Beef packer margins improved $86/head last week to $174/head as sharply lower fed cattle prices more than offset weakness in wholesale beef values. Live cattle prices fell $8.30/cwt to $215.43/cwt, while the Choice cutout declined $4.63/cwt to $361.15/cwt. Margins have recovered substantially from late October and are $142/head above year-ago levels. Feedlot placement margins improved $119/head to -$133/head...
Key Takeaways: Alabama and Louisiana have requested partial waivers of 2027 Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) requirements, arguing that rising compliance costs are contributing to higher fuel prices and economic hardship. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry is encouraging neighboring states to join th...
Congress is back in session for the lame-duck period, which is beginning with several contentious issues, including the farm bill, a federal funding deadline, energy legislation, and impeachment proceedings against Pete Hegseth, the Secretary of War. Emblematic of the political uncertainty, the...
Russian Grain Markets: 2–6 November 2026 The Russian grain market remained relatively stable during the first week of November, although prices varied significantly by region. Prices were bearish in the Central, Black Soil and Southern Federal districts, while the Volga Valley, Urals and...
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.