[September 6] Surge in Grain Futures Prices and Its Impact on the Global Market

GrainScanner
6 Sep 2024

Background: Wheat grains spilling from a sack with a pile of coins symbolizing rising prices

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Surge in Grain Futures Prices and Its Impact on the Global Market




Weekly Grain Update | September 1th Week 2024

Here's a brief overview of this week's global grain issues.



1.  Dark Clouds Over U.S. Soybean Exports?

Although U.S. soybean exports are currently declining, there is potential for growth in the future. The recent drop is attributed to decreased demand from China and the strong U.S. dollar. Additionally, improved crop conditions in Brazil and other South American countries have weakened the U.S.'s competitive edge. However, the persistent global demand for vegetable oils and the growth of related industries are expected to have a positive long-term impact on the U.S. soybean market.

๐Ÿ”— Read the full article >

๐Ÿ’ฌ U.S. soybean exports: Decline now, recovery expected in the long run.



2. Wheat Purchase Tenders from Countries Worldwide

Nations around the world are announcing tenders to secure wheat reserves. Japan revealed plans to purchase 87,660 tons of North American and Australian wheat through an international tender held on August 30, while Jordan announced an international tender to buy up to 120,000 tons of wheat. These tenders are viewed as measures to strengthen food security and stabilize domestic wheat reserves.

๐Ÿ”— Read the full article >

๐Ÿ’ฌ Countries ramp up wheat purchase bids for food security.



3. Shipping Market Faces Major Drop in Freight Rates Due to Economic Slowdown

Freight rates are expected to drop by as much as 70% in the second half of 2024. The primary causes are the global economic slowdown and a decline in shipping volumes. Other contributing factors include reduced port congestion and an increase in vessel supply. These developments could impact the profitability of the shipping industry and lead to changes in the global supply chain.

๐Ÿ”—  Read the full article >

๐Ÿ’ฌ Shipping rates expected to drop by 70%, signaling supply chain shifts.




๐Ÿ“ Grainscanner Comments 


Surge in Grain Futures Prices: Global Market Impact

Recently, wheat and corn futures prices have surged significantly, creating ripple effects across global markets. Over the past week (8/28–9/4), wheat prices rose by 7.2%, while corn increased by 5.6%. Several factors have contributed to these price hikes.

Reasons for Wheat Price Increase

Firstly, the rise in wheat prices is primarily driven by concerns over reduced harvests in major producing countries due to adverse weather conditions and growing uncertainty in supply. The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has further intensified the uncertainty surrounding Black Sea exports. Additionally, with the U.S. wheat harvest season approaching, lower-than-expected yields are anticipated, which is contributing to the price increase.

Reasons for Corn Price Increase

Secondly, corn prices have been affected by the growing demand for ethanol production and recovering global demand. Although favorable weather conditions in the U.S. have resulted in improved crop yields, export demand remains strong. Moreover, unexpected climate changes in South America are negatively impacting corn harvests, adding to the uncertainty around corn supply.

Market Volatility and Risk Management 

This volatility in the grain market is heightening concerns among international investors. Speculative buying has further fueled price increases, amplifying market fluctuations. As a result, grain buyers need to strengthen their risk management strategies and implement hedging techniques to mitigate price volatility. A flexible approach to dealing with these fluctuations is essential.

Moving forward, it remains crucial to stay vigilant of market changes and continuously monitor trends to navigate the evolving dynamics of the grain market.


GrainScanner updates new articles every week.


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