U.S. – China Tea Leaves Under the Phase One agreement, U.S. exports of goods to China this year were supposed to increase by 36.6 percent over the base year of 2017. Instead, they are down nearly 6 percent in the first four months of this year compared to 2019. U.S. agricultural exports to China were down 45 percent in the first quarter of this year compared with the first quarter of 2017. Notably, sales to China of U.S. manufactured goods like vehicles are even further behind. Interpreting the meaning of the two sides’ statements below following yesterday’s phone call does not sound encouraging. Chinese Vice Premier Liu He: The two sides agreed to: "create a favorable atmosphere and conditions" for the Phase One deal "...
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.