The ethanol industry continues on a torrid expansion path fuelled globally by high energy prices and, in most countries, an overlay of policy incentives directed at renewable energy.

At the start of 2008, the capacity of U.S. ethanol facilities under construction was equivalent to 75% of the capacity that had come online during the previous three decades. Energy legislation enacted in late 2007 more than quadruples the volume required under the Renewable Fuel Standard. In the markets, the price of crude oil reached the $100/barrel threshold.

However, dramatic challenges have emerged. The price of corn has skyrocketed since late 2006, and prices remain high despite a record crop in 2007. In the fall of 2007, the expansion in U.S. ethanol consumption was unable to keep pace with rapid production expansion, resulting in ethanol prices falling below gasoline prices, as state government regulations and infrastructure issues in the Southeast hindered access to this large new market. The combination of these factors has impacted profitability, cooled new equity investment and debt financing of the industry and highlighted the risks faced by ethanol producers - and thus the need for risk management practices.

It is in this environment of change that Ethanol: The 2008 Market Dynamics is being held. This conference provides critical information and outlooks to attendees for use in their businesses in 2008. This timely conference will place the dynamic changes occurring in the U.S. market within the context of global ethanol production and trade, including specific discussions of the ethanol industries in Brazil, Mexico and the Caribbean Basin Initiative countries.

Join industry decision makers and leading consultants in New York to gain cutting-edge perspectives and outlooks on the industry and markets.