Grain prices continued to drop overall (with the exception of milling wheat) at both the Russian and Ukrainian grain markets due to the strengthening local currencies. In Ukraine, lower export offer prices and larger offer were also factors in some instances. Russian Grain Markets Planting Update Spring crops were planted on 614,000 hectares (1.2 percent of the target) as of 14 March 2016. Market Trends: 7-11 March 2016 During the week in review, grain prices (except for milling wheat) continued to drop in RUB expression at the Russian market, although they mainly grew in USD expression due to strengthening of the ruble. GEOGRAPHICALLY 3rd grade soft milling wheat prices decreased in Central (-$0.20/MT), Ural and Black Soil (-$0.60/M...
What You Need to Know Today: Russia rejected calls for a ceasefire in the Black Sea, including a proposal to halt attacks on civilian shipping that could help restore grain flows from Ukrainian ports. Tyson Foods announced plans to permanently close its Joslin, Illinois, beef processing facili...
The big news in the cattle markets yesterday was Tyson Foods’ move to close two more beef plants. One of them, the Joslin, Illinois, plant was shuttered immediately after the announcement. The other, in Eagle Mountain, Utah, is a case-ready plant that does not slaughter cattle. Tyson also...
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released the Consumer Price Index (CPI) on Wednesday. In July, the CPI rose 0.1 percent, seasonally adjusted, and rose 3.4 percent over the last 12 months, not seasonally adjusted. The index for all items less food and energy, or the “core” infla...
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.