Chicago futures saw the December corn contract lose 8.5 cents today and November soybeans lost 10¾ cents reportedly based on uncertainty about exports out of the Gulf due to damage from hurricane Ida. There was notably less concern in 2005 about exports out of NOLA when hurricane Katrina hit the region. Chicago futures remained steady for several days after the storm. Commentary at the time focused on how the moisture moving northward from the storm would help to finish summer crops. There was discussion immediately post-Katrina about adverse impacts on the cotton crop in the deep south. There has been similar discussion the past two days about the Delta’s cotton crop being at a critical maturation stage. However, ICE De...
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.