World Perspectives
livestock

Beef: Paying for Quality

According to beef grading data released by USDA, the percent of beef grading Choice and Prime hit record highs in the first weeks of 2022. Specifically, for the week ending 5 February, the combined total was 85.27 percent. For January, the average was 84.15 percent. Heavy, long fed cattle and good weather conditions certainly helped boost beef quality.   The bigger story, however, is the historical context of beef quality. Looking back at the first five weeks of the year, the increased quality in beef has been remarkable. From 2011-2013, the five-week average was 67.38 percent; since 2019 the five-week average has been above 82 percent. With all the discussion over meat inflation, this general trend of increase in beef quality...

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Summary of Futures

Sep 25 Corn closed at $4.0925/bushel, down $0.0225 from yesterday's close.  Sep 25 Wheat closed at $5.3825/bushel, down $0.025 from yesterday's close.  Nov 25 Soybeans closed at $10.27/bushel, up $0.0225 from yesterday's close.  Aug 25 Soymeal closed at $275.8/short ton, up $0.2...

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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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