This is the first of a three-part special series of reports from WPI’s analysts in Ukraine. The first installment looks at what the war’s impact on agriculture looks like at this juncture. The second article to be posted tomorrow focuses on the sector’s prospects for production this spring and summer. The third and final report on Friday will focus on Russia itself. We are grateful that for the most part our analysts have remained safe, but we also know that the risks rise over time. Russia’s Methodology It is not rumor but fact that Russian troops are in a destructive mood. They have destroyed farms and there are gruesome pictures of dairy cows that have been unnecessarily shot with machine guns. There...
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.
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...
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...