[defenderSD]

I was a corporate financial analyst for eight years, that's why I understand what factors drive decisions to make capital investments. You're just a nut if you think my comments are "ill-informed" or "stupid." BTW, I'm a very successful stock trader and investor. For example, I've recently made over 100% gains on ConocoPhillips and Marathon Oil. I made probably 400% on Microsoft stock back in the 90s. So knock off the personal attacks and insults. Those are against the principles of FR.

BTW, I had a good idea what those two commodity contract symbols meant, but I wanted you to confirm it for me. Of course, with that information you can get to the extra cost of ethanol much faster. Like I said, I'm not a commodity trader, but I still understand the basics of financial analysis in the oil industry.

[SAJ]

Good. You're a successful stock trader and investor. More power to you!

Stick to what you know. You sound more or less like Cheryl Strauss Tinhorn regarding futures mkts.

[SAJ]

BTW, how does that old saying go? ''Never confuse a bull market with genius'', is it?

Actually, an old Byrd's song, derived from Ecclesiastes if I'm not mistaken, defines markets best:

'To everything, there is a season.'

Now, try solving -- even approximately -- the problem of profiting in mkts in ANY season. Some can, some can't. Some have, some haven't.

Just a query -- what was the last time you profited from a short sale, in ANY mkt? Why is it that I somehow feel constrained to suppose that your answer would be 'Never', assuming an honest response.

As noted previously: good luck to you. You'll be needing it, regarding trading.