World Perspectives
livestock

Livestock Industry Margins

Meat packer margins worsened again last week as profits for both beef and pork packers declined. Beef packer margins were sharply lower and hit another record low at -$253/head thanks to record highs in fed cattle prices that outpaced gains in the beef markets. Pork packer margins turned negative for the first time in four weeks and just the fourth time in the past year as the combination of weaker pork values and high hog costs pressured profits. For the beef industry, the continued plight of packers’ margins implies slaughter levels will remain reduced through summer and there could be a reduction in packing capacity later this year.  As is so often the case in this industry, ...

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Summary of Futures

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FOB Prices and Freight Rates App (Updated 10 September)

WPI Grain Prices and Freight Rate App Note: you can also visit the app directly by clicking here. Supplemental Information The section below offers a concise view of the options available in the current version of the WPI FOB Price and Freight Rate app, along with a short “How To”...

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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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