Analysts have their sights set on corn ahead of today’s WASDE report

Analysts will be watching corn yields when the August WASDE report drops today. Early signs show USDA is poised to raise its average yield estimate, which could send markets reacting fast.

Our friend Oliver Sloup with Blue Line Futures explains why he will be watching this area.

“The average yield estimate is going to be the big headline number that we’re looking at for corn that comes in at 184.3, well above where the USDA was last month at 181. So I suspect that we’ll probably trade that WASDE report there for maybe an hour or so. We’ll talk about the headline risk, and then I think a lot of the attention is going to turn towards the crop tour that starts next week as well, which will be on and will be starting on the eastern leg. So it’ll be good to get some boots on the ground, really across the whole corn belt to kind of get a better idea of what’s actually out there. We’ve heard of some potential pollination issues, you know, how widespread is that? Still to be determined. So, again, it’s going to be good to get out there in the field and see for ourselves.”

Related Stories
High fertilizer costs and global risks threaten spring margins for growers.
Stable blending demand continues to underpin corn use despite export volatility.
At Commodity Classic in San Antonio, growers explore new herbicide options, John Deere’s latest 8 Series tractors, and cutting-edge ag technology shaping the 2026 planting season. Here are some of RFD NEWS’ highlights from the event so far.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer provided insight on updated PLC rate estimates, the role of base acres, and the upcoming enrollment window for ARC and PLC programs.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Feed demand and premiums drive growth for the crop
Purdue economist Dr. Joana Colussi discussed the U.S. and Brazil’s reliance on imported fertilizers and their impact on global food security amid rising input costs.
RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper joined us to discuss the proposed E15 amendment in the Farm Bill, industry reaction to the legislation, and the outlook for year-round E15 sales.
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins plans a farm visit in Missouri, hinting at a possible fertilizer relief announcement on RFD-TV earlier this week. USDA also restructures its research infrastructure and launches new food-safety centers.
As part of this effort, USDA will establish a new National Food Safety Center (NFSC) in Urbandale, Iowa, which will serve as the primary hub for FSIS administrative, technical, and support operations.