“Demand for corn is ferocious": Analysts prepare for corn acre increase this year

Ag analysts are preparing for a significant increase in corn acres this year.

Frequent Market Day Report guest Jim McCormick says data coming early next week is expected to show high demand.

“The demand for corn is ferocious,” he explained. “There are some genetics in certain areas that actually run out because that demand is so strong. And hence, that’s what we think, when it’s all said and done on the 31st, they’re gonna come in at least at 95.39 million acres.”

McCormick says it all boils down to profit, which is something corn has more potential for than soybeans.

Related Stories
Corn and wheat exports remain supportive, but weaker soybean demand — especially from China — continues to pressure oilseed markets.
Fertilizer markets face uncertainty after President Trump raised the possibility of tariffs on Canadian imports, with analysts warning of supply and pricing risks. Josh Linville with StoneX provides a fertilizer industry outlook.
Frigid winter weather and rapid temperature swings have cattle markets watching closely for livestock stress, as analysts say fluctuations pose the greatest risk.
A new study found that retaining the EPA’s half-RIN credit protects soybean demand, farm income, and crushing-sector strength while preserving biofuel market flexibility.
The U.S. has a bountiful corn supply, but markets are waiting for the January WASDE Report, which will include updated yield estimates.
Freight Softens as Producers Plan 2026 Budgets Nationwide

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The Farm Bureau’s honor highlights the important role farm dogs play on operations across the country, serving as dependable workers and trusted companions.
Logistics capacity remains available, but winter volatility favors flexible delivery and marketing plans. NGFA President Mike Seyfert provides insight into grain transportation trends, trade policy, and priorities for the year ahead.
Rising adoption of GLP-1 drugs may gradually reshape food demand, with potential downstream effects on protein markets and consumer purchasing patterns.
Traders are keeping a close eye on China’s soybean purchases as markets track export sales, shipments, and progress toward the ‘magical’ 12 million ton target promised last year.
Leadership development and bipartisan engagement remain central to advancing agriculture’s priorities in 2026.
AFBF Economist Faith Parum provides analysis and perspective on the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program—what commodity growers should know and potential remedies for producers facing crop losses where that aid falls short.