World Perspectives

2019/2020 Dog Whistle

Politicians glommed on to the issue of income inequality in 2019 and they will remain focused on it during 2020. They can do nothing about it, but when a minority is rich and a majority is not the disparity makes for a solidly populist political manifesto. As noted by Robert Samuelson in the Washington Post, most Americans are experiencing income gains. Notably, the increases are symmetrical (not equal) across income brackets, with the exception being the poorest quintile that is slightly outpacing the second quintile in gains due to government transfers.  Frustrated with the sole use of income as a measurement of success, Europe led the OECD’s construct of a Better Life Index, encompassing data on the environment, education, c...

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Market Commentary: Absent Chinese Demand, Supply Dominates the Mood

Markets were over-weight on the Xi – Trump phone call this morning. The phone call went well enough but after it became clear there was no deal on ag or soybeans, the latter turned south. Beans and meal had traded higher overnight and at the open, but like all three wheats, closed on loss...

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Summary of Futures

Dec 25 Corn closed at $4.24/bushel, up $0.0025 from yesterday's close.  Dec 25 Wheat closed at $5.225/bushel, down $0.0175 from yesterday's close.  Nov 25 Soybeans closed at $10.255/bushel, down $0.12 from yesterday's close.  Dec 25 Soymeal closed at $284/short ton, down $0.7 fro...

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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.

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