Pork slaughter capacity grew this week more than in any previous single year as the pace of pork exports is trending differently than in 2016. Meanwhile, the direction of Hurricane Irma’s path could temporarily impact packing capacity in one state. July Export Data Pork was down and beef was way up when it came to global sales by U.S. packers in July. Beef exports totaled 104,488 MT, a 5 percent increase over the same month last year. The total sales value hit $623.7 million, up 18 percent from a year ago and the largest monthly value total since December 2014. For the first seven months of 2017, beef exports were up 11 percent in volume and 15 percent in value versus last year.Also in July, pork exports totaled 173,675 MT, down 4 percent...
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.