Markets Media spoke with Anise Lau, Managing Director, Global Futures Brokerage – APAC Metals, Marex, who won Excellence in Commodities at the 2025 Women in Finance Asia Awards.

What was your reaction to winning the award, especially within the fast-paced and competitive world of metals trading?

It was a meaningful moment, not just for me, but for the entire APAC Metals team. We’ve spent over a decade building something from the ground up, and this recognition reflects the consistency, resilience, and trust we’ve developed with our clients. In a fast-moving industry, it’s easy to focus only on the next trade. This award gave us a chance to pause and acknowledge how far we’ve come.

Metals markets are deeply influenced by macro trends and geopolitical shifts. How do you stay ahead of such volatility and turn it into opportunity for your clients and your desk?

Rather than trying to predict every move, we focus on being prepared. That means having a strong foundation – clear processes, disciplined risk management, and open communication with clients. When volatility hits, we’re able to respond quickly because we’ve built trust and transparency into how we operate. Our role is to help clients navigate uncertainty through risk management, not just react to it.

Marex is a major player in global futures brokerage. What do you think sets your approach to APAC metals trading apart from others in the space?

We’ve built our business with a long-term view. From securing our SFC license in 2011 to integrating the ED & F APAC business, every step has focused on creating a platform that is stable, client-focused, and regionally relevant. We’ve grown by listening to clients, delivering consistently, and continuously monitoring, adapting, and optimising our approach.

Moreover, our metals team has become one of the most trusted and stable broker teams in the region. We are recognised for executing the highest volume of transactions on the London Metal Exchange and were recently honoured with the Base Metals House of the Year award. This recognition reflects the strength of our client relationships and the consistency of our service.

How have client demands evolved in the commodities space over the last year, and how has your team adapted to meet those changes?

Clients are asking more questions – about risk, about transparency, about ESG. They want partners who understand their business and can offer more than just execution. We’ve adapted by investing in our team, making sure they’re equipped to have deeper conversations and provide real insight – especially in times of volatility. We’ve also made sure our infrastructure can support more complex needs, whether that’s cross-commodity exposure or more detailed reporting.

Can you share a key moment or turning point in your career that helped shape your leadership style or strategic approach?

The EDF integration was a defining moment. We had to bring together two teams, manage overlapping client relationships, and maintain service quality under increased exposure. This required clear communication, careful planning, and a deep understanding of our clients’ needs and risks. That experience reinforced the importance of transparency and accountability.

Another pivotal moment was joining Marex and building the APAC metals team under the leadership of our President, Mr. Simon Van Den Born. His support, along with that of the broader management team, was instrumental – especially as we navigated the nickel crisis. That period tested our resilience and strengthened the trust within our team. It was a powerful reminder that leadership is about providing stability, offering clarity, and empowering those around you.

What advice would you give to young professionals, especially women, looking to succeed in commodities trading or futures brokerage in Asia?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions or take on challenges outside your comfort zone. Be vocal and find people who will support your growth – mentorship and sponsorship matter. For women especially, visibility is important, so take the opportunities when they come, and help create them for others when you can.