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Carbon Credit ETFs and OTC Trading

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markenowens
Carbon Credit ETFs and OTC Trading

The carbon credit market is expected to grow by 2027 at a CAGR of roughly 31%. This is due to a growing emphasis on businesses reducing their emissions as well as the possibility of mandates from various nations. However, a number of issues are impeding the growth of this market, such as low liquidity, poor data availability and limited investment opportunities.


A carbon credit is a financial instrument that represents the right to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. It is also referred to as an environmental commodity. Like other commodities, it is traded on exchanges where buyers and sellers meet. Buyers may be corporations that need to offset their own emissions or they may be governmental entities that are implementing GHG emission reduction programs. In the case of the latter, the credits are referred to as “carbon offsets.”


The price of a carbon.credit exchange depends on several factors. These include the type of the underlying project that issued it, the geography, its vintage (the older the better), and whether it provides other co-benefits that contribute to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, such as improved water quality or economic equality. Often, these projects produce lower volumes of credits, as they are usually smaller and more localized, but these additional benefits can help to justify a higher price for the credits.


In addition to these factors, the prices of carbon credits are influenced by supply and demand. As companies are increasingly pressured to pursue net zero objectives, they are increasing their investments in renewable energy and carbon reduction projects. At the same time, investors are seeking ways to incorporate sustainability in their portfolios.


The most common way for individuals to invest in carbon credits is through exchange-traded funds (ETFs). These ETFs allow you to diversify your investments by including exposure to a wide range of environmental assets in one portfolio. These ETFs can be found on exchanges such as Xpansiv and AirCarbon Exchange.


Alternatively, you can buy and sell individual carbon credits through the over-the-counter (OTC) trading market. This market is primarily conducted through private conversations and via brokers, but there are also emerging exchanges. For example, Singapore based AirCarbon Exchange has established itself as the leading global spot market for carbon credit trading.


However, it is important to note that many OTC transactions in carbon credit markets are not regulated by the FCA. This means you won’t be able to access the FCA’s compensation scheme in the event that you lose money. Additionally, scammers have been targeting consumers who are interested in investing in a carbon credit exchange. They may claim that companies are being forced to offset their emissions, promise high returns or offer to invest directly in a green project that generates carbon credits. You should always check the FCA warning list before making an investment.

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