Nudging Consumption Some in Europe are pushing to waive the VAT tax on fruits and vegetables to improve their consumption. There is also talk of increased taxes on sugary products. The use of taxes to nudge consumption is not 100 percent effective. High taxes do not discourage cigarette smoking in countries like Greece, Bulgaria, or France. But they did in the U.S. Germany has higher taxes on alcohol than the U.S. but has a higher consumption rate. Sugar is higher priced in the U.S., but consumption is still large. But subsidizing high caloric foods while taxing better nutrient fruits and vegetables likely makes no sense. USMCA as Model Some Republicans frustrated by the lack of free trade agreement negotiations are proposing that other...
What You Need to Know Today: Commodities were mostly lower across the board today after yesterday’s Federal Reserve meeting hinted at a potential interest rate hike later in 2026. The dollar index reached its highest level in over a year, and a strong dollar makes U.S. agricultural expor...
The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) enters its mandated six-year review on 1 July. The original intent of the review is outlined in Article 34.7, which obligates members to: Provide recommendations and decide on appropriate actions. Extend the USMCA for another 16 years and meet aga...
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.