World Perspectives
wheat

Thinking Positive

Heat waves are on everyone’s mind, and while we lack the expertise to accurately predict the impact of climate change on agricultural production, history offers some interesting observations. The Medieval Warm Period between 750 and 1350 AD involved an unusual temperature rise that melted glaciers and led to a revolution in European agriculture. There was also less moisture. Crop yields tripled and the farms of Northern Europe outperformed their Mediterranean counterparts. Three-field crop rotation along with other agricultural technologies developed.  Winter grains previously turned into whisky or beer were replaced with grapes and increased wine making. However, warming in the modern era has a different market situation. Globa...

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Summary of Futures

Sep 25 Corn closed at $4.0925/bushel, down $0.0225 from yesterday's close.  Sep 25 Wheat closed at $5.3825/bushel, down $0.025 from yesterday's close.  Nov 25 Soybeans closed at $10.27/bushel, up $0.0225 from yesterday's close.  Aug 25 Soymeal closed at $275.8/short ton, up $0.2...

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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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