It was an expensive day on LaSalle Street for those previously bullish the 2019/20 U.S. corn crop. Those betting that USDA’s second look at corn planted acres and crop conditions would force a reduction in the crop estimate were sorely disappointed, and that was just about everybody. Even the most optimistic analysts expected the agency to reduce estimated corn production by 325 million bushels (-2.342 percent). However, USDA raised its prediction by 125 million bushels (+0.18 percent). Instead of being a disaster, the stronger evidence led it to conclude that this will be the fifth-largest crop in the past eight years. Today’s market action reflects the disappointment. Could USDA still be wrong? Could the increase be a mistak...
What You Need to Know Today: After a period of limited activity, USDA reported a sizeable 613 KMT in soybean export sales, including 330 KMT to China and 283 KMT to unknown destinations, potentially also China. The purchases represent a meaningful pickup in demand and bring China closer to ful...
Key Takeaways: Dry bulk markets remain mixed with Capesize vessels seeing continued pressure from weaker demand while fixtures and rate strength gradually increases towards the smaller vessel classes. Tanker markets are pulling back from their recent highs as tonnage moves out of the Mid...
The Trump import plan for 300,000 MT of beef supplies used for ground beef, i.e., lean trim, from September through November has, according to Secretary Brooke Rollins, brought some relief to beef prices. The Executive Order states that the Secretary of Agriculture will analyze and review the m...
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.