The outlook for agriculture under a Trump Administration includes a move away from “foodie” issues pushed by the Obamas and farmers in prominent D.C. positions.The outlook for agricultural policy under a Trump Administration and a Republican Congress was explored by Bob Kohlmeyer yesterday in his piece Common Thread (see Ag Perspectives 10 November 2016). Specifically, he wrote with regards to Farm Bill budget issues, Dodd-Frank, trade, and ag company mega-mergers. This article builds upon his outlook and incorporates some additional issues of interest to readers.Perhaps the biggest change from the Trump Administration will be a move away from the current Administration’s constant pressure on – for lack of a better term – “foodie” issues. T...
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.
Key Takeaways: Dry bulk markets remain mixed with Capesize vessels seeing continued pressure from weaker demand while fixtures and rate strength gradually increases towards the smaller vessel classes. Tanker markets are pulling back from their recent highs as tonnage moves out of the Mid...
The Trump import plan for 300,000 MT of beef supplies used for ground beef, i.e., lean trim, from September through November has, according to Secretary Brooke Rollins, brought some relief to beef prices. The Executive Order states that the Secretary of Agriculture will analyze and review the m...
Key Takeaways: Texas illustrates the assumptions underlying the 2025 FMMO reform; Idaho exposes their limitations. The Southwest order blend (roughly 27 percent Class I, 32 percent Class III and 31 percent Class IV) exposes Texas producers to every lever USDA adjusted, with a near-neutral proj...