Reign of Terror It's not the French Revolution kind of reign of terror but what happens during presidential transitions in the U.S. is sometimes uncomfortable. Today’s firing of Defense Secretary Mark Esper by President Trump may signal more fitful actions ahead. Similarly, firebrand progressive Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-New York) is threatening to torment anyone that worked for the Trump Administration. Most previous transfers of power have involved some pranks and a rush to finalize regulations while pardoning friends in trouble. But most have also involved civility and even generosity. When staff of President George H.W. Bush hung a banner at the White House reading “We Will Be Back” after losing to Bill Clinton, the...
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
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.