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9-20 End of Day: Grain Markets Settle Mostly Lower to End the Week

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • For the second consecutive day the corn market closed lower on the day, with harvest pressure and October options expiration contributing to the negativity.
  • The soybean market remained in a sideways trend, closing with minor losses as October options expired after a day of choppy trade. Soybean meal followed a similar pattern, closing lower, while bean oil settled higher for the fifth consecutive day, supported by stronger palm oil prices, which in turn helped support soybeans.
  • The wheat complex ended the day mixed after trading higher across the board on shrinking Australian and EU production estimates. Forecasts for rain in the parched HRW areas enticed sellers in the KC contracts, which led the trade lower.
  • To see the updated US 7-day precipitation forecast, US Seasonal Drought Outlook, and 2-week Forecast Precipitation for South America, 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

Since printing a market low in late August the corn market has rallied largely on fund short covering as the rush of old crop bushels into the market has slowed and demand has picked up. While the upcoming harvest of an expectedly large crop may continue to limit upside potential, it is a good sign that corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low price levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover more of their extensive short positions and rally prices further, however, an extended rally is unlikely until after harvest.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 corn. In June, we recommended purchasing Dec ’24 470 and 510 calls after Dec ’24 closed below 451, due to their relative value and the typically high market volatility during that time of year. Although we no longer have an upside objective for additional sales for now, we continue to target a value of 29 cents to exit the Dec ’24 470 calls. Exiting at this level will allow you to lock in gains that offset much of the original position’s cost, while holding the remaining 510 calls at or near a net-neutral cost. This strategy should continue to protect existing sales and provide confidence for further sales during an extended rally. Since harvest time is not an advantageous sales window, we will begin evaluating market conditions once it concludes and target areas for additional sales recommendations in late fall or early winter.
  • 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 finished lower on the session for the second straight day. Hedge pressure and October grain options expiration likely pressured the market lower to end the week. December corn closed the week 11 ½ cents lower.
  • Corn harvest continues to ramp up across the Midwest as favorable weather supports progress. Early results show strong yields in most regions, which could offset losses in other areas caused by spring weather. As fresh supplies enter the pipeline, upside potential may be limited as harvest advances.
  • Low Mississippi River levels in the Memphis area is a concern for the transportation of bushels to export markets. Restrictive flow has increased freight costs, which impacts the price of corn to the export market, and the backlog of corn will likely pressure basis levels in the cash market.
  • Managed Funds have eliminated over 200,000 net short contracts since reaching their maximum short positions in early July. This has happened despite a muted rally in the corn market. On Friday’s Commitment of Traders report, expectations are for funds to be under 100,000 net short contracts, pushing their lowest net short for the year with harvest starting to build.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since early September, the soybean market has traded mostly sideways after a late August rally, as weather conditions turned dry during the later development stages of the crop. While the USDA projects record soybean yields for this season, the warm and dry finish to the growing season may have reduced final yields from earlier projections. Although export sales have increased in recent weeks, the current sales pace remains the slowest since 2019, which may still weigh on prices. Any pickup in demand or a decrease in this year’s projected supply could rally prices, especially post-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 uncertainty surrounding the 2024 soybean crop, aiming to give you the confidence to make sales and protect those sales during an extended rally. Since the market has retreated since that time, we continue to target the 1040–1070 range versus Nov ’24 futures to exit one-third of the 1280 calls in order 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. While we typically avoid recommending sales at this time of year, our Plan A strategy is to make additional sales recommendations should the market rally significantly toward the 1090 – 1120 area in the Nov ’24 contract.
  • 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:

  • Soybean markets finished slightly lower with choppy trade during the session. The loss of upward momentum and October options expiration likely pressured soybeans as harvest continues to push forward.
  • Despite being a serial option, October grain options expired today, and prices typically gravitate toward areas with significant open interest on expiration day. At the start of the session, there was a combined open interest of nearly 16,000 put options at the 1000 and 1010 levels. With the market closing at 1012, those puts expired worthless at the close.
  • The USDA announced a flash sale of soybeans this morning. China purchased 121,000mt (4.4 mb) of US soybeans for the 24/25 marketing year. Soybean demand has improved in recent weeks, but total sales for the 24/25 marketing year are still at their lowest totals since the 18/19 marketing year.
  • In South America, conditions have been very dry especially in Brazil, which has slowed soybean planting in the early part of the season. Weather models are seeing improved rainfall chances late next week into October, in line with the start of the Brazil rainy season. If forecasts materialize, the improved moisture chances in Brazil will limit the soybean futures market.

Above: After entering the 1005 – 1040 resistance area, November soybeans posted a bearish key reversal which remains intact, suggesting prices could erode further. Below the market, support remains between 960 and 955, with key support near the August low of 940.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • With little fresh news for buyers to sink their teeth into, the wheat complex gave up its earlier gains from reports of lower production in Europe and Australia and ended the day mixed, on the prospect of rain over the weekend.
  • The Belgian trade association, Coceral, lowered its EU grain production forecast to 280.3 million metric tons, down from its June estimate of 296 mmt. Of this total, 126 mmt is soft wheat, reduced from 134.5 mmt in June.
  • Argentina’s prolonged drought is causing some farmers to abandon wheat fields in the northern and western regions. In contrast, around 80% of the wheat crop in the eastern areas is reportedly in normal to excellent condition.
  • In Western Australia, the Grain Industry Association reduced the region’s wheat production estimate by 7% from last month, lowering it to 9.3 mmt due to dry weather. Nationally, Australia is projected to produce 31.8 mmt, according to ABARES.
  • In the US, a system is expected to bring some widespread rain with some heavier precipitation across the central and southern Plains over the weekend, which should improve conditions and help newly planted wheat get established.

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 be a limiting factor in the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger an extended short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the rally in wheat back in May, 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 Dec ’24 to recommend further sales, while also targeting 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 recommended for 2025 Chicago wheat. Recently, we recommended taking advantage of the wheat rally to sell more of your anticipated 2025 SRW production. While we continue to recommend holding the remaining July ’25 620 puts — after advising to exit the first half back in July — to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, we are targeting a 10-15% extension from our last sale to the 650–680 area in July ’25 to suggest 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 could trigger an extended 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 upside breakout in KC wheat back in May, 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 Dec ’24 to recommend further sales, while also targeting 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. Earlier this summer we 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. To that end, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range versus July ’25 to exit half of those remaining puts. Meanwhile, our current upside strategy is to target the 640 – 670 range, also in the July ’25, 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 an extended 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 close below 712 support in June, 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. While we are at the time of year when market lows often occur, we will consider posting upside targets in late September or early October when market conditions often become more advantageous, and harvest is mostly behind us.
  • 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 made two separate sales recommendations in July 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, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range versus July ’25 KC 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 7-day precipitation forecast courtesy of NOAA, Weather Prediction Center.

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9-19 End of Day: Wheat Leads the Way Down; Corn and Beans Follow

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • Bolstered by weakness in the wheat market and the failure to push through upside resistance yesterday, sellers took control in the corn market, erasing the gains made since last Friday.
  • Despite strong export sales that were well above expectations, the soybean market closed mid-range and fractionally lower across the board after trading on both sides of unchanged through the day. Soybean meal settled near unchanged and mixed, while bean oil extended its rally on exceptional old crop export sales.
  • Even though drought worsened in the US winter wheat areas, poor export sales and the apparent easing of tensions in the Black Sea region kept sellers active in the wheat market, with all three classes closing near the day’s lows.
  • To see the updated US Drought Monitor, Monthly Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks for October, and 2-week Forecast Precipitation for South America, 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

Since printing a market low in late August the corn market has rallied largely on fund short covering as the rush of old crop bushels into the market has slowed and demand has picked up. While the upcoming harvest of an expectedly large crop may continue to limit upside potential, it is a good sign that corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low price levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover more of their extensive short positions and rally prices further, however, an extended rally is unlikely until after harvest.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 corn. In June, we recommended purchasing Dec ’24 470 and 510 calls after Dec ’24 closed below 451, due to their relative value and the typically high market volatility during that time of year. Although we no longer have an upside objective for additional sales for now, we continue to target a value of 29 cents to exit the Dec ’24 470 calls. Exiting at this level will allow you to lock in gains that offset much of the original position’s cost, while holding the remaining 510 calls at or near a net-neutral cost. This strategy should continue to protect existing sales and provide confidence for further sales during an extended rally. Since harvest time is not an advantageous sales window, we will begin evaluating market conditions once it concludes and target areas for additional sales recommendations in late fall or early winter.
  • 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:

  • Selling in the wheat market pressured corn prices lower during the session. Charts have turned more negative technically as prices failed to push through the most recent high of 416 on September 6, as the momentum to the upside looks to have faded in the past couple sessions.
  • The USDA reported weekly export sales this morning. USDA posted new net sales of 33.36 mb (847,400 mt) for 24/25. This total was in line with expectations and above last week’s 666,500 mt. China continues to be absent from the US corn export market. The last reported flash sale of corn to China was on April 14, 2023.
  • Roughly 26% of US corn acres are in drought, which has increased as forecasts have remained warm and dry over the past couple of weeks. The dry weather may have reduced some of the top end of the crop that was late planted but has also allowed harvest to ramp up, triggering some hedging pressure in the market.
  • Brazilian dry weather has brought some premium into US grain markets, but forecast models look to be turning wetter as the calendar moves into October. The return of rainfall will speed the planting pace for both soybeans and first crop corn. Estimates have the first crop of Brazilian corn at 19% planted, just below multi-year averages.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since early September, the soybean market has traded mostly sideways after a late August rally, as weather conditions turned dry during the later development stages of the crop. While the USDA projects record soybean yields for this season, the warm and dry finish to the growing season may have reduced final yields from earlier projections. Although export sales have increased in recent weeks, the current sales pace remains the slowest since 2019, which may still weigh on prices. Any pickup in demand or a decrease in this year’s projected supply could rally prices, especially post-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 uncertainty surrounding the 2024 soybean crop, aiming to give you the confidence to make sales and protect those sales during an extended rally. Since the market has retreated since that time, we continue to target the 1040–1070 range versus Nov ’24 futures to exit one-third of the 1280 calls in order 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. While we typically avoid recommending sales at this time of year, our Plan A strategy is to make additional sales recommendations should the market rally significantly toward the 1090 – 1120 area in the Nov ’24 contract.
  • 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 slightly lower after trading on either side of unchanged throughout the day. Initially, strong export sales were supportive of soybeans, but corn and wheat faded into the day and brought soybeans down with them. The stock market was sharply higher today following yesterday’s Fed announcement to cut interest rates by 50 points which may have seen money flowing out of grains and into stocks.
  • Soybean meal was mixed to end the day with the front months higher and deferred months lower, while soybean oil got a boost from strong export sales and followed crude oil and other veg oils higher. Last week, top exporter of soybean meal, Argentina, purchased over 88,000 mt of soybeans from the US for the first time since 2019, but in today’s export sales report, it was revealed that the sale was cancelled. US soybeans remain cheaper than those in Brazil which makes the cancellation interesting.
  • Today’s export sales report saw an increase of a whopping 64.2 mb of soybean sales for 24/25 and 0.3 mb for 25/26. This was well above the average trade estimate and was also above the top end of trade estimates. Last week’s export shipments of 16.4 mb were below the 36.0 mb needed each week to meet the USDA’s estimates. Primary destinations were to Mexico, China, and Indonesia.
  • In South America, conditions have been very dry, especially in Brazil, and key growing areas such as Mato Grosso are forecast to have at least 10 more days without rain. Chances of rain improve for early October, but if the rain does not materialize, it could be friendly to soybean prices.

Above: After entering the 1005 – 1040 resistance area, November soybeans posted a bearish key reversal which remains intact, suggesting prices could erode further. Below the market, support remains between 960 and 955, with key support near the August low of 940.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • Wheat led the grain complex lower today with double-digit losses for both Chicago and Kansas City futures. It appears that the situation between Russia and Ukraine has somewhat cooled off after a Russian missile hit a Ukrainian vessel last week. With the easing of tensions there, and a lack of fresh friendly news, the wheat market seems to have run out of steam.
  • The USDA reported an increase of 9.0 mb of wheat export sales for 24/25 as well as an increase of 0.4 mb for 25/26. Shipments last week at 23.6 mb far exceeded the 15.8 mb pace needed per week to reach the USDA’s export goal of 825 mb. Additionally, sales commitments have reached 405 mb which are up 28% from last year.
  • Drought continues to worsen in winter wheat areas. According to the USDA, as of September 17, about 58% of US wheat acres were experiencing drought. This is up 1% from last week, however some relief may be on the way. The US central and southern Plains are expected to continue to receive isolated showers over the next few days and into early next week. The Midwest is also anticipated to see scattered rains through Sunday.
  • December Chicago daily wheat charts have the 21, 40, and 50-day moving averages all converged around the 560 area. This may be an important support level, but if violated, could mean that wheat has more downside ahead. Currently, technical indicators including the RSI and stochastics both show downward momentum.
  • On a bullish note, the International Grains Council is reported to have decreased their world wheat production estimate by 1 mmt, now seen at 798 mmt. For reference, the USDA used a figure of 797 mmt in their September estimate.
  • According to FranceAgriMer, their estimate of French soft wheat exports for 24/25 are now projected at 10.1 mmt. This is a drop from the July estimate of 14.1 mmt. Stockpiles were also cut to 2.74 mmt versus 3.04 mmt in July. Reportedly, the reason for the decline is due to fewer sales outside the EU bloc.

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 be a limiting factor in the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger an extended short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the rally in wheat back in May, 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 Dec ’24 to recommend further sales, while also targeting 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 recommended for 2025 Chicago wheat. Recently, we recommended taking advantage of the wheat rally to sell more of your anticipated 2025 SRW production. While we continue to recommend holding the remaining July ’25 620 puts — after advising to exit the first half back in July — to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, we are targeting a 10-15% extension from our last sale to the 650–680 area in July ’25 to suggest 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 could trigger an extended 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 upside breakout in KC wheat back in May, 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 Dec ’24 to recommend further sales, while also targeting 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. Earlier this summer we 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. To that end, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range versus July ’25 to exit half of those remaining puts. Meanwhile, our current upside strategy is to target the 640 – 670 range, also in the July ’25, 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 an extended 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 close below 712 support in June, 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. While we are at the time of year when market lows often occur, we will consider posting upside targets in late September or early October when market conditions often become more advantageous, and harvest is mostly behind us.
  • 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 made two separate sales recommendations in July 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, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range versus July ’25 KC 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

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9-18 End of Day: Grains Close Mixed After Fed Drops Rates 50 Basis Points

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • The corn market settled fractionally mixed and near unchanged as the market awaited the Fed’s decision on interest rates with little other news to move prices. Higher neighboring soybeans helped support, while mostly lower wheat added resistance.
  • Following a day of back and forth trade, November soybeans closed just below the 50-day moving average after trading above it for the first time since late May. Support came from higher soybean oil, while meal settled just below unchanged.
  • The wheat complex settled with minor losses in the Minneapolis and KC contracts, while Chicago finished mostly unchanged. With little news to drive the market, apart from anticipation of the Fed’s interest rate cut, large buyers and sellers remained largely inactive.
  • To see the updated US 5-day precipitation forecast, 6 – 10 day Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, and 2-week Forecast Precipitation for South America, 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

Since printing a market low in late August the corn market has rallied largely on fund short covering as the rush of old crop bushels into the market has slowed and demand has picked up. While the upcoming harvest of an expectedly large crop may continue to limit upside potential, it is a good sign that corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low price levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover more of their extensive short positions and rally prices further, however, an extended rally is unlikely until after harvest.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 corn. In June, we recommended purchasing Dec ’24 470 and 510 calls after Dec ’24 closed below 451, due to their relative value and the typically high market volatility during that time of year. Although we no longer have an upside objective for additional sales for now, we continue to target a value of 29 cents to exit the Dec ’24 470 calls. Exiting at this level will allow you to lock in gains that offset much of the original position’s cost, while holding the remaining 510 calls at or near a net-neutral cost. This strategy should continue to protect existing sales and provide confidence for further sales during an extended rally. Since harvest time is not an advantageous sales window, we will begin evaluating market conditions once it concludes and target areas for additional sales recommendations in late fall or early winter.
  • 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:

  • Quiet and choppy trade continued in the corn market today as the market awaited the Fed Reserve decision on interest rates. The trading range was small again with December corn prices ranging 4 cents from high to low during the session.
  • The Federal Reserve cut the federal funds lending rate by 0.50%. Reduction of interest rates signals a looser monetary supply, which could trigger the weakening of the US Dollar. This interest rate move could also signal a more inflationary environment, which should help support some commodity markets.
  • Weekly Ethanol production dropped by 2.9% from last week to 1.049 million barrels per day. This number was up 7.0% from last year. Corn used last week for the ethanol grind totaled 105.84 mb.
  • USDA will release weekly export sales on Thursday morning. Expectations for corn sales to range from 550,000 – 1.4 mmt. Last week’s sales were disappointing at 666,458 mt as an increase in corn prices and freight costs due to low river levels may have limited corn export sales.
  • US weather is likely to remain drier than normal with above normal temperatures, which should help push the corn crop to maturity and speed up harvest. Harvest pressure going into October and November will likely limit upside potential in corn prices.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since early September, the soybean market has traded mostly sideways after a late August rally, as weather conditions turned dry during the later development stages of the crop. While the USDA projects record soybean yields for this season, the warm and dry finish to the growing season may have reduced final yields from earlier projections. Although export sales have increased in recent weeks, the current sales pace remains the slowest since 2019, which may still weigh on prices. Any pickup in demand or a decrease in this year’s projected supply could rally prices, especially post-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 uncertainty surrounding the 2024 soybean crop, aiming to give you the confidence to make sales and protect those sales during an extended rally. Since the market has retreated since that time, we continue to target the 1040–1070 range versus Nov ’24 futures to exit one-third of the 1280 calls in order 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. While we typically avoid recommending sales at this time of year, our Plan A strategy is to make additional sales recommendations should the market rally significantly toward the 1090 – 1120 area in the Nov ’24 contract.
  • 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 after going through a wide trading range throughout the day. Futures were as much as 14 cents higher overnight before fading and then rallying back in the last two hours of the session. The Federal Reserve cut interest rates by 50 basis points before the market closed, which was slightly unexpected and may have added support to soybeans on the close.
  • Soybean meal ended the day slightly lower, but soybean oil was consistently higher throughout the day despite a slight decline in crude oil. India, who is the number one importer of veg oils, raised its veg oil import tariffs by 20%, but consumption is still anticipated to grow 2% – 3% due to rising prosperity and a growing population. Palm and canola futures were also higher and lent support to bean oil.
  • In South America, conditions have been very dry especially in Brazil, and key growing areas such as Mato Grosso are forecast to have at least 10 more days without rain. Chances of rain improve for early October, but if the rain does not materialize, it could be friendly to soybean prices.
  • Although the US is planning to impose higher tariffs on Chinese products like electric vehicles and metals, China has remained a steady buyer of new crop soybeans, and there has been speculation that China may be looking to make more purchases with FOB prices in Brazil significantly higher than in the US.

Above: After entering the 1005 – 1040 resistance area, November soybeans posted a bearish key reversal which remains intact, suggesting prices could erode further. Below the market, support remains between 960 and 955, with key support near the August low of 940.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • With the exception of a quarter-cent loss in the March contract, Chicago wheat closed unchanged across the board. Kansas City and Minneapolis futures did not fare quite as well, posting small losses. Throughout the session, wheat traded on both sides of neutral. With little fresh news and markets awaiting interest rate updates, the trade remained relatively quiet by the end of the session.
  • This afternoon, the Federal Reserve concluded its FOMC meeting with a decision to cut interest rates by 50 basis points, pushing the US Dollar Index to its lowest level since July 20, 2023. If the index’s downward trend continues, it could benefit US wheat exports, as a weaker dollar makes US products more affordable for importing countries.
  • A La Niña weather pattern appears to be developing this fall, though the Australian weather bureau predicts it will be weak and short-lived. Typically, La Niña brings more rain to Australia and less to the Americas. In contrast, a US government weather forecaster suggested a 71% chance of La Niña forming between September and November, potentially lasting until March.
  • Egypt’s supply minister reported that the country has sufficient wheat reserves to last at least six months, following recent purchases of 770,000 mt of wheat from Russia and Bulgaria. Egypt consumes around 18 mmt of wheat annually, with approximately 7.7 mmt used for subsidized bread production.

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 be a limiting factor in the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger an extended short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the rally in wheat back in May, 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 Dec ’24 to recommend further sales, while also targeting 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 recommended for 2025 Chicago wheat. Recently, we recommended taking advantage of the wheat rally to sell more of your anticipated 2025 SRW production. While we continue to recommend holding the remaining July ’25 620 puts — after advising to exit the first half back in July — to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, we are targeting a 10-15% extension from our last sale to the 650–680 area in July ’25 to suggest 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 could trigger an extended 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 upside breakout in KC wheat back in May, 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 Dec ’24 to recommend further sales, while also targeting 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. Earlier this summer we 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. To that end, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range versus July ’25 to exit half of those remaining puts. Meanwhile, our current upside strategy is to target the 640 – 670 range, also in the July ’25, 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 an extended 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 close below 712 support in June, 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. While we are at the time of year when market lows often occur, we will consider posting upside targets in late September or early October when market conditions often become more advantageous, and harvest is mostly behind us.
  • 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 made two separate sales recommendations in July 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, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range versus July ’25 KC 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

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9-17 End of Day: Grains Settle Near Unchanged with Little Fresh News to Move Prices

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • Following a quiet news day, the corn market settled with small gains, near the top of its narrow range after quietly trading on both sides of unchanged.  
  • The soybean complex settled mixed, with beans closing on the plus side of unchanged after a day of choppy, two-sided trade. Support came from significantly higher soybean oil, while meal closed lower. The bean oil market traded higher as it continued to absorb bullish stocks data from yesterday’s NOPA crush numbers.
  • The wheat complex also closed mixed as all three wheat classes largely consolidated and closed the day within a few pennies of unchanged with little fresh news to push prices significantly.
  • To see the updated US 5-day precipitation forecast, 6 – 10 day Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, and 2-week Forecast Precipitation for South America, 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

Since printing a market low in late August the corn market has rallied largely on fund short covering as the rush of old crop bushels into the market has slowed and demand has picked up. While the upcoming harvest of an expectedly large crop may continue to limit upside potential, it is a good sign that corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low price levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover more of their extensive short positions and rally prices further, however, an extended rally is unlikely until after harvest.

  • 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 remained quiet on Tuesday, trading within a narrow 4 ½ cent range. After a day of two-sided activity, the session ended with slight gains. With little news driving movement, the market appeared to be taking a breather ahead of the Federal Reserve meeting and potential interest rate cuts expected on Wednesday afternoon.
  • Harvest activity continues to pick up, which is limiting price gains. As of September 15, 9% of the corn crop had been harvested, ahead of the 5-year average, according to the USDA’s crop progress report on Monday afternoon. The crop condition was rated 64% good to excellent, surpassing expectations. While corn condition is less of a market factor as the crop nears maturity, it remains in historically strong shape for September.
  • Brazil’s Ag Ministry, CONAB released its projections for the 24/25 corn marketing year. Brazil is expected to produce 119.78 mmt of corn in the next crop year. This is up 4.1 mmt or 3.6% over last year.
  • US weather is likely to remain drier than normal with above normal temperatures, which should help push the corn crop to maturity and speed up harvest. Harvest pressure going into October and November will likely limit upside potential in corn prices.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since early September, the soybean market has traded mostly sideways after a late August rally, as weather conditions turned dry during the later development stages of the crop. While the USDA projects record soybean yields for this season, the warm and dry finish to the growing season may have reduced final yields from earlier projections. Although export sales have increased in recent weeks, the current sales pace remains the slowest since 2019, which may still weigh on prices. Any pickup in demand or a decrease in this year’s projected supply could rally prices, especially post-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 uncertainty surrounding the 2024 soybean crop, aiming to give you the confidence to make sales and protect those sales during an extended rally. Since the market has retreated since that time, we continue to target the 1040–1070 range versus Nov ’24 futures to exit one-third of the 1280 calls in order 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. While we typically avoid recommending sales at this time of year, our Plan A strategy is to make additional sales recommendations should the market rally significantly toward the 1090 – 1120 area in the Nov ’24 contract.
  • 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 managed to end the day slightly higher after trading on both sides of unchanged throughout the day. Crop conditions fell slightly from last week but were in the range of analysts’ expectations. Although the USDA did not lower soybean yields in its most recent report, it is likely that the recent stretch of dry weather has reduced yield potential slightly. Soybean meal ended the day lower while soybean oil was higher.
  • Yesterday’s Crop Progress report showed the good to excellent rating for soybeans slipping by one point to 64% as trade expected, but it still well above last year’s 52%. 44% of the crop is dropping leaves, which compares to 25% a week ago and 6% of the crop is harvested. Illinois and Iowa had the highest crop ratings at 72% and 77% respectively.
  • This morning, CONAB released its new estimates for the 24/25 soybean crop and raised the number to a record large 166.3 mmt which would compare to 147.38 mmt the previous year. However, conditions have been dry, and late planting could impact yields if rains do not fall in the beginning of October like they have been forecast to do.
  • Yesterday’s NOPA crush report was bearish and showed August crush totals falling to a nearly 3-year low of 158.008 million bushels, while soybean oil stocks fell to a 10-month low of 1.138 billion pounds. Both soybean crush and stocks were well below the average trade estimates.

Above: After entering the 1005 – 1040 resistance area, November soybeans posted a bearish key reversal which remains intact, suggesting prices could erode further. Below the market, support remains between 960 and 955, with key support near the August low of 940.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • Wheat ended the session with a mixed close. Chicago futures posted small losses, Minneapolis small gains, and Kansas City was on both sides of unchanged. Early strength faded as the US Dollar Index shifted from lower to higher, perhaps in anticipation of tomorrow’s conclusion to the FOMC meeting. The Fed is expected to cut interest rates, but many are questioning whether it will be a 25 or 50 basis point reduction.
  • According to the USDA, as of September 15, 92% of the US spring wheat crop has been harvested. This is just above the average of 90% and last year’s 91% pace. Additionally, they reported that the US winter wheat crop is now 14% planted, which is 1% above both last year’s pace and the 5-year average.
  • Most of the Midwest remains warm and dry. However, later this week and into next week, rains are expected to move into the Corn Belt and central Plains, with totals ranging from 1.5 to 3 inches. This rainfall may help recharge soil moisture and improve conditions for the establishment of the winter wheat crop.
  • The French agriculture minister has reduced the soft wheat production estimate by 0.5 mmt to 25.85 mmt, which is approximately 27% lower than last year’s total. The decline is attributed to unfavorable weather, which led to reduced yields and a smaller planted area. Meanwhile, SovEcon increased its estimate for Russian wheat production by 0.4 mmt to 82.9 mmt, which aligns closely with the USDA’s figure of 83 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 be a limiting factor in the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger an extended short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the rally in wheat back in May, 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 Dec ’24 to recommend further sales, while also targeting 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 recommended for 2025 Chicago wheat. Recently, we recommended taking advantage of the wheat rally to sell more of your anticipated 2025 SRW production. While we continue to recommend holding the remaining July ’25 620 puts — after advising to exit the first half back in July — to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, we are targeting a 10-15% extension from our last sale to the 650–680 area in July ’25 to suggest 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 could trigger an extended 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 upside breakout in KC wheat back in May, 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 Dec ’24 to recommend further sales, while also targeting 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. Earlier this summer we 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. To that end, should the market continue to be weak, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range versus July ’25 to exit half of those remaining puts. Looking ahead, our current upside strategy is to target the 640 – 670 range, also in the July ’25, 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 an extended 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 close below 712 support in June, 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. While we are at the time of year when market lows often occur, we will consider posting upside targets in late September or early October when market conditions often become more advantageous, and harvest is mostly behind us.
  • 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

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9-16 End of Day: Wheat Gives Up Friday’s Gains; Corn and Beans Consolidate

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • Pressure from declining wheat futures and the beginning stages of harvest, driven by warm and dry conditions, limited the corn market’s rally potential. Corn experienced choppy, two-sided trade before closing mid-range and slightly lower on the day.
  • Caught between the bullish influence of another flash sale to unknown destinations, uneventful export inspections, and the lowest NOPA crush data since September 2021, the soybean market traded on both sides of unchanged before settling mid-range with only minor losses. Soybean meal and oil both finished higher on the day.
  • Sellers regained control as overhead resistance held, with the potential easing of Black Sea tensions, triggering stop orders and profit-taking, which contributed to the losses across the wheat complex and erased Friday’s gains.
  • To see the updated US 5-day precipitation forecast, Seasonal Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, and 1-week Forecast Precipitation for South America, 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

Since printing a market low in late August the corn market has rallied largely on fund short covering as the rush of old crop bushels into the market has slowed and demand has picked up. While the upcoming harvest of an expectedly large crop may continue to limit upside potential, it is a good sign that corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low price levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover more of their extensive short positions and rally prices further, however, an extended rally is unlikely until after harvest.

  • 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:

  • Corn futures started the week with slight selling pressure as harvest begins to ramp up and strong selling in the wheat market limited gains.
  • The USDA will release the latest crop progress report on Monday afternoon. Last week 5% of the corn crop was harvested, and that number is expected to grow as warm and drier weather will likely push the corn crop to the finish line this fall. The increased supplies in the pipeline will likely limit the near-term upside in the corn market.
  • Corn inspected for export last week came in at 20.5 mb (555,000 mt) in today’s weekly export inspections report. Though it is early in the marketing year, export inspections are nearly 40 mb or 24% behind last year’s. Typically, corn inspections soften during this window as the exporters rotate to shipping soybeans. The lower inspections number may also be reflecting the low water conditions on the Mississippi River and restrictive grain flows from upstream.
  • Managed Funds continue to reduce their once record large short positions in the corn market. In last week’s Commitment of Traders report managed funds were still net short 132,000 corn contracts, but over the past 3 weeks have exited 125,000 short corn futures.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the soybean market has steadily declined due to sluggish demand for the new crop, favorable growing conditions, and expectations of a large upcoming harvest. Weather forecasts have also generally remained supportive of the crop, while the market has factored in the likelihood of higher yields. With the weather turning drier as the crop enters its final development, the funds have covered some of their extensive short positions and rallied prices. While the market still anticipates a large crop at harvest, which could ultimately weigh on prices, should yields be less than expected, the recent pick up in demand could spur more short covering by the funds.

  • 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 slightly lower as pressure was found throughout the grain complex from sharply lower wheat futures. A flash sale reported this morning lent support earlier in the day, but soybeans were unable to hold that momentum. NOPA crush numbers were disappointing today as well. Both soybean meal and oil were higher to end the day despite losses in soybeans.
  • This morning, the USDA reported private export sales totaling 132,000 metric tons of soybeans for delivery to unknown destinations during the 24/25 marketing year. This sale had previously been reported to China but was changed. Regardless, China has been a consistent buyer of new crop US soybeans which has contributed to demand.
  • The NOPA crush report that was released today showed August crush totals falling to nearly a 3-year low of 158.008 million bushels, while soybean oil stocks fell to a 10-month low of 1.138 billion pounds. Both soybean crush and stocks were well below the average trade estimates.
  • Today’s soybean export inspections totaled 14.7 million bushels for the week ending Thursday, September 12. This was above last week’s 13.4 mb and was towards the lower range of trade estimates. Inspections for 23/24 are now down 16% from the previous year.
  • Friday’s CFTC report showed funds buying back a portion of their short position. They covered 23,495 contracts, which left them net short 130,601 contracts as of September 10.

Above: After entering the 1005 – 1040 resistance area, November soybeans posted a bearish key reversal which remains intact, suggesting prices could erode further. Below the market, support remains between 960 and 955, with key support near the August low of 940.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • Wheat suffered double-digit losses across all three futures classes. A combination of profit-taking and stop orders being triggered after hitting key resistance was likely the culprit. Additionally, concerns may have eased somewhat regarding tensions between Ukraine and Russia, which might have put pressure on Paris milling wheat futures. These futures closed lower across the board, offering no support to the US market.
  • Weekly wheat export inspections of 20.5 mb bring total 24/25 inspections to 255 mb, up 34% from last year. Inspections are also running ahead of the USDA’s estimated pace. Their export estimate remained unchanged in last week’s WASDE report at 825 mb, which is still up 17% from the previous year.
  • According to Friday’s CFTC data, funds bought back 13,000 contracts of Chicago wheat. Their net short position across all three classes now totals 70,000 contracts, marking their smallest net short position in three months.
  • Russia shipped 990,000 mt of grain last week, according to SovEcon, down from the previous week. Wheat accounted for 980,000 mt of that total. Additionally, IKAR reported that Russian wheat export values closed at $216 per mt, which is $1 higher than the previous week.
  • Argentina remains too dry, causing its wheat crop to struggle. Dry conditions over the weekend also continued to delay corn planting. A storm system is expected to move through later this week, but most of the rainfall is forecast for eastern areas, where soil moisture is already in better shape than in the west.

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 be a limiting factor in the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger an extended short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the rally in wheat back in May, 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, while also targeting 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 recommended for 2025 Chicago wheat. Recently, we recommended taking advantage of the wheat rally to sell more of your anticipated 2025 SRW production. While we continue to recommend holding the remaining July ’25 620 puts—after advising to exit the first half back in July—to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, we are targeting a 10-15% extension from our last sale to the 650–680 area in July ’25 to suggest 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 could trigger an extended 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 upside breakout in KC wheat back in May, 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, while also targeting 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. Earlier this summer we 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. To that end, should the market continue to be weak, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range versus July ’25 to exit half of those remaining puts. Looking ahead, our current upside strategy is to target the 640 – 670 range, also in the July ’25, 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 an extended 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 close below 712 support in June, 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. While we are at the time of year when market lows often occur, we will consider posting upside targets in late September or early October when market conditions often become more advantageous, and harvest is mostly behind us.
  • 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.

Above: Brazil, N. Argentina 1-week forecast precipitation, percent of normal, courtesy of the National Weather Service, Climate Prediction Center.

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9-13 End of Day: Corn and Wheat Follow Through to the Upside; Beans Slide

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • Strong gains in the neighboring wheat market and a trend of falling ending stocks helped the corn market close higher on the day and post its third consecutive weekly close higher.
  • After failing to punch through the 50-day moving average, November soybeans came under pressure from technical selling and carryover weakness from sharply lower soybean oil prices. Soybean meal also closed lower on the day.
  • The wheat complex settled with double-digit gains across all three classes, with the Chicago contracts leading the way. Short covering was likely spurred by increased tensions in the Black Sea, with additional support coming from, higher Matif wheat futures, a weaker US dollar, and the possibility that India may still import wheat.
  • To see the updated US 5-day precipitation forecast, 6 – 10-day Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, and 1-week Forecast Precipitation for South America, 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

Since printing a market low in late August the corn market has rallied largely on fund short covering as the rush of old crop bushels into the market has slowed and demand has picked up. While the upcoming harvest of an expectedly large crop may continue to limit upside potential, it is a good sign that corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low price levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover more of their extensive short positions and rally prices further, however, an extended rally is unlikely until after harvest.

  • 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:

  • Corn futures rode the coattails of a strong wheat market and a trend of lower ending stocks in the past three WASDE reports, finishing the session with gains. With this strong close, December corn futures ended the week 7 cents higher, marking the market’s third consecutive weekly gain.
  • Concerns about weather conditions in Europe and the Black Sea regions, along with the potential geopolitical impact of the Russia-Ukraine War, helped trigger a short-covering rally in the wheat market. The spillover strength also supported corn futures.
  • In the last three USDA Crop Production reports, new crop (24/25 marketing year) ending stocks projections have slightly decreased, from 2.102 bb in July to 2.057 bb in the September report. This decline in carryout has occurred despite higher supply and production forecasts, as late-season 23/24 demand has offset gains in US production.
  • Weekly export sales for corn were disappointing at 667,000 mt, down nearly 1.2 mmt from the previous week. Such a slowdown in export sales may have been attributed to rising corn prices because of price movement and increased freight costs as Gulf export prices have been increasing with the restricted Mississippi River water levels.
  • As harvest nears, rallies may be limited by an increase in producer selling of freshly harvested bushels or Brazilian producers moving stored supplies. It is estimated the Brazilian producers have only sold 53% of their old crop corn, which is behind pace compared to the past couple of marketing years for this time window.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the soybean market has steadily declined due to sluggish demand for the new crop, favorable growing conditions, and expectations of a large upcoming harvest. Weather forecasts have also generally remained supportive of the crop, while the market has factored in the likelihood of higher yields. With the weather turning drier as the crop enters its final development, the funds have covered some of their extensive short positions and rallied prices. While the market still anticipates a large crop at harvest, which could ultimately weigh on prices, should yields be less than expected, the recent pick up in demand could spur more short covering by the funds.

  • 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 lower after a mixed session, with the November contract testing the 50-day moving average but failing to break through for the second time since last week. Notably, on September 6, when November soybeans last failed at the 50-day mark, prices dropped 36 cents over four days. Both soybean meal and oil also ended the session lower.
  • For the week, November soybeans gained 1 ¼ cents to 1006 ¼ while March soybean gained 2 ½ cents to 1039. December soybean meal lost $1.50 to $322.90 and December soybean oil lost 0.70 cents to 38.93 cents. Funds likely bought back a good portion of their short position this week despite prices moving just slightly higher.
  • This morning, the USDA reported private export sales of 100,000 metric tons of soybeans for delivery to China during the 24/25 marketing year. China has made multiple new crop soybean purchases this week totaling 232,000 mt and has been an active buyer in general recently.
  • Argentina is poised for its largest soybean acreage expansion in 15 years, with planted acres expected to rise by 7.5% compared to last year. According to the Rosario Board of Trade, the total planted area is projected to reach 17.7 million hectares (43.7 million acres).
  • Brazil has had months of dry weather and much of the upcoming price action will rely on the weather in the country going forward. They are forecast to receive showers in the South, but central Brazil is still forecast to remain dry for another 10 days. With appropriate rains, Brazil would likely produce a new record crop in 2025.

Above: After entering the 1005 – 1040 resistance area, November soybeans posted a bearish key reversal which remains intact, suggesting prices could erode further. Below the market, support remains between 960 and 955, with key support near the August low of 940.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • It was an impressive close for wheat, with double-digit gains across all three classes. While support came from higher Matif wheat prices and a weaker US Dollar Index, much of the jump could be attributed to the “war premium” being factored in. There is talk that President Biden may lift restrictions on Ukraine’s use of NATO-allied missiles to strike Russia.
  • India has reportedly reduced the total amount of wheat that millers and traders can hold from 3,000 mt to 2,000 mt, in an effort to protect their domestic prices. There is also still talk that India may need to import wheat, which would be bullish.
  • As of September 10, the USDA reported that 57% of US winter wheat acres were experiencing drought conditions, up from 52% the previous week. This marks the highest level in a year and may impact winter wheat planting in the southern Plains.
  • Ukraine’s National Hydrometeorology Center reports critically low soil moisture levels, with approximately 70% of winter grain planting areas nearly devoid of moisture. This ranks among the worst summer and fall droughts, comparable to those in 2011 and 2015. However, there is still time for rainfall, as winter grains can be sown until early November in southern regions.
  • Dry conditions in Argentina continue to pose challenges for the development of their winter wheat crop. Meanwhile, Australia’s outlook is more favorable, as recent rainfall in the east has benefited their wheat crop, with additional rain expected in the same areas next week.

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 be a limiting factor in the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger an extended short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the rally in wheat back in May, 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, while also targeting 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 recommended for 2025 Chicago wheat. Recently, we recommended taking advantage of the wheat rally to sell more of your anticipated 2025 SRW production. While we continue to recommend holding the remaining July ’25 620 puts—after advising to exit the first half back in July—to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, we are targeting a 10-15% extension from our last sale to the 650–680 area in July ’25 to suggest 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 could trigger an extended 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 upside breakout in KC wheat back in May, 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, while also targeting 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. Earlier this summer we 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. To that end, should the market continue to be weak, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range versus July ’25 to exit half of those remaining puts. Looking ahead, our current upside strategy is to target the 640 – 670 range, also in the July ’25, 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 an extended 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 close below 712 support in June, 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. While we are at the time of year when market lows often occur, we will consider posting upside targets in late September or early October when market conditions often become more advantageous, and harvest is mostly behind us.
  • 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 7-day precipitation forecast courtesy of NOAA, Weather Prediction Center.

Above: Brazil, N. Argentina 1 week forecast precipitation, percent of normal, courtesy of the National Weather Service, Climate Prediction Center.

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9-12 End of Day: Corn and Soybeans Higher, Wheat Mixed Following WASDE Report

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • Increases in exports and ethanol use for 23/24 (55 mb) more than offset a marginal bump higher in expected yield for 24/25 (186.3 bpa) bringing US corn ending stocks in at 2.1 bb, down 16 million from last month’s WASDE estimate. Corn closed slightly higher today on the mixed news.
  • A slight increase to old crop soybean crush and a minute reduction in the 24/25 production estimate brought US ending stocks down by 10 mb from last month to 550 mb in today’s WASDE report. Soybeans closed higher on the day leading gains in the grains.
  • World corn ending stocks were lowered by 1.8 mmt from last month to come in at 308.4 mmt. World soybean ending stocks increased by 0.3 mmt to come in at 134.6 mmt.
  • Wheat closed mixed on the day with the winter wheat’s slightly lower and spring wheat higher. The September WASDE report was overall a sleeper for wheat with US and World ending stocks for the 24/25 crop year unchanged from last month’s estimates.
  • To see the updated US 5-day precipitation forecast, 6 – 10-day Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, and US Drought Monitor, courtesy of NOAA, 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

Since printing a market low in late August the corn market has rallied largely on fund short covering as the rush of old crop bushels into the market has slowed and demand has picked up. While the upcoming harvest of an expectedly large crop may continue to limit upside potential, it is a good sign that corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low price levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover more of their extensive short positions and rally prices further, however, an extended rally is unlikely until after harvest.

  • 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 finished with marginal gains within a wide trading range as the market digested a mixture of bullish and bearish news in Thursday’s USDA WASDE and Crop Production report. Going into the end of the week, corn futures are currently trading ¼ of a cent lower for the week.
  • The USDA increased the expected corn yield to 183.6 bushels/acre, up 0.5 bushels from the August report. This increased new crop production by nearly 40 million bushels, which was above market expectations
  • The USDA raised old crop demand for both exports and ethanol usage by a total of 55 mb, decreasing the old crop carry in. This combination of increased yield and increased demand lowered projected ending stocks to 2.057 billion bushels, down 16 mb from last month. This was the third consecutive month the USDA has lowered the carry out projection. The 2.057 bb carry out was slightly above market expectations, and keeps ending stocks heavy with a stocks-to-use ratio of 13.7%
  • Weekly corn export sales were disappointing this morning as new sales totaled 667,000 MT (26.2 mb), below the low end of analyst expectations. Total exports for the concluded 2023-24 marketing year closed up 38% from last year.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the soybean market has steadily declined due to sluggish demand for the new crop, favorable growing conditions, and expectations of a large upcoming harvest. Weather forecasts have also generally remained supportive of the crop, while the market has factored in the likelihood of higher yields. With the weather turning drier as the crop enters its final development, the funds have covered some of their extensive short positions and rallied prices. While the market still anticipates a large crop at harvest, which could ultimately weigh on prices, should yields be less than expected, the recent pick up in demand could spur more short covering by the funds.

  • 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 following a slightly bullish WASDE report today. Little was changed, but it was expected that yield estimates would be increased, and they were not. Export sales were solid which was supportive as China has stepped up its purchases of new crop soybeans. Both soybean meal and oil ended the day higher as well.
  • Today’s WASDE report featured few changes for soybeans, but trade reacted positively as expectations were for a more bearish report. Yields were left unchanged from last month’s report at 53.2 bpa but ending stocks for 23/24 were lowered by 5 mb to 340 mb and for 24/25, ending stocks were lowered by 10 mb to 550 mb as a result of demand increases. Production was estimated at 4.586 bb.
  • With this USDA report now out of the way, focus will be on the progress of US harvest, but another big factor to watch is Brazilian weather. Key growing areas in the country have been very dry which has prevented early planting. Rain showers are forecast to pass through the areas in need next week, but if rainfall totals end up being lighter than expected, soybeans could very well rally.
  • Demand has been strong lately with profitable crush margins driving domestic demand. The USDA estimated that the value of crushed soybeans were around $13.54 per bushel in Illinois as of last Friday. Chinese purchases of new crop soybeans have been driving export demand as well as evidenced by today’s WASDE and export sales report.
  • Today’s Export Sales report saw soybean exports at 54 mb for 24/25 and were in line with the average trade estimates. Soybean shipments are down 23% from last year and commitments are at their lowest levels in 5 years.

Above: After entering the 1005 – 1040 resistance area, November soybeans posted a bearish key reversal which remains intact, suggesting prices could erode further. Below the market, support remains between 960 and 955, with key support near the August low of 940.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • Wheat closed in mixed fashion, with small losses in Chicago and Kansas City, but modest gains for Minneapolis. A lower close for Paris milling wheat futures and not much excitement on the USDA report may have contributed to the relatively weak close for US futures.
  • All eyes were on today’s WASDE report, which turned out to be relatively neutral for wheat. The 24/25 production number was unchanged at 1.982 bb which was expected. The next production estimate will be on the September 30 Small Grains Summary report. US 24/25 wheat carryout was kept unchanged at 828 mb, but the trade was looking for an 8 mb drop. Global 23/24 wheat ending stocks increased from 262.4 to 265.3 mmt, while 24/25 was kept steady at 256.6 mmt.
  • In addition to today’s report, traders also received weekly export sales, which totaled 17.4 mb for 24/25. Last week’s shipments at 19.9 mb surpassed the 15.9 mb pace needed per week to reach the USDA’s export goal and sales commitments at 396 mb are up 30% from a year ago. Exports were kept unchanged today at 825 mb.
  • A Russian missile is said to have hit a Ukrainian vessel carrying wheat and en route to Egypt. No casualties were reported, but the extent of damage is currently unknown. This may have factored some war premium into the market earlier this morning. In related news, Egypt has reportedly purchased 430,000 mt of wheat from Russia in a private deal, at $235 per mt CNF.
  • According to the Rosario Grain Exchange, the Pampas region of Argentina is being affected by water shortages in the north and west areas. This is also expected to worsen, which may take a toll on the wheat crop. The previous production estimate of 20.5 mmt is now uncertain, with 30% of the crop reported to be in poor to regular condition.

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 be a limiting factor in the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger an extended short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the rally in wheat back in May, 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, while also targeting 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 recommended for 2025 Chicago wheat. Recently, we recommended taking advantage of the wheat rally to sell more of your anticipated 2025 SRW production. While we continue to recommend holding the remaining July ’25 620 puts—after advising to exit the first half back in July—to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, we are targeting a 10-15% extension from our last sale to the 650–680 area in July ’25 to suggest 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 could trigger an extended 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 upside breakout in KC wheat back in May, 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, while also targeting 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. Earlier this summer we 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. To that end, should the market continue to be weak, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range versus July ’25 to exit half of those remaining puts. Looking ahead, our current upside strategy is to target the 640 – 670 range, also in the July ’25, 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 an extended 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 close below 712 support in June, 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. While we are at the time of year when market lows often occur, we will consider posting upside targets in late September or early October when market conditions often become more advantageous, and harvest is mostly behind us.
  • 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

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

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9-11 End of Day: Markets Higher on Position Squaring Ahead of Thursday’s USDA Report

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • With little fresh news, the corn market settled fractionally higher after choppy, two-sided trade in a relatively tight 6 ¼-cent range in the December contract, as traders prepped for tomorrow’s USDA WASDE report.
  • November soybeans closed mid-range and higher on the day after trading both sides of unchanged as the market found support near yesterday’s lows and traders squared positions ahead of tomorrow’s report. December soybean meal found support near its 50-day moving average and closed higher on the day, while December bean oil encountered selling at the day’s highs near the 20-day moving average and closed lower.
  • Technical momentum and short covering ahead of the USDA report kept buyers active across the wheat complex, driving higher closes in all three classes. Additional support also came from carryover strength in Matif wheat.
  • To see the updated US 5-day precipitation forecast, 6 – 10 day Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, and 1 week precipitation forecast for South America, courtesy of NOAA, 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

Since printing a market low in late August the corn market has rallied largely on fund short covering as the rush of old crop bushels into the market has slowed and demand has picked up. While the upcoming harvest of an expectedly large crop may continue to limit upside potential, it is a good sign that corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low price levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover more of their extensive short positions and rally prices further, however, an extended rally is unlikely until after harvest.

  • 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 saw choppy 2-sided trade as the market squared positions before tomorrow’s USDA WASDE report. Grain markets in general saw mild buying strength during the session.
  • Thursday the USDA will release the next WASDE and Crop Production reports. Expectations are for US corn yield to be lowered by 0.4 of a bushel to 182.7 bu. per acre reflecting the variability in this year’s corn crop. Regardless, this is still a record for US corn yield. Ending stocks for the 24/25 marketing year are expected to be 2.033 billion bushels, still a large overall supply picture.
  • Weekly ethanol production improved to 1.080 million barrels per day last week, up 4% over last year. The strong usage of corn in ethanol production should merit a raise of old crop corn usage for ethanol in Thursday’s USDA report. The USDA is targeting 24/25 marketing year ethanol usage to be at 5.450 billion bushels.
  • The USDA will also release weekly export sales on Thursday morning. Expectations are for corn sales to range from 700,000 – 1.6 mmt for the week. New crop sales last week reached 1.822 bb.
  • The Mississippi River levels at Memphis have dropped to record low levels, limiting barge traffic on the river. The increased freight cost will weigh on corn exports as US corn prices are rising versus global grain competition. In addition, near-term gulf movement could be limited by the impacts of Hurricane Francine making landfall in the Louisiana area today.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the soybean market has steadily declined due to sluggish demand for the new crop, favorable growing conditions, and expectations of a large upcoming harvest. Weather forecasts have also generally remained supportive of the crop, while the market has factored in the likelihood of higher yields. With the weather turning drier as the crop enters its final development, the funds have covered some of their extensive short positions and rallied prices. While the market still anticipates a large crop at harvest, which could ultimately weigh on prices, should yields be less than expected, the recent pick up in demand could spur more short covering by the funds.

  • 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 but have been in a steady downward trend since last Friday when prices broke to the downside. With the results of tomorrow’s WASDE report uncertain, funds are likely buying back a portion of their short position. Soybean meal ended the day higher, while soybean oil was lower despite higher crude and palm oil.
  • Estimates for tomorrow’s WASDE report see the 23/24 soybean ending stocks falling to 343 mb from 345 mb last month, and 24/25 ending stocks increasing to 568 mb from 560 mb due to an expected increase in yields. The average yield estimate for the report is 53.3 bpa with the high end of the estimates at 54.9 bpa. Last month’s estimate was at 53.2 bpa. World ending stocks are expected to be virtually unchanged to slightly lower at 134 mmt.
  • In Brazil, on top of issues already being caused by the ongoing drought, fires have now burned the protective straw that is used by soybean farmers to protect fields from heat. The window for early planting is ending, and now it seems like the typical planting pace may be pushed back which could be supportive to prices.
  • After crude oil futures lost nearly 3 dollars a barrel yesterday, they recovered slightly today and are currently trading $1.50 higher. Yesterday’s losses came from OPEC stating that it was lowering its demand forecast for the second time in two months. Unfortunately, today’s rebound did not translate to support for soybean oil.

Above: After entering the 1005 – 1040 resistance area, November soybeans posted a bearish key reversal which remains intact, suggesting prices could erode further. Below the market, support remains between 960 and 955, with key support near the August low of 940.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • Wheat posted gains across all three classes, alongside Matif wheat futures. This marks the third consecutive higher close for the December Chicago contract, likely driven by upward technical momentum and short covering ahead of tomorrow’s WASDE report, as there is little fresh news directly impacting wheat today.
  • The average pre-report estimate for US 24/25 wheat ending stocks in tomorrow’s WASDE report is 820 mb, down 8 mb from the August forecast. World ending stocks for 23/24 are expected to show a small increase from 262.4 mmt to 262.5 mmt, while the 24/25 world carryout is anticipated to drop to 255.8 mmt from 256.6 mmt in last month’s report.
  • The USDA is not expected to revise its estimate of US 2024 wheat production, which currently stands at 1.982 bb. An updated estimate will be released on September 30 in the Small Grains Summary report. If there are any significant changes in tomorrow’s wheat numbers, they may come in the form of an upward revision to exports; current sales are up 31% from last year.
  • According to the Ukrainian agricultural ministry, the nation’s grain exports as of September 11 have totaled 8.2 mmt, well above the 5.4 mmt for the same period last year. Wheat exports account for 4.3 mmt of this total, compared to 2.5 mmt last year.
  • A month ago, the USDA approved HB4 wheat, a GMO variety more resistant to drought. The CEO of Bioceres, the Argentinian biotech company that developed this variety, recently stated it will take two years before marketing can begin in the US. The HB4 variety has already been approved in Argentina and Brazil, but securing approval from countries that import US wheat will be critical.

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 be a limiting factor in the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger an extended short-covering rally by managed funds.

  • No new action is recommended for 2024 Chicago wheat. Considering the rally in wheat back in May, 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, while also targeting 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 recommended for 2025 Chicago wheat. Recently, we recommended taking advantage of the wheat rally to sell more of your anticipated 2025 SRW production. While we continue to recommend holding the remaining July ’25 620 puts—after advising to exit the first half back in July—to maintain downside coverage for any unsold bushels, we are targeting a 10-15% extension from our last sale to the 650–680 area in July ’25 to suggest 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 could trigger an extended 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 upside breakout in KC wheat back in May, 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, while also targeting 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. Earlier this summer we 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. To that end, should the market continue to be weak, we are currently targeting the upper 400 range versus July ’25 to exit half of those remaining puts. Looking ahead, our current upside strategy is to target the 640 – 670 range, also in the July ’25, 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 an extended 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 close below 712 support in June, 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. While we are at the time of year when market lows often occur, we will consider posting upside targets in late September or early October when market conditions often become more advantageous, and harvest is mostly behind us.
  • 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

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

Above: Brazil, N. Argentina 1 week forecast precipitation, courtesy of the National Weather Service, Climate Prediction Center.

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9-10 End of Day: Bears Resume Control in Corn and Soybeans

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • Sharply lower soybeans, logistics concerns on the Mississippi River, and the onset of harvest all brought the sellers back into the corn market. While December corn lost ground during the session, yesterday’s low and moving average support held just below the market.
  • Weakness in the soybean products, solid, unchanged good to excellent crop ratings, and lower crude oil pressured the soybean market lower as it corrects from overbought conditions.
  • Potential short covering ahead of Thursday’s WASDE report, lower Russian wheat production estimates, and anticipation of Federal Reserve rate cuts lent support to the wheat complex. Despite the negativity in neighboring corn and soybeans, all three classes of wheat closed higher on the day.
  • To see the updated US 5-day precipitation forecast, 6 – 10 day Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, and 1 week precipitation anomaly forecast for South America, courtesy of NOAA, 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

Since printing a market low in late August the corn market has rallied largely on fund short covering as the rush of old crop bushels into the market has slowed and demand has picked up. While the upcoming harvest of an expectedly large crop may continue to limit upside potential, it is a good sign that corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low price levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover more of their extensive short positions and rally prices further, however, an extended rally is unlikely until after harvest.

  • 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:

  • Building harvest pressure and logistical concerns that could be a concern brought sellers back into the corn market today. Despite wheat futures trading higher, strong selling pressure in the soybean market helped limit any potential gains in corn futures.
  • USDA released weekly crop ratings on Monday afternoon. The current crop is still rated 64% good to excellent, steady with last week. In maturity, 74% of the crop is dented, 29% considered mature. Early harvest has begun in southern growing regions, and 5% of the crop has been harvested, slightly ahead of the 5-year average at 3%.
  • The Mississippi River levels at Memphis have dropped to record low levels, limiting barge traffic on the river. The increased freight cost will weigh on corn exports as US corn prices are rising versus global grain competition. In addition, limited river movement may cause a backlog of freshly harvested corn, impacting the cash market as harvest picks up speed.
  • Thursday the USDA will release the next WASDE and Crop Production report. Expectations are for US corn yield to be lowered by 0.4 of a bushel to 182.7 bu. per acre reflecting the variability in this year’s corn crop. Regardless, this is still a record for US corn yield.

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

Above: Corn percent mature (red) versus the 5-year average (green) and last year (purple).

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the soybean market has steadily declined due to sluggish demand for the new crop, favorable growing conditions, and expectations of a large upcoming harvest. Weather forecasts have also generally remained supportive of the crop, while the market has factored in the likelihood of higher yields. With the weather turning drier as the crop enters its final development, the funds have covered some of their extensive short positions and rallied prices. While the market still anticipates a large crop at harvest, which could ultimately weigh on prices, should yields be less than expected, the recent pick up in demand could spur more short covering by the funds.

  • 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 sharply lower, taking out all of yesterday’s gains as pressure from crude oil and a Crop Progress report that showed high crop ratings pressured the market. Both soybean meal and oil were sharply lower as well with soybean oil in particular taking a bigger hit due to the drop in crude.
  • Today, crude oil fell by nearly $3.00 a barrel and last traded at $66.00 per barrel, the lowest level since July of 2023. This came after OPEC stated that it was lowering its demand forecast for the second time in two months. They expect demand to grow by 2 million bpd, which is 80,000 bpd slower than the previous forecast. The slowdown in demand is reportedly due to lower Chinese consumption.
  • Yesterday afternoon, the USDA released its Crop Progress report which showed good to excellent ratings for soybeans unchanged from last week at 65%. Trade was expecting ratings to decline by 2 points to 63% on account of the recent dry stretch. 25% of the crop was dropping leaves which compares to 13% a week ago and the 5-year average of 21%.
  • This Thursday, the USDA will release its Supply and Demand report, and estimates are calling for ending stocks to be relatively unchanged, but the average yield is expected to rise slightly with the average trade guess at 53.3 bpa which would compare to last month’s guess of 53.0 bpa.

Above: The recent rally has brought November soybeans into the 1005 – 1040 resistance area. A close above this range could set the market up for a rally toward the July high of 1082 ¼. 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).

Above: Soybeans percent dropping leaves (red) versus the 5-year average (green) and last year (purple).

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • All three wheat classes posted gains, even as corn closed lower and soybeans declined sharply. Crude oil also saw a significant drop after OPEC cut its demand forecast for the second consecutive month. However, wheat managed to defy this negative sentiment, likely supported by reports of lower Russian yields and anticipation of a possible Fed rate cut next week, which could weaken the US Dollar. Additionally, some short covering may be occurring ahead of Thursday’s WASDE report.
  • Yesterday afternoon’s USDA Crop Progress report showed that 85% of the spring wheat crop has been harvested, slightly ahead of both last year and the 5-year average of 83%. The report also noted that 6% of the winter wheat crop has been planted, matching the average and up 1% from the same time last year. Meanwhile, a tropical storm in the Gulf is expected to make landfall tomorrow evening, which could bring heavy rains and delay SRW crop planting in some areas.
  • IKAR has reportedly reduced their estimate of the Russian wheat crop by 1.6 mmt to 82.2 mmt. Adverse weather in Volga, Urals, and Siberia is cited as the reason for the decline. Corn production was also cut to the lowest level since 2018. Additionally, their Russian wheat export forecast was also dropped by 0.5 mmt to 44 mmt.
  • Despite high import prices, Brazil is reportedly taking in more wheat. According to data from Secex, 2024 wheat imports from January to August reached 4.556 mmt, which is the largest total since 2020 and is also 9% above 2023. Additional data from CONAB suggest that 11.6% of Brazil’s wheat crop has been harvested as of last week.

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 be a limiting factor in the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger an extended 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.
  • Grain Market Insider sees a continued opportunity to sell another portion of your 2025 SRW wheat crop. Since posting the recent low, July ’25 Chicago wheat prices have rallied about 50 cents and have entered the congestion and resistance area from early July. Considering there may be significant resistance overhead in this area, we recommend taking advantage of this rally to make an additional sale on a portion of your anticipated 2025 soft red winter wheat crop, using either July ’25 Chicago wheat futures, or a July ’25 HTA contract, so basis can be set at a more advantageous time later on.
  • 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 could trigger an extended 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:

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

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 an extended 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 percent harvested (red) versus the 5-year average (green) and last year (purple).

Other Charts / Weather

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

Above: Brazil, N. Argentina 1 week forecast precipitation, percent of normal, courtesy of the National Weather Service, Climate Prediction Center.

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9-9 End of Day: Corn and Beans Recover Some of Friday’s Losses; Wheat Settles Mixed

All prices as of 2:00 pm Central Time

Grain Market Highlights

  • Support from neighboring soybeans and outside markets helped the corn market fend off lower prices following Friday’s weakness, as traders monitor the maturing US crop and the warm, dry conditions in South America.
  • With warm weather pushing soybeans toward maturity and another flash sale of 132,000 mt sold to China, the soybean market was able to overcome Friday’s weakness and close in positive territory to begin the week. While meal settled mostly higher and bean oil closed sharply higher, December Board crush margins lost 2 ¼ cents, though still remained strong at 142 ¼ cents.
  • The wheat complex posted a mixed close with the Chicago wheat contracts showing the most strength, while the Minneapolis contracts were pressured by a Stats Canada report showing sharply higher Canadian wheat stocks. KC futures failed to find support with Chicago and closed mid-range with minor losses.
  • To see the updated US 5-day precipitation anomaly forecast, and 6 – 10 day Temperature and Precipitation Outlooks, courtesy of NOAA, 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

Since printing a market low in late August the corn market has rallied largely on fund short covering as the rush of old crop bushels into the market has slowed and demand has picked up. While the upcoming harvest of an expectedly large crop may continue to limit upside potential, it is a good sign that corn buyers are finding value at these multi-year low price levels. Any unexpected downward shift in anticipated supply or increase in demand could trigger managed funds to cover more of their extensive short positions and rally prices further, however, an extended rally is unlikely until after harvest.

  • 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:

  • Strength in the soybean market and outside markets help support the corn market to start the week. Prices were looking for direction after last Friday’s difficult close but found price consolidation.
  • The USDA released weekly export inspections during the session on Monday. Last week, US exporters shipped 32.9 mb (836,000 mt) of corn on the export market. This was down from last week’s totals. Even though we are only 2 weeks into the marketing year, export inspections for 24/25 are running 24% behind the start of last year.
  • Brazil is starting planting of the 24/25 first crop of corn. Estimates are that 15% of the crop is planted, but concerns regarding dry weather may limit that number going forward.           
  • The USDA will release crop ratings this afternoon. For corn, weather is not a major concern of the market with harvest around the corner, but the market will be watching maturity ratings. Harvest is expected to be 4% complete, as early harvest in southern states is picking up.
  • The market may stay choppy this week looking towards Thursday’s USDA Crop Production report. The report will provide the market with its next snapshot of USDA projections for crop size and representative demand targets.

Above: Corn Managed Money Funds net position as of Tuesday, September 3. Net position in Green versus price in Red. Managers net bought 65,697 contracts between August 28 – September 3, bringing their total position to a net short 176,211 contracts.

Soybeans

Soybeans Action Plan Summary

Since late May, the soybean market has steadily declined due to sluggish demand for the new crop, favorable growing conditions, and expectations of a large upcoming harvest. Weather forecasts have also generally remained supportive of the crop, while the market has factored in the likelihood of higher yields. With the weather turning drier as the crop enters its final development, the funds have covered some of their extensive short positions and rallied prices. While the market still anticipates a large crop at harvest, which could ultimately weigh on prices, should yields be less than expected, the recent pick up in demand could spur more short covering by the funds.

  • 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 taking back a good chunk of Friday’s losses. Dry weather in the US has been supportive along with concerns over a dry Brazilian forecast that could delay planting. A flash sale was reported this morning and export sales have strengthened recently which could account for the 63-cent rally off the lows in the November contract.
  • 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. This follows multiple sales reported last week to China and confirmed some rumors floating around that China was looking to make large purchases of US soybeans.
  • Although it’s early to focus on Brazilian weather, the country has experienced very dry conditions, preventing many areas from starting early planting. With soil moisture already low, seeds planted in extremely dry conditions without rain in the forecast face significant risk. If the dry weather continues and planting is delayed further, a larger rally in soybean prices could follow.
  • Today’s export inspections report saw soybean inspections total 13 mb, which was on the lower end of trade estimates and put total inspections down 30% from the previous year for 23/24. The USDA is estimating soybean exports at 1.850 bb for 24/25, which would be up 9% from the previous year.

Above: The recent rally has brought November soybeans into the 1005 – 1040 resistance area. A close above this range could set the market up for a rally toward the July high of 1082 ¼. 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, September 3. Net position in Green versus price in Red. Money Managers net bought 22,455 contracts between August 28 – September 3, bringing their total position to a net short 154,096 contracts.

Wheat

Market Notes: Wheat

  • Chicago wheat futures overcame early weakness to close with small gains. However, Kansas City and Minneapolis futures were unable to follow suit, with both posting losses. Matif wheat futures also closed slightly lower, adding additional pressure. Minneapolis futures, in particular, reacted negatively to Stats Canada’s all-wheat ending stocks report, which came in at 4.6 mmt for 23/24, well above last month’s USDA estimate of only 1.8 mmt.
  • A general lack of fresh news has not provided much excitement in the marketplace for wheat. However, it is likely that the Federal Reserve will issue a rate cut next week that would pressure the US Dollar and be supportive to wheat.
  • Weekly wheat inspections at 21.6 mb bring the 24/25 total inspections to 233 mb, which is up 34% from a year ago and inspections are running above the USDA’s estimated pace. Additionally, 24/25 exports are estimated at 825 mb, 17% above the previous year.
  • According to IKAR, Russian wheat prices declined $1 from last week to $215 per mt. There is some conflicting information, however, as SovEcon reports increases to between $218 and $221 per mt. Either way, this remains cheap to global importers and continues to limit upside potential for wheat prices.
  • According to StoneX, Brazil’s 24/25 wheat crop is estimated at 8.09 mmt, which is a 4% decline from their previous estimate. However, they also raised their Brazil wheat export forecast from 1.76 to 2.15 mmt.
  • Egypt’s supply minister has reportedly said that their tender for 3.8 mmt of wheat is still valid and they plan to import that amount. Previously they purchased around 300,000 mt of wheat, so they are still looking for 3.5 mmt to fulfill the remainder.

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 be a limiting factor in the market, any increase in US demand due to smaller crops in Europe and the Black Sea region could trigger an extended 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.
  • Grain Market Insider sees a continued opportunity to sell another portion of your 2025 SRW wheat crop. Since posting the recent low, July ’25 Chicago wheat prices have rallied about 50 cents and have entered the congestion and resistance area from early July. Considering there may be significant resistance overhead in this area, we recommend taking advantage of this rally to make an additional sale on a portion of your anticipated 2025 soft red winter wheat crop, using either July ’25 Chicago wheat futures, or a July ’25 HTA contract, so basis can be set at a more advantageous time later on.
  • 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, September 3. Net position in Green versus price in Red. Money Managers net bought 13,578 contracts between August 28 – September 3, bringing their total position to a net short 42,624 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 could trigger an extended 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:

Above: KC Wheat Managed Money Funds net position as of Tuesday, September 3. Net position in Green versus price in Red. Money Managers net bought 4,765 contracts between August 28 – September 3, bringing their total position to a net short 27,237 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 an extended 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, September 3 Net position in Green versus price in Red. Money Managers net bought 1,300 contracts between August 28 – September 3, bringing their total position to a net short 24,948 contracts.

Other Charts / Weather

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