Because the political far left and far right are now conspiring against trade liberalization, it is speculated that TPA will not be considered in Congress until after the 4 November mid-term election. Trade Agenda's Bad Timing The trade policy agenda calendar for 2014 is complex to say the least. Ideally, Congress first considers and passes Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) followed by consideration of proposed trade agreements in an odd numbered (non-election) year. Instead, President Obama heads to Asia in April in what is expected to be a victory tour for successful completion of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations. Meanwhile, Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) and the Generalized System of Preferences are slated for expirati...
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
Infrastructure investment due diligence
On behalf of a Canadian oilseed processer WPI's team provided market analysis, econometric modeling and financial due diligence in support of a $24 million-dollar investment in a Ukrainian crush plant. Consistent with WPI's findings, local production to supply the plant and the facility's output have expanded exponentially since the investment. WPI has conducted parallel work on behalf of U.S., South American and European clients, both private and public, in the agri-food space.