NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — U.S. ethanol production dipped during the week ending December 5, even as overall output remained above last year and recent historical averages. Renewable Fuels Association analysis of EIA data shows production eased 1.9 percent to 1.11 million barrels per day, though volumes stayed 2.5 percent higher than a year ago and 3.2 percent above the three-year average. The four-week average rose slightly, supporting an annualized pace of 17.05 billion gallons.
Stocks held steady at 22.5 million barrels, remaining below both year-ago and three-year benchmarks. Regional draws continued across most PADDs, except the Midwest, where inventories climbed to an 11-week high.
Gasoline supplied — a key indicator of implied demand — increased 1.6 percent to 8.46 million barrels per day, but still trailed last year and the three-year average. Refiner and blender net inputs fell to a 41-week low, reflecting softer near-term blending activity. Ethanol exports also pulled back sharply to an estimated 125,000 barrels per day.
Heavier weights and strong late-year slaughter supported December production, but lower annual totals highlight ongoing supply tightness heading into 2026.
January 26, 2026 11:19 AM
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Strong production and rising stocks may pressure ethanol margins unless demand or exports continue to improve.
January 26, 2026 10:00 AM
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Without additional support, many soybean operations will continue to face financial stress as they prepare for the 2026 crop.
January 26, 2026 09:41 AM
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Placements and marketings beat expectations, but declining on-feed totals and feeder constraints keep the supply story supportive for cattle prices into 2026. Dr. Derrell Peel, with Oklahoma State University, joined us to break down cattle-on-feed numbers and provide his broader market outlook.
January 23, 2026 04:40 PM
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Americans for Prosperity Arkansas Director Ryan Norris talks energy infrastructure, regulatory reform, and the role of critical minerals in supporting rural America.
January 23, 2026 01:54 PM
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Congressman Adrian Smith of Nebraska joined us with the latest on efforts to secure year-round E15 sales.
January 23, 2026 01:12 PM
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