Business
Corn and wheat exports remain supportive, but weaker soybean demand — especially from China — continues to pressure oilseed markets.
Demand for farm loans surged in the first quarter of the year, topping the previous record set in 2016.
Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer says the labor program will now be fully under her department, and consolidation will make the program more affordable and efficient for farmers and ranchers.
Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law joins us now with the highlights.
$15 billion in U.S. energy, $4.5 billion ag products, 50 Boeing jets—plus a 19% tariff on Indonesian exports in exchange for U.S. market access.
Following an on-target CPI, the combination could suggest that inflation is cooling.
Markets
Seth Tucker of Tucker Farms, a first-generation Arkansas farmer, says rising input costs are forcing changes to his operation, including stepping away from rice this season.
Rich Nelson with Allendale joined us to break down early planting progress, market expectations, and what producers should keep an eye on as the season moves forward.
Tight global supply is likely to keep fuel and fertilizer costs elevated.
Trade
USDA Leaves U.S. Grain Stocks Unchanged, Projects Mixed Livestock Fundamentals in March WASDE Report
USDA’s March WASDE report leaves U.S. corn, soybean and wheat ending stocks unchanged while adjusting global production estimates for South America.
Tariff revenues rarely flow directly back to farmers.
Strong exports and production support ongoing corn demand.