All in Trade War The lack of a China-U.S. agreement on trade this past weekend in Beijing means that things will get worse before they get better. Each side’s goals are quite clear, and so the difference is in calculating the cost-benefit ratio of the trade war. The cost in terms of economic risks will have to increase. Delay would ordinarily favor the authoritarian regime rather than the democracy, but Donald Trump is not a normal western politician. His re-election in 2020 depends upon proving that he is the great negotiator. The former casino owner has all his chips on the table. China will use its administrative controls to hurt U.S. exports. There is never a good time for business uncertainty but there could be wor...
What You Need to Know Today: The corn and soybean markets closed slightly higher in low-volume trade. The wheat market was mixed, with HRW continuing its downward trek on improved moisture. As expected, the bearish cattle on feed report drove down cattle prices and pulled hogs down with it. Mi...
Monday, 25 May is a U.S. holiday, and both the markets and our office will be closed. Please note that the next issue of Ag Perspectives will be published on Tuesday, 26 May. The WPI staff wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend...
USDA’s monthly cattle on feed report was released today. The total number of cattle on feed in feedlots with 1,000 head or more capacity amounted to 11.6 million head, 102 percent of last year. Source: USDA, WPI Placements were up, but part of that is attributable to persistent drought c...
From WPI Consulting
Weighing in on strategic realignment
WPI’s team was retained by the governing board of a U.S. industry organization to review a decision, reached by vote, to invest significant assets into the development and management of an export trading company. WPI’s team conducted a formal review of this decision and concluded that the current level of market saturation would limit the benefits of the investment. Based on WPI’s analysis and recommended actions, the board subsequently reversed its decision and undertook a strategic planning effort to identify more impactful investments. On behalf of numerous clients, WPI has not only assisted in identifying strategic paths but also advised their implementation.