While corn saw a big boost in this month’s WASDE report, soybeans are looking at the lowest acres in several years.
Market analyst Brian Hoops explains why.
“On the flip side, because we planted more corn acres, you had less soybean acres planted; the smallest soybean acres since 2019. Even though you had a new record yield for soybeans, the smaller harvested acres took away over 150 million bushels of supply, a pretty sizable amount, and we pushed sharply higher. Now the question is, where do we go from here?”
A social media post this week by President Trump sent waves through the soybean market. He urged China to return to the buying table, but it is a move many analysts feel is unlikely to happen.
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Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities joined us to provide analysis on the January WASDE report and expectations for grain markets going forward.
Market reaction was bearish for corn and soybeans, with analysts noting that abundant supplies amid tepid demand could keep price pressure on agricultural commodities.
Traders are keeping a close eye on China’s soybean purchases as markets track export sales, shipments, and progress toward the ‘magical’ 12 million ton target promised last year.
China continues to buy U.S. soybeans toward its 12 MMT commitment, as analysts cite data gaps, delivery timing questions, and muted market reaction.
Corn export strength remains a key demand anchor, while China’s continued involvement in soybeans and sorghum bears close watching for price direction.
Strong crush demand and rising ethanol production are pressuring feedstocks, as traders monitor storage risks and supply chain uncertainty and await the upcoming January WASDE report.
Benchmark machinery costs against those of similar-sized, high-performing operations to inform equipment and investment decisions.
Broader export demand helps stabilize prices and supports stronger marketing opportunities over time.
Recent USDA export sales data show China has been active in the U.S. market, but analysts tell RFD-TV News that the timing is a key clue.
