China’s offer to return to normal levels of agricultural commodity buying from the U.S. is underwhelming. China’s waiver of higher tariffs on 10 MMT of soybeans doesn’t mean they will be purchased from the U.S. and there is a vague commitment to eventually purchase $50 billion worth every year, depending on market conditions, when a final trade agreement is reached. But, there are rumors of no commitments at all until and unless the punitive tariffs are removed by Washington. As noted previously, most such buying agreements offer up specific numbers but then have “get out of jail for free” language that the buyer can exercise. As former President Ronald Reagan said of nuclear missile agreements with the Soviet...
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...