Feed Grain Markets Supported By Exports, Weather Risks

Strong export demand supports feed grain prices, but drought risk and seasonal patterns favor disciplined early-year marketing.

brad feeding goats grubby farm coop dreams 22006055-g.jpg

Brad feeding goats.

Grubby Farms, Coop Dreams

NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD-TV) — U.S. feed grain markets enter early 2026 with strong export demand providing support, even as drought conditions and mixed outside market signals shape price risk, according to analysis from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension economist Dr. Mark Welch.

Corn export sales remain a clear bright spot. As of mid-December, cumulative corn export commitments reached 1.96 billion bushels — 61 percent of USDA’s record 3.2-billion-bushel marketing-year target. That pace is well ahead of the typical 55 percent booked by late December, with Mexico accounting for a large share of recent sales. Grain sorghum exports are also improving, with China returning as a buyer and commitments reaching 35 percent of the annual target.

Cash markets reflect steady demand but cautious pricing. Texas corn basis remains firm relative to futures, supported by feed and export channels, while sorghum prices lag corn due to weaker basis levels.

Outside markets add mixed signals. Economic growth remains strong, but lower energy prices and a weaker dollar could influence export competitiveness moving forward.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Strong export demand supports feed grain prices, but drought risk and seasonal patterns favor disciplined early-year marketing.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
Related Stories
The State of Louisiana is known as a major wintering location for North American waterfowl. However, a new visitor — a species of Whistling Ducks hailing from South America — may pose a problem to native species.
The FAO Food Price Index for October 2023 is out. Where do global food prices stand, and which categories saw the largest gains?
In today’s production update, Total Acre Farming’s David Hula has an enlightening conversation with Jeremy Rountree about a new, industry-disrupting product from Brandt Fungicide.
Researchers out of the United Kingdom are using gene editing technology to help make High-Path Avian Flu less of a threat to poultry.
The failure of a grain elevator can cause large problems for farmers and for the local community it serves. A farmer who knows their rights and where they stand if an elevator fails can be in a better position than those farmers who aren’t as well informed. That is the topic of today’s blog post by RFD-TV Legal Contributor Roger A. McEowen.
A recent news story involving a group of farmers in Mississippi reveals the potential downside of selling grain under a deferred payment contract. The risk of deferred payment ag commodity sales and what can be done for protection—that is the topic of today’s blog post.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Tony Adkins with Specialty Risk Insurance addresses current market challenges for farmers and ranchers and offers strategies to help producers navigate risk.
Acreage shifts could impact pricing and marketing plans.
Herd growth and exports supporting dairy outlook.
Strong exports continue to support corn despite larger supplies.
Crush demand is supporting soybeans despite biofuel uncertainty.
Bigger stocks may limit upside in cotton prices.