No Food or Jobs USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue stuck with conventional conservativism in at least one of his “principles” for the next farm bill – the able-bodied must work if they are to receive food assistance (food stamps). He also wants to limit those among them without any dependents to 90 days of such assistance unless they work at least 80 hours a month, are in training or enrolled tin education. However, as detailed by Hilary Hoynes, an economics and public policy professor at UC-Berkley, there are too often no jobs available for those receiving the benefits. No Workers, Poor Work The Idaho state legislature is considering legislation that would enable farms to use prison labor if no other workers can be fo...
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.
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...