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
Strong crush demand and rising ethanol production are pressuring feedstocks, as traders monitor storage risks and supply chain uncertainty and await the upcoming January WASDE report.
The U.S. Meat Export Federation plans to expand its global market presence in the New Year and says it is focusing its appeal on the growing middle class worldwide.
Dr. Seth Meyer Concludes Service; Dr. Justin Benavidez Appointed USDA Chief Economist
Preserving equity through active risk management remains critical in a volatile, supply-driven market.
Weather, Tight Supplies, and Planning Shape Farm Decisions
Improving consumer confidence supports baseline food and fuel demand, but cautious spending limits upside potential for ag markets in 2026.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The Midland County Junior Livestock Show in West Texas features a competitive steer showcase highlighting top-quality cattle and the accomplishments of driven youth exhibitors.
CoBank Knowledge Exchange’s Jeff Johnston shares the group’s positive perspective on expanding data centers into rural areas and weighs the risks and rewards for those communities.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer discusses how January’s WASDE report could impact ARC and PLC payments and updates on disaster relief programs as farmers navigate a challenging market environment.
Texas Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller joined us to discuss data center expansion, farmland preservation, rural economic impacts, and imminent cattle biosecurity concerns affecting agriculture today.
The Pennsylvania Farm Show continues through Saturday, wrapping up another successful year of celebrating agriculture in the Commonwealth.
Shaun Haney joined us to discuss Canada’s new trade agreement with China, the potential impact on farmers and exporters, and what it could mean for U.S.–Canada trade relations going forward.