NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — USDA export inspections, a report that continues during the Federal government shutdown, offer an early read on demand moving downriver and to port. This week showed firmer soybeans but softer corn, wheat, and sorghum versus the prior week, with year-to-date strength in corn and wheat offset by lagging soybeans and sorghum. These flows can influence basis, barge demand, and spreads as harvest advances.
Week ended Oct. 9: corn 44.5M bu (prior 67.0M; year-ago 20.2M), soybeans 36.5M (28.8M; 70.1M), wheat 16.3M (20.1M; 14.0M), sorghum 0.82M (1.31M; 3.17M). Major lanes included Gulf corn to Mexico/East Asia, Mississippi/East Gulf soybeans to Spain, Bangladesh, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Pakistan, and Mexico, and Pacific Northwest wheat (HRS/SWW) to Asia, with HRW moving via the Gulf.
Marketing year to date: corn 312.6M bu (+65% yr/yr), soybeans 148.5M (-26%), wheat 391.9M (+18%), sorghum 4.8M (-71%). The mix points to comparatively stronger pull for corn and PNW wheat, while soybean momentum will depend on sustained Gulf and interior rail flows and early-season vessel lineups.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Expect comparatively firmer corn and PNW wheat basis; soybean basis hinges on continued Gulf loadings, while sorghum remains light.
Purdue University’s Dr. Michael Langemeier joins us to break down the latest read on farmer sentiment in the April Ag Economy Barometer, and growing concerns about the impact of global conflict on farm inputs and income.
The USDA’s annual report leaves dairy producers with a mixed picture. Output and herd size expanded, but weaker prices kept income from rising with production.
Total cash receipts from marketings of cattle, calves, hogs, and pigs climbed by 18% in 2025 to $165 billion.
March crush data showed stronger soybean and canola processing, but softer animal fat production.
Higher freight rates and potential service disruptions are key concerns for agriculture, which relies heavily on rail to move commodities.
The new county maps show farm program payments are widespread, but payment design still produces very different outcomes across regions and crops. AgriSompo’s Brooks York joins us to discuss the role of crop insurance in supporting mental health.
