USDA will release its Cattle on Feed report tomorrow, along with the December quarterly Hogs and Pigs report. The cattle markets are anticipating the Cattle on Feed report; since the Friday after Thanksgiving futures prices have been volatile, but definitely bearish. Some participants have called it a meltdown. The June live cattle contract peaked at $185.40/cwt and bottomed out at $163.65/cwt. It is now above $171/cwt. Feeder cattle have followed the live cattle market’s ups and downs since September. Placements have been greater than expected since September when the market started to turn softer. Typically, October is the top month for placements, and then they start to tail off. Friday’s report wil...
Infrastructure investment due diligence
On behalf of a Canadian oilseed processer WPI's team provided market analysis, econometric modeling and financial due diligence in support of a $24 million-dollar investment in a Ukrainian crush plant. Consistent with WPI's findings, local production to supply the plant and the facility's output have expanded exponentially since the investment. WPI has conducted parallel work on behalf of U.S., South American and European clients, both private and public, in the agri-food space.
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...