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8-28 End of Day: Wheat Continues its Rally as Corn and Soybeans Slide

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • The corn market failed to extend yesterday’s gains and instead consolidated, despite the report of two flash sales. Rallies continue to be limited by old crop supplies moving into the market, and the prospect of a large upcoming harvest.
  • Despite a flurry of buying activity early in the session, sparked by another flash sale to China, the soybean market failed to maintain yesterday’s strength and traded lower into the close. As better-than-expected overnight rains encouraged the day’s selling.
  • The wheat complex extended yesterday’s gains as buyers maintained control for the second day in a row. Concerns over potential harvest delays and crop damage due to ongoing rains in the northern Plains supported the market, while higher Paris milling wheat prices also provided additional strength.
  • To see the updated US 5-day precipitation forecast, and the 6 – 10 day Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, courtesy of NOAA, and the Weather Prediction Center, scroll down to the other Charts/Weather section.

Note – For the best viewing experience, some Grain Market Insider content is best viewed with your phone held horizontally.

Corn

Corn Action Plan Summary

Farmer selling of old crop bushels ahead of the upcoming harvest has kept pressure on corn futures over the last month. Nearly ideal weather conditions for most during the months of July and August have only added more pressure. The corn market’s ability to close higher following a record yield estimate of 183.1 bpa by the USDA is a good sign showing corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover some of their extensive short positions and rally prices, however, an extended rally is unlikely before combines start rolling.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 corn. In June we recommended buying Dec ’24 470 and 510 calls after Dec ’24 closed below 451, for their relative value and because we are at that time of year of high volatility when markets can move swiftly. Moving forward, our current strategy is to target the value of 29 cents to exit the Dec ’24 470 calls. Exiting the 470 calls at 29 cents will allow you to lock in gains in case prices fall back and hold the remaining 510 calls at or near a net neutral cost, which should continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make further sales if the market rallies sharply. Additionally, should a contra-seasonal rally occur considering the large net short managed fund position, we continue to target the 470 – 490 area to recommend making additional sales versus Dec ’24.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 corn. Between early June and late July Grain Market Insider made three separate sales recommendations to get early sales made for next year’s crop. Considering the seasonal weakness of the market in late summer and early fall, we will not be looking to post any targeted areas for new sales until late fall or early winter. Although, we will look to protect current sales, in the form of buying call options, should the market begin to show signs of a potential extended rally.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 corn. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following corn recommendations:

  • The corn market failed to follow through on Tuesday’s gains as prices consolidated in the middle of Tuesday’s trading range. Strength in the wheat market and announced export sales failed to trigger buying in the corn market.
  • Rallies in the corn market are limited by producer selling pressure as September First Notice Day is Friday this week, and producers are likely pricing September basis contracts or moving old crop bushels. In addition, with the 3-day Labor Day weekend approaching, traders will likely square positions until the market opens next week.
  • The USDA announced two flash sales of corn on the export market this morning. Columbia bought 100,000 mt (3.9 mb) and Mexico added 165,735 mt (6.5 mb) for the 24/25 marketing year. These sales are routine type business and failed to move the market. Currently, US corn export sales on the books for the 24/25 marketing year are the worst in the last 5-years.
  • The USDA will announce weekly export sales on Thursday morning. With the 23/24 corn marketing year ending on Friday, the USDA expects old crop corn sales from –100,000 mt – 200,000 mt, and for the 24/25 marketing year, 700,000 mt – 1.4 mmt. The focus will be on the new crop sales as export business has been lackluster at this point.
  • The overall trend in the corn market remains lower as the market digests the potentially large harvest, lackluster demand, and producers working through old crop bushels before harvest.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the soybean market has stair-stepped its way lower on sluggish new crop demand, good growing weather, and the prospect of a large upcoming crop, while weather forecasts remain mostly favorable to the crop, and the trade may be factoring in higher yield estimates. The USDA pegging US soybean yield at a record with a million harvested acre jump on the August WASDE broke the market even further. The funds have yet to see a reason to cover some of their extensive short positions ahead of the quickly approaching harvest.

  • No new action is recommended for the 2024 crop. At the end of December, we recommended buying Nov ’24 1280 and 1360 calls due to the amount of uncertainty in the 2024 soybean crop and to give you confidence to make sales and protect those sales in an extended rally. Given that the market has retreated since that time, we are targeting the 1040 – 1070 range versus Nov ’24 futures to exit 1/3 of the 1280 calls to help preserve equity. Additionally in June, the close below 1180 triggered our Plan B strategy, which recommended making additional sales due to the potential change in trend. Should a bullish catalyst enter the market to turn prices higher, we are targeting the 1090 – 1120 range from our Plan A strategy to make additional sales recommendations.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2025 Soybeans. To date, Grain Market Insider has not recommended any sales for next year’s soybean crop yet. First sales targets will probably be set in late fall or early winter at the earliest. Currently, our focus is on watching for opportunities to recommend buying call options. Should Nov ‘25 reach the upper 1100 range, the likelihood of an extended rally would increase, and we would recommend buying upside call options at that time in preparation for that possibility.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 Soybeans. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following soybean recommendations:

  • Soybeans ended the day lower, breaking a three-day streak of gains, with November soybeans now up 4 cents on the week. The market was pressured by better-than-expected overnight rains in key areas and a decline in soybean meal, although soybean oil ended slightly higher. Warmer weather is expected to accelerate crop maturity across most of the Corn Belt.
  • This morning, the USDA confirmed an export sale totaling 264,000 metric tons of soybeans for delivery to China for the 24/25 marketing year. This was the first flash sale of the week and confirmed previous rumors of China needing to buy a significant number of soybeans before the end of the year.
  • Yesterday, funds were estimated to have bought back approximately 2,000 soybean contracts. Funds currently hold an estimated net short position of about 183,000 soybean contracts, 87,000 soybean oil, and are long around 2,000 meal contracts. Funds are holding a near record short position in soybeans at the moment.
  • In Indonesia, palm oil production is expected to fall by as much as 5% from last year due to adverse weather and ageing palm trees. The US has estimated that global palm oil reserves are headed for their lowest levels in three years, which could be supportive to world veg oil prices and US soybean oil.

Above: Since the front month continuous chart rolled to the November contract on August 15, soybean futures have largely traded sideways. A breakout above 992 could push prices towards the 1005 – 1040 resistance area. To the downside, a break below 950 puts the market at risk of sliding down to the 915 – 900 support area.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • In the face of a jump higher in the US Dollar and a lower close for corn and soybeans, all three US wheat classes posted gains today. Support came from a second consecutive higher close for Matif wheat futures; the September contract traded above the 10-day moving average for the first time since August 9, before closing just slightly below it.
  • Statistics Canada has estimated Canada’s 2024 all wheat production at 34.4 mmt, which was below expectations for a 35.1 mmt crop. However, this is still above last year’s harvest of 32 mmt. The total spring wheat production estimate of 25.4 mmt makes up the majority of their crop, and was below expectations for 26.6 mmt.
  • The USDA has determined that BioCeres Crop Solutions’ genetically modified wheat, known as HB4, does not require regulation. This drought-resistant variety, which is also herbicide-resistant, could soon enter the global market, having already received approval from Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. While HB4 could potentially increase wheat supply in the long term, and be bearish to prices, it may offer significant advantages in regions prone to drought.
  • As of August 28, Russia has increased its export duty on wheat by 9.7%, raising it from 828.4 to 908.5 Rubles per metric ton. This duty will remain in effect until September 3. Russia introduced variable duties on corn, wheat, and barley in 2021, with the collected funds used to subsidize agricultural producers.
  • Global weather conditions are raising concerns for wheat. In the US northern plains, ongoing rains that may continue through tomorrow could delay harvest and affect crop quality. In the Canadian prairies, strong winds from an approaching front this week could damage wheat crops. Additionally, recent widespread frosts in Argentina may have slowed wheat development or even caused damage.

Chicago Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on July 29th as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in Chicago wheat. While slow global import demand and low Russian export prices continue to exert pressure on the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger a short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the recent rally in wheat, we recommended taking advantage of the elevated prices to make additional sales and buy upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 740 – 760 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 73 cents in the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 Chicago Wheat. Our most recent recommendation was to exit half of the previously recommended July ’25 Chicago 620 puts once they reached 67 cents (approximately double their original cost), to lock in gains in case the market rallies back. Moving forward, our strategy is to hold the remaining July ’25 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, while also targeting the 590 – 610 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 Chicago Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Chicago wheat recommendations:

KC Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global wheat supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on the front month continuous charts as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in the wheat markets. While low Black Sea export prices and slow world demand continue to weigh on US prices, the funds’ short position and oversold conditions could culminate in a short covering rally on any increase in US demand as world wheat ending stocks are expected to fall yet again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 KC wheat. Considering the recent upside breakout in KC wheat, we recommended buying upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 725 – 750 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 71 cents on the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 KC Wheat. We recently recommended exiting half of the previously recommended July ’25 620 puts once they reached 60 cents (double the original approximate cost) to realize gains in case the market rallies back, while still holding the remaining 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost for continued downside coverage on any unsold bushels. Looking ahead, our strategy is to target the 640 – 670 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 KC Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following KC recommendations:

Mpls Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since printing a near-term low in mid-July, Minneapolis wheat has trended mostly sideways as the market attempts to balance smaller US and world supplies versus lower world export prices and lower world demand. During this period, managed funds have maintained their sizable, short positions in Minneapolis wheat. Though low Russian export prices continue to keep a lid on US prices, smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could increase US demand, potentially triggering a short-covering rally, especially as global wheat ending stocks are projected to decline again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Minneapolis wheat. With the recent close below the 712 support level, Grain Market Insider implemented its Plan B stop strategy, recommending additional sales for the 2024 crop due to waning upside momentum and an increased likelihood of a downward trend. Given the heightened volatility and the amount of time that remains to market this crop, we will maintain the current July ’25 KC wheat 860 and 1020 call options. Our target is a selling price of about 71 cents for the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. These 1020 calls will continue to protect existing sales and provide confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for the 2025 Minneapolis wheat crop. Since the growing season can often yield some of the best sales opportunities, we recently made two separate sales recommendations to get some early sales on the books for next year’s crop. While we will not be targeting any specific areas to make additional sales until later in the marketing year, we will continue to monitor the market for opportunities to exit the remaining July ’25 KC 620 puts that were recommended in June. To that end, should the market continue to be weak, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range to exit half of those remaining puts.
  • No Action is currently recommended for the 2026 Minneapolis wheat crop. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Minneapolis wheat recommendations:

Other Charts / Weather

5-day precipitation forecast courtesy of NOAA, Weather Prediction Center.

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8-27 End of Day: Corn and Wheat See a Turnaround Tuesday, While Soybeans Build on Monday’s Strength

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • Buyers returned to the corn market, supported by short covering and strong buying in the wheat market. Spot month September, while still higher on the day, remained under pressure likely due to continued producer pricing ahead of First Notice Day on Friday.
  • The spike in temperatures and drop in crop ratings likely drove traders to cover some short positions in the soybean market as concerns rise that the hot temperatures may prevent the soybean crop from reaching its full yield potential.
  • The rally in soybean meal was largely offset by today’s drop in soybean oil, which was pressured by steep declines in crude oil resulting in pot Board crush margins declining 2 ¼ cents.
  • After closing lower for four consecutive days, the wheat complex found support and closed higher across the board, with the Chicago contracts staging bullish key reversals. With little fresh news in the market, today’s rally was likely technical, driven by traders covering short positions in oversold conditions. Additional support came from neighboring corn and soybeans, as well as higher Matif wheat.
  • To see the updated US 5-day precipitation forecast, and the 6 – 10 and 8 – 14 day Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, courtesy of NOAA, and the Weather Prediction Center, scroll down to the other Charts/Weather section.

Note – For the best viewing experience, some Grain Market Insider content is best viewed with your phone held horizontally.

Corn

Corn Action Plan Summary

Farmer selling of old crop bushels ahead of the upcoming harvest has kept pressure on corn futures over the last month. Nearly ideal weather conditions for most during the months of July and August have only added more pressure. The corn market’s ability to close higher following a record yield estimate of 183.1 bpa by the USDA is a good sign showing corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover some of their extensive short positions and rally prices, however, an extended rally is unlikely before combines start rolling.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 corn. In June we recommended buying Dec ’24 470 and 510 calls after Dec ’24 closed below 451, for their relative value and because we are at that time of year of high volatility when markets can move swiftly. Moving forward, our current strategy is to target the value of 29 cents to exit the Dec ’24 470 calls. Exiting the 470 calls at 29 cents will allow you to lock in gains in case prices fall back and hold the remaining 510 calls at or near a net neutral cost, which should continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make further sales if the market rallies sharply. Additionally, should a contra-seasonal rally occur considering the large net short managed fund position, we continue to target the 470 – 490 area to recommend making additional sales versus Dec ’24.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 corn. Between early June and late July Grain Market Insider made three separate sales recommendations to get early sales made for next year’s crop. Considering the seasonal weakness of the market in late summer and early fall, we will not be looking to post any targeted areas for new sales until late fall or early winter. Although, we will look to protect current sales, in the form of buying call options, should the market begin to show signs of a potential extended rally.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 corn. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following corn recommendations:

  • Buyers stepped into the corn market on Tuesday as traders covered short positions triggered by an optimistic turn higher in the wheat market, and trading activity before First Notice Day on September contracts and the three-day Labor Day weekend.
  • The key is whether price movement after today’s session will be followed through on Wednesday. The last three weeks, corn futures have had a strong day of buying, only to be followed by selling pressure the next few sessions to remove those gains. With a large supply forecast, and a limited demand base, the corn market is still in a defensive posture and rallies are met with selling pressure.
  • Rallies in the corn market are limited by producer selling pressure as September First Notice Day is Friday this week, and producers are likely pricing September basis contracts or moving old crop bushels. Most basis contracts will likely need to be priced or rolled out by the middle of the week.
  • This morning, the USDA announced an export sale for corn to Mexico, who purchased 127,760 mt (5.03 mb) of corn for the new marketing year.
  • USDA released weekly crop ratings yesterday afternoon. The corn crop dropped 2% to 65% good to excellent, 1% below market expectations. Crop ratings typically fall off as the crop gets closer to maturity.  As of Sunday, 84% of the crop was in dough stage, 46% dented, and 11% mature. All three ratings were above the 5-year average.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the soybean market has stair-stepped its way lower on sluggish new crop demand, good growing weather, and the prospect of a large upcoming crop, while weather forecasts remain mostly favorable to the crop, and the trade may be factoring in higher yield estimates. The USDA pegging US soybean yield at a record with a million harvested acre jump on the August WASDE broke the market even further. The funds have yet to see a reason to cover some of their extensive short positions ahead of the quickly approaching harvest.

  • No new action is recommended for the 2024 crop. At the end of December, we recommended buying Nov ’24 1280 and 1360 calls due to the amount of uncertainty in the 2024 soybean crop and to give you confidence to make sales and protect those sales in an extended rally. Given that the market has retreated since that time, we are targeting the 1040 – 1070 range versus Nov ’24 futures to exit 1/3 of the 1280 calls to help preserve equity. Additionally in June, the close below 1180 triggered our Plan B strategy, which recommended making additional sales due to the potential change in trend. Should a bullish catalyst enter the market to turn prices higher, we are targeting the 1090 – 1120 range from our Plan A strategy to make additional sales recommendations.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2025 Soybeans. To date, Grain Market Insider has not recommended any sales for next year’s soybean crop yet. First sales targets will probably be set in late fall or early winter at the earliest. Currently, our focus is on watching for opportunities to recommend buying call options. Should Nov ‘25 reach the upper 1100 range, the likelihood of an extended rally would increase, and we would recommend buying upside call options at that time in preparation for that possibility.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 Soybeans. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following soybean recommendations:

  • Soybeans ended the day higher for the third consecutive session, and so far, November soybeans have gained 13 ½ cents this week. Today’s upward move followed yesterday’s crop progress report, which showed a slight decline in conditions from the previous week. Soybean meal also closed higher, while soybean oil finished lower, in line with the decline in crude oil prices.
  • Yesterday, the USDA released its Crop Progress report and the good to excellent rating for soybeans came in at 67%, which was down 1% from last week. 89% of the crop is setting pods, which compares to 81% a week ago and the 5-year average of 88%. 6% of the crop is dropping leaves, compared to 4% last year and the average of 4%.
  • In Indonesia, palm oil production is expected to fall by as much as 5% from last year as a result of adverse weather and old palm trees. The US has estimated that global palm oil reserves are headed for their lowest levels in three years, which could be supportive to world veg oil prices and US soybean oil.
  • There have been no export sales reported so far this week, but US soybeans are priced very competitively, and China is expected to need a large amount of soybeans by the end of the year. There have also been rumors of potential Chinese purchases, which could be confirmed before the end of the week.

Above: Since the front month continuous chart rolled to the November contract on August 15, soybean futures have largely traded sideways. A breakout above 985 could push prices towards the 1005 – 1040 resistance area. To the downside, a break below 950 puts the market at risk of sliding down to the 915 – 900 support area.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • Wheat finished with double-digit gains in Chicago and Kansas City futures, with smaller gains in Minneapolis. Support came from higher corn, soybeans, and Matif wheat futures; the Paris contracts closed higher for the first time in the past five sessions. The US Dollar index testing yesterday’s low was also helpful. It was noted that September and December Chicago wheat posted bullish key reversals; however, today’s risk-on trade in grains may have been mostly technical in nature due to a lack of fresh news.
  • The USDA rated the spring wheat crop at 69% good to excellent, down from 73% last week. And while this was perhaps a bigger than expected drop, conditions remain well above year ago levels of 37% good to excellent. Additionally, 51% of the crop is harvested, compared to 31% last week, 50% last year, and 53% on average.
  • According to a Bloomberg survey, Canadian 24/25 wheat production is expected to increase 5.8% to 33.8 mmt from 32 mmt last season. Estimates ranged from 32 to 35.1 mmt. Canola production was also forecast to increase by 4%.
  • The Rosario Grain Exchange stated that the recent rains in Argentina were not enough to boost the wheat crop. Winter frosts and a lack of rain are concerning; however, storms are predicted to move through this weekend. These may bring better rain coverage, but it remains to be seen how intense they will be. Argentine wheat is currently developing, with harvest typically starting in November and ending in January. Recent frosts have also been a concern in southern Brazil.

Chicago Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on July 29th as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in Chicago wheat. While slow global import demand and low Russian export prices continue to exert pressure on the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger a short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the recent rally in wheat, we recommended taking advantage of the elevated prices to make additional sales and buy upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 740 – 760 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 73 cents in the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 Chicago Wheat. Our most recent recommendation was to exit half of the previously recommended July ’25 Chicago 620 puts once they reached 67 cents (approximately double their original cost), to lock in gains in case the market rallies back. Moving forward, our strategy is to hold the remaining July ’25 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, while also targeting the 590 – 610 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 Chicago Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Chicago wheat recommendations:

KC Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global wheat supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on the front month continuous charts as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in the wheat markets. While low Black Sea export prices and slow world demand continue to weigh on US prices, the funds’ short position and oversold conditions could culminate in a short covering rally on any increase in US demand as world wheat ending stocks are expected to fall yet again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 KC wheat. Considering the recent upside breakout in KC wheat, we recommended buying upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 725 – 750 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 71 cents on the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 KC Wheat. We recently recommended exiting half of the previously recommended July ’25 620 puts once they reached 60 cents (double the original approximate cost) to realize gains in case the market rallies back, while still holding the remaining 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost for continued downside coverage on any unsold bushels. Looking ahead, our strategy is to target the 640 – 670 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 KC Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following KC recommendations:

Mpls Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since printing a near-term low in mid-July, Minneapolis wheat has trended mostly sideways as the market attempts to balance smaller US and world supplies versus lower world export prices and lower world demand. During this period, managed funds have maintained their sizable, short positions in Minneapolis wheat. Though low Russian export prices continue to keep a lid on US prices, smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could increase US demand, potentially triggering a short-covering rally, especially as global wheat ending stocks are projected to decline again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Minneapolis wheat. With the recent close below the 712 support level, Grain Market Insider implemented its Plan B stop strategy, recommending additional sales for the 2024 crop due to waning upside momentum and an increased likelihood of a downward trend. Given the heightened volatility and the amount of time that remains to market this crop, we will maintain the current July ’25 KC wheat 860 and 1020 call options. Our target is a selling price of about 71 cents for the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. These 1020 calls will continue to protect existing sales and provide confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for the 2025 Minneapolis wheat crop. Since the growing season can often yield some of the best sales opportunities, we recently made two separate sales recommendations to get some early sales on the books for next year’s crop. While we will not be targeting any specific areas to make additional sales until later in the marketing year, we will continue to monitor the market for opportunities to exit the remaining July ’25 KC 620 puts that were recommended in June. To that end, should the market continue to be weak, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range to exit half of those remaining puts.
  • No Action is currently recommended for the 2026 Minneapolis wheat crop. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Minneapolis wheat recommendations:

Other Charts / Weather

5-day precipitation forecast courtesy of NOAA, Weather Prediction Center.

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8-26 End of Day: The Soybean Complex Settles Higher as Wheat Closes Mixed and Corn Lower

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • December corn dropped to a new contract low during the session with a new contract low close, as selling pressure continues to weigh on the market with old crop bushels being brought to market and basis contracts being priced ahead of First Notice Day this Friday.
  • Led by rallies in both soybean meal and oil, the soybean market turned and closed higher on the board after initially trading lower in the overnight session on expectations of a huge crop from Pro Farmer’s crop tour. Strength in meal and oil also added 7 ½ cents to spot Board crush margins.
  • The wheat complex settled mixed, with KC contracts closing firm on profit-taking after printing new contract lows. Meanwhile, Chicago and Minneapolis contracts closed mostly lower, with spot Chicago trading below the $5 mark for the first time in four years, as Matif wheat also posted fresh contract lows.
  • To see the updated US 5-day precipitation forecast, and the 6 – 10 and 8 – 14 day Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, courtesy of NOAA, and the Weather Prediction Center, scroll down to the other Charts/Weather section.

Note – For the best viewing experience, some Grain Market Insider content is best viewed with your phone held horizontally.

Corn

Corn Action Plan Summary

Farmer selling of old crop bushels ahead of the upcoming harvest has kept pressure on corn futures over the last month. Nearly ideal weather conditions for most during the months of July and August have only added more pressure. The corn market’s ability to close higher following a record yield estimate of 183.1 bpa by the USDA is a good sign showing corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover some of their extensive short positions and rally prices, however, an extended rally is unlikely before combines start rolling.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 corn. In June we recommended buying Dec ’24 470 and 510 calls after Dec ’24 closed below 451, for their relative value and because we are at that time of year of high volatility when markets can move swiftly. Moving forward, our current strategy is to target the value of 29 cents to exit the Dec ’24 470 calls. Exiting the 470 calls at 29 cents will allow you to lock in gains in case prices fall back and hold the remaining 510 calls at or near a net neutral cost, which should continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make further sales if the market rallies sharply. Additionally, should a contra-seasonal rally occur considering the large net short managed fund position, we continue to target the 470 – 490 area to recommend making additional sales versus Dec ’24.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 corn. Between early June and late July Grain Market Insider made three separate sales recommendations to get early sales made for next year’s crop. Considering the seasonal weakness of the market in late summer and early fall, we will not be looking to post any targeted areas for new sales until late fall or early winter. Although, we will look to protect current sales, in the form of buying call options, should the market begin to show signs of a potential extended rally.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 corn. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following corn recommendations:

  • Despite some buying support in the soybean market, selling pressure remains in the corn market as September First Notice Day is on Friday this week, and producers are likely pricing September basis contracts. Most of those contracts will likely need to be priced or rolled out by the middle of the week.
  • With the selling pressure, December corn printed a new contract low during the session, pushing through support levels established since early August. The weakened technical picture will keep the possibility of additional follow-through selling going into tomorrow’s session.
  • Weekly corn export inspections were at the bottom end of trade expectations. Last week, US exporters shipped 35.2 mb (894,295mt). This brings YTD inspections to 2.009 billion bushels, up 39% from last year with the USDA targeting a 35% increase.
  • The forecast for drier weather could have an impact on logistics in moving corn to the Gulf of Mexico ports. The corn market is concerned that Mississippi River levels in the Memphis area are dropping and could be at a stage where draft restrictions will be needed on barge traffic by Early September.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the soybean market has stair-stepped its way lower on sluggish new crop demand, good growing weather, and the prospect of a large upcoming crop, while weather forecasts remain mostly favorable to the crop, and the trade may be factoring in higher yield estimates. The USDA pegging US soybean yield at a record with a million harvested acre jump on the August WASDE broke the market even further. The funds have yet to see a reason to cover some of their extensive short positions ahead of the quickly approaching harvest.

  • No new action is recommended for the 2024 crop. At the end of December, we recommended buying Nov ’24 1280 and 1360 calls due to the amount of uncertainty in the 2024 soybean crop and to give you confidence to make sales and protect those sales in an extended rally. Given that the market has retreated since that time, we are targeting the 1040 – 1070 range versus Nov ’24 futures to exit 1/3 of the 1280 calls to help preserve equity. Additionally in June, the close below 1180 triggered our Plan B strategy, which recommended making additional sales due to the potential change in trend. Should a bullish catalyst enter the market to turn prices higher, we are targeting the 1090 – 1120 range from our Plan A strategy to make additional sales recommendations.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2025 Soybeans. To date, Grain Market Insider has not recommended any sales for next year’s soybean crop yet. First sales targets will probably be set in late fall or early winter at the earliest. Currently, our focus is on watching for opportunities to recommend buying call options. Should Nov ‘25 reach the upper 1100 range, the likelihood of an extended rally would increase, and we would recommend buying upside call options at that time in preparation for that possibility.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 Soybeans. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following soybean recommendations:

  • Soybeans ended the day higher to start the week but initially opened lower towards the bottom of their trading range. Soybeans have been consolidating for the past two weeks with the low end of the range in November at 955 and the high end at 985. Both soybean meal and oil ended the day higher with bean oil getting support from higher crude and palm oil.
  • The Pro Farmer crop tour found solid soybean yield potential, that could put the crop in record territory. Estimates for the tour’s final soybean yield is 54.9 bpa, which if realized would be up from the USDA’s estimate of 53.2 bpa. Production was also estimated at 4.74 billion bushels, up from the USDA’s current projection of 4.589 billion.
  • Today’s soybean export inspections came in at 15 million bushels, which was in line with analyst expectations and put year to date inspections at 1.624 billion, which is down 15% from last year. China picked up an estimated 3 million bushels of soybeans.
  • Friday’s CFTC report showed funds as sellers of soybeans. They sold an additional 8,311 contracts which put them net short 182,758 contracts, near their record short position from mid-July of 185,750 contracts.

Above: Since the front month continuous chart rolled to the November contract on August 15, soybean futures have largely traded sideways. A breakout above 985 could push prices towards the 1005 – 1040 resistance area. To the downside, a break below 950 puts the market at risk of sliding down to the 915 – 900 support area.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • Wheat ended the session with mixed results: Chicago and Minneapolis saw losses, while Kansas City posted gains. Bull spreading was observed in Kansas City contracts, likely due to fund profit-taking after this class hit new contract lows during the session. Additionally, spot month Chicago futures fell below five dollars for the first time in four years.
  • US wheat export inspections totaled 20 million bushels, hitting the upper end of expectations. Year-to-date inspections now stand at 189 mb, which is a 28% increase from last year and exceeds the USDA’s projected 15% increase for the year.
  • Russia’s wheat export values ended last week at $216 per metric ton, according to IKAR, marking a two-dollar decline from the previous week. Additionally, SovEcon reported that Russia exported 1.16 mmt of grain last week, with wheat accounting for 980,000 mt of that total.
  • The European Union’s Monitoring Agricultural Resources unit has lowered its estimate for EU soft wheat yields to 6.68 mt per hectare, down from 5.87 mt per hectare last month. This adjustment is largely due to concerns over both the quantity and quality of crops in France and Germany. Despite the French wheat harvest now being 100% complete and the poor crop conditions, Paris milling wheat futures hit another new contract low today.

Chicago Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on July 29th as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in Chicago wheat. While slow global import demand and low Russian export prices continue to exert pressure on the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger a short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the recent rally in wheat, we recommended taking advantage of the elevated prices to make additional sales and buy upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 740 – 760 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 73 cents in the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 Chicago Wheat. Our most recent recommendation was to exit half of the previously recommended July ’25 Chicago 620 puts once they reached 67 cents (approximately double their original cost), to lock in gains in case the market rallies back. Moving forward, our strategy is to hold the remaining July ’25 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, while also targeting the 590 – 610 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 Chicago Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Chicago wheat recommendations:

KC Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global wheat supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on the front month continuous charts as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in the wheat markets. While low Black Sea export prices and slow world demand continue to weigh on US prices, the funds’ short position and oversold conditions could culminate in a short covering rally on any increase in US demand as world wheat ending stocks are expected to fall yet again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 KC wheat. Considering the recent upside breakout in KC wheat, we recommended buying upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 725 – 750 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 71 cents on the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 KC Wheat. We recently recommended exiting half of the previously recommended July ’25 620 puts once they reached 60 cents (double the original approximate cost) to realize gains in case the market rallies back, while still holding the remaining 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost for continued downside coverage on any unsold bushels. Looking ahead, our strategy is to target the 640 – 670 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 KC Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following KC recommendations:

Mpls Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since printing a near-term low in mid-July, Minneapolis wheat has trended mostly sideways as the market attempts to balance smaller US and world supplies versus lower world export prices and lower world demand. During this period, managed funds have maintained their sizable, short positions in Minneapolis wheat. Though low Russian export prices continue to keep a lid on US prices, smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could increase US demand, potentially triggering a short-covering rally, especially as global wheat ending stocks are projected to decline again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Minneapolis wheat. With the recent close below the 712 support level, Grain Market Insider implemented its Plan B stop strategy, recommending additional sales for the 2024 crop due to waning upside momentum and an increased likelihood of a downward trend. Given the heightened volatility and the amount of time that remains to market this crop, we will maintain the current July ’25 KC wheat 860 and 1020 call options. Our target is a selling price of about 71 cents for the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. These 1020 calls will continue to protect existing sales and provide confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for the 2025 Minneapolis wheat crop. Since the growing season can often yield some of the best sales opportunities, we recently made two separate sales recommendations to get some early sales on the books for next year’s crop. While we will not be targeting any specific areas to make additional sales until later in the marketing year, we will continue to monitor the market for opportunities to exit the remaining July ’25 KC 620 puts that were recommended in June. To that end, should the market continue to be weak, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range to exit half of those remaining puts.
  • No Action is currently recommended for the 2026 Minneapolis wheat crop. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Minneapolis wheat recommendations:

Other Charts / Weather

5-day precipitation forecast courtesy of NOAA, Weather Prediction Center.

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8-23 End of Day: Sharply Higher Soybean Oil Supports Soybeans, While Corn and Wheat Slide Lower

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • Weakness in the wheat market and continued producer selling of old crop bushels continued to weigh on the corn market, which closed lower for the fourth consecutive week. Prospects of a high yielding crop, nearly four bpa better than last year, from Pro Farmer’s crop tour also kept a lid on prices throughout the week.
  • Sharply higher soybean oil and another flash soybean sale to unknown destinations led soybeans higher today and helped them recover over 50% of yesterday’s losses. The rally in bean oil was supported by higher crude oil and market talk that Brazil is importing Argentine bean oil for biofuel production.
  • The wheat complex suffered its third straight day of losses across all three classes. December Minneapolis and KC both printed fresh contract lows in today’s trade, while December Chicago came within ¾ cents of yesterday’s contract low. The wheat market continues to struggle with slow global demand.
  • To see the updated US 7-day precipitation forecast, and the 6 – 10 and 8 – 14 day Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, courtesy of NOAA, and the Weather Prediction Center, scroll down to the other Charts/Weather section.

Note – For the best viewing experience, some Grain Market Insider content is best viewed with your phone held horizontally.

Corn

Corn Action Plan Summary

Farmer selling of old crop bushels ahead of the upcoming harvest has kept pressure on corn futures over the last month. Nearly ideal weather conditions for most during the months of July and August have only added more pressure. The corn market’s ability to close higher following a record yield estimate of 183.1 bpa by the USDA is a good sign showing corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover some of their extensive short positions and rally prices, however, an extended rally is unlikely before combines start rolling.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 corn. In June we recommended buying Dec ’24 470 and 510 calls after Dec ’24 closed below 451, for their relative value and because we are at that time of year of high volatility when markets can move swiftly. Moving forward, our current strategy is to target the value of 29 cents to exit the Dec ’24 470 calls. Exiting the 470 calls at 29 cents will allow you to lock in gains in case prices fall back and hold the remaining 510 calls at or near a net neutral cost, which should continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make further sales if the market rallies sharply. Additionally, should a contra-seasonal rally occur considering the large net short managed fund position, we continue to target the 470 – 490 area to recommend making additional sales versus Dec ’24.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 corn. Between early June and late July Grain Market Insider made three separate sales recommendations to get early sales made for next year’s crop. Considering the seasonal weakness of the market in late summer and early fall, we will not be looking to post any targeted areas for new sales until late fall or early winter. Although, we will look to protect current sales, in the form of buying call options, should the market begin to show signs of a potential extended rally.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 corn. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following corn recommendations:

  • Led by weakness in the wheat market, September corn futures pushed the corn market lower on the session. September corn posted a new contract low, while December corn finished with a new contract low close. December corn closed the week down 1 ½ cents finishing lower on the week for the fourth consecutive week.
  • Farmer selling old crop corn supplies or pricing basis contracts pressured the front-end September futures. With First Notice Day next Friday, producers will need to decide on pricing basis contracts early next week, which could provide additional selling pressure in the market.
  • Logistics in moving corn bushels to the Gulf of Mexico ports may become a concern soon as Mississippi River levels are dropping and could be at a stage to put restrictions on barge traffic by Early September.
  • Pro Farmer finished its annual crop tour on Thursday and released its final crop production forecasts this afternoon. Using tour results and other factors, Pro Farmer sees the 2024 corn yield at 181.1 bpa.  down 1.1% from the August USDA forecasts. This puts production at 14.979 billion bushels for the crop year. Last year Pro Farmer had the corn yield at 177.3 bpa. They left harvested acres unchanged on their projections.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the soybean market has stair-stepped its way lower on sluggish new crop demand, good growing weather, and the prospect of a large upcoming crop, while weather forecasts remain mostly favorable to the crop, and the trade may be factoring in higher yield estimates. The USDA pegging US soybean yield at a record with a million harvested acre jump on the August WASDE broke the market even further. The funds have yet to see a reason to cover some of their extensive short positions ahead of the quickly approaching harvest.

  • No new action is recommended for the 2024 crop. At the end of December, we recommended buying Nov ’24 1280 and 1360 calls due to the amount of uncertainty in the 2024 soybean crop and to give you confidence to make sales and protect those sales in an extended rally. Given that the market has retreated since that time, we are targeting the 1040 – 1070 range versus Nov ’24 futures to exit 1/3 of the 1280 calls to help preserve equity. Additionally in June, the close below 1180 triggered our Plan B strategy, which recommended making additional sales due to the potential change in trend. Should a bullish catalyst enter the market to turn prices higher, we are targeting the 1090 – 1120 range from our Plan A strategy to make additional sales recommendations.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2025 Soybeans. To date, Grain Market Insider has not recommended any sales for next year’s soybean crop yet. First sales targets will probably be set in late fall or early winter at the earliest. Currently, our focus is on watching for opportunities to recommend buying call options. Should Nov ‘25 reach the upper 1100 range, the likelihood of an extended rally would increase, and we would recommend buying upside call options at that time in preparation for that possibility.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 Soybeans. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following soybean recommendations:

  • Soybeans closed higher on the day, with help from sharply higher soybean oil, after a week of mixed trading, that ultimately finished up for the week. Export activity provided support throughout the week, while improved weather forecasts and lower pod counts from the Pro Farmer crop tour put pressure on prices. Soybean meal also ended the day higher.
  • For the week, September soybeans gained 13 ¼ to end at 952 and November soybeans gained 16 cents to end at 973. September soybean meal gained $2.90 to end at $306.30 while September soybean oil gained 1.52 cents to close at 41.47 cents. Since Monday, funds are estimated to have bought back 4,000 contracts of soybeans.
  • The Pro Farmer crop tour found solid soybean yield potential, with pod counts in Iowa at 1,312.3 pods in a 3 by 3-foot square, which compares to the 3-year average of 1,194.2. In Minnesota, counts of 1,036.6 pods were found, compared to the 3-year average of 1,037.7. Estimates for the tour’s final soybean yield is 54.9 bpa, which if realized would be up from the USDA’s estimate of 53.2 bpa.
  • Today the USDA reported another round of private soybean export sales totaling 120,000 metric tons for delivery to unknown destinations during the 24/25 marketing year.
  • Domestic demand has been stout with crush margins reportedly ranging from $2.10 to $2.60 per bushel in the Corn Belt which has given crushers a large incentive to buy cash soybeans. This should pair with the uptick in export demand recently, but trade is more focused on the large crop that will likely be harvested this fall.

Above: Since the front month continuous chart rolled to the November contract on August 15, soybean futures have largely traded sideways. A breakout above 985 could push prices towards the 1005 – 1040 resistance area. To the downside, a break below 950 puts the market at risk of sliding down to the 915 – 900 support area.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • Wheat posted double-digit losses in both Kansas City and Minneapolis futures, while Chicago fared a little better. This occurred despite another significant drop in the US Dollar Index today, which reached its lowest level since late July 2023 after comments by the Fed chairman that “the time has come” to begin reducing interest rates. September Matif wheat futures also hit a new contract low today, offering no support to the US market.
  • Spring wheat futures faced the most pressure in the wheat complex today, likely due to harvest pressures, with yields in both Minnesota and North Dakota anticipated to be very good so far. Additionally, funds are believed to be adding to their short wheat positions, contributing to today’s weakness.
  • Recent rains in Argentina should improve their wheat crop, according to the Buenos Aires Grain Exchange, particularly in the southern and central growing regions. However, drier weather and frost concerns could affect crops in the northwestern regions. Argentina planted 15.6 million acres of wheat for the 24/25 season, with harvest expected to begin in November.
  • The Canadian government reportedly intervened in the railway strike by forcing arbitration. Despite this development, wheat prices declined today, indicating that the market was not significantly concerned about potential disruptions to grain transportation caused by the strike.

Chicago Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on July 29th as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in Chicago wheat. While slow global import demand and low Russian export prices continue to exert pressure on the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger a short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the recent rally in wheat, we recommended taking advantage of the elevated prices to make additional sales and buy upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 740 – 760 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 73 cents in the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 Chicago Wheat. Our most recent recommendation was to exit half of the previously recommended July ’25 Chicago 620 puts once they reached 67 cents (approximately double their original cost), to lock in gains in case the market rallies back. Moving forward, our strategy is to hold the remaining July ’25 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, while also targeting the 590 – 610 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 Chicago Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Chicago wheat recommendations:

KC Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global wheat supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on the front month continuous charts as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in the wheat markets. While low Black Sea export prices and slow world demand continue to weigh on US prices, the funds’ short position and oversold conditions could culminate in a short covering rally on any increase in US demand as world wheat ending stocks are expected to fall yet again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 KC wheat. Considering the recent upside breakout in KC wheat, we recommended buying upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 725 – 750 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 71 cents on the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 KC Wheat. We recently recommended exiting half of the previously recommended July ’25 620 puts once they reached 60 cents (double the original approximate cost) to realize gains in case the market rallies back, while still holding the remaining 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost for continued downside coverage on any unsold bushels. Looking ahead, our strategy is to target the 640 – 670 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 KC Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following KC recommendations:

Mpls Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since printing a near-term low in mid-July, Minneapolis wheat has trended mostly sideways as the market attempts to balance smaller US and world supplies versus lower world export prices and lower world demand. During this period, managed funds have maintained their sizable, short positions in Minneapolis wheat. Though low Russian export prices continue to keep a lid on US prices, smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could increase US demand, potentially triggering a short-covering rally, especially as global wheat ending stocks are projected to decline again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Minneapolis wheat. With the recent close below the 712 support level, Grain Market Insider implemented its Plan B stop strategy, recommending additional sales for the 2024 crop due to waning upside momentum and an increased likelihood of a downward trend. Given the heightened volatility and the amount of time that remains to market this crop, we will maintain the current July ’25 KC wheat 860 and 1020 call options. Our target is a selling price of about 71 cents for the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. These 1020 calls will continue to protect existing sales and provide confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for the 2025 Minneapolis wheat crop. Since the growing season can often yield some of the best sales opportunities, we recently made two separate sales recommendations to get some early sales on the books for next year’s crop. While we will not be targeting any specific areas to make additional sales until later in the marketing year, we will continue to monitor the market for opportunities to exit the remaining July ’25 KC 620 puts that were recommended in June. To that end, should the market continue to be weak, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range to exit half of those remaining puts.
  • No Action is currently recommended for the 2026 Minneapolis wheat crop. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Minneapolis wheat recommendations:

Other Charts / Weather

7-day precipitation forecast courtesy of NOAA, Weather Prediction Center.

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8-22 End of Day: Wheat Follows Through on Weakness, as Corn and Beans Slide Despite Solid Export Sales

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • Sellers remained active in the corn market as pressure from lower wheat and sharply lower soybeans weighed on prices, despite fresh flash corn export sales to Mexico and unknown destinations. While weekly export sales came in above expectations, the overall slow sales pace remains a bearish factor.
  • Despite weekly export sales coming in above expectations, total new crop commitments remain at multi-year lows. This combined with reports of record yield potential in Illinois put traders in sell mode across the soybean complex, with both soybean meal and oil following soybeans lower on the day.
  • Another day of lower prices for Matif wheat, which hit fresh near-term lows; logistics issues with the shutdown of the two major Canadian railways, and a rebound in the US dollar, all combined to keep sellers active in the wheat complex. All three US classes of wheat closed lower today, led by the Minneapolis contracts.
  • To see the updated US 5-day precipitation forecast, the 6 – 10 day Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, and the current US Drought Monitor courtesy of NOAA, the Weather Prediction Center, and the NDMC, scroll down to the other Charts/Weather section.

Note – For the best viewing experience, some Grain Market Insider content is best viewed with your phone held horizontally.

Corn

Corn Action Plan Summary

Farmer selling of old crop bushels ahead of the upcoming harvest has kept pressure on corn futures over the last month. Nearly ideal weather conditions for most during the month of July and to start August have only added more pressure. The corn market’s ability to close higher following a record yield estimate of 183.1 bpa by the USDA is a good sign showing corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover some of their extensive short positions and rally prices, however, an extended rally is unlikely before combines start rolling.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 corn. In June we recommended buying Dec ’24 470 and 510 calls after Dec ’24 closed below 451, for their relative value and because we are at that time of year of high volatility when markets can move swiftly. Moving forward, our current strategy is to target the value of 29 cents to exit the Dec ’24 470 calls. Exiting the 470 calls at 29 cents will allow you to lock in gains in case prices fall back and hold the remaining 510 calls at or near a net neutral cost, which should continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make further sales if the market rallies sharply. Additionally, should a contra-seasonal rally occur considering the large net short managed fund position, we continue to target the 470 – 490 area to recommend making additional sales versus Dec ’24.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 corn. Between early June and late July Grain Market Insider made three separate sales recommendations to get early sales made for next year’s crop. Considering the seasonal weakness of the market in late summer and early fall, we will not be looking to post any targeted areas for new sales until late fall or early winter.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 corn. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following corn recommendations:

  • The corn market succumbed to the path of least resistance and traded lower in sympathy with neighboring wheat and soybean markets. The prospect of solid yields this harvest, a sluggish export pace (though solid last week), and the continued movement of corn into the cash market remain bearish factors.
  • Yesterday’s EIA data showed ethanol production rose to 1,100 thousand barrels per day (tbd) last week, up from 1,072 tbd the previous week and 5% higher than a year ago. Nearly 111 million bushels of corn were used, averaging 15.8 mb per day, exceeding the 14.7 mbd required to meet the USDA’s target.
  • The USDA reported this morning that private exporters sold 110,490 mt of corn to Mexico and 132,000 mt to unknown destinations, both for delivery in the 24/25 marketing year.
  • Today’s Export Sales report showed an increase of 4.7 mb in corn sales for 23/24 and a 50.8 mb rise for 24/25, slightly exceeding the average trade expectations. While weekly sales were strong, total new crop commitments remain sluggish, with only 14% of the USDA’s projection sold versus the 18% average for this time of year.  Last week’s corn export shipments reached 45.5 mb, surpassing the 37.7 mb needed weekly to meet the USDA’s 23/24 export target of 2.250 billion bushels. The primary destinations were Mexico, Japan, and Colombia.
  • The Pro Farmer crop tour published yield results for Illinois and western Iowa yesterday. Illinois showed a yield potential of 204.14 bpa, while western Iowa showed potential yields ranging between 176.6 bpa and 195.9 bpa. Overall, the numbers were above last year’s tour levels. The tour moved into southern Minnesota and central and eastern Iowa today.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the soybean market has stair-stepped its way lower on sluggish new crop demand, good growing weather, and the prospect of a large upcoming crop, while weather forecasts remain mostly favorable to the crop, and the trade may be factoring in higher yield estimates. The USDA pegging US soybean yield at a record with a million harvested acre jump on the August WASDE broke the market even further. The funds have yet to see a reason to cover some of their extensive short positions ahead of the quickly approaching harvest.

  • No new action is recommended for the 2024 crop. At the end of December, we recommended buying Nov ’24 1280 and 1360 calls due to the amount of uncertainty in the 2024 soybean crop and to give you confidence to make sales and protect those sales in an extended rally. Given that the market has retreated since that time, we are targeting the 1040 – 1070 range versus Nov ’24 futures to exit 1/3 of the 1280 calls to help preserve equity. Additionally in June, the close below 1180 triggered our Plan B strategy, which recommended making additional sales due to the potential change in trend. Should a bullish catalyst enter the market to turn prices higher, we are targeting the 1090 – 1120 range from our Plan A strategy to make additional sales recommendations.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2025 Soybeans. To date, Grain Market Insider has not recommended any sales for next year’s soybean crop yet. First sales targets will probably be set in late fall or early winter at the earliest. Currently, our focus is on watching for opportunities to recommend buying call options. Should Nov ‘25 reach the upper 1100 range, the likelihood of an extended rally would increase, and we would recommend buying upside call options at that time in preparation for that possibility.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 Soybeans. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following soybean recommendations:

  • Soybeans ended the day significantly lower wiping out nearly all of the previous gains the November contract had made for the week as the Pro Farmer crop tour finds potentially big yields that could end up being record large. Improved chances of rain in the central Corn Belt have added pressure as well, and both soybean meal and oil ended the day lower as well.
  • Today’s weekly Export Sales report saw a decrease of 1.6 mb of soybean export sales in 23/24 but an increase of 61.6 mb for 24/25, which was toward the higher end of trade estimates. Last week’s export shipments of 15.5 mb were below the 17.9 mb needed each week to meet the USDA’s export estimate of 1.700 bb. Primary destinations were to the Netherlands, Mexico, and Egypt.
  • Domestic demand has been stout as well, with crush margins reportedly ranging from $2.10 to $2.60 per bushel in the Corn Belt which has given processors a large incentive to buy cash soybeans to crush. This should pair with the uptick in export demand recently, but trade is more focused on the large crop that will likely be harvested this fall.
  • This morning, the USDA reported private export sales totaling 198,000 metric tons of soybeans for delivery to China during the 24/25 marketing year and 105,000 metric tons of soybean cake and meal for delivery to Vietnam for the 24/25 marketing year.

Above: The upward gap on the chart represents the 16-cent premium between the September and (now represented) November contract. Overhead resistance for November beans lies near 1000, with further resistance between 1016 and 1050. To the downside, a break below 950 puts the market at risk of sliding down to the 915 – 900 support area.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • Wheat closed lower, led by double-digit losses in spring wheat futures. Pressure stemmed from a sharp rebound in the US Dollar Index, as well as another down day and a new near-term low for Paris milling wheat futures.
  • The USDA reported an increase of 18.1 mb of wheat export sales for 24/25. Shipments last week totaling 17.3 mb, exceeded the 16.0 mb pace needed per week to reach the USDA’s export goal of 825 mb. Wheat sales commitments have reached 346 mb for 24/25, up 31% from last year.
  • The two largest railways in Canada shut down as a strike began last night. Canadian National Railway and Canadian Pacific Kansas City Ltd account for nearly 80% of Canada’s freight shipments. Additionally, BNSF railroad in Mexico suspended the issuance of new permits due to congestion. These rail issues are raising concerns about the logistics of grain movement, which added pressure to the grain complex today.
  • Adding to bearishness in wheat is talk that the Chinese crop may be record-large at 138.2 mmt. As a net importer of wheat, this could reduce their need to import grain, which may pressure both US and global export markets.
  • According to the USDA, as of August 20, approximately 21% of US spring wheat acres are experiencing drought. This is unchanged from the previous week, and conditions remain favorable in major producers North Dakota and Minnesota. However, drought in winter wheat areas has expanded 2% from last week to 45%, which may affect the establishment of the winter wheat crop that will soon be planted.

Chicago Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on July 29th as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in Chicago wheat. While slow global import demand and low Russian export prices continue to exert pressure on the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger a short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the recent rally in wheat, we recommended taking advantage of the elevated prices to make additional sales and buy upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 740 – 760 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 73 cents in the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 Chicago Wheat. Our most recent recommendation was to exit half of the previously recommended July ’25 Chicago 620 puts once they reached 67 cents (approximately double their original cost), to lock in gains in case the market rallies back. Moving forward, our strategy is to hold the remaining July ’25 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, while also targeting the 610 – 630 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 Chicago Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Chicago wheat recommendations:

KC Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global wheat supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on the front month continuous charts as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in the wheat markets. While low Black Sea export prices and slow world demand continue to weigh on US prices, the funds’ short position and oversold conditions could culminate in a short covering rally on any increase in US demand as world wheat ending stocks are expected to fall yet again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 KC wheat. Considering the recent upside breakout in KC wheat, we recommended buying upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 725 – 750 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 71 cents on the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 KC Wheat. We recently recommended exiting half of the previously recommended July ’25 620 puts once they reached 60 cents (double the original approximate cost) to realize gains in case the market rallies back, while still holding the remaining 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost for continued downside coverage on any unsold bushels. Looking ahead, our strategy is to target the 660 – 690 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 KC Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following KC recommendations:

Mpls Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since printing a near-term low in mid-July, Minneapolis wheat has trended mostly sideways as the market attempts to balance smaller US and world supplies versus lower world export prices and lower world demand. During this period, managed funds have maintained their sizable, short positions in Minneapolis wheat. Though low Russian export prices continue to keep a lid on US prices, smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could increase US demand, potentially triggering a short-covering rally, especially as global wheat ending stocks are projected to decline again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Minneapolis wheat. With the recent close below the 712 support level, Grain Market Insider implemented its Plan B stop strategy, recommending additional sales for the 2024 crop due to waning upside momentum and an increased likelihood of a downward trend. Given the heightened volatility and the amount of time that remains to market this crop, we will maintain the current July ’25 KC wheat 860 and 1020 call options. Our target is a selling price of about 71 cents for the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. These 1020 calls will continue to protect existing sales and provide confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for the 2025 Minneapolis wheat crop. Since the growing season can often yield some of the best sales opportunities, we recently made two separate sales recommendations to get some early sales on the books for next year’s crop. While we will not be targeting any specific areas to make additional sales until later in the marketing year, we will continue to monitor the market for opportunities to exit the remaining July ’25 KC 620 puts that were recommended in June. To that end, should the market continue to be weak, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range to exit half of those remaining puts.
  • No Action is currently recommended for the 2026 Minneapolis wheat crop. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Minneapolis wheat recommendations:

Other Charts / Weather

5-day precipitation forecast courtesy of NOAA, Weather Prediction Center.

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8-21 End of Day: Corn and Beans Consolidate in Quiet Trade as Wheat Breaks

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • The corn market experienced another day of quiet trade in a tight 4-cent range as it continues to consolidate with little fresh news to move prices significantly in either direction. The recent increase export demand kept nearby prices supported, as the market works through old crop supplies.
  • Soybeans traded in a relatively tight range before settling modestly higher, supported by new flash export sales to China and higher soybean oil. Although, prices were weighed down as soybean meal faded after hitting upside resistance near its 20-day moving average.
  • Despite a weakening US Dollar, wheat prices closed lower in all three classes as softer global wheat values, with Matif wheat trading to its lowest levels in five months, weighed on US prices. Increased Ukrainian wheat exports and improved Australian weather also contributed to the weakness.
  • To see the updated US 7-day precipitation forecast, and the 6 – 10 and 8 – 14 day Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, courtesy of NOAA, and the Weather Prediction Center, scroll down to the other Charts/Weather section.

Note – For the best viewing experience, some Grain Market Insider content is best viewed with your phone held horizontally.

Corn

Corn Action Plan Summary

Farmer selling of old crop bushels ahead of the upcoming harvest has kept pressure on corn futures over the last month. Nearly ideal weather conditions for most during the month of July and to start August have only added more pressure. The corn market’s ability to close higher following a record yield estimate of 183.1 bpa by the USDA is a good sign showing corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover some of their extensive short positions and rally prices, however, an extended rally is unlikely before combines start rolling.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 corn. In June we recommended buying Dec ’24 470 and 510 calls after Dec ’24 closed below 451, for their relative value and because we are at that time of year of high volatility when markets can move swiftly. Moving forward, our current strategy is to target the value of 29 cents to exit the Dec ’24 470 calls. Exiting the 470 calls at 29 cents will allow you to lock in gains in case prices fall back and hold the remaining 510 calls at or near a net neutral cost, which should continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make further sales if the market rallies sharply. Additionally, should a contra-seasonal rally occur considering the large net short managed fund position, we continue to target the 470 – 490 area to recommend making additional sales versus Dec ’24.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 corn. Between early June and late July Grain Market Insider made three separate sales recommendations to get early sales made for next year’s crop. Considering the seasonal weakness of the market in late summer and early fall, we will not be looking to post any targeted areas for new sales until late fall or early winter.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 corn. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following corn recommendations:

  • Another quiet trading day in the corn market as futures finished mixed for the day as the market looks for fresh news. December corn had a 4-cent trading range on the day as prices consolidated for the second straight session.
  • The front end of the corn market has been supported by a counter-seasonal uptick in demand as corn export inspections have run ahead of averages the past few weeks. This week’s export shipments at 1.116 mmt were double last year’s total for the week as the market works through old crop supplies before harvest brings fresh supplies into the pipeline.
  • The USDA will release weekly exports sales on tomorrow morning. Expectations are for old crop sales to range from 100,000 – 300,000 mt and new crop sales from 500,000 –1.025 mmt. The current marketing year ends on August 31, so the market’s focus will be on new crop corn sales.
  • The Pro Farmer crop tour published yield results for Indiana and Nebraska yesterday. Indiana has a yield potential of 187.54 bpa and Nebraska was 173.25 bpa. Both numbers were above last year’s tour levels. The tour moved into Western Iowa and Western Illinois today.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the soybean market has stair-stepped its way lower on sluggish new crop demand, good growing weather, and the prospect of a large upcoming crop, while weather forecasts remain mostly favorable to the crop, and the trade may be factoring in higher yield estimates. The USDA pegging US soybean yield at a record with a million harvested acre jump on the August WASDE broke the market even further. The funds have yet to see a reason to cover some of their extensive short positions ahead of the quickly approaching harvest.

  • No new action is recommended for the 2024 crop. At the end of December, we recommended buying Nov ’24 1280 and 1360 calls due to the amount of uncertainty in the 2024 soybean crop and to give you confidence to make sales and protect those sales in an extended rally. Given that the market has retreated since that time, we are targeting the 1040 – 1070 range versus Nov ’24 futures to exit 1/3 of the 1280 calls to help preserve equity. Additionally in June, the close below 1180 triggered our Plan B strategy, which recommended making additional sales due to the potential change in trend. Should a bullish catalyst enter the market to turn prices higher, we are targeting the 1090 – 1120 range from our Plan A strategy to make additional sales recommendations.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2025 Soybeans. To date, Grain Market Insider has not recommended any sales for next year’s soybean crop yet. First sales targets will probably be set in late fall or early winter at the earliest. Currently, our focus is on watching for opportunities to recommend buying call options. Should Nov ‘25 reach the upper 1100 range, the likelihood of an extended rally would increase, and we would recommend buying upside call options at that time in preparation for that possibility.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 Soybeans. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following soybean recommendations:

  • Soybeans ended the day higher as prices consolidated and the November contract closed 26 ½ cents off its low from Friday. Futures saw support today from more announced export sales and higher trade in both soybean meal and oil. So far this week, November is trading 25 cents higher and has seen additional support from a short-term hot and dry forecast.
  • This morning, the USDA reported private export sales totaling 132,000 metric tons of soybeans for delivery to China during the 24/25 marketing year and 121,000 metric tons of soybeans for delivery to unknown destinations during the 24/25 marketing year. This follows sales of 371,392 mt from yesterday.
  • The warmer and drier forecast over the next 10 days has caused NOAA to issue a drought warning for the southern Plains which raises 10% of total US soybean production. While this may cause crop ratings to fall slightly, the crop is still set up for large yields, and production should not be impacted too much.
  • The Pro Farmer crop tour was in Indiana and Nebraska yesterday. In Indiana, soybean pod counts are averaging 1,379 pods per 3×3 foot square which compares to 1,310 pods last year and the 3-year average of 1,238.6. In Nebraska, pod counts averaged 1,172 according to 376 samples and is up from 1,160 pods last year and the 3-year average of 1,150.

Above: The upward gap on the chart represents the 16-cent premium between the September and (now represented) November contract. Overhead resistance for November beans lies near 1000, with further resistance between 1016 and 1050. To the downside, a break below 950 puts the market at risk of sliding down to the 915 – 900 support area.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • All three US wheat classes closed lower on the day, led by Chicago futures. Weakness came despite another move downward in the US Dollar, possibly due to weakening global wheat values. After a few days of consolidation, Paris milling wheat futures broke to the downside, with the front month September contract trading to the lowest level since early March.
  • Ukrainian grain exports for the 24/25 season have reached 6 mmt as of August 21, up from 3.6 mmt during the same period last year. Of that total, 2.8 mmt was said to be wheat, followed by 2.2 mmt of corn and 1 mmt of barley.
  • Argentina has quarantined a grain cargo ship on the Parana River due to a suspected case of monkeypox in a crew member. Although the vessel was preparing to load soy, this incident raises broader concerns about the logistics of grain shipments. Last week, the World Health Organization declared monkeypox a global public health emergency.
  • Weather in Australia has been mostly favorable in the western and southern regions, with scattered showers over the weekend boosting soil moisture levels. More rain is expected this week in these areas, while the northern regions may remain drier. Overall, warm temperatures this week should support wheat crop development.

Chicago Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on July 29th as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in Chicago wheat. While slow global import demand and low Russian export prices continue to exert pressure on the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger a short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the recent rally in wheat, we recommended taking advantage of the elevated prices to make additional sales and buy upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 740 – 760 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 73 cents in the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 Chicago Wheat. Our most recent recommendation was to exit half of the previously recommended July ’25 Chicago 620 puts once they reached 67 cents (approximately double their original cost), to lock in gains in case the market rallies back. Moving forward, our strategy is to hold the remaining July ’25 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, while also targeting the 610 – 630 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 Chicago Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Chicago wheat recommendations:

KC Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global wheat supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on the front month continuous charts as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in the wheat markets. While low Black Sea export prices and slow world demand continue to weigh on US prices, the funds’ short position and oversold conditions could culminate in a short covering rally on any increase in US demand as world wheat ending stocks are expected to fall yet again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 KC wheat. Considering the recent upside breakout in KC wheat, we recommended buying upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 725 – 750 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 71 cents on the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 KC Wheat. We recently recommended exiting half of the previously recommended July ’25 620 puts once they reached 60 cents (double the original approximate cost) to realize gains in case the market rallies back, while still holding the remaining 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost for continued downside coverage on any unsold bushels. Looking ahead, our strategy is to target the 660 – 690 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 KC Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following KC recommendations:

Mpls Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since printing a near-term low in mid-July, Minneapolis wheat has trended mostly sideways as the market attempts to balance smaller US and world supplies versus lower world export prices and lower world demand. During this period, managed funds have maintained their sizable, short positions in Minneapolis wheat. Though low Russian export prices continue to keep a lid on US prices, smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could increase US demand, potentially triggering a short-covering rally, especially as global wheat ending stocks are projected to decline again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Minneapolis wheat. With the recent close below the 712 support level, Grain Market Insider implemented its Plan B stop strategy, recommending additional sales for the 2024 crop due to waning upside momentum and an increased likelihood of a downward trend. Given the heightened volatility and the amount of time that remains to market this crop, we will maintain the current July ’25 KC wheat 860 and 1020 call options. Our target is a selling price of about 71 cents for the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. These 1020 calls will continue to protect existing sales and provide confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for the 2025 Minneapolis wheat crop. Since the growing season can often yield some of the best sales opportunities, we recently made two separate sales recommendations to get some early sales on the books for next year’s crop. While we will not be targeting any specific areas to make additional sales until later in the marketing year, we will continue to monitor the market for opportunities to exit the remaining July ’25 KC 620 puts that were recommended in June. To that end, should the market continue to be weak, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range to exit half of those remaining puts.
  • No Action is currently recommended for the 2026 Minneapolis wheat crop. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Minneapolis wheat recommendations:

Other Charts / Weather

7-day precipitation forecast courtesy of NOAA, Weather Prediction Center.

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8-20 End of Day: Markets Settle Mixed Following Relatively Quiet Two-Sided Trade

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • The corn market settled near session lows after failing to follow through on yesterday’s positive price strength, as traders took profits following improved findings in the Pro Farmer crop tour and strong weekly crop ratings.
  • Despite another round of new crop flash sales to China and Mexico, the soybean market gave up its earlier gains in the session and closed mixed. Better than expected crop ratings and lower meal prices, led by profit taking, offset the rally in soybean oil, and contributed to the selling pressure.
  • With little fresh news to trade, the wheat complex staged a firm close across all three classes as the US Dollar Index dropped to its lowest level since January of this year, and traders potentially covered some short positions in response to oversold conditions.
  • To see the updated US 7-day precipitation forecast, and the 6 – 10 and 8 – 14 day Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, courtesy of NOAA, and the Weather Prediction Center, scroll down to the other Charts/Weather section.

Note – For the best viewing experience, some Grain Market Insider content is best viewed with your phone held horizontally.

Corn

Corn Action Plan Summary

Farmer selling of old crop bushels ahead of the upcoming harvest has kept pressure on corn futures over the last month. Nearly ideal weather conditions for most during the month of July and to start August have only added more pressure. The corn market’s ability to close higher following a record yield estimate of 183.1 bpa by the USDA is a good sign showing corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover some of their extensive short positions and rally prices, however, an extended rally is unlikely before combines start rolling.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 corn. In June we recommended buying Dec ’24 470 and 510 calls after Dec ’24 closed below 451, for their relative value and because we are at that time of year of high volatility when markets can move swiftly. Moving forward, our current strategy is to target the value of 29 cents to exit the Dec ’24 470 calls. Exiting the 470 calls at 29 cents will allow you to lock in gains in case prices fall back and hold the remaining 510 calls at or near a net neutral cost, which should continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make further sales if the market rallies sharply. Additionally, should a contra-seasonal rally occur considering the large net short managed fund position, we continue to target the 470 – 490 area to recommend making additional sales versus Dec ’24.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 corn. Between early June and late July Grain Market Insider made three separate sales recommendations to get early sales made for next year’s crop. Considering the seasonal weakness of the market in late summer and early fall, we will not be looking to post any targeted areas for new sales until late fall or early winter.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 corn. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following corn recommendations:

  • Sellers stepped back into the corn market on Tuesday as prices failed to follow through after Monday’s strength. Strong, consistent crop ratings and improved results on the Pro Farmer crop tour triggered some long liquidation.
  • Monday’s USDA Crop Progress report saw the corn crop maintain its 67% good to excellent rating. This was steady with last week and 1% above expectations. The consistent ratings during this time window signal a large potential corn crop and keep yield estimates based on crop rating forecasting above trendline. As for maturity, 74% of the crop was in dough stage and 30% was dented, both ahead of 5-year averages.
  • The Pro Farmer crop tour published yield results for Onio and South Dakota yesterday. Ohio has a yield potential of 183.29 bu/acre and South Dakota was 156.71 bu/acre. Both numbers were slightly below last year’s tour levels. The tour moved into Nebraska, western Indiana, and eastern Illinois today.
  • The US Dollar Index softened for the second straight day this week, down over a full basis point since Friday’s close as technical charts broke lower. The prospects of a more friendly monetary policy in the near future has pressured the dollar index. The weaker dollar should help US grains compete on the global export market.
  • Cash markets will likely be the driver of the price action into the end of the month, as producers will be likely moving old crop supplies and setting prices on basis contracts. Supplies are typically moved in this window with harvest around the corner. Basis levels will be an indicator of the cash market and the amount of corn movement.

Above: Corn condition percent good-excellent (red) versus the 5-year average (green) and last year (pink).

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the soybean market has stair-stepped its way lower on sluggish new crop demand, good growing weather, and the prospect of a large upcoming crop, while weather forecasts remain mostly favorable to the crop, and the trade may be factoring in higher yield estimates. The USDA pegging US soybean yield at a record with a million harvested acre jump on the August WASDE broke the market even further. The funds have yet to see a reason to cover some of their extensive short positions ahead of the quickly approaching harvest.

  • No new action is recommended for the 2024 crop. At the end of December, we recommended buying Nov ’24 1280 and 1360 calls due to the amount of uncertainty in the 2024 soybean crop and to give you confidence to make sales and protect those sales in an extended rally. Given that the market has retreated since that time, we are targeting the 1040 – 1070 range versus Nov ’24 futures to exit 1/3 of the 1280 calls to help preserve equity. Additionally in June, the close below 1180 triggered our Plan B strategy, which recommended making additional sales due to the potential change in trend. Should a bullish catalyst enter the market to turn prices higher, we are targeting the 1090 – 1120 range from our Plan A strategy to make additional sales recommendations.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2025 Soybeans. To date, Grain Market Insider has not recommended any sales for next year’s soybean crop yet. First sales targets will probably be set in late fall or early winter at the earliest. Currently, our focus is on watching for opportunities to recommend buying call options. Should Nov ‘25 reach the upper 1100 range, the likelihood of an extended rally would increase, and we would recommend buying upside call options at that time in preparation for that possibility.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 Soybeans. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following soybean recommendations:

  • Soybeans ended the day mixed with the November contract unchanged, while the deferred contracts were fractionally lower to a penny higher. Despite today’s move, November futures remain 21 cents off Friday’s low. Trade struggled with friendly news of export sales to China today against bearish news that crop conditions were unchanged when they were expected to fall. Soybean meal ended the day lower while soybean oil reversed for a higher close.
  • Yesterday’s Crop Progress report showed the soybean good to excellent rating unchanged at 68%, which compares to last year’s 58% at this time. 95% of the crop was blooming, compared to 91% last week, and 81% of the crop is setting pods versus 72% last week and the 5-year average of 80%.
  • This morning, the USDA reported private export sales totaling 132,000 metric tons of soybeans were sold for delivery to China during the 24/25 marketing year and 239,492 metric tons of soybeans were sold for delivery to Mexico during the 24/25 marketing year.
  • The Pro Farmer crop tour is ongoing and yesterday in Ohio, soybean yields were seen below the USDA’s most recent estimates. Soybean yields in South Dakota were seen up from last year.

Above: The upward gap on the chart represents the 16-cent premium between the September and (now represented) November contract. Overhead resistance for November beans lies near 1000, with further resistance between 1016 and 1050. To the downside, a break below 950 puts the market at risk of sliding down to the 915 – 900 support area.

Above: Soybeans condition percent good-excellent (red) versus the 5-year average (green) and last year (pink).

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • Wheat had a positive close in all three US classes today. Matif wheat did not offer much direction, with a mostly neutral close and only a slight gain in the front month September contract. But the US Dollar Index saw another significant drop today, which may have provided some support to the wheat complex. At the time of writing, the index is down 0.43 to 101.45, the lowest level since January 2.
  • According to the USDA’s Crop Progress report, as of Sunday, winter wheat was 96% harvested. This is slightly above the 95% pace of both a year ago and the 5-year average. Spring wheat was rated 73% good to excellent, up 1% from last week and well above the 38% rating last year. Additionally, 31% of the crop is harvested compared to 35% last year and 36% on average.
  • According to their ag minister, Russia’s total grain production estimate remains unchanged at 132 mmt. However, SovEcon increased their estimate of Russian wheat production by 0.4 mmt to 83.3 mmt. For reference, the USDA is estimating 83 mmt of Russian wheat production and the Russian ag minister is estimating 86 mmt.
  • There was little other fresh news pertaining to the wheat market today. This may indicate that today’s rally was mostly technical in nature. Kansas City futures, in particular, are on the lower end of some technical indicators, signaling oversold conditions. Additionally, KC futures show a buy crossover signal on daily stochastics.

Chicago Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on July 29th as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in Chicago wheat. While slow global import demand and low Russian export prices continue to exert pressure on the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger a short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the recent rally in wheat, we recommended taking advantage of the elevated prices to make additional sales and buy upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 740 – 760 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 73 cents in the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 Chicago Wheat. Our most recent recommendation was to exit half of the previously recommended July ’25 Chicago 620 puts once they reached 67 cents (approximately double their original cost), to lock in gains in case the market rallies back. Moving forward, our strategy is to hold the remaining July ’25 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, while also targeting the 610 – 630 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 Chicago Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Chicago wheat recommendations:

KC Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global wheat supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on the front month continuous charts as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in the wheat markets. While low Black Sea export prices and slow world demand continue to weigh on US prices, the funds’ short position and oversold conditions could culminate in a short covering rally on any increase in US demand as world wheat ending stocks are expected to fall yet again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 KC wheat. Considering the recent upside breakout in KC wheat, we recommended buying upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 725 – 750 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 71 cents on the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 KC Wheat. We recently recommended exiting half of the previously recommended July ’25 620 puts once they reached 60 cents (double the original approximate cost) to realize gains in case the market rallies back, while still holding the remaining 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost for continued downside coverage on any unsold bushels. Looking ahead, our strategy is to target the 660 – 690 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 KC Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following KC recommendations:

Mpls Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since printing a near-term low in mid-July, Minneapolis wheat has trended mostly sideways as the market attempts to balance smaller US and world supplies versus lower world export prices and lower world demand. During this period, managed funds have maintained their sizable, short positions in Minneapolis wheat. Though low Russian export prices continue to keep a lid on US prices, smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could increase US demand, potentially triggering a short-covering rally, especially as global wheat ending stocks are projected to decline again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Minneapolis wheat. With the recent close below the 712 support level, Grain Market Insider implemented its Plan B stop strategy, recommending additional sales for the 2024 crop due to waning upside momentum and an increased likelihood of a downward trend. Given the heightened volatility and the amount of time that remains to market this crop, we will maintain the current July ’25 KC wheat 860 and 1020 call options. Our target is a selling price of about 71 cents for the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. These 1020 calls will continue to protect existing sales and provide confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for the 2025 Minneapolis wheat crop. Since the growing season can often yield some of the best sales opportunities, we recently made two separate sales recommendations to get some early sales on the books for next year’s crop. While we will not be targeting any specific areas to make additional sales until later in the marketing year, we will continue to monitor the market for opportunities to exit the remaining July ’25 KC 620 puts that were recommended in June. To that end, should the market continue to be weak, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range to exit half of those remaining puts.
  • No Action is currently recommended for the 2026 Minneapolis wheat crop. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Minneapolis wheat recommendations:

Above: Spring wheat condition percent good-excellent (red) versus the 5-year average (green) and last year (pink).

Above: Spring wheat percent harvested (red) versus the 5-year average (green) and last year (purple).

Other Charts / Weather

7-day precipitation forecast courtesy of NOAA, Weather Prediction Center.

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8-19 End of Day: Corn and Soybeans Close Near Session Highs, as Wheat Settles Mixed

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • Higher than expected corn export inspections sparked some profit taking off of the recent contract lows in the September and December contracts as buyers regained control of the corn market at the beginning of the week.
  • The soybean market rebounded from last week’s contract lows, driven by new flash sales of new crop soybeans to China and unknown destinations, alongside a warm and dry weather forecast. Additionally, strong gains in both soybean meal and oil provided further support, contributing to a 6 ½ cent increase in September Board crush margins.
  • Despite a sharply lower US Dollar and higher neighboring corn and soybean markets, the wheat complex closed mixed, after all three classes traded on both sides of unchanged. Minneapolis wheat led to the downside as the spring wheat harvest expands, while KC contracts maintained small gains, and Chicago showed weakness in the front month contracts, with small gains in the deferred months.
  • To see the updated US 7-day precipitation forecast, and the 6 – 10 and 8 – 14 day Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, courtesy of NOAA, and the Weather Prediction Center, scroll down to the other Charts/Weather section.

Note – For the best viewing experience, some Grain Market Insider content is best viewed with your phone held horizontally.

Corn

Corn Action Plan Summary

Farmer selling of old crop bushels ahead of the upcoming harvest has kept pressure on corn futures over the last month. Nearly ideal weather conditions for most during the month of July and to start August have only added more pressure. The corn market’s ability to close higher following a record yield estimate of 183.1 bpa by the USDA is a good sign showing corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover some of their extensive short positions and rally prices, however, an extended rally is unlikely before combines start rolling.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 corn. In June we recommended buying Dec ’24 470 and 510 calls after Dec ’24 closed below 451, for their relative value and because we are at that time of year of high volatility when markets can move swiftly. Moving forward, our current strategy is to target the value of 29 cents to exit the Dec ’24 470 calls. Exiting the 470 calls at 29 cents will allow you to lock in gains in case prices fall back and hold the remaining 510 calls at or near a net neutral cost, which should continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make further sales if the market rallies sharply. Additionally, should a contra-seasonal rally occur considering the large net short managed fund position, we continue to target the 470 – 490 area to recommend making additional sales versus Dec ’24.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 corn. Between early June and late July Grain Market Insider made three separate sales recommendations to get early sales made for next year’s crop. Considering the seasonal weakness of the market in late summer and early fall, we will not be looking to post any targeted areas for new sales until late fall or early winter.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 corn. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following corn recommendations:

  • Buyers stepped back into the corn market to start the week as good weekly export inspections triggered some profit taking in the corn market.
  • Weekly export inspections remain strong late into the marketing year. Last week, US exporters shipped 45.9 mb (1.166 mmt) of corn, which was at the high end of expectations. Total inspections for 23/24 are now at 1.972 bb, up 38% from the previous year and running ahead of the USDA pace for the marketing year.
  • The most watched of the crop tours, the Pro Farmer Crop tour, runs through Wednesday. The tour started in the eastern and western Corn Belt this morning and will work toward the center by Wednesday. Monday’s results will likely be very variable, but totals will improve as the tour moves into the core of the Corn Belt. Final tour numbers will be released on Thursday night.
  • Cash markets will likely be the driver of the price action into the end of the month as producers will be likely moving old crop supplies and setting prices on basis contracts. Supplies are typically moved in this window with harvest around the corner. Basis levels will be an indicator of the cash market and the amount of corn movement.

Above: Corn Managed Money Funds net position as of Tuesday, August 13. Net position in Green versus price in Red. Managers net sold, 6,462 contracts between August 7 – 13, bringing their total position to a net short 249,007 contracts.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the soybean market has stair-stepped its way lower on sluggish new crop demand, good growing weather, and the prospect of a large upcoming crop, while weather forecasts remain mostly favorable to the crop, and the trade may be factoring in higher yield estimates. The USDA pegging US soybean yield at a record with a million harvested acre jump on the August WASDE broke the market even further. The funds have yet to see a reason to cover some of their extensive short positions ahead of the quickly approaching harvest.

  • No new action is recommended for the 2024 crop. At the end of December, we recommended buying Nov ’24 1280 and 1360 calls due to the amount of uncertainty in the 2024 soybean crop and to give you confidence to make sales and protect those sales in an extended rally. Given that the market has retreated since that time, we are targeting the 1040 – 1070 range versus Nov ’24 futures to exit 1/3 of the 1280 calls to help preserve equity. Additionally in June, the close below 1180 triggered our Plan B strategy, which recommended making additional sales due to the potential change in trend. Should a bullish catalyst enter the market to turn prices higher, we are targeting the 1090 – 1120 range from our Plan A strategy to make additional sales recommendations.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2025 Soybeans. To date, Grain Market Insider has not recommended any sales for next year’s soybean crop yet. First sales targets will probably be set in late fall or early winter at the earliest. Currently, our focus is on watching for opportunities to recommend buying call options. Should Nov ‘25 reach the upper 1100 range, the likelihood of an extended rally would increase, and we would recommend buying upside call options at that time in preparation for that possibility.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 Soybeans. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following soybean recommendations:

  • Soybeans ended the day significantly higher in a reversal from Friday’s poor close that brought November futures to new contract lows. Today, there was support across the grain complex as a result of the 7 to 10-day forecast which showed warm and very dry conditions approaching across the Corn Belt. Both soybean meal and oil ended the day higher as well.
  • Later this afternoon, the USDA will release its Crop Progress report, and trade is anticipating a decline in crop ratings by 1 to 2 percentage points. The upcoming warm and dry weather could take ratings down further in the coming weeks, but yields are still expected to be near record levels.
  • This morning, the USDA reported private export sales totaling 332,000 mt of soybeans for delivery to China during the 24/25 marketing year and 110,000 mt of soybeans for delivery to unknown destinations during the 24/25 marketing year.
  • Friday’s CFTC report showed managed funds as sellers of soybeans in the week ending August 13. They sold 5,431 contracts of soybeans which left them net short 174,447 contracts. This is near their record short position and funds are estimated to have sold an additional 2,500 contracts since then.

Above: The upward gap on the chart represents the 16-cent premium between the September and (now represented) November contract. Overhead resistance for November beans lies between 1016 and 1050, with further resistance near 1080. To the downside, a break below 950 puts the market at risk of sliding down to the 915 – 900 support area.

Above: Soybean Managed Money Funds net position as of Tuesday, August 13. Net position in Green versus price in Red. Money Managers net sold 5,431 contracts between August 7 – 13, bringing their total position to a net short 174,447 contracts.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • After trading both sides of unchanged, wheat ultimately had a mixed close. September and December Chicago wheat were down slightly, with deferred contracts a little higher. Kansas City futures were marginally higher across the board, but Minneapolis led the way to the downside as spring wheat harvest expands. The relative weakness in wheat today is a bit surprising given the strength of corn and soybeans, and a sharply lower US Dollar. The USD Index today hit the lowest level since January and as of writing is sub the 102 level.
  • Weekly wheat export inspections reached 12.8 mb, bringing total inspections for the 24/25 marketing year to 168 mb. This is 26% higher than the same period last year and well ahead of the USDA’s estimated pace of a 15% increase. Total wheat exports for 24/25 are projected at 825 mb.
  • Interfax reported that Russia’s wheat yields are 22% behind last year at about 4 mt per hectare (2.47 acres). Even though yields are down versus last year, according to Russia’s ag ministry, overall quality is higher. As of August 14, the country has harvested about 59.8 mmt, 3.2 mt behind last year’s pace.
  • According to Egypt’s Supply Minister Sherif Farouk, Egypt’s wheat stocks are ample enough to last over six months, and the country continues to implement its policy of direct wheat purchases. This comes on the heels of its largest ever wheat tender of 3.8 mmt, of which only about 280,000 mt were fulfilled.

Chicago Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on July 29th as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in Chicago wheat. While slow global import demand and low Russian export prices continue to exert pressure on the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger a short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the recent rally in wheat, we recommended taking advantage of the elevated prices to make additional sales and buy upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 740 – 760 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 73 cents in the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 Chicago Wheat. Our most recent recommendation was to exit half of the previously recommended July ’25 Chicago 620 puts once they reached 67 cents (approximately double their original cost), to lock in gains in case the market rallies back. Moving forward, our strategy is to hold the remaining July ’25 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, while also targeting the 610 – 630 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 Chicago Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Chicago wheat recommendations:

Above: Chicago Wheat Managed Money Funds net position as of Tuesday, August 13. Net position in Green versus price in Red. Money Managers net sold 1,956 contracts between August 7 – 13, bringing their total position to a net short 73,288 contracts.

KC Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global wheat supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on the front month continuous charts as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in the wheat markets. While low Black Sea export prices and slow world demand continue to weigh on US prices, the funds’ short position and oversold conditions could culminate in a short covering rally on any increase in US demand as world wheat ending stocks are expected to fall yet again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 KC wheat. Considering the recent upside breakout in KC wheat, we recommended buying upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 725 – 750 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 71 cents on the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 KC Wheat. We recently recommended exiting half of the previously recommended July ’25 620 puts once they reached 60 cents (double the original approximate cost) to realize gains in case the market rallies back, while still holding the remaining 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost for continued downside coverage on any unsold bushels. Looking ahead, our strategy is to target the 660 – 690 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 KC Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following KC recommendations:

Above: KC Wheat Managed Money Funds net position as of Tuesday, August 13. Net position in Green versus price in Red. Money Managers net bought 3,214 contracts between August 7 – 13, bringing their total position to a net short 32,824 contracts.

Mpls Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since printing a near-term low in mid-July, Minneapolis wheat has trended mostly sideways as the market attempts to balance smaller US and world supplies versus lower world export prices and lower world demand. During this period, managed funds have maintained their sizable, short positions in Minneapolis wheat. Though low Russian export prices continue to keep a lid on US prices, smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could increase US demand, potentially triggering a short-covering rally, especially as global wheat ending stocks are projected to decline again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Minneapolis wheat. With the recent close below the 712 support level, Grain Market Insider implemented its Plan B stop strategy, recommending additional sales for the 2024 crop due to waning upside momentum and an increased likelihood of a downward trend. Given the heightened volatility and the amount of time that remains to market this crop, we will maintain the current July ’25 KC wheat 860 and 1020 call options. Our target is a selling price of about 71 cents for the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. These 1020 calls will continue to protect existing sales and provide confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for the 2025 Minneapolis wheat crop. Since the growing season can often yield some of the best sales opportunities, we recently made two separate sales recommendations to get some early sales on the books for next year’s crop. While we will not be targeting any specific areas to make additional sales until later in the marketing year, we will continue to monitor the market for opportunities to exit the remaining July ’25 KC 620 puts that were recommended in June. To that end, should the market continue to be weak, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range to exit half of those remaining puts.
  • No Action is currently recommended for the 2026 Minneapolis wheat crop. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Minneapolis wheat recommendations:

Above: Minneapolis Wheat Managed Money Funds net position as of Tuesday, August 13. Net position in Green versus price in Red. Money Managers net sold 558 contracts between August 7 – 13, bringing their total position to a net short 25,695 contracts.

Other Charts / Weather

7-day precipitation forecast courtesy of NOAA, Weather Prediction Center.

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8-16 End of Day: Corn and Soybeans Make Fresh Lows as Wheat Rebounds

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • Technical selling, and the continued movement of old crop supplies into the market, helped press the corn market to new contract lows and contract low closes in the September and December contracts.
  • Despite yesterday’s strong NOPA crush report, which showed a record number of soybeans crushed in the month of July, November soybeans printed a new contract low close at the end of today’s session, as the prospect of a large crop and soft new crop demand looms over the market.
  • Minneapolis contracts led the wheat complex to a higher close, bolstered by a weaker US Dollar and gains in Matif wheat, which finally ended higher after four consecutive lower closes. Heavy rains and quality concerns surrounding the spring wheat crop further supported the Minneapolis contracts.
  • To see the updated US 5-day precipitation forecast, 6 – 10 day Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, and the US Seasonal Drought Outlook, courtesy of NOAA, the Weather Prediction Center, and NDMC, scroll down to the other Charts/Weather section.

Note – For the best viewing experience, some Grain Market Insider content is best viewed with your phone held horizontally.

Corn

Corn Action Plan Summary

Farmer selling of old crop bushels ahead of the upcoming harvest has kept pressure on corn futures over the last month. Nearly ideal weather conditions for most during the month of July and to start August have only added more pressure. The corn market’s ability to close higher following a record yield estimate of 183.1 bpa by the USDA is a good sign showing corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover some of their extensive short positions and rally prices, however, an extended rally is unlikely before combines start rolling.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 corn. In June we recommended buying Dec ’24 470 and 510 calls after Dec ’24 closed below 451, for their relative value and because we are at that time of year of high volatility when markets can move swiftly. Moving forward, our current strategy is to target the value of 29 cents to exit the Dec ’24 470 calls. Exiting the 470 calls at 29 cents will allow you to lock in gains in case prices fall back and hold the remaining 510 calls at or near a net neutral cost, which should continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make further sales if the market rallies sharply. Additionally, should a contra-seasonal rally occur considering the large net short managed fund position, we continue to target the 470 – 490 area to recommend making additional sales versus Dec ’24.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 corn. Between early June and late July Grain Market Insider made three separate sales recommendations to get early sales made for next year’s crop. Considering the seasonal weakness of the market in late summer and early fall, we will not be looking to post any targeted areas for new sales until late fall or early winter.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 corn. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following corn recommendations:

  • Follow-through selling after yesterday’s difficult close pushed corn futures to new lows, resulting in contract low closes in today’s trade. Technical selling, driven by the likely movement of old crop supplies and farmer selling, dominated the markets. December corn futures closed lower for the third consecutive week, losing 2 ½ cents.
  • Producer selling will be a limiting factor in the corn market as basis contracts must be priced by the month’s end. Additionally, producers will be looking to move old crop supplies to make room for this fall’s harvest.
  • The corn market will be watching field tours and potential yield results with upcoming crop tours over the next few weeks. The USDA has projected a lofty yield projection, and market participants will be looking for confirmation of this potential. The highly publicized Pro Farmer Tour will start next Monday. Strong results could limit corn prices in the near term.
  • Weak cash markets will likely pressure futures as producers price old crop bushels, and early southern harvest results enter the pipeline. Talk in the countryside of weaking basis is starting to grow as those bushels are hitting the market and merchandisers are getting comfortable with fresh supplies.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the soybean market has stair-stepped its way lower on sluggish new crop demand, good growing weather, and the prospect of a large upcoming crop, while weather forecasts remain mostly favorable to the crop, and the trade may be factoring in higher yield estimates. The USDA pegging US soybean yield at a record with a million harvested acre jump on the August WASDE broke the market even further. The funds have yet to see a reason to cover some of their extensive short positions ahead of the quickly approaching harvest.

  • No new action is recommended for the 2024 crop. At the end of December, we recommended buying Nov ’24 1280 and 1360 calls due to the amount of uncertainty in the 2024 soybean crop and to give you confidence to make sales and protect those sales in an extended rally. Given that the market has retreated since that time, we are targeting the 1040 – 1070 range versus Nov ’24 futures to exit 1/3 of the 1280 calls to help preserve equity. Additionally in June, the close below 1180 triggered our Plan B strategy, which recommended making additional sales due to the potential change in trend. Should a bullish catalyst enter the market to turn prices higher, we are targeting the 1090 – 1120 range from our Plan A strategy to make additional sales recommendations.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2025 Soybeans. To date, Grain Market Insider has not recommended any sales for next year’s soybean crop yet. First sales targets will probably be set in late fall or early winter at the earliest. Currently, our focus is on watching for opportunities to recommend buying call options. Should Nov ‘25 reach the upper 1100 range, the likelihood of an extended rally would increase, and we would recommend buying upside call options at that time in preparation for that possibility.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 Soybeans. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following soybean recommendations:

  • Soybeans ended the day lower with the November contract making new contract lows. Yesterday, futures were briefly higher earlier in the day thanks to a strong NOPA crush report and solid export sales. Unfortunately, trade is much more concerned with the good weather forecast and large crop being anticipated this fall. Soybean meal ended the day lower while soybean oil was higher.
  • For the week, September soybeans lost 50 cents to end at 938 ¾ and November soybeans lost 45 ½ cents to end at 957. September soybean meal lost $8.30 to end at $303.40, while September soybean oil lost 2.47 cents to 39.95 cents.
  • Since August 9, funds are estimated to have sold 21,500 contracts of soybeans. While funds may have been sellers this week, it is likely that there has been selling on the commercial side as well as producers selling what is left of their old crop in order to make room in their bins for this fall’s harvest.
  • According to the EIA report, five renewable diesel plants were opened this past year. This brings the total to 22 plants in production, and the additional five plants should boost production by 44% to 4.33 billion gallons per year. This was supportive to soybean oil today, despite California’s continued pursuit to limit the amount of soybean oil in biofuel production.

Above: The upward gap on the chart represents the 16-cent premium between the September and (now represented) November contract. Overhead resistance for November beans lies between 1016 and 1050, with further resistance near 1080. To the downside, a break below 950 puts the market at risk of sliding down to the 915 – 900 support area.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • All three US wheat classes gained today, aided by a weaker US Dollar Index and support from Matif wheat. The Paris wheat contracts stopped their bleeding and closed higher after four consecutive days of decline. With Matif wheat being oversold and leaving two gaps above the current market level, signs of potential recovery are emerging, which could benefit the US market.
  • Minneapolis futures led the wheat complex higher, likely due to heavy rains in parts of North Dakota this week, which slowed the spring wheat harvest. The wet conditions have also raised concerns about the quality of the crop.
  • The Ukrainian agriculture ministry reported that their wheat harvest is complete, with 21.7 mmt collected. This aligns closely with the USDA’s estimate of 21.6 mmt and matches last year’s harvest of 21.6 mmt.
  • Germany is expected to harvest its smallest grain crop since 2018, totaling 39.1 mmt, according to a German agricultural association. The decline is attributed to lower yields and reduced planted area, with wheat production specifically expected to drop by 13% to 18.76 mmt.

Chicago Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on July 29th as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in Chicago wheat. While slow global import demand and low Russian export prices continue to exert pressure on the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger a short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the recent rally in wheat, we recommended taking advantage of the elevated prices to make additional sales and buy upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 740 – 760 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 73 cents in the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 Chicago Wheat. Our most recent recommendation was to exit half of the previously recommended July ’25 Chicago 620 puts once they reached 67 cents (approximately double their original cost), to lock in gains in case the market rallies back. Moving forward, our strategy is to hold the remaining July ’25 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, while also targeting the 610 – 630 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 Chicago Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Chicago wheat recommendations:

KC Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since mid-July, the wheat market has mostly drifted sideways as the trade tries to balance smaller US and global wheat supplies against cheaper world export prices. During this period, a potential seasonal low was also marked on the front month continuous charts as managed funds maintained a sizable net short position in the wheat markets. While low Black Sea export prices and slow world demand continue to weigh on US prices, the funds’ short position and oversold conditions could culminate in a short covering rally on any increase in US demand as world wheat ending stocks are expected to fall yet again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 KC wheat. Considering the recent upside breakout in KC wheat, we recommended buying upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 725 – 750 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 71 cents on the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 KC Wheat. We recently recommended exiting half of the previously recommended July ’25 620 puts once they reached 60 cents (double the original approximate cost) to realize gains in case the market rallies back, while still holding the remaining 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost for continued downside coverage on any unsold bushels. Looking ahead, our strategy is to target the 660 – 690 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 KC Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following KC recommendations:

Mpls Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since printing a near-term low in mid-July, Minneapolis wheat has trended mostly sideways as the market attempts to balance smaller US and world supplies versus lower world export prices and lower world demand. During this period, managed funds have maintained their sizable, short positions in Minneapolis wheat. Though low Russian export prices continue to keep a lid on US prices, smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could increase US demand, potentially triggering a short-covering rally, especially as global wheat ending stocks are projected to decline again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Minneapolis wheat. With the recent close below the 712 support level, Grain Market Insider implemented its Plan B stop strategy, recommending additional sales for the 2024 crop due to waning upside momentum and an increased likelihood of a downward trend. Given the heightened volatility and the amount of time that remains to market this crop, we will maintain the current July ’25 KC wheat 860 and 1020 call options. Our target is a selling price of about 71 cents for the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. These 1020 calls will continue to protect existing sales and provide confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for the 2025 Minneapolis wheat crop. Since the growing season can often yield some of the best sales opportunities, we recently made two separate sales recommendations to get some early sales on the books for next year’s crop. While we will not be targeting any specific areas to make additional sales until later in the marketing year, we will continue to monitor the market for opportunities to exit the remaining July ’25 KC 620 puts that were recommended in June. To that end, should the market continue to be weak, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range to exit half of those remaining puts.
  • No Action is currently recommended for the 2026 Minneapolis wheat crop. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Minneapolis wheat recommendations:

Other Charts / Weather

US 5-day precipitation forecast courtesy of NOAA, Weather Prediction Center.

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8-15 End of Day: Corn and Wheat Close Lower on the Day, While Beans Close Mixed

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • Led by the September contract, the corn market drifted off overnight highs on disappointing weekly old crop export sales and the likely selling of old crop bushels to make room for the new crop.
  • Despite record NOPA crush numbers for July and new crop export sales exceeding expectations, the soybean market closed slightly mixed, giving up early session gains. Weakness in soybean oil, despite lower-than-expected July stocks, likely added pressure to the overall soybean market.
  • After gaining strength overnight, likely due to a Russian drone strike on an Odesa port, the wheat complex retreated from its highs and settled lower across all three classes. Another day of losses in Matif wheat, and a higher US Dollar contributed to the negativity.
  • To see the updated US 5-day precipitation forecast, and US Drought Monitor, courtesy of NOAA, the Weather Prediction Center, and NDMC, scroll down to the other Charts/Weather section.

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Corn

Corn Action Plan Summary

Farmer selling of old crop bushels ahead of the upcoming harvest has kept pressure on corn futures over the last month. Nearly ideal weather conditions for most during the month of July and to start August have only added more pressure. The corn market’s ability to close higher following a record yield estimate of 183.1 bpa by the USDA is a good sign showing corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover some of their extensive short positions and rally prices, however, an extended rally is unlikely before combines start rolling.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 corn. In June we recommended buying Dec ’24 470 and 510 calls after Dec ’24 closed below 451, for their relative value and because we are at that time of year of high volatility when markets can move swiftly. Moving forward, our current strategy is to target the value of 29 cents to exit the Dec ’24 470 calls. Exiting the 470 calls at 29 cents will allow you to lock in gains in case prices fall back and hold the remaining 510 calls at or near a net neutral cost, which should continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make further sales if the market rallies sharply. Additionally, should a contra-seasonal rally occur considering the large net short managed fund position, we continue to target the 470 – 490 area to recommend making additional sales versus Dec ’24.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 corn. Between early June and late July Grain Market Insider made three separate sales recommendations to get early sales made for next year’s crop. Considering the seasonal weakness of the market in late summer and early fall, we will not be looking to post any targeted areas for new sales until late fall or early winter.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 corn. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following corn recommendations:

  • Corn futures faded off session highs led by selling pressure in the front month September contract, as weekly export sales for old crop were disappointing and producers likely moved old crop bushels. Heading into the end of the week, December corn futures are 2 cents higher. However, the corn market has closed lower on the previous two Fridays.
  • The USDA released weekly export sales data on Thursday morning. Old crop corn sales, despite only two weeks left in the marketing year, were at 4.7 mb (120,500 mt), a marketing year low, and below expectations. New crop sales on the other hand were favorable at 31.5 mb (800,500 mt), just slightly above expectations. The market is focused on new crops sales as the next marketing year is off to a slow start.
  • Producer selling will be a limiting factor in the corn market as basis contracts must be priced by the month’s end. Additionally, producers will be looking to move old crop supplies to make room for this fall’s harvest.
  • Current weather forecasts are non-threatening, which should only aid in good kernel fill as the crop moves closer to the finish line.
  • The corn market will be watching field tours and potential yield results with upcoming crop tours over the next few weeks. The USDA has projected a lofty yield projection, and market participants will be looking for confirmation of this potential. Strong results could limit corn prices in the near term.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the soybean market has stair-stepped its way lower on sluggish new crop demand, good growing weather, and the prospect of a large upcoming crop, while weather forecasts remain mostly favorable to the crop, and the trade may be factoring in higher yield estimates. The USDA pegging US soybean yield at a record with a million harvested acre jump on the August WASDE broke the market even further. The funds have yet to see a reason to cover some of their extensive short positions ahead of the quickly approaching harvest.

  • No new action is recommended for the 2024 crop. At the end of December, we recommended buying Nov ’24 1280 and 1360 calls due to the amount of uncertainty in the 2024 soybean crop and to give you confidence to make sales and protect those sales in an extended rally. Given that the market has retreated since that time, we are targeting the 1040 – 1070 range versus Nov ’24 futures to exit 1/3 of the 1280 calls to help preserve equity. Additionally in June, the close below 1180 triggered our Plan B strategy, which recommended making additional sales due to the potential change in trend. With a key part of the growing season still ahead of us, should the market turn back higher, we are targeting the mid-1100s from our Plan A strategy to make additional sales recommendations.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2025 Soybeans. To date, Grain Market Insider has not recommended any sales for next year’s soybean crop yet. First sales targets will probably be set in late fall or early winter at the earliest. Currently, our focus is on watching for opportunities to recommend buying call options. Should Nov ‘25 reach the upper 1100 range, the likelihood of an extended rally would increase, and we would recommend buying upside call options at that time in preparation for that possibility.
  • No Action is currently recommended for 2026 Soybeans. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following soybean recommendations:

  • Soybeans ended the day mixed in bear spread trade which saw the front months lower but higher prices in the deferred contracts. Both the NOPA crush and export sales numbers were supportive today, but ongoing good weather conditions and anticipation of a large crop have pressured soybeans. Soybean meal ended the day higher while soybean oil was lower.
  • Today’s NOPA crush numbers showed that 182.881 million bushels of soybeans were crushed in July. This was 5.5% above last July’s crush, exceeded the average trade guess, and set a record for July in any year. Soybean oil stocks came in at 1.499 billion pounds, below the trade guess of 1.608 billion.
  • Today’s export sales report was supportive, with an increase of 8.1 mb of soybeans for 23/24, within trade estimates, and an increase of 49.4 million bushels for 24/25, which was well above trade estimates. Last week’s export shipments of 15.8 mb were just below the 16.8 mb needed each week to reach the USDA’s export projection. Primary destinations were to China, unknown destinations, and Mexico.
  • The Amazon River basin is experiencing very dry conditions during the dry season, worse than last year. Low river levels may be affecting the shipment of soybeans from northern areas to ports. While the majority of soybeans are exported from southern ports, difficult logistics in northern ports could increase export demand for US exporters.

Above: Given the soybean market’s recent slide, it is now showing signs of being very oversold, which can be supportive if a bullish catalyst enters the scene to turn prices higher. Should that happen, prices could encounter overhead resistance between 1000 and 1040 on a rally toward the 1080 – 1085 area. To the downside, a break below the 950 support area puts the market at risk of sliding down to the 915 – 900 support area.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • After early strength, all three classes of wheat faded to a negative close. A Russian drone strike on a port in Odesa, Ukraine, likely contributed to the overnight upward trend. However, a sharp rise in the US Dollar Index, which climbed back above 103, weighed on the market. Additionally, Paris milling wheat futures, which started the session higher, ended lower for the fourth consecutive day.
  • In today’s weekly Export Sales report, the USDA reported an increase of 12.5 mb in wheat export sales for the 24/25 marketing year and a decrease of 2.5 million bushels for 25/26. Last week’s shipments reached 18.4 mb, surpassing the 16.1 mb per week needed to meet the export goal of 825 mb. Wheat sales commitments for 24/25 have reached 328 mb, exceeding the USDA’s estimated pace and up 32% from last year.
  • As of August 13, the USDA reports that approximately 21% of US spring wheat acres are experiencing drought, a 3% increase from last week. However, conditions in both North Dakota and Minnesota remain favorable, with more than 80% of spring wheat rated good to excellent in both states.
  • According to FranceAgriMer, despite expectations that the French wheat crop may be the smallest harvest since the 1980s, soft wheat quality is similar to last year’s. However, test weights vary significantly across different regions. Protein levels also vary, but are generally considered satisfactory.

Chicago Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the wheat market has been trending downward as concerns about Russia’s shrinking wheat crop have eased, and the US winter wheat crop has surpassed expectations. At the same time, managed funds also reestablished a sizable net short position in Chicago wheat. While slow global import demand and low Russian export prices continue to exert downward pressure on prices, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger a short-covering rally by managed funds, especially given that global wheat ending stocks are projected to decline again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the recent rally in wheat, we recommended taking advantage of the elevated prices to make additional sales and buy upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 740 – 760 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 73 cents in the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 Chicago Wheat. Our most recent recommendation was to exit half of the previously recommended July ’25 Chicago 620 puts once they reached 67 cents (approximately double their original cost), to lock in gains in case the market rallies back. Moving forward, our strategy is to hold the remaining July ’25 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, while also targeting the 610 – 630 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 Chicago Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Chicago wheat recommendations:

KC Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since the end of May the wheat market has been trending lower as concerns regarding Russia’s shrinking wheat crop have waned, and US HRW harvest yields have been higher than expected. During this time managed funds started reestablishing their short positions while the market continues to show signs of being oversold. While low Black Sea export prices and slow world demand continue to weigh on US prices, the funds’ short position and oversold conditions could culminate in a short covering rally on any increase in US demand as world wheat ending stocks are expected to fall yet again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 KC wheat. Considering the recent upside breakout in KC wheat, we recommended buying upside July ’25 860 and 1020 calls (for their extended time frame) in case of a protracted rally. Our current strategy is to target 725 – 750 versus Sept ’24 to recommend further sales and to target a selling price of about 71 cents on the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. The remaining 1020 calls would then continue to protect existing sales and give you confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for 2025 KC Wheat. We recently recommended exiting half of the previously recommended July ’25 620 puts once they reached 60 cents (double the original approximate cost) to realize gains in case the market rallies back, while still holding the remaining 620 puts at, or near, a net neutral cost for continued downside coverage on any unsold bushels. Looking ahead, our strategy is to target the 660 – 690 range to recommend making additional sales.
  • No action is currently recommended for 2026 KC Wheat. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted next year, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following KC recommendations:

Mpls Wheat Action Plan Summary

Since the end of May, the wheat market has been in a down trend as concerns about Russia’s shrinking wheat crop have eased and the US winter wheat crop exceeded expectations. During this period, managed funds reestablished their short positions in Minneapolis wheat. Though declining Russian export prices continue to keep a lid on US prices, smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could increase US demand, potentially triggering a short-covering rally with the fund’s newly reestablished short position, especially as global wheat ending stocks are projected to decline again this year.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Minneapolis wheat. With the recent close below the 712 support level, Grain Market Insider implemented its Plan B stop strategy, recommending additional sales for the 2024 crop due to waning upside momentum and an increased likelihood of a downward trend. Given the heightened volatility and the amount of time that remains to market this crop, we will maintain the current July ’25 KC wheat 860 and 1020 call options. Our target is a selling price of about 71 cents for the 860 calls to achieve a net neutral cost on the remaining 1020 calls. These 1020 calls will continue to protect existing sales and provide confidence to make additional sales at higher prices.
  • No new action is currently recommended for the 2025 Minneapolis wheat crop. Since the growing season can often yield some of the best sales opportunities, we recently made two separate sales recommendations to get some early sales on the books for next year’s crop. While we will not be targeting any specific areas to make additional sales until later in the marketing year, we will continue to monitor the market for opportunities to exit the remaining July ’25 KC 620 puts that were recommended in June. To that end, should the market continue to be weak, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range to exit half of those remaining puts.
  • No Action is currently recommended for the 2026 Minneapolis wheat crop. We currently aren’t considering any recommendations at this time for the 2026 crop that will be planted 2 years from now, and it may be some time before conditions are conducive to consider making any recommendations. Be patient as we monitor the markets for signs of improvement.

To date, Grain Market Insider has issued the following Minneapolis wheat recommendations:

Other Charts / Weather

US 5-day precipitation forecast courtesy of NOAA, Weather Prediction Center.