Abstract
We use dynamic time warping, a non-parametric pattern recognition method, to study interlinkages between major energy and agricultural commodity prices. Cluster analysis is conducted to group commodity prices based on their behavioral likeness by maximizing the differences between groups while minimizing the differences within groups. Two clusters emerge: one comprises the prices of crude oil and six major agricultural commodities, whereas the other contains coal and natural gas prices. Regarding lead-lag associations, oil prices generally lag crop prices; however, there are periods during which the former lead the latter. Furthermore, the duration with which oil prices lead or lag crop prices changes frequently.
•We use Dynamic Time Warping to study interlinkages between major energy and agricultural commodity prices.•Cluster analysis is conducted to group commodity prices based on their behavioral likeness.•Two clusters emerge: one comprises crude oil prices and six major agricultural commodities while coal and natural gas prices constitute the other.•Oil prices generally lag crop prices, but there are periods during which the former lead the latter.•The duration with which oil prices lead or lag crop prices changes frequently.