Milling Wheat The Black Sea market was firmer last week in sympathy with the CBOT and Matif futures. Russia has exported about 33.8 MMT thus far in the current campaign against an expected total of 34.5-35 MMT. The weather in that country and Ukraine may not be perfect everywhere for wheat development, but there is nothing worrisome for the time being. The crops are estimated at 80-83 MMT in Russia and 27-29 MMT in Ukraine. The EU has exported 18.4 MMT so far versus 18.6 MMT at the same time last year. With six weeks remaining until the end of the campaign, the total for 2018/19 is expected to be very similar to last year’s 20.5 MMT. The weather in Romania and Bulgaria is favorable for wheat development with frequent rains and mild...
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...
Dry bulk markets were volatile but ultimately steady this week with notable differences in rate developments across vessel classes. The Capesize sector, which led the recent rally in freight rates with its dramatic surge, pulled back slightly amid more cautious chartering activity, partic...
Key Market Insights Macro markets delivered a full whipsaw today. Early in the session, crude oil had rallied back above $100/barrel as traders priced renewed concern over the U.S.-Iran standoff and potential supply risk through the Strait of Hormuz. That strength helped pull grains off their o...
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.