USDA Keeps Soybeans Steady, Boosts Corn Export Outlook in February WASDE Report

Strong corn exports offer support, while soybeans and wheat remain weighed down by ample global supplies, according to the USDA’s latest WASDE report for February.

SELECTS_FARMHER_ 20_03_30_USA_ALL_VARIOUS_0124.jpg

FarmHER, Inc.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD NEWS) — The latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimate (WASDE) report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for February (PDF Version) left much of the 2025/26 outlook unchanged but delivered notable adjustments for corn, wheat, and cotton that continue to shape price expectations.

U.S. soybean supply and use forecasts were held steady, with the season-average farm price unchanged at $10.20 per bushel. Soybean meal and oil prices were also unchanged, while global soybean ending stocks increased on larger crops in Brazil and Paraguay.

The USDA also noted China may be considering additional U.S. soybean purchases, which would likely shift export destinations rather than expand global trade.

Corn was the most supportive revision. USDA raised U.S. corn exports by 100 million bushels to 3.3 billion, citing strong sales and inspections, and cut ending stocks to 2.1 billion bushels. The season-average corn price remained at $4.10 per bushel.

U.S. wheat ending stocks increased to 931 million bushels on lower food use, keeping prices at $4.90 per bushel.

Cotton saw slightly weaker demand, with exports trimmed and the projected farm price lowered to 60 cents per pound.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Strong corn exports offer support, while soybeans and wheat remain weighed down by ample global supplies.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist

Watch highlights and reactions to the February WASDE Report from today’s Market Day Report:

Related Stories
On a year-over-year basis, final demand prices are up 6.5 percent, the largest annual increase since late 2022.
Farm groups urged lawmakers to maintain free and fair trade across North America.
United Soybean Board Director and Missouri farmer Kyle Durham joins us to discuss farmer sentiment, alternative revenue programs, conservation incentives, domestic demand trends, and conditions on his farm this spring.

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:

Trade estimates point to only modest changes in U.S. grain ending stocks ahead of USDA’s June 11 WASDE report.
Farmers may need flexible marketing plans as tighter supplies and uncertain demand heighten price risks for corn and soybeans.
Global fiber demand is growing, but cotton producers benefit only when cotton gains value and competes for market share.
USDA raised exports by $2.5 billion from February, while imports are forecast at $205.5 billion. The resulting $29 billion agricultural trade deficit remains a reminder that higher shipments alone do not resolve trade pressure.
Corn is the clear export leader heading into summer.
Farmers should watch for settlement notices and gather dealer repair invoices, proof of payment, and equipment identification records.
Agriculture Shows
Hosted by Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady and RFD News Markets Specialist Tony St. James, Commodity Talk delivers expert insight into the day’s ag commodity markets just before the CME opens. Only on RFD-TV and Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147.
A look at the news, weather and commodities headlines that drove agriculture markets in the past week.
Everything profits from prairie. Soil, air, water — and all kinds of life! Learn how you can improve your land with prairie restoration, cover crops and prairie strips, while growing your bottom line.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.