So-called experts and analysts are fighting with contradictory analyses over a proposed border adjustment tax (BAT) in the U.S., and how currency exchange markets respond is a top argument. Farm Bill Stress U.S. farm groups are trying to set the stage for a new farm bill by emphasizing an economic atmosphere of severe stress. Vince Smith of Montana State University and the American Enterprise Institute cherry-picks data to emphasize that current inflation-adjusted prices are still above those in prior periods, but this ignores the fact that it takes time to cut the cost of production, especially when there is a lag in the price decline of farmland.It is true that most of the large farms producing a majority of the food have favorable debt...
Forecasting developments in production agriculture
On behalf of a private U.S. agricultural technology provider, WPI’s team generated an econometric model to forecast the movement of concentrated corn production north and west from the traditional U.S. Corn Belt. WPI’s model has subsequently provided quantitative support to a multi-million-dollar investment into short-season corn variety development. WPI’s methodology included a series of interviews with regional grain elevators and seed consultants. Emphasizing outreach and communication with stakeholders who possess intimate sectoral knowledge – on-the-ground insights – is a regular component of WPI’s methodologies, made possible by WPI’s ever-growing network of industry contacts.
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...