After yesterday's weakness, the corn market was due for a turnaround and had one for most of the session, thanks to the pull from the soybean market General Comments Every year the soybean harvest season attracts labor disputes and work stoppages by unions representing truckers and/or port workers involved in transporting and handling the harvest. This time trucker unions in Mato Grosso, Parana, Rio Grande do Sul and other states are striking in protest of the Brazilian government's recent increase of the biodiesel fuel tax. In some areas, truckers have blocked main roads to prevent the movement of soybeans and other goods. The government has promised to consider trucker complaints. Meanwhile, however, it has asked courts to end the strik...
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.