Through a combination of cyclical factors and disease, 2023 promises to be a year with less meat. The poultry industry has had HAPI outbreaks at 492 commercial and backyard flocks in 40 states. The cattle herd is contracting due to herd liquidation amidst drought and high feed costs. As a result, markets will be turbulent, but returns will be higher. The Biden Administration has sought to smooth the problems of the past few years by subsidizing small packer startups, and new legislation will focus on increased industry transparency, plus conducting audits and oversight. USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack said the legislative package “will support USDA’s operations and help make USDA more efficient, effective and better equipped t...
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.