Hog prices are about to hit the summer doldrums, but how will they compare to last year’s levels? Meanwhile, PEDv is making a comeback in Canada, the EPA releases ethanol volumes, and the broiler industry deals with woody breast syndrome. What’s Ahead for Hog Prices? The 1 July Hogs and Pigs report that showed a record swine herd is starting to be seen in the market as a catalyst to the normal seasonal swings. It is the beginning of the third quarter, which signals the summer doldrums for hog prices. Hogs were one of the top performing commodities of the second quarter, up 38 percent in price during the entire 13 weeks and 59 percent higher from trough to peak.Last year the hog market saw prices drop about 45 percent from the end of the s...
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.