The effort by organized labor against TPA is unprecedented, and the inclination is to bet against the bill passing except that it has such horrible implications for geopolitical reasons and for Barack Obama.The airwaves are bombarded with claims and counterclaims as to whether Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) will pass the U.S. House this month. One publication describes the situation as being like a football game at half-time and says "it is anyone's game." House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-California) told a meeting of pro-TPA lobbyists today that the bill will pass the House this month. Of course, the House Republican leadership claimed in 2013 that the farm bill would pass, but it failed 195-234 with 61 Republicans voting against i...
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.