Crops
American Soybean Association President Scott Metzger discusses his recent testimony before the Senate Ag Committee, key priorities for soy growers, and his outlook for farmers into spring planting.
China continues to buy U.S. soybeans toward its 12 MMT commitment, as analysts cite data gaps, delivery timing questions, and muted market reaction.
Higher ethanol blend rates translate directly into stronger, more durable corn demand if regulatory momentum holds.
Long-term demand uncertainty is reshaping specialty crop strategies as producers adapt to fewer, older consumers.
Strong export demand supports feed grain prices, but drought risk and seasonal patterns favor disciplined early-year marketing.
Roger McEowen with the Washburn University School of Law joined us to provide legal insight and context on these issues facing agriculture. Today, he discusses pesticide litigation.
Corn export strength remains a key demand anchor, while China’s continued involvement in soybeans and sorghum bears close watching for price direction.
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.
Last year was a busy year for pesticide litigation in the United States. At No. 10, it kicks off RFD-TV Legal Expert Roger McEowen’s list of the “Top 10” Agricultural Law and Tax Developments of 2025.
Weather, Tight Supplies, and Planning Shape Farm Decisions
Strong ethanol production and export trends continue to support corn demand despite seasonal fuel consumption softness.
Cotton demand depends on demonstrating performance and reliability buyers can rely on, not messaging alone.
Farmer Bridge Assistance payments provide immediate balance-sheet support heading into 2026, but remain a short-term bridge rather than a substitute for long-term market recovery.
Record yields are cushioning production declines, but softer prices underscore the importance of cost control and market timing for vegetable growers.
Strong global demand and falling stocks suggest continued price volatility for U.S. coffee buyers despite record world production.
Fewer acres and stronger prices suggest disciplined hop production is supporting market balance despite lower output.
Grains and Commodities
While there is no guarantee a House vote will happen today, the measure has officially been placed on the congressional calendar.
USDA’s first 2026/27 outlook shows tighter supplies across several markets, led by wheat, corn, cotton, rice, beef, and sugar.
President Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent are expected to discuss commodities, trade and regional stability during meetings in Asia.
Specialty Crops
Lower U.S. and Mexican production means tighter sugar supplies and greater reliance on imports headed into 2026.
Row crop losses in 2025 are outpacing last year. With no disaster aid yet approved, many operations face a tough financial bridge to 2026 even as Farm Bill improvements remain a year away.
U.S. sugar producers and processors should brace for price pressure and challenging export logistics with global sugar supply ramping up — driven by Brazil, India, and Thailand — especially at the raw processing level.
