One of the charges by populists in the agricultural sector is that consolidation has led to monopolistic conditions, or at least a monopsonist situation. Often cited as an example is the meat packing industry, though it has been investigated repeatedly. There are tools that enable better price hedging by producers, though they are used less than they should. USDA and the futures industry will attempt to remedy the problem with four outreach and training sessions at the end of this year focused on cattle contracts, factors impacting carcass quality and ultimately improving acceptance and premium pricing of steers. There is also the charge of monopoly when it comes to the input industry. However, no producer is forced to buy the latest...
From WPI Consulting
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.