Rice sector benefits from latest USDA assistance

Rice has the highest per-acre payment rate in USDA’s new Farmer Bridge Assistance Program, at more than $132 per acre. Jake Westlin with USA Rice says rice farmers have been challenged this year. “The cost of production has increased over the years. But also, you know, rice prices are having a pretty challenging time right…Continue Reading

Cattle futures kick off the new year with big gains

Chicago Mercantile Exchange live and feeder cattle futures were sharply higher, supported by the midday gains in beef and the direct trade during the session. Feeders had additional support from the weakness in corn.  February live was up $4.40 at $236 and April was $3.77 higher at $235.97. March feeders were $7.62 higher at $352.95…Continue Reading

Closing Grain and Livestock Futures: January 2, 2026

Mar. corn $4.37 and 1/2, down 2 and 3/4 centsMar. soybeans $10.45 and 3/4, down 1 and 3/4 centsMar. soybean meal $296.00, down $3.40Mar. soybean oil 49.30, up 74 pointsMar. Chicago wheat $5.06 and 1/2, down 1/2 centFeb. live cattle $236.00, up $4.40Mar. feeder cattle $356.10, up $5.85Feb. lean hogs $84.10, down $1.00Feb. Class III…Continue Reading

Higher production costs strain ag finances, banking leader says

A banking leader says a squeeze on agricultural profitability is one of his biggest concerns this year. Ed Elfmann, senior vice president of agricultural and rural banking policy for the American Bankers Association, says row crop farmers face a number of challenges. “Talking to some of my Southern bankers, they are saying that they have…Continue Reading

November soybean crush, corn for ethanol use numbers mixed

The domestic soybean crush maintained a relatively strong pace in November 2025. The USDA says the monthly crush of 221 million bushels fell 15 million from October’s all-time high, but rose 11 million bushels from November 2024. That faster-than-last-year pace is linked to plants trying to keep up with demand. Soybean meal stocks were slightly…Continue Reading

2025 Beck’s PFR data shows yield boost with applying nitrogen in soybeans

A regional agronomy manager at Beck’s Hybrids says longstanding research data shows early-season nitrogen applications on soybeans could have an impact on yield. Steve Gauck tells Brownfield, “We’ve seen a big value in split applying nitrogen. We’re seeing a big value in loading some nitrogen up front with a planter and a two-by two-by-two placement system.” He says…Continue Reading

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