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:
Farmers await concrete trade commitments from China. Until then, export prospects for soybeans, corn, and sorghum remain uncertain against strong South American competition.
September 16, 2025 11:04 AM
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National Sorghum Producers CEO Tim Lust said farmers face a challenging year with strong supply, murky trade conditions, and uncertain access to their largest market: China.
September 15, 2025 01:59 PM
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U.S. trade talks with China resume, but meat industry leaders say dealing with shifting demand and market uncertainty is nothing new in this side of the ag sector.
September 15, 2025 12:57 PM
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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.
September 15, 2025 12:21 PM
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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.
September 15, 2025 12:09 PM
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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.
September 12, 2025 02:13 PM
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