Jan. 30, 2001

Marketing Workshops Focus on Futures, Options

Writer: Tim W. McAlavy, (806) 746-6101, email: t-mcalavy@tamu.edu
Contact: Dr. Jackie Smith, (806) 746-6101, email: j-smith34@tamu.edu

LUBBOCK – Farmers and ranchers can gain a better understanding of futures and options, and how to
effectively use them as marketing tools at a series of workshops slated in February and March, said a
Texas A&M agricultural economist.

“These workshops are designed to help producers improve their pricing and marketing strategies through
the study of futures and options,” said Dr. Jackie Smith, Texas Agricultural Extension Service
ag economist-marketing specialist based in Lubbock. “In order to take advantage of profitable pricing
opportunities, producers must know how to evaluate market alternatives.

“These workshops will focus on evaluating price alternatives. All pricing alternatives are directly or
indirectly linked to the futures market. So, we will be closely studying the basics of futures and options,
fundamental and technical analysis, and pricing strategies using these tools.”

The four, one-day workshops are slated on Feb. 8, Feb. 22, March 8 and March 29 at the Ralls
Community Room in Ralls, added Steve Young, Crosby County Extension agent-agriculture.

Smith will teach all four workshops. Specific workshop topics include:

     •    Feb. 8 – Marketing Plans; Introduction to Futures; Pricing with Futures
     •    Feb. 22 – Introduction to Options; Pricing with Options
     •    March 8 – Pricing Strategies; Basics of Fundamental Analysis; Introduction to Technical Analysis
     •    March 22 – Overview of Technical Analysis; Seasonal Marketing Considerations

“Each workshop will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.,” Smith said. “Registration costs $30 per person for all
four workshops.”

Producers can register, or get more information, for these workshops by calling Smith at 806-746-6101;
or by calling Young at the Crosby County Extension office (806-675-2347).