The proposed Albertsons-Kroger merger is again under the microscope.
Several lawsuits are currently in the works. At hearings in Colorado and Washington State, lawyers argued the merger would decrease competition and raise prices for consumers. It has been a sticking point for state attorney generals as well as the Federal Trade Commission.
Lawyers for the chains argued Wal-Mart is the real threat, saying they have a significant price lead in the market. No decisions were made this week, and both judges have set deadlines for later next month.
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Tariffs are pushing up input costs, with fertilizer prices rising $100 per ton and machinery costs climbing due to steel and parts duties.
Year-round sales of E-15 are another major topic on Capitol Hill, which, according to Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), is one issue up for debate this session with significant bipartisan support.
Lawmakers have until September 30 to shore up federal spending for next year, or risk a government shutdown. The Farm Bill is also set to expire the same day.
American Soybean Association President Caleb Ragland joins us to share his reaction to September’s WASDE and discuss the trade uncertainty between China and his industry.
Harvested acres are estimated at 90.0 million, making this year’s corn crop one of the largest since the 1930s.
