Livestock Trading 101

Let's take this short journey in a livestock market in Egypt. We will know more how it works. It is an interesting way of trading and investing.

I will tell you my personal story of purchasing this cow at a livestock market in Esna, Egypt. A town 60 km south of Luxor.

The Animal Spotter

The spotter is a farmer who comes to the market with nothing but cash in his pocket. He looks out for a good cow, donkey, camel, etc. Once he finds a good one, he will bargain hard for it and purchase. On the same day, at the same market, he will go another far end with his new purchase. Guess what, he will offer it for sale. He will make about 300 EGP more on his capital. This is all due to his skill.

I have met one of those guys in my journey. It is amazing how witty they are and very quick with numbers. They read people so well, they could be easily FBI profilers, like Elizabeth Keen of Blacklist :)

Moving the purchase

Now that the deal is set. It is time to move the animal to the destination. It could be another city or a village. Pick-up trucks are the preferred method. The process requires the help of many people. Almost everyone standing close will assist loading this cow.

Forms of Payment

Only cash, forget modern technology and credit cards. There is an incredible amount of cash on this day in this piece of land.

And finally, off we go and heading to the village intended as the new home for our cow.