What Killed the Diammonium Phosphate Futures Contract?

Using a survey of industry participants, and an analysis of price relationships, this paper investigates the demise of the diammonium phosphate futures. The results indicate the diammonium phosphate cash and futures markets were not well linked. The results also suggest that the initial specifications of diammonium phosphate futures contract may have resulted in its use as a forward contract with a high rate of delivery, reducing market participation and limiting liquidity. Ultimately, the contract failed because it was a poor hedging tool, and was perceived by the industry not to offer benefits beyond existing contracting and risk management practices.