Soybean demand returned to Argentina last week. Six cargoes were traded FOB and CNF at levels of -9 SN FOB and 57 SN CNF, both for May/June shipment. Considering that Brazil May FOB was trading at 38 SK last week, today’s offers at 48 SK indicates Argentina is now more competitive. Devaluation and Markets With devaluation of the Argentine peso executed (as noted in our last report), any adverse impacts have not been as dramatic as the previous government predicted. Operating on a "free" exchange rate market, adjustment is occurring little by little with the current rate at approximately 13 ARS/USD (falling from around 10).What the new government has yet to accomplish is the issuance of new export licenses, but that is certain to happen in...
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.