The Final Bell

Mike Zuzolo of Global Commodity Analytics recaps the factors that influenced today's trading. Topics today: - Feeling like a weather market - Longevity of strength - Funds position - Metals, energies, currency - Livestock quieter today

Politics and upcoming elections are adding uncertainty to the markets, with fiscal policy changes in China also weighing heavily on sentiment. However, big export announcements for corn and soybeans this morning provided a much-needed boost to the grain trade. Rains in Brazil are aiding crop conditions, while U.S. weather continues to be a critical factor driving market movements. The fast harvest...

The NOPPA crush numbers came in strong, but corn inspections were disappointing, adding pressure to the grain market. A train derailment in Mexico created additional logistical concerns, while rains in South America are improving crop conditions there. Traders are now watching to see if the Midwest will get much-needed rainfall, with ongoing concerns about river levels impacting transport. Meanwhi...

With the Monday holiday trade, there wasn’t a lot of fresh news to kick things off. The market felt the effects of a long harvest weekend, with some chatter about potential rain next week that could impact progress. Chinese stimulus measures were also a topic of conversation, adding a bit of uncertainty to the global outlook. Feeder cattle saw some movement, and spreads were a key focus for trader...

The WASDE report today didn’t bring any major surprises, but there were a few key takeaways worth noting. Corn yield numbers came in close to expectations, though some believe they could still be adjusted in future reports. Soybean yield estimates also appeared reasonable, but the market will keep a close eye on how weather impacts final numbers. U.S. ending stocks were in line with projections, t...

Wheat held higher in today’s trade, while corn and beans saw lower movement. A recovery in crude oil prices added some support to the broader market. As traders look ahead to tomorrow’s report, questions linger about potential shifts, especially with South American weather in focus. On the livestock side, the cattle market pushed higher and managed to hold green throughout the day, showing resilie...

Steady cattle prices were offered in the north this week, though it seems the basis may have been lost, the potential for lighter kills as packers continue to add pressure to the trade. The market is still contending with heavy cattle in the south, but despite these challenges, the cattle market has seen a strong rally overall, showing resilience in the face of various pressures. Soybeans led the...

Grain markets were softer overall this week, with soybeans leading the pullback. Seasonals suggest some pressure is typical during this period, while harvest is moving ahead of last year’s pace. A big question looming is where to store the grain—could this become a market issue as supplies increase? On the cattle side, the cash market remains a key focus. Livestock saw both sides of the trade thro...

Weather in South America remains a critical factor, as we await Friday’s USDA report, which will provide more insight into yield expectations. The big question is whether seasonal lows have been set, and how a potentially large South American crop might impact prices moving forward. Meanwhile, dryness in the Midwest continues to pose challenges for U.S. producers. On the livestock side, many are w...

A temporary end to the port strikes has provided some relief to supply chains, while Brazil is set to receive much-needed rains, aiding their crops. The USDA report next week is highly anticipated, with markets looking for further clarity. However, drought continues to plague Russia and Ukraine, adding pressure to global grain supplies. Here in the U.S., dryness remains a concern for producers. Me...

Even the wheat market struggles to pull grains higher, despite global challenges. While up days are desirable, constant upward movement isn't always sustainable. Frost worries in Australia are impacting wheat production, while drought in South America continues to hinder crop growth. Add in the disruptions from ongoing port strikes and the escalating conflict in the Middle East, and the economic p...

There’s positive money flow in the food and energy sectors, signaling strength in these markets. The latest StoneX customer survey suggests crop sizes are getting bigger, adding pressure on supply. In Brazil, rains are expected to return next week, which will be welcomed by the soybean and winter crops, aiding growth. Meanwhile, the EU Commission has proposed a one-year delay on deforestation regu...

Corn broke through its 100-day moving average, signaling a key technical shift in the market. Meanwhile, geopolitical tensions are rising with Iran launching missiles into Israel, adding uncertainty to global markets. Domestically, good harvest weather is helping farmers, but the focus is also on South American weather—could it be a game changer for global crop production? Crude oil has pulled bac...

China's influence continues to weigh heavily on commodities, impacting global demand and pricing. The upcoming USDA Quarterly Stocks Report will provide further clarity on supply levels, potentially shifting market dynamics. Meanwhile, the effects of recent hurricanes on agriculture, particularly in key growing regions, are still being assessed. With looming port strikes threatening supply chains,...

Hurricane concerns are looming over agriculture, with potential impacts on crop quality and transportation, while tar spot worries in the Eastern Corn Belt are adding pressure to corn yields. Harvest activity is picking up across the country, but grain markets sold off this week, driven by broader macroeconomic factors like China's stimulus efforts. Crude oil prices have dropped by $2, which could...

Chinese stimulus measures are adding some optimism to global markets, but questions remain about the impact on agricultural demand, particularly for corn. With corn sitting on the sidelines, traders are left wondering what the next move will be. While the macro environment appears slightly improved, soymeal is still facing struggles, possibly due to oversupply and weak demand. On the trade front,...

Funds are beginning to come out of their short positions, creating some movement in the markets. Early harvest updates are showing disappointing yields for soybeans, while corn seems to be holding its own as harvest progresses. In Brazil, the northern regions are struggling with poor conditions, adding to global supply concerns. The southwestern U.S. is also facing a challenging weather story, con...

With the FEDS rating drop adding pressure to the markets, harvest is underway, though dry conditions are raising concerns about crop quality. This year’s yield potential remains difficult to pin down, with variability across regions making it hard to get a clear picture. The upcoming Quarterly Grain Stocks and Small Grains Summary Report on September 30th will be closely watched for further insigh...

With the FEDS rating drop influencing market sentiment, traders are wading cautiously through the day. Wheat struggled to rally despite broader market movements, while technical indicators in the grains showed mixed signals, reflecting uncertainty. Weather remains a critical factor, impacting both harvest progress and crop conditions. Looking ahead, the Cattle on Feed report due tomorrow is expect...

The recent drop in the FEDS rating has implications for both the U.S. dollar and foreign currencies, likely weakening the dollar and potentially making U.S. exports more attractive. With China coming off its holiday, there’s speculation about whether they will increase purchases from the U.S., especially for agricultural commodities. Meanwhile, there are concerns about delayed corn planting in Sou...

With the rate decision coming tomorrow, markets are on edge, but cattle prices have continued to move higher. The upcoming Cattle on Feed (COF) report is also drawing attention as it could impact price direction. Grains seem to be locked in a box, with limited movement, though some commercial buying in soybeans has provided support. Corn and beans have managed to pull wheat along with them, despit...

NOPA Crush Report: The latest NOPA Crush Report will provide insights into soybean demand and processing, which is critical for gauging domestic supply and crush margins. Sales to China: Recent sales to China continue to influence the markets, particularly for soybeans, as China's demand plays a crucial role in price direction and global trade flows. Basis for Corn & Beans: Basis levels for corn a...

The bean market turned lower today, driven by shifting weather patterns in both Brazil and the U.S., which could impact crop production. Additionally, escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine are adding to global market uncertainty, further influencing commodity prices. In the livestock sector, cattle prices continue their rollercoaster movement, reflecting the volatility across agricultural...

Today’s USDA WASDE report delivered key insights into supply and demand for major crops and livestock, impacting market expectations and strategies. Overall, the market is expected to react strongly to these revisions, with price volatility likely to increase as traders adjust positions based on the updated supply and demand dynamics.

Markets are bracing for the USDA WASDE report set to be released Thursday at 11 a.m., with expectations that reactions will be swift across both grain and livestock markets. The stock market has already played a key role in recent trade activity, influencing movements not just in grains but also in livestock. Mark emphasizes the importance of forward-thinking for growers, encouraging them to consi...