purposes. These derivatives are used to take positions with the aim of benefiting from short-term market movements in commodities.
Derivative financial instruments are recognised as financial assets when the Company becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. At initial recognition, derivatives are measured at fair value, with transaction costs recognised immediately in profit or loss.
Subsequent to initial recognition, all derivative financial instruments held for speculative purposes are measured at fair value. Changes in fair value are recognised in profit or loss in the period in which they arise. These instruments are classified as “held for trading” and are not designated as effective hedging instruments.
Fair value is determined using quoted market prices in active markets, where available.
Derivative financial instruments with a positive fair value are presented as assets. All related gains and losses are presented within “Realised gains on derivatives” in the profit and loss account.