Sharp economic volatility, the continued effects of high interest rates and mixed sentiment among investors created an uneven landscape for stock and commodity exchanges. While trading volumes soared in 2020 due to the pandemic and favorable financial conditions, such as zero percent interest rates from the Federal Reserve, the continued effects of high inflation in 2022 and 2023 resulted in a hawkish pivot on interest rates, which curtailed ROIs across major equity markets. Geopolitical volatility amid the Ukraine-Russia and Israel-Hamas wars further exacerbated trade volatility, as many investors pivoted away from traditional equity markets into derivative markets, such as options and futures to better hedge on their investment. Nonetheless, the continued digitalization of trading markets bolstered exchanges, as they were able to facilitate improved client service and stronger market insights for interested investors. Revenue grew an annualized 0.1% to an estimated $20.9 billion over the past five years, including an estimated 1.9% boost in 2025. A core development for exchanges has been the growth of derivative trades, which has facilitated a significant market niche for investors. Heightened options trading and growing attraction to agricultural commodities strengthened service diversification among exchanges. Major companies, such as CME Group Inc., introduced new tradeable food commodities for investors in 2024, further diversifying how clients engage in trades. These trends, coupled with strengthened corporate profit growth, bolstered exchanges’ profit. Despite current uncertainty with interest rates and the pervasive fear over a future recession, the industry is expected to do well during the outlook period. Strong economic conditions will reduce investor uncertainty and increase corporate profit, uplifting investment into the stock market and boosting revenue. Greater levels of research and development will expand the scope of stocks offered because new companies will spring up via IPOs, benefiting exchange demand. Nonetheless, continued threat from substitutes such as electronic communication networks (ECNs) will curtail larger growth, as better technology will enable investors to start trading independently, but effective use of electronic platforms by incumbent exchange giants such as NASDAQ Inc. can help stem this decline by offering faster processing via electronic trade floors and prioritizing client support. Overall, revenue is expected to grow an annualized 3.5% to an estimated $24.8 billion through the end of 2031.

The global futures trading services market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing market volatility, the expanding adoption of algorithmic trading, and the rise of sophisticated trading platforms. The market, currently valued at approximately $15 billion in 2025, is projected to achieve a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated value of $28 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by the rising popularity of both software-based and web-based futures trading platforms, particularly those offering access to share price index futures and commodity futures. The increasing accessibility and ease of use of these platforms are attracting a broader range of investors, including retail traders and institutional investors alike. Furthermore, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are enhancing trading strategies and further driving market expansion. Regional variations in market share are expected, with North America and Europe maintaining significant dominance due to established financial markets and high levels of technological advancement. However, the Asia-Pacific region is poised for substantial growth, driven by expanding economies and rising investor participation in futures trading. Competitive pressures remain intense, with established players like Daniels Trading and Saxo competing with newer, technology-focused firms like Tradovate and NinjaTrader. The market's growth trajectory, however, is not without challenges. Regulatory scrutiny, cybersecurity threats, and the potential for market manipulation are key restraints that could impact future growth. Nevertheless, the overall outlook for the futures trading services market remains positive, indicating significant opportunities for existing and new market entrants.

Stock and commodity exchanges can benefit from various sources of revenue, ranging from fees charged through the purchasing and selling of stocks and commodities to the listing of companies on exchanges with IPOs. Yet, this hasn't meant exchanges have been free of challenges, with many companies looking to more attractive overseas markets in countries like the US that embrace stronger growth. The most notable culprits have been ARM and CRH, refusing to put up with the increasingly cheaper valuations offered by UK stock exchanges. Stock and commodity exchange revenue is expected to boom at a compound annual rate of 11.5% over the five years through 2024-25 to £15.4 billion. Boosted by the London Stock Exchange Group's Refinitiv purchase in 2021-22, the growth numbers seem inflated. The industry saw ample consolidations, aided by MiFID II's initiation in 2018. However, M&As have now decreased because of high borrowing costs. New reporting demands have bumped up regulatory costs, resulting in thinner profits. Banks, aligning with Basel IV, are pulling back on investments. Post-COVID market turbulence fuelled trades, but it's slowing down with economic stabilisation. The inflation slowdown pushes investors towards higher-value securities, boosting trade value despite lower volumes. The weak pound has been beneficial for revenue, especially for the LSEG, bolstered by dollar-earning companies in the FTSE 100. Stock and commodity exchange industry revenue is expected to show a moderate increase of 1.3% in 2024-25. Revenue is forecast to climb at a compound annual rate of 4.1% over the five years through 2029-30 to £18.8 billion. The cautious descent of interest rates from the Bank of England will slow down volatility and ensure greater business confidence in the UK. This will bring back up consolidation activity to support revenue growth, reviving the digital information and exchange markets. The most pressing concern for the industry will be potential limitations on access to the EEA for the clearing segment of the industry, which could shatter short-term growth and keep the tap running for companies exiting UK exchanges.

The global commodity trading services market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing global trade, fluctuating commodity prices, and the need for efficient supply chain management. While the exact market size for 2025 is not provided, considering the significant presence of major players like Vitol, Glencore, and Cargill, and referencing industry reports showing substantial growth in related sectors, a reasonable estimate for the 2025 market size would be $2 trillion. Assuming a conservative Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5% for the forecast period (2025-2033), the market is projected to reach approximately $3.1 trillion by 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors including the expansion of emerging economies, rising demand for raw materials across various sectors (metals, energy, agriculture), and the growing adoption of digital technologies to optimize trading processes. The market is segmented by commodity type (metals, energy, agricultural, others) and customer type (large enterprises, SMEs), with large enterprises currently dominating the market share due to their higher trading volumes. However, the SME segment is expected to witness significant growth fueled by increasing globalization and access to online commodity trading platforms. Geographic regions like North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific are key contributors to market growth, while regions such as the Middle East and Africa show considerable potential for future expansion. Despite the positive growth outlook, challenges like geopolitical instability, regulatory changes, and supply chain disruptions represent potential restraints on market growth. The competitive landscape is characterized by the dominance of several large, established players, who leverage their extensive networks and financial resources. These companies are actively investing in technological advancements to enhance trading efficiency, risk management, and supply chain visibility. While the dominance of these established players is anticipated to continue, opportunities exist for specialized players targeting niche segments within the commodity trading market. Furthermore, the increasing emphasis on sustainability and ethical sourcing is reshaping the industry, with a growing focus on transparency and traceability throughout the commodity supply chain. This trend is expected to drive innovation and reshape the competitive landscape further.

Commodity Index Funds Market Outlook

The global commodity index funds market size was valued at approximately $200 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach nearly $400 billion by 2032, growing at a robust CAGR of 7.5% during the forecast period. The significant growth in this market can be attributed to the increasing demand for diversification in investment portfolios and the inherent benefits of hedging against inflation that commodity investments provide. Furthermore, the volatility in global stock markets and geopolitical uncertainties have led investors to seek safer, more stable investment avenues, thus driving the growth of commodity index funds.

One of the primary growth factors propelling the commodity index funds market is the rising awareness among investors about the advantages of commodity investments as a hedge against inflation. Commodities, unlike stocks and bonds, often move inversely to the stock market, providing a cushion during market downturns. This characteristic makes commodity index funds an attractive option for risk-averse investors and those looking to balance their portfolios. Additionally, the globalization of trade and the increasing demand for raw materials in emerging markets have further spurred the demand for commodity investments.

Technological advancements in trading platforms have also significantly contributed to the growth of this market. The advent of sophisticated online platforms has made it easier for retail investors to access and invest in commodity index funds. These platforms offer a range of tools and resources that help investors make informed decisions, thereby democratizing access to commodity investments. Moreover, the rise of robo-advisors and algorithm-based trading strategies has further simplified the investment process, attracting a new generation of tech-savvy investors.

The regulatory landscape has also played a crucial role in shaping the commodity index funds market. Governments and financial regulatory bodies across the globe have been working to create a transparent and secure trading environment. Regulatory reforms aimed at reducing market manipulation and increasing transparency have instilled confidence among investors, thereby boosting the market. Additionally, tax incentives and favorable policies for commodity investments in various countries have also contributed to market growth.

In terms of regional outlook, North America holds a significant share of the global commodity index funds market, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific. The presence of well-established financial markets and a high level of investor awareness in North America are key factors driving the market in this region. Europe, with its strong regulatory framework and increasing adoption of alternative investment strategies, is also witnessing substantial growth. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is emerging as a lucrative market, driven by the rapid economic growth in countries like China and India, and the increasing interest in commodity investments among institutional and retail investors.

Fund Type Analysis

When analyzing the market by fund type, Broad Commodity Index Funds dominate the landscape. These funds invest in a diversified portfolio of commodities, making them a popular choice for investors seeking broad exposure to the commodity markets. The broad commodity index funds are designed to track the performance of a basket of commodities, ranging from energy products to metals and agricultural goods. This diversification helps mitigate risks associated with the volatility of individual commodities, thereby providing a more stable investment option for risk-averse investors.

Single Commodity Index Funds, on the other hand, focus on specific commodities such as gold, oil, or agricultural products. These funds appeal to investors who have a strong conviction about the performance of a particular commodity. For instance, during periods of economic uncertainty, gold-focused funds often see a surge in demand as investors flock to the safe-haven asset. Similarly, energy-focused funds attract investors when there are disruptions in oil supply or significant geopolitical events affecting oil prices. While these funds offer the potential for high returns, they also come with higher risks due to their lack of diversification.

Sector Commodity Index Funds are another important segment within the commodity index funds market. These funds concentrate on commodities within a specific sector, such as energy, agriculture, or metals, allowing investors to target particular segments of the commo

The Over-the-Counter (OTC) agricultural product trading platform market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing global demand for agricultural commodities and the need for efficient trading solutions. The market's expansion is fueled by several key factors, including the rising adoption of digital technologies for trading, the growing preference for flexible and customized trading options offered by OTC platforms, and the increasing volatility in agricultural commodity prices, making efficient risk management crucial. Furthermore, the expanding e-commerce infrastructure and improved internet connectivity in emerging economies are facilitating greater participation in OTC agricultural trading. While challenges such as regulatory uncertainty and cybersecurity risks exist, the overall market outlook remains positive, with a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 15% between 2025 and 2033. This growth is anticipated across various segments, including grains, oilseeds, and livestock products, with significant regional variations influenced by factors such as production levels, consumption patterns, and government policies. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of established financial institutions like GAIN Global Markets Inc., IG Group, and Saxo Bank, as well as newer entrants leveraging technology to gain market share. The market's growth will be significantly influenced by advancements in blockchain technology for secure and transparent transactions, the increased use of data analytics for improved price forecasting, and the development of more sophisticated risk management tools. The major players in the OTC agricultural product trading platform market are strategically investing in technological advancements and expanding their product offerings to cater to a diverse client base. This includes developing user-friendly trading platforms, offering competitive pricing, and providing comprehensive risk management solutions. Furthermore, collaborations and mergers and acquisitions are expected to reshape the competitive landscape, leading to consolidation within the industry. The market's success will also hinge on addressing regulatory challenges and fostering greater transparency and trust among participants. Geographic expansion, particularly into emerging markets with significant agricultural production and consumption, will be a key driver of growth. While the market is likely to face short-term fluctuations driven by global economic conditions and geopolitical events, the long-term prospects remain promising, suggesting substantial opportunities for existing and new market participants.

Natural gas rose to 3.09 USD/MMBtu on August 1, 2025, up 0.10% from the previous day. Over the past month, Natural gas's price has fallen 11.31%, but it is still 57.26% higher than a year ago, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Natural gas - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on August of 2025.

Income-Before-Tax Time Series for Multi Commodity Exchange of India Limited. Multi Commodity Exchange of India Limited, a commodity derivatives exchange, provides a platform to facilitate online trading of commodity derivatives in India. It offers iCOMDEX, a real-time commodity futures price indices; and trades in bullion, industrial metals, energy, and agricultural commodities. The company also provides trade clearing and settlement services; and data feed subscription and membership services. It has strategic alliances, and consultancy and collaboration agreements with various exchanges, such as CME Group, Dalian Commodity Exchange, London Metal Exchange, European Energy Exchange AG, Taiwan Futures Exchange, and Zhengzhou Commodity Exchange, Jakarta Futures Exchange, and Chittagong Stock Exchange Limited. The company was incorporated in 2002 and is based in Mumbai, India.

Commodities Trading Services Market Outlook

The global commodities trading services market size was valued at approximately $10.5 billion in 2023 and is forecasted to reach $21.7 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.3% during this period. The growth of this market is driven by several factors, including the increasing globalization of trade, advancements in trading technologies, and rising demand for various commodities across diverse industries.

One of the primary growth factors for the commodities trading services market is the globalization of trade. With international trade barriers becoming more relaxed, there are increased opportunities for the exchange of goods and services across borders. This has led to a higher demand for commodities trading services to facilitate and manage these transactions efficiently. Moreover, as global supply chains become more integrated, the need for sophisticated trading platforms and risk management services has grown exponentially.

Advancements in technology have also played a significant role in the expansion of the commodities trading services market. The advent of sophisticated trading algorithms, blockchain technology, and artificial intelligence has revolutionized the way commodities are traded. These technological innovations have not only made trading more efficient but also more secure, reducing the risks associated with trading commodities. As a result, both institutional and retail investors are increasingly relying on these advanced trading platforms and services to optimize their investment strategies.

Another critical factor contributing to the market's growth is the increasing demand for various commodities, such as energy, metals, and agricultural products. With the global population on the rise and industrialization accelerating in emerging economies, the need for these essential commodities is expected to grow significantly. This heightened demand necessitates efficient trading services to ensure smooth transactions and effective risk management, further propelling the market's growth.

From a regional perspective, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the most substantial growth in the commodities trading services market over the forecast period. This growth is driven by the rapid economic development in countries like China and India, which are major consumers of various commodities. Additionally, the increasing adoption of advanced trading technologies in this region is anticipated to boost market growth. North America and Europe are also significant markets, primarily due to their well-established trading infrastructure and high levels of investment in technological advancements.

Service Type Analysis

The commodities trading services market can be segmented by service type, including brokerage services, trading platforms, risk management services, advisory services, and others. Brokerage services play a crucial role in facilitating trades between buyers and sellers, acting as intermediaries. These services are integral to ensuring liquidity in the market and providing investors with access to a wide range of commodities. The demand for brokerage services is expected to remain strong, driven by the increasing number of participants in the commodities market.

Trading platforms have seen remarkable growth, thanks to advancements in technology. These platforms offer users real-time access to market data, advanced charting tools, and automated trading features. The rise of online trading platforms has democratized access to commodities trading, enabling retail investors to participate alongside institutional investors. The convenience and efficiency offered by these platforms are key factors driving their adoption.

Risk management services are essential for mitigating the inherent risks involved in commodities trading. These services include hedging strategies, derivatives trading, and various financial instruments designed to manage price volatility and market uncertainty. The increasing complexity of global supply chains and the potential for market disruptions have heightened the need for effective risk management solutions. As a result, this segment is expected to witness significant growth.

Advisory services provide valuable insights and recommendations to investors, helping them make informed decisions. These services often include market analysis, investment strategies, and portfolio management. The growing complexity of the commodities market and the need for specialize

Coffee fell to 286.23 USd/Lbs on August 1, 2025, down 2.90% from the previous day. Over the past month, Coffee's price has fallen 3.17%, but it is still 24.49% higher than a year ago, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Coffee - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on August of 2025.

This statistic shows the stock prices of selected food commodities from January 2, 2020 to February 6, 2025. After the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, wheat prices increased significantly since both Russia and Ukraine are the key suppliers of the product. With the beginning of 2023, prices of selected food commodities started to decrease, but still stood higher than early-2020 levels.

Corn fell to 389.36 USd/BU on August 1, 2025, down 1.19% from the previous day. Over the past month, Corn's price has fallen 9.29%, and is down 3.45% compared to the same time last year, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Corn - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on August of 2025.

The global Commodity Trading and Risk Management (CTRM) software market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing complexities in commodity trading, stringent regulatory compliance needs, and the growing adoption of cloud-based solutions. The market, estimated at $2 billion in 2025, is projected to witness a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8% from 2025 to 2033, reaching approximately $3.5 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the escalating volatility in commodity prices necessitates sophisticated software solutions for effective risk mitigation and price optimization. Secondly, the rise of digitalization and the increasing preference for cloud-based CTRM systems offer enhanced scalability, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional on-premise solutions. Thirdly, regulatory pressures, such as those related to transparency and reporting, are compelling trading firms to adopt advanced CTRM systems to ensure compliance. The market is segmented by application (large enterprises and SMEs) and deployment type (cloud-based and web-based), with cloud-based solutions gaining significant traction due to their inherent advantages. The competitive landscape is populated by a mix of established players and emerging technology providers, each offering specialized solutions catering to the diverse needs of the commodity trading industry. Geographically, North America currently holds a significant market share, but the Asia-Pacific region is expected to exhibit substantial growth in the coming years due to the expanding commodity markets and increasing technological adoption in developing economies. The competitive landscape is intensely dynamic, with established players like Murex and Triple Point Technology competing with agile newcomers offering innovative solutions. Successful vendors are focusing on integrating advanced analytics, AI-powered risk modeling, and blockchain technology to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of their CTRM offerings. The adoption of these advanced technologies will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the CTRM market, fostering innovation, and enhancing the overall capabilities of the software solutions available to commodity traders globally. Furthermore, the integration of CTRM systems with other enterprise resource planning (ERP) and supply chain management (SCM) systems is driving further growth, streamlining operations, and improving data visibility across the entire value chain. The market's future trajectory is promising, propelled by ongoing technological advancements and the ever-increasing need for effective risk management within the dynamic commodity trading landscape.

Explore the complexities of trading corn commodity stocks, including futures, options, and ETFs. Understand the factors affecting global corn prices and how to invest wisely in this vital agricultural product.

Commodity Trading, Transaction And Risk Management (CTRM) Software Market size was valued at USD 7.0 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 13.8 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 8.8% from 2024 to 2031.

Several essential variables drive the market for commodity trading, transaction, and risk management (CTRM) software. The rising complexity and volatility of global commodity markets necessitate the implementation of comprehensive risk, compliance, and transaction management systems. The increased demand for real-time data analytics and decision-making tools is driving the use of CTRM software, which allows businesses to improve their trading tactics and operational efficiency. Furthermore, regulatory challenges and the demand for increased transparency in commodity trading drive corporations to invest in sophisticated CTRM solutions. The digital transformation of businesses, as well as breakthroughs in technologies such as AI and blockchain, are increasing CTRM software capabilities and driving market growth. Finally, globalisation of commerce and the rise of commodity markets in emerging economies are opening up new prospects for CTRM software vendors.

Market Size statistics on the Stock & Commodity Exchanges industry in the US

The global precious metal trading platform market, valued at $3.863 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by increasing investor interest in gold, silver, platinum, and palladium as safe haven assets and inflation hedges. The market's Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.6% from 2019 to 2033 indicates a steady expansion, fueled by technological advancements such as improved online trading platforms, mobile accessibility, and the integration of AI-driven analytical tools. The rise of retail investors and the growing adoption of sophisticated trading strategies further contribute to market expansion. Increased regulatory scrutiny and cybersecurity concerns, however, pose potential restraints to growth. Market segmentation is likely dominated by platform types (e.g., web-based, mobile, desktop), trading styles (e.g., spot, futures), and investor demographics (e.g., retail, institutional). Key players like GAIN Global Markets, AxiTrader, LMAX Global, IG Group, and CMC Markets are vying for market share through competitive pricing, advanced features, and strong customer support. Geographic distribution is expected to be influenced by economic conditions and investor sentiment in major regions like North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The forecast period (2025-2033) will likely see increased competition and consolidation as companies strive to enhance their offerings and cater to the evolving needs of traders. The market's sustained growth relies on several factors. The volatility of traditional financial markets consistently pushes investors toward precious metals. The ongoing development of user-friendly platforms with advanced charting, analytics, and educational resources further broadens the appeal to both experienced and novice traders. Moreover, the expansion of the market into emerging economies presents significant opportunities for growth. However, maintaining trust through robust security measures and complying with evolving regulatory frameworks are critical for long-term success. The presence of established players along with a growing number of smaller, niche platforms suggests a dynamic competitive landscape with continued innovation in technology and service offerings driving market expansion.

Real-time commodities pricing data allows you to grasp where the market is, was and will be – from exchange data and OTC prices to specialist fundamentals.

Commodity Auction Service Market Outlook

The global commodity auction service market is expected to witness substantial growth, with a market size projected to reach USD 12.5 billion by 2023 and forecasted to expand to USD 25.8 billion by 2032, driven by a CAGR of 8.3%. The increasing digitalization of trading activities and the rising demand for efficient and transparent commodity trading platforms are significant factors contributing to this market growth.

One of the primary growth factors for the commodity auction service market is the advent of advanced technologies such as blockchain and artificial intelligence. These technologies are enhancing the transparency and efficiency of auction processes, which are crucial for attracting more participants, including individual buyers, businesses, and government agencies. The use of blockchain, for instance, ensures that transactions are secure and immutable, thereby increasing trust among participants. Additionally, AI aids in predicting market trends and optimizing auction strategies, further driving market adoption.

Another key driver is the globalization of trade and the increasing demand for commodities across various regions. As economies continue to grow, the demand for agricultural products, energy commodities, and metals is rising, necessitating efficient auction services that can handle high volumes of transactions. Moreover, the ability of auction platforms to provide real-time market data and analytics is helping buyers and sellers make informed decisions, which is particularly beneficial in a rapidly changing market environment.

The rise of e-commerce and online platforms has also significantly contributed to market growth. Online auctions offer numerous benefits, including wider reach, convenience, and cost-effectiveness, making them increasingly popular among both buyers and sellers. These platforms enable participants to engage in auctions from anywhere in the world, thereby expanding the market's geographical footprint. The ease of participation and the broader selection of commodities available online are further driving the market's expansion.

From a regional perspective, North America holds a significant share of the commodity auction service market due to the presence of well-established auction platforms and advanced technological infrastructure. The Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to witness the highest growth rate, driven by rapid industrialization and increasing demand for commodities in countries such as China and India. Europe also presents substantial growth opportunities, supported by strong regulatory frameworks and a mature market landscape.

In the realm of high-value transactions, Luxury Real Estate Auctions have emerged as a significant trend within the auction industry. These auctions cater to affluent buyers and sellers who seek a transparent and efficient process for trading luxury properties. The allure of luxury real estate auctions lies in their ability to generate competitive bidding environments, often resulting in premium sale prices. This segment of the market is characterized by exclusivity and high stakes, attracting a niche audience that values the prestige and investment potential of luxury properties. As with other auction types, the integration of digital platforms has expanded the reach of luxury real estate auctions, allowing participants from around the globe to engage in these exclusive events.

Type Analysis

The commodity auction service market is segmented by type into online auctions and live auctions. Online auctions are gaining significant traction due to the convenience and accessibility they offer. Participants can engage in bidding processes from any location, which eliminates geographical constraints and broadens the potential market. Online platforms also often come with advanced features such as real-time bidding updates, automated bidding options, and comprehensive market analytics, which enhance the overall user experience.

Live auctions, on the other hand, continue to hold a vital place in the commodity auction service market. These auctions provide a more traditional and interactive environment where participants can engage in real-time bidding. Live auctions are particularly favored for high-value commodities and instances where the interpersonal aspect of trading plays a crucial role. The excitement and competitiveness of live auctions can sometimes result in higher final