Agriculture News
Export sales data for week ended Feb. 2 showed net cotton sales of 262,800 RB, which was up 54% from the previous week and 58% from the prior 4-week average.
USDA forecasts net farm income will decline $25.9 billion (15.9%) from last year to $136.9 billion, driven partly by an expected $5.4 billion (34.4%) drop in direct government payments.
Farmer sentiment was up 11 points (9%) from year in January, according to the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer.
Rather directionless trade is expected this morning as traders prepare for Wednesday’s USDA reports.
Soybean futures recouped a portion of Monday’s losses overnight, while the corn market gave back yesterday’s gains and wheat futures showed a mixed tone.
The focus for the U.S. balance sheets will be the usage forecast, while the global focus will be on production.
Although soybean export inspections were down over 100,00 MT from the previous week, they continue to prove consistent. Wheat inspections topped pre-report expectations, while corn landed just above the low-end estimate.
Mixed trade is expected in the grain and soy markets this morning as traders monitor the U.S./China situation and prepare for USDA’s February crop reports on Wednesday.
Short-term trend turns bullish for live cattle and feeder cattle.
Corn and soybean futures are weaker this morning after two-sided trade earlier in the overnight session, while wheat futures are narrowly mixed.
