How should producers navigate today’s volatile markets with all the tariffs back and forth?

Traders are warning that the markets have had a different feel lately. They say it is no surprise, given the action out of our nation’s Capitol recently, but they warn you need to stay vigilant.

“So now that we’ve flipped the calendar into 2025, it started with the January report,” said Brian Splitt. “It really changed the perception of the balance sheet for corn specifically, but also for soybeans. And now we’ve got a new Administration in office. And so with all of the things going on, with tariffs, who are we putting tariffs on? Are the tariffs off? Are they getting delayed? So the frequency of what you would say market-impacting information is really ramping up.”

Splitt says it is important to tackle any issues now. The number one thing you want to avoid is making decisions under duress.

Related Stories
The USDA’s latest Hogs and Pigs Report caught some analysts off guard. Inventories came in lower than expected, signaling tighter supplies ahead, even as producers return to profitability this year.
Bioethanol is becoming a global standard. For growers, that boom comes as drops in Mississippi River levels and in soybean demand occur in tandem, leaving barge space for corn and wheat.
Slightly higher output amid softer gasoline pull points to steady corn grind — watch regional stocks and export pace for basis clues.
Expect firm calf and fed-cattle prices — pair selective heifer retention with prudent hedging and liquidity to bridge rebuilding costs.
Having a good read on fuel prices is a must during harvest, but one analyst says grain farmers should also be watching the crude oil markets.
The new antitrust agreement between the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) aims to enforce antitrust laws and monitor market activity across the ag sector.