The Bureau of Labor Statistics will release the Consumer Price Index (CPI) data tomorrow. The pre-report expectation is for an annual rate of 7.3 percent (compared to 7.8 percent in October) and a November monthly rate of 0.2 percent (compared to a monthly rate of 0.4 percent in October). Last week the Producer Price Index (PPI) came in at 0.3 percent, which was above the 0.2 percent consensus expectation and 7.4 percent for the year. The “core” PPI – excluding ag and energy – rose 0.4 percent in November. The PPI actually declined in July and showed no change in August, which is when energy prices declined before spiking again in September by 0.4 percent. Which brings up the value of the U.S. dollar. From th...
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.