The CBOT ended the week with gains across the board as stronger energy and palm oil markets supported sharp rallies in soyoil and soybeans. The soy complex has been the surprising leader of the CBOT during a week that, at its outset, looked like it would feature major rallies in wheat and corn. Instead, Russia’s decision to re-join the Ukraine export corridor agreement allowed grain markets to pullback while energy and vegoil demand sent the soy complex higher. Funds were quiet on Friday but cautiously extended net longs in soybeans and, to a far lesser extent, corn and KCBT wheat. China has approved soymeal imports from 14 facilities in Brazil and it seeks to diversify its suppliers. China is a minor soymeal importer and inste...
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.