Markets continue to reel from the August WASDE with the trade trying to decide if USDA’s latest figures are wrong, right, or somewhere in between. One could make the case either way with its estimates being the best available at a given time but also subject to the fact that the world (and markets) are constantly changing. While USDA’s job is to give its most accurate supply/demand forecasts for the entire world at a specific point, the futures market’s job (among other things) is to estimate the future price for a commodity. To a certain extent, it doesn’t matter whether USDA’s forecasts are right or wrong if cash and futures markets can function freely and converge during the delivery period. The WASDE should...
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.