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U.S. Export Sales Report (1-15-26)
As we end off a busy week of government reports, the weekly export sales came in with plenty of activity. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave a breakdown of the weekly report. China has nearly completed its obligation to purchase U.S. soybeans, so the markets are paying close attention to see if they continue to buy from the U.S. or switch to Brazil. McBride said there was a healthy amount of flash sales this morning as well. McBride said a lot of the unknown sales will likely end up...
‘Product of USA’ meat labeling rule takes effect Jan. 1
A new USDA labeling rule takes effect Jan. 1, tightening standards for when meat, poultry and egg products may be identified as a product of the United States. Under the regulation, finalized in March 2024, companies may use labels such as “Product of USA” or “Made in...
Demand remains strong despite President Trump’s tariffs
Economists continue to study the impact that President Donald Trump’s tariffs are having on international trade. But one ag economist says they have not put a dent in consumers' buying patterns. Dr. Darren Hudson, Director of the International Center for Agricultural...
The magic of Christmas comes from the moments
Christmas has a way of pulling us backward and forward at the same time. One moment we’re standing in the soft glow of a tree covered in ornaments we’ve carried with us for decades, and the next we’re watching our kids create memories they will one day share with...
U.S. Export Sales Report (12-25-25)
The USDA is continuing to get us caught up to the latest export sales figures as a result of the government shutdown earlier this year. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride said the numbers as of December 11th still look great for corn. While the soybean sales have...
Cattle industry reflects on policy wins from 2025
The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association is wrapping up another busy year in the cattle industry. While there were plenty of struggles to overcome in the past twelve months, there are many victories to celebrate as well. ICA Director of Government Affairs Kelli Wicks said...
Now is the time to finally get E15 year-round
E15 is a part of President Donald Trump’s America First energy plan, and it’s time for Congress to pass legislation to allow for its year-round sale. It’s a common-sense solution that lowers costs and the pump and strengthens America’s energy independence. Growth...
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More Ag News
South American Weather and Crop Update (12-30-25)
As the crops in Brazil enter the critical yield-determining phase, timely rains are finally reentering the forecast. Allendale commodity broker Greg McBride gave an update on the latest weather forecasts for South America. While the crops are virtually all planted in...
Pork is more than just the flavor of the holidays
Family, food, and flavor are coming together as a winning recipe this holiday season with quality U.S. pork products. By showcasing pork’s versatility, flavor, and cultural relevance, the National Pork Board’s campaign is opening the door to new traditions and fresh...
How to maximize crop nutrition
A consistent theme for row crop farmers in 2025 was dealing with tight margins. As farmers are earning lower dollar amounts for their commodities but fertilizer prices remain high, maximizing crop nutrition is important for all growers. Ross Bender of The Mosaic...
Rural Mainstreet Index climbed above growth neutral
For only the second time in 2025, the overall Rural Mainstreet Index climbed above a growth-neutral reading of 50.0. That’s according to the monthly survey of bank CEOs in a rural ten-state region dependent on agriculture and energy. The December reading hit 50.1, its...
Rural families struggle with slower postal deliveries
Reliable mail service is not a luxury in rural America. It is a necessity for receiving checks, handling daily business, and getting critical medicine and supplies that many families cannot easily pick up in town. But delays are becoming more common, and the...
