U.S. Grain Stocks Build as Corn, Sorghum Lead

Larger grain stocks increase supply pressure, but strong fall disappearance — especially for corn and sorghum — suggests demand remains an important offset.

corn grain silo stock photo_input costs and producer inflation_adobe stock.png

Adobe Stock

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. grain inventories climbed broadly as of December 1, reflecting larger supplies of corn, soybeans, wheat, and sorghum heading into winter, according to the latest Grain Stocks report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). Corn and sorghum posted the largest year-over-year increases, reinforcing a supply-heavy tone for feed grains despite solid fall usage.

Corn stocks totaled 13.3 billion bushels, up 10 percent from a year earlier. On-farm inventories jumped 14 percent, while off-farm stocks rose 4 percent. At the same time, disappearance from September through November reached 5.29 billion bushels, well above last year, signaling strong feed, ethanol, and export demand even as supplies rebuilt.

Soybean stocks increased 6 percent to 3.29 billion bushels. Off-farm inventories rose sharply, up 10 percent, while on-farm stocks were only slightly higher. Fall disappearance fell 20 percent from last year, reflecting slower export movement and ample global supplies.

All wheat stocks totaled 1.68 billion bushels, up 7 percent year over year. Off-farm wheat inventories climbed 11 percent, while on-farm stocks declined modestly. Wheat disappearance during the fall quarter ran 9 percent above last year, suggesting steady domestic and export usage.

Sorghum stocks surged 26 percent to 268 million bushels, with both on- and off-farm holdings rising equally. Disappearance also increased sharply, up 27 percent, highlighting active feed and export demand alongside expanding supplies.

Overall, the NASS report highlights higher grain supplies entering 2026, with corn and sorghum balances drawing particular market attention.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Larger grain stocks increase supply pressure, but strong fall disappearance — especially for corn and sorghum — suggests demand remains an important offset.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Related Stories
Lewie Pugh, with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report with his insights on the incident and a deeper dive into the issues at hand.
As the Trump Administration seeks out new global trade partnerships, Congress is considering more support for farmers, which comes as the Federal Reserve warns that farmers need a safety net.
Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins will travel to Europe and Asia to seek new trade partnerships for U.S. crops after China reduced imports due to tariffs.
Co-Bank Lead Dairy Economist, Corey Geiger, joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report for a further look at the drop in replacement heifers and the trend’s longterm impact on dairy producers and cattle prices.
This Week in Louisiana Agriculture shows us why breaking even is going to be a challenge for corn producers across the state.
Farmers are struggling with low commodity prices and skyrocketing input costs, resulting in debt that is outpacing income across the sector, according to the USDA’s new farm income forecast.

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:

China’s buying decisions continue to be a critical factor in shaping cotton prices and export opportunities worldwide.
Lower inventories and cautious farrowing plans suggest tighter hog supplies into 2026, keeping producer margins sensitive to demand trends and health risks.
Secretary Rollins’ plan targets high costs, labor challenges, and export growth, delivering relief at home while building markets abroad.
Transportation challenges are mounting as droughts lower Mississippi River levels and push freight rates higher.
Waiting could risk leaving next year’s crop unprotected.
Rising cow numbers and higher yields are boosting milk supplies, which may keep pressure on prices and farm margins into the fall.