USDA sent a reminder out to growers and producers today that there are two weeks left to apply for CFAP payments. As of Monday 24 August, there have been 557,592 approved applications and $9.222 billion dispersed from the $16 billion budget. But also this week, USDA Secretary Perdue indicated that a second round of payments will likely be unveiled after Labor Day weekend. Whether it is an extension of the first round, or a broader or differently structured program remains to be seen. Given the approaching election, we can safely assume there will be new commodities eligible, probably including biofuels. Payments to date include $466.85 million to soybean growers and $1.634 billion to corn growers. Payments made by states for program crops,...
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...
Key Takeaways: The CME Group is launching new 90 percent Lean Beef and 50 percent Lean Beef futures and options contracts in July. There are five key factors that must be present in physical markets and futures contract specifications for futures contracts to become successful. The two l...
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.