Regional News The biggest news in the European markets over the past two weeks was the EU-UK free trade deal. The deal means that trade of most commodities will continue tariff-free, avoiding a potential massive disruption in global markets. There will still be extra transaction costs, however, which are estimated at 2.5-5 percent for grains and oilseeds. European and Black Sea markets have been generally quiet in the past two weeks with the Christmas and New Year’s holidays interrupting trade. Weather has been mostly favorable for crop development across the region, with the current forecast featuring below-normal temperatures for western Europe and above-average temperatures for eastern Europe, Ukraine, and Russia. Fra...
What You Need to Know Today: President Trump claimed the ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran was over, as both sides accused one another of violating the terms of the agreement. Commercial vessels are increasingly steering clear of the Strait of Hormuz as security risks escalate following Iran...
Russian Grain Markets: 29 June-3 July 2026 The new marketing season has officially begun in Russia, although bearish sentiment has been concentrated in the southern regions closest to the Black Sea ports, where export demand has been weakest. Delays in grain deliveries to inland elevators have...
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.