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October 1, 2025
2025 Kansas Crop Insurance Presentations
and Net Cash Farm Income 2005-2025
MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY … opportunities (for example, social events, coffee talks).• Break … 1(4), 67-74.• Lundberg, U. (2005). Stress hormones in health …
September 26, 2022
Industry Economics & Trade
May 9, 2013
tabulations
Number of Lots
Capacity, # hd 2000 2005 2010 2012 2012 vs 2000
50000 … tabulations
Percent of Marketings
Capacity, # hd 2000 2005 2010 2012 2012 vs 2000
50000 … tabulations
Capacity, DOF, Turns/Year 2000 2005 2010 2012 2012 vs 2000
Capacity of >1,000 hd Yards (mil hd …
August 15, 2016
Breakout session presentations
Probable net recovery on collateral in event of liquidation?(Will proceeds pay off loan, other loans too?)• …
August 31, 2016
Grain Market Outlook
n
exports – driven largely by a poor harvest and lack of exportable supplies in Brazil, and 4) the possibility of
broader U.S. and Foreign economic and financial system disruptions impacting grain, energy, and other
commodity markets – such as unanticipated U.S. financial policy announcements by the U.S. Federal Reserve
affecting U.S. interest rates, or geo‐political events that could “shock” World energy markets.
USDA Supply‐Demand Forecast for “New Crop” MY 2016/17: With USDA projections of 2016 U.S. corn
plantings of 94.148 ma (up 6.149 ma from 2015), harvested acres of 86.550 ma (up 5.801 ma from 2015),
record high projected yields of 175.1 bu/ac (vs 168.4 bu/ac in 2015 and the current record high of 171.0 bu/ac
in 2014), 2016 U.S. corn production is forecast to be a record high 15.153 bb – up from 13.601 bb in 2015, the
current record of 14.216 bb in 2014, and 13.829 bb in 2013.
With forecast “new crop” MY 2016/17 total supplies of 16.909 bb (record high), total use of 14.500 bb (record
high), and projected ending stocks of 2.409 bb (16.61% S/U) – up from 1.706 bb (12.46% S/U) in “old crop” MY
2015/16 and the highest since 4.259 bb (54.90% S/U) in MY 2004/05 – U.S. corn prices are projected by the
USDA to be in the range of $2.85‐$3.45 (midpoint = $3.15 /bu) – being down from the $3.60 /bu midpoint
estimate for “current” MY 2015/16. This scenario is given a 20% likelihood of occurring by KSU.
KSU Forecasts for “New Crop” MY 2016/17: Three alternative KSU‐Scenarios for U.S. corn supply‐demand and
prices are presented for “new crop” MY 2016/17, with each assuming a lower U.S. corn yields and production
than the August 12th USDA WASDE report.
Page | 2
KSU Scenario A) “Minor Crop Problems – 14.9 bb” Scenario (35% probability) assumes: 94.148 ma planted,
86.550 ma harvested, 172.0 bu/ac yield, 14.887 bb production, 16.743 bb total supplies, 14.450 bb total use,
2.293 bb ending stocks, 15.87% S/U, & $3.25 /bu U.S. corn average price for “new crop” MY 2016/17;
KSU Scenario B) “Moderate Crop Problems – 14.5 bb” Scenario (35% probability) assumes: 94.148 ma
planted, 86.550 ma harvested, 168.0 bu/ac yield, 14.540 bb production, 16.396 bb total supplies, 14.344 bb
total use, 2.052 bb ending stocks, 14.31% S/U, & $3.45 /bu U.S. corn average price for “new crop” MY
2016/17;
KSU Scenario C) “More Serious Crop Problems – 14.2 bb” Scenario (10% probability) assumes: 94.148 ma
planted, 86.550 ma harvested, 164.0 bu/ac yield, 14.194 bb production, 16.137 bb total supplies, 14.239 bb
total use, 1.898 bb ending stocks, 13.33% S/U, & $3.60 /bu U.S. corn average price for “new crop” MY
2016/17;
World Corn Supply‐Demand: World corn production of 1,028.4 million metric tons (mmt) is projected for “new
crop” MY 2016/17, up from 959.7 mmt in “old crop” MY 2015/16, and up from 1,013.6 mmt in MY 2014/15.
World corn total supplies of 1,237.7 mmt are projected for “new crop” MY 2016/17, up from 1,170.0 mmt in
“old crop” MY 2015/16, and up from 1,188.9 mmt in MY 2014/15. World corn exports of 137.25 mmt are
projected for “new crop” MY 2016/17, up from 119.7 mmt in “old crop” MY 2015/16, but down from 141.7
mmt in MY 2014/15. Projected World corn ending stocks of 220.8 mmt (21.7% S/U) in “new crop” MY 2016/17
are up from 209.3 mmt (21.9% S/U) in “old crop” MY 2015/16, and from 208.3 mmt (21.2% S/U) in MY
2014/15.
Brazilian corn production in MY 2015/16 (produced in early‐mid 2016) is estimated to be 68.5 mmt, down 16.5
mmt (down 19.5%) from MY 2014/15. This shortfall in Brazilian corn production in 2016 has provided some
support for U.S. corn exports and even ethanol production (via exports). But expectations of a record large
2016 U.S. corn crop have had a predominant negative impact on U.S. corn prices. Brazilian corn production is
forecast by the USDA to rebound back to 80 mmt in MY 2016/17 (2017 production).
…
September 19, 2017
Grain Market Outlook
… The recent upward trend in the relative value of the U.S. dollar began in earnest after the dollar index was
valued at 77.5510 in August 2014. This upward trend continued throughout the remainder of 2014 and 2015
to early 2016 – with the index climbing to a high of 95.4259 in December 2016 (up 23.05% from August 2014).
Since then the index has declined moderately, falling to a low of an average of 88.00 in early September 2017.
In addition, since 1980 the global price of corn has a monthly average of $3.50 per bushel (in U.S. dollars)
with a median value of $2.94 – which like the historic U.S. dollar index above indicates positive skewness (i.e.,
a few extremely high values pulling up the average) (Figure 3). The historic low in global corn prices since 1980
on a monthly basis was $1.66 per bushel – occurring in October 1986 during the U.S. farm crisis years. A
historic high of $8.46 per bushel occurred in July 2012 – in the midst of the extensive 2012 drought in the
United States. Over the January 1980 through June 2017 period the global price of corn has trended higher at
a rate of +$0.0062 per bushel per month. Since January 2007 the global price of corn averaged $5.16, with a
median price of $4.48, compared to an average of $4.01 in June 2017.
Since 1980 there has been a negative correlation of ‐0.523 between the U.S. Trade Weighted dollar index
and the global price of corn. This indicates that the global price of corn tends to have a negative or inverse
relationship over‐time with the value of the U.S. dollar.
The higher value of the U.S. trade weighted dollar index since mid‐2014 has been a negative factor in
export markets for U.S. corn and other U.S. grains (especially for wheat). Conversely, the moderation in U.S.
dollar exchange rates since May‐June of this year has provided support for U.S. export trade.
A higher U.S. dollar exchange rate relative to other major World currencies generally makes it more
expensive for foreign buyers of U.S. grains to exchange their country’s currencies for U.S. dollars – which they
would then in turn use to purchase U.S. grain exports (i.e., which are denominated or “priced” in U.S. dollars in
U.S. grain markets). Although this is not the only factor that had been negatively affecting U.S. grain exports, it
is a very important one – working against U.S. corn and especially wheat from being affordable, competitive
alternative export alternatives in the World grain trade. Conversely, the decline in the value of the U.S. dollar
relative to other World currencies since early January 2017 has helped U.S. corn exports.
U.S. Corn Acreage, Yield & Production
Table 1 shows the USDA U.S. corn supply‐demand balance sheet for the MY 2008/09 through “old crop”
MY 2016/17 period, with a preliminary USDA projection for “new crop” MY 2017/18. Table 1a focuses on
“new crop” MY 2017/18 with the September 12th USDA projection plus alternative possible market scenarios
from Kansas State University. United States’ corn harvested and planted acreage for the year 2000 –
projected 2017 period are shown in Figure 4, with U.S. corn yields for 2005‐2017 shown in Figure 5.
United States’ corn production & total supplies for the 2001/02 through projected “new crop” 2017/18
marketing years are shown in Figure 6. Table 1 and Figures 4‐6 illustrate the growth in U.S. corn production
and total supplies since the drought‐impacted short crop year of MY 2012/13, and the most recent forecast by
the USDA of moderate (2.1%) decline in U.S. corn supplies in “new crop” MY 2017/18 from the previous year.
Page | 8
U.S. Corn Planted Acres
In the June 30, 2017 USDA Acreage and August 10th and September 12th Crop Production and WASDE
reports, 2017 U.S. corn planted acres are projected to be 90.886 million acres or ‘ma’. This projection of
90.886 ma for 2017 is down 3.118 ma (down 3.3%) from 94.004 ma of 2016, and compares to 88.019 ma in
2015, 90.597 ma in 2014, 95.365 ma in 2013, the record high of 97.291 ma in 2012, and 91.936 ma in 2011
(Table 1 and Figure 4). The USDA’s forecast scenario for “new crop” 2017 U.S. corn harvested acres of 90.886
ma given a 60% probability of occurring by Kansas State University Extension (KSU Extension Ag Economist Daniel
O’Brien).
An alternative KSU projection of “new crop” 2017 U.S. corn planted acres of 90.752 ma (133,192 acres
less than USDA and accounting for Farm Service Agency 2017 reported acres through early September
adjusted for prevented plantings) are estimated to have a combined 40% probability of occurring (Table 1a).
Figure 4. U.S. Corn Planted Acreage for 2000‐2017 as of the September 12, 2017 WASDE report, with an
alternative KSU Estimate for 2017
U.S. Corn Harvested Acres
Also in the June 30, 2017 USDA Acreage and August 10th and September 12th Crop Production and WASDE
reports 2017 U.S. corn harvested acres are projected to be 83.496 million acres or ‘ma’. This projection of
83.496 ma in 2017 is down 3.252 ma (down 3.7%) from 86.748 ma in 2016, up from 80.753 ma in 2015 and
83.136 ma in 2014, but down from 87.451 ma in 2013 (the record high), 87.365 ma in 2012 (2nd highest), and
83.879 ma in 2011 (Table 1 and Figure 4). The USDA’s forecast of the “new crop” 2017 U.S. corn harvested
acres of 83.496 ma is estimated to have a 60% probability of occurring by Kansas State University Extension.
An alternative KSU projection of “new crop” 2017 U.S. corn harvested acres of 83.261 ma (i.e., the 2007‐
2016 median value of percent harvested‐to‐planted corn acres of 91.75% multiplied by the KSU estimate of
2017 planted acres) are also estimated to have a combined 40% probability of occurring (Table 1a).
93.5 …
October 25, 2017
Grain Market Outlook
t least spring
2018 if not into the summer months.
Third, at least “moderate” continued strength is expected in U.S. corn exports due to low U.S. corn prices
and also to a moderate weakening of the U.S. dollar against other World currencies. Exports of U.S. corn are
expected to continue at a “decent” pace of 1.850 bb for “new crop” MY 2017/18 even though South American
corn production will continue to be a competitive factor in World trade through at least the end of 2017. Also,
preliminary forecasts for 2018 are that Brazilian corn acreage and production will be lower due to low prices
and poor profitability in 2017. Combined with emerging weather concerns in Brazil – these factors “could”
have a positive impact on U.S. corn exports and price prospects in spring‐summer 2018.
Fourth, a continuing threat exists of U.S. and Foreign economic and/or financial system disruptions that
could impact grain, energy, and other commodity markets in 2017‐2018. World geo‐political events could
provide “shocks” to U.S. and World energy and grain markets which could in turn impact grain prices in either
direction depending on the circumstances, the countries involved, and their role in global corn export trade.
4. USDA Supply‐Demand & Price Forecast for “New Crop” MY 2017/18
In the October 12th Crop Production report, the USDA adjusted its projection of a) 2017 U.S. corn plantings
at 90.429 million acres or ‘ma’ (down 3.575 ma from 2016), b) harvested acres of 83.119 ma (down 3.629 ma),
c) projected yields of 171.8 bu/ac (vs the record high of 174.6 in 2016), and d) 2017 U.S. corn production of
14.280 bb – down from the record high of 15.148 bb in 2016.
The USDA forecast “new crop” MY 2017/18 total supplies to be 16.625 bb – down 317 mb from last year’s
record high. Total use is forecast at 14.285 bb – down 362 mb from last year’s record high. Ending stocks are
projected to be 2.240 bb (16.38% S/U) – down from 2.295 bb (15.67% S/U) in “old crop” MY 2016/17. United
States’ corn prices are projected to average $3.20 /bu (range of $2.80‐$3.60). This is down $0.16 /bu from the
Page | 3
midpoint estimate of $3.36 /bu from “old crop” MY 2016/17. This scenario is given a 75% likelihood of
occurring by KSU Extension Agricultural Economist D. O’Brien.
5. Alternative KSU Supply‐Demand & Price Forecast for “New Crop” MY 2017/18
Three alternative KSU‐Scenarios for U.S. corn supply‐demand and prices are presented for “new crop” MY
2017/18. Each forecast scenario presents the likelihood of lower U.S. corn acreage, yields, and production
than projected by the USDA in the October 12, 2017 WASDE report for “new crop” MY 2017/18.
A ‐ KSU “New Crop” MY 2017/18 Scenario #1) “169.5 bu/ac – 14.059 bb” Scenario (20% probability) assumes:
90.404 ma planted, 82.941 ma harvested, 169.5 bu/ac trend yield, 14.059 bb production, 16.404 bb total
supplies, 14.241 bb total use, 2.164 bb ending stocks, 15.19% S/U, & $3.35 /bu U.S. corn average price;
B ‐ KSU “New Crop” MY 2017/18 Scenario #2) “167.3 bu/ac – 13.876 bb” Scenario (5% probability) assumes:
90.404 ma planted, 82.941 ma harvested, 167.3 bu/ac yield, 13.876 bb production, 16.221 bb total
supplies, 14.196 bb total use, 2.026 bb ending stocks, 14.27% S/U, & $3.45 /bu U.S. corn average price;
C ‐ KSU “New Crop” MY 2017/18 “Wildcard” Scenario #3) “169.5 bu/ac – 14.059 bb” Scenario (???% prob.)
assumes: 90.404 ma planted, 82.941 ma harvested, 169.5 bu/ac trend yield, 14.059 bb production, 16.404
bb total supplies, 13.926 bb total use, 2.479 bb ending stocks, 17.80% S/U, & ≈ $3.10 /bu U.S. corn
average;
Note: even with moderate reductions in 2017 U.S. corn production as represented in the KSU Scenarios A, B
and C above, the presence of large beginning stocks of 2.295 bb in “new crop” MY 2017/18 limit the “tightness”
of corn supply‐demand balances, and hinders any upward price responses.
5. World Corn Supply‐Demand – With & Without China
World corn production of 1,038.8 million metric tons (mmt) is projected for “new crop” MY 2017/18, down
3.4% from the record of 1,075.3 mmt in “old crop” MY 2016/17, but still up 6.8% from 972.4 mmt in MY
2015/16. World corn total supplies of 1,265.8 mmt are projected for “new crop” MY 2017/18, down from the
record high of 1,289.3 mmt in “old crop” MY 2016/17, but up from 1,181.8 mmt in MY 2015/16.
World corn exports of a 150.7 mmt are projected for “new crop” MY 2017/18, down 8.0% from the record
high of 163.8 mmt in “old crop” MY 2016/17, and up 25.9% from 119.7 mmt in MY 2015/16. Projected World
corn ending stocks of 201.0 mmt (18.9% S/U) in “new crop” MY 2017/18 are down from the record high 227.0
mmt (21.4% S/U) in “old crop” MY 2016/17, and from 214.0 mmt (22.1% S/U) in MY 2015/16.
An alternative view of the World corn supply‐demand is presented if Chinese corn usage and ending stocks
are isolated from the World market. “World‐Less‐China” corn ending stocks are projected to be 121.8 mmt
(14.8% S/U) in “new crop” MY 2017/18, down from 125.7 mmt (15.1% S/U) in “old crop” MY 2016/17, but up
from 103.2 mmt (13.8% S/U). These figures show that World stocks‐to‐use of corn less China’s direct influence
are projected to be down approximately 22% (i.e., 14.8% S/U for the “World Less China” versus 18.9% S/U for
the “World” overall in “new crop” MY 2017/18).
At the same time, these figures also show that Chinese ending stocks of corn as proportion of the World
total are declining – down from 51.8% in MY 2015/16, to 44.6% in “old crop” MY 2016/17, and down to 39.4%
in “new crop” MY 2017/18. The deliberate actions in recent years ‐ taken by the Chinese government to
reduce feedgrain stockpiles – is impacting the relative amount of World total corn stocks they hold.
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I. USDA Reports, Corn Futures, Seasonal Prices & U.S. Dollar
I‐a. October 12th USDA Crop Production & WASDE Reports
On October 12th the USDA World Agricultural Outlook Board (WAOB) released its October 2017 World
Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report – containing U.S. and World corn supply‐demand
and price projections for the 2015/16, “old crop” 2016/17, and “new crop” 2017/18 marketing years (MY).
The “new crop” MY 2017/18 for U.S. corn began on September 1, 2017 and will last through August 31, 2018.
On the same day the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released its October 2017 Crop
Production report. In this report the USDA used a combination of in‐field objective yield measurements and
farmer surveys conducted between September 26th and October 5th to estimate expected U.S. corn yields as of
October 1st. The objective yield surveys for corn were conducted in the major producing states for
approximately 75% of U.S. corn production. Counts were made within sample plots in person by USDA
enumerators, recording number of corn plants and ears, and ear weights in order to calculate the projected
2017 biological yields for each plot. Average percent harvest loss was then subtracted from these biological
yield estimates to obtain a net yield for each plot sampled.
The same corn plots which were sampled for the August and September USDA NASS Crop Production
reports were revisited for the October report. The upcoming November 9th USDA NASS Crop Production
report will also be based on a similar combination of farmers’ own crop observations and harvested yield
reports, and actual in‐the‐field yield measurements and conditions for fields remaining to be harvested. A final
USDA NASS Crop Production Summary report with an estimate of 2017 U.S. corn production will be reported
in January 2018.
I‐b. CME DECEMBER 2017 & JULY 2018 Corn Futures Trends
DECEMBER 2017 CME Corn Futures
Following a low of $3.58 ½ on August 31, 2016, DECEMBER 2017 Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) corn
futures prices trended upward over time to highs of $4.04 on February 28, 2017, $4.09 on June 8th, and $4.17
¼ on July 11th (Figure 1). Following that high, DEC 2017 corn futures prices have declined to lows of $3.44 ¼ on
August 31st, $3.42 ½ on October 12th, and $3.43 on October 23rd ‐ before closing at $3.52 ¾ on October 24th.
JULY 2018 CME Corn Futures
In a similar trading pattern to DEC 2017 corn futures, following a low of $3.79 on August 31, 2016, JULY
2018 CME corn futures prices trended upward over time to highs of $4.18 ¾ on February 28, 2017, $4.26 ½ on
June 8th, and $4.34 ¼ on July 11th (Figure 1). Following that high, JULY 2018 corn futures prices declined to
lows of $3.71 on August 31, 2017, $3.72 ½ on September 12th, $3.73 on October 12th, and $3.73 ¼ on October
23rd ‐ before closing at $3.82 ½ on October 24th.
CME Corn Futures DEC 2017 – JULY 2018 Contract Spreads
The total futures carrying charge or “term spread” between DEC 2017 and JULY 2018 corn futures on
Wednesday, October 25th in mid‐morning trading was $0.29 ½ per bushel (i.e., $3.83 ¼ for JULY 2018 Corn less
Page | 5
$3.53 ¾ for DEC 2017 Corn), or $0.0421 per bushel per month over a 7‐month period. This compares to
commercial grain storage charges in Kansas grain elevators in the range of $0.04 to $0.05 per bushel per
month – before accounting for interest, additional handling costs, or other discounts.
Figure 1. DEC 2017 & JULY 2018 CME Daily Corn Futures Price Charts (as of October 24, 2017)
ne …
November 21, 2017
Grain Market Outlook
corn prices
and also to a moderately weaker U.S. dollar against other World currencies compared to a year ago. Exports of
U.S. corn are expected to continue at a “decent” pace of 1.925 bb for “new crop” MY 2017/18 even though
South American corn production will continue to be a competitive factor in World trade through at least the
end of 2017. Also, preliminary forecasts for 2018 are that Brazilian corn acreage and production will be lower
due to low prices and poor profitability in 2017, as well as a delayed 2nd crop of corn in parts of the country.
Combined with the potential for crop‐weather concerns in Brazil in coming months – these factors “could”
have a positive impact on U.S. corn exports and price prospects in spring‐summer 2018.
Fourth, a continuing threat exists of U.S. and Foreign economic and/or financial system disruptions that
could impact grain, energy, and other commodity markets in 2017‐2018. World geo‐political events could
provide “shocks” to U.S. and World energy and grain markets which could in turn impact grain prices in either
direction depending on the circumstances, the countries involved, and their role in global corn export trade.
4. USDA Supply‐Demand & Price Forecast for “New Crop” MY 2017/18
In the November 12th Crop Production report, the USDA raised its projections of a) projected yields up to a
record high of 175.4 bu/ac (vs the previous record of 174.6 in 2016), and b) 2017 U.S. corn production up to
14.578 bb – down from the record high of 15.148 bb in 2016.
The USDA raised its forecast “new crop” MY 2017/18 total supplies to 16.922 bb – down marginally (20
mb) from last year’s record high. Total use is forecast at 14.435 bb – down 212 mb from last year’s record
high. Ending stocks are projected to be a 2.487 bb (17.2% S/U) – up from 2.295 bb (15.7% S/U) in “old crop”
MY 2016/17. United States’ corn prices are projected to average $3.20 /bu (range of $2.80‐$3.60). This is
down $0.16 /bu from $3.36 /bu from “old crop” MY 2016/17. This scenario is given an 80% likelihood of
occurring by KSU Extension Agricultural Economist D. O’Brien.
Page | 3
5. Alternative KSU Supply‐Demand & Price Forecast for “New Crop” MY 2017/18
Three alternative KSU‐Scenarios for U.S. corn supply‐demand and prices are presented for “new crop” MY
2017/18. These forecast scenarios vary from the USDA’s projection in the November 9, 2017 WASDE report
for “new crop” MY 2017/18.
A ‐ KSU “Higher Exports” MY 2017/18 Scenario) “2.250 bb Exports” Scenario (10% probability) assumes:
90.404 ma planted, 82.941 ma harvested, 175.4 bu/ac trend yield, 14.548 bb production, 16.893 bb total
supplies, 2.250 bb exports, 14.735 bb total use, 2.158 bb ending stocks, 14.65% S/U, & $3.50 /bu U.S. corn
average price;
B ‐ KSU “Lower Exports” MY 2017/18 Scenario) “1.800 bb Exports” Scenario (5% probability) assumes: 90.404
ma planted, 82.941 ma harvested, 175.4 bu/ac trend yield, 14.548 bb production, 16.893 bb total supplies,
1.800 bb exports, 14.310 bb total use, 2.583 bb ending stocks, 18.05% S/U, & $3.15 /bu U.S. corn average
price;
C ‐ KSU “Lower Yield” MY 2017/18 Scenario) “172.5 bu/ac – 14.307 bb crop” Scenario (5% probability)
assumes: 90.404 ma planted, 82.941 ma harvested, 172.5 bu/ac trend yield, 14.307 bb production, 16.652
bb total supplies, 14.435 bb total use, 2.217 bb ending stocks, 15.36% S/U, & $3.40 /bu U.S. corn average;
Note: The presence of large beginning stocks of 2.295 bb in “new crop” MY 2017/18 limit the “tightness” of
corn supply‐demand balances in scenarios “A” and “C”, and hinder potential upward price responses.
5. World Corn Supply‐Demand – With & Without China
World corn production of 1,043.9 million metric tons (mmt) is projected for “new crop” MY 2017/18, down
3.9% from the record of 1,074.8 mmt in “old crop” MY 2016/17, but still up 7.3% from 972.9 mmt in MY
2015/16. World corn total supplies of 1,270.5 mmt are down 1.45% from the record high 1,289.2 mmt in “old
crop” MY 2016/17, and still up 7.4% from 1,182.4 mmt in MY 2015/16.
World corn exports of a 151.6 mmt are projected for “new crop” MY 2017/18, down 7.3% from the record
high of 163.6 mmt in “old crop” MY 2016/17, and up 26.7% from 119.7 mmt in MY 2015/16. Projected World
corn ending stocks of 203.9 mmt (19.1% S/U) in “new crop” MY 2017/18 are down from the record high 226.6
mmt (21.3% S/U) in “old crop” MY 2016/17, and from 214.4 mmt (22.2% S/U) in MY 2015/16.
An alternative view of the World corn supply‐demand is presented if Chinese corn usage and ending stocks
are isolated from the World market. “World‐Less‐China” corn ending stocks are projected to be 125.2 mmt
(15.1% S/U) in “new crop” MY 2017/18, down from 125.9 mmt (15.2% S/U) in “old crop” MY 2016/17, but up
from 103.7 mmt (13.8% S/U) in MY 2015/16. These figures show that World stocks‐to‐use of corn less China’s
direct influence are projected to be approximately 21% lower (i.e., 15.1% S/U for the “World‐Less‐China”
versus 19.1% S/U for the “World” overall in “new crop” MY 2017/18).
At the same time, these figures also show that Chinese ending stocks of corn as proportion of the World
total are declining – down from 51.7% in MY 2015/16, to 44.5% in “old crop” MY 2016/17, and down to 38.6%
in “new crop” MY 2017/18. The deliberate actions in recent years ‐ taken by the Chinese government to
reduce feedgrain stockpiles – is impacting the relative amount of World total corn stocks they hold. These
actions may also eventually increase Chinese import demand for both U.S. corn and grain sorghum.
…
December 21, 2017
Grain Market Outlook
new crop” MY 2017/18 U.S. corn exports
because of a) low U.S. corn prices, b) expectations of significantly tighter foreign stocks and percent (%)
stocks‐to‐use for corn, and c) the eventual “using up” of competing South American corn exports in early 2018.
Early forecasts are for 2018 Brazilian corn production to be 95 million metric tons (mmt) in this marketing
year with harvests lasting from February through May. Early forecasts are for 2018 Argentina corn production
to be 42 mmt in this marketing year with harvests lasting from March through May. However, dry conditions
may limit 2018 corn production in Argentina and southern Brazil – and subsequently support U.S. corn exports.
Fourth, a continuing threat exists of U.S. and Foreign economic and/or financial system disruptions that
could impact grain, energy, and other commodity markets in 2018. World geo‐political events could provide
“shocks” to U.S. and World energy and grain markets which could in turn impact grain prices in either direction
depending on the circumstances, the countries involved, and their role in global corn export trade.
4. USDA Supply‐Demand & Price Forecast for “New Crop” MY 2017/18
In the December 12th Crop Production reports, the USDA left unchanged its projections of a) projected
yields up to a record high of 175.4 bu/ac (vs the previous record of 174.6 in 2016), and b) 2017 U.S. corn
production up to 14.578 bb – down from the record high of 15.148 bb in 2016. The also USDA left unchanged
its forecast “new crop” MY 2017/18 total supplies to 16.922 bb – down marginally (20 mb) from last year’s
record high. Total use is forecast at 14.485 bb – raised 50 mb from November on higher ethanol use, but still
down 162 mb from last year’s record high. Ending stocks are projected to be a 2.437 bb (16.8% S/U) – up from
2.295 bb (15.7% S/U) in “old crop” MY 2016/17. United States’ corn prices are projected to average $3.20 /bu
(range of $2.85‐$3.55). This is down $0.16 /bu from $3.36 /bu from “old crop” MY 2016/17. This scenario is
given an 80% likelihood of occurring by KSU Extension Agricultural Economist D. O’Brien.
5. Alternative KSU Supply‐Demand & Price Forecast for “New Crop” MY 2017/18
Two alternative KSU‐Scenarios for U.S. corn supply‐demand and prices are presented for “new crop” MY
2017/18. These projections are to show how varying corn export outcomes could affect the USDA’s projection
in the December 9, 2017 WASDE report.
A ‐ KSU “Higher Exports” MY 2017/18 Scenario: “2.250 bb Exports” Scenario (10% probability) assumes:
90.348 ma planted, 82.890 ma harvested, 175.4 bu/ac trend yield, 14.539 bb production, 16.884 bb total
supplies, 2.250 bb exports, 14.785 bb total use, 2.099 bb ending stocks, 14.20% S/U, & $3.55 /bu U.S. corn
average price;
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B ‐ KSU “Lower Exports” MY 2017/18 Scenario: “1.800 bb Exports” Scenario (10% probability) assumes:
90.348 ma planted, 82.890 ma harvested, 175.4 bu/ac trend yield, 14.539 bb production, 16.884 bb total
supplies, 1.800 bb exports, 14.360 bb total use, 2.524 bb ending stocks, 17.58% S/U, & $3.20 /bu U.S. corn
average price;
6. USDA Supply‐Demand & Price Forecast for “Next Crop” MY 2018/19
In the November 28th Long Term Baseline projections, the USDA forecast for “next crop” MY 2018/19 that
2018 U.S. corn planted and harvested acres would equal 91.0 million acres (ma) and 83.7 ma, respectively,
both up from 90.429 ma planted and 83.119 ma harvested in 2017. Corn yields in 2018 are forecast at 173.5
bu/ac, down from the record high of 175.4 bu/ac in 2017. U.S. corn production is 2018 is projected to be
14.520 bb – down from 14.578 bb now projected for 2017.
The USDA forecast “new crop” MY 2017/18 total supplies to 17.007 bb – adjusted for changes in the
December WASDE report in MY 2017/18 ending stocks. Total use is forecast at 14.450 bb – down 35 mb from
this current marketing year. Ending stocks are projected to be a 2.557 bb (17.7% S/U) – up from 2.437 bb
(16.8% S/U) in “new crop” MY 2017/18. United States’ corn prices are projected to average $3.30 /bu – up
from $3.20 /bu in “new crop” MY 2017/18.
5. World Corn Supply‐Demand – With & Without China
World corn production of 1,044.8 million metric tons (mmt) is projected for “new crop” MY 2017/18, down
2.9% from the record of 1,074.8 mmt in “old crop” MY 2016/17, but still up 7.3% from 973.5 mmt in MY
2015/16. World corn total supplies of 1,272.1 mmt are down marginally from the record high 1,290.5 mmt in
“old crop” MY 2016/17, but up from 1,183.2 mmt in MY 2015/16.
World corn exports of a 151.6 mmt are projected for “new crop” MY 2017/18, down 7.6% from the record
high of 164.1 mmt in “old crop” MY 2016/17, and up 26.7% from 119.7 mmt in MY 2015/16. Projected World
corn ending stocks of 204.1 mmt (19.1% S/U) in “new crop” MY 2017/18 are down from the record high 227.3
mmt (21.4% S/U) in “old crop” MY 2016/17, and from 214.9 mmt (22.2% S/U) in MY 2015/16. Projected
Foreign (Non‐U.S.) corn ending stocks of 142.2 mmt (16.5% S/U) in “new crop” MY 2017/18 are down from
169.0 mmt (19.8% S/U) in “old crop” MY 2016/17, and from 170.8 mmt (23.1% S/U) in MY 2015/16.
An alternative view of the World corn supply‐demand is presented if Chinese corn usage and ending stocks
are isolated from the World market. “World‐Less‐China” corn ending stocks are projected to be 124.5 mmt
(15.0% S/U) in “new crop” MY 2017/18, down from 126.6 mmt (15.2% S/U) in “old crop” MY 2016/17, but up
from 104.1 mmt (13.9% S/U) in MY 2015/16. These figures show that World stocks‐to‐use of corn less China’s
direct influence are projected to be approximately 21% lower (i.e., 15.0% S/U for the “World‐Less‐China”
versus 19.1% S/U for the “World” overall in “new crop” MY 2017/18).
At the same time, these figures also show that Chinese ending stocks of corn as proportion of the World
total are declining – down from 51.5% in MY 2015/16, to 44.3% in “old crop” MY 2016/17, and down to 39.0%
in “new crop” MY 2017/18. The deliberate actions in recent years ‐ taken by the Chinese government to
reduce feedgrain stockpiles – is impacting the relative amount of World total corn stocks they hold. These
actions may increase Chinese import demand for both U.S. corn and grain sorghum.
…
March 15, 2018
Grain Market Outlook
tighter foreign stocks and percent (%) stocks‐to‐use for corn, and c) the eventual “using up” of competing
South American corn exports in spring 2018.
Current forecasts are for 2018 Brazilian corn production to be 94.5 million metric tons (mmt) in this
marketing year – versus 98.5 mmt last year ‐ with harvests lasting from February through May. However,
forecasts are for 2018 Argentina corn production to be 36.0 mmt in this marketing year – versus 41.0 mmt a
year ago ‐ with harvests lasting from March through May. The Argentina production figure is at risk to falling
further. To the degree that 2018 corn production in Argentina and southern Brazil is limited by crop weather
issues, there will likely be subsequent support U.S. corn export prospects.
Fourth, a continuing threat exists of U.S. and Foreign economic and/or financial system disruptions that
could impact grain, energy, and other commodity markets in 2018. World geo‐political events could provide
“shocks” to U.S. and World energy and grain markets which could in turn impact grain prices in either direction
depending on the circumstances, the countries involved, and their role in global corn export trade.
4. USDA Supply‐Demand & Price Forecasts
In the March 8th WASDE report, the USDA left unchanged its projections of a) 2017 U.S. corn production of
14.604 bb – down from the record high of 15.148 bb in 2016, and b) “old crop” MY 2017/18 total supplies of
16.947 bb – up marginally from a year earlier. Total use is forecast at 14.820 bb – raised 225 mb from the
February WASDE on prospects for a) higher ethanol use of 5.575 bb (raised 50 mb), and b) higher exports of
2.225 bb (raised 175 mb). Ending stocks are projected to be a 2.127 bb (14.35% Stocks/Use) – down 225 mb
from February, and down from 2.293 bb (15.65% S/U) in MY 2016/17. United States’ corn prices are projected
to average $3.35 /bu (range of $3.15‐$3.55). This is down $0.01 /bu from $3.36 /bu from MY 2016/17.
At the Agricultural Outlook Forum in Arlington, Virginia on February 23, 2018, the USDA forecast that a)
2018 U.S. corn production would be 14.390 bb – based on 90.0 million acres (ma) planted, 82.7 ma harvested,
and a yield of 174.0 bu. Total use is forecast at 14.520 bb – with projections of ethanol use at 5.650 bb (a
record high), non‐ethanol food seed and industrial use at 1.495 bb (also a record high), exports of 1.900 bb
(down 325 mb from the current marketing year), and feed and residual use of 5.475 mb (down 75 mb from this
year). After a KSU‐adjustment for lower beginning stocks based on the March 8th WASDE report, ending stocks
are projected to be a 2.047 bb (14.10% Stocks/Use) – with both being down moderately from “old crop” MY
2017/18 levels. United States’ corn prices are projected to average a KSU‐adjusted $3.45 /bu (up $0.05‐$0.10
Page | 3
from this year). It is probable that the export projection for “new crop” MY 2018/19 may be raised in coming
months due to South American production problems – causing these ending stocks and % stocks‐to‐use
estimates to tighten further. This scenario is given a 50% likelihood of occurring by KSU Extension
Agricultural Economist D. O’Brien.
5. Alternative KSU Supply‐Demand & Price Forecast for “New Crop” MY 2018/19
Two alternative KSU‐Scenarios for U.S. corn supply‐demand and prices are presented for “new crop” MY
2018/19. These projections are to show how varying 2018 U.S. corn production outcomes could affect U.S.
corn supply‐demand and price outcomes in “new crop” MY 2018/19.
A ‐ KSU “Higher 2018 U.S. Corn Production” Scenario for “new crop” MY 2018/19: (25% probability):
Assumptions are as follows: 90.000 ma planted, 82.700 ma harvested, 176.6 bu/ac record yield (equal to
2017 record high), 14.605 bb production, 16.782 bb total supplies, 14.600 bb total use, 2.182 bb ending
stocks, 14.95% S/U, & $3.30 /bu U.S. corn average price;
B ‐ KSU “Lower 2018 U.S. Corn Production” Scenario for “new crop” MY 2018/19: (25% probability):
Assumptions are as follows: 90.000 ma planted, 82.700 ma harvested, 164.4 bu/ac yield (equal to 2009
yield), 13.596 bb production, 15.773 bb total supplies, 14.315 bb total use, 1.458 bb ending stocks, 10.19%
S/U, & $4.20 /bu U.S. corn average price;
6. World Corn Supply‐Demand – With & Without China
World corn production of 1,041.7 million metric tons (mmt) is projected for “old crop” MY 2017/18, down
3.1% from the record of 1,075.2 mmt in MY 2016/17, but still up 7.0% from 973.45 mmt in MY 2015/16. World
corn total supplies of 1,273.6 mmt in “old crop” MY 2017/18 are forecast to be down moderately from the
record high 1,290.2 mmt in MY 2016/17, but up from 1,183.2 mmt in MY 2015/16.
World corn exports of a 155.9 mmt are projected for “old crop” MY 2017/18, down 2.4% from the record
high of 159.8 mmt in MY 2016/17, and up 30.2% from 119.7 mmt in MY 2015/16. Projected World corn ending
stocks of 199.2 mmt (18.5% S/U) in “old crop” MY 2017/18 are down from the record high 231.9 mmt (21.9%
S/U) in MY 2016/17, and from 215.0 mmt (22.2% S/U) in MY 2015/16. Projected Foreign (Non‐U.S.) corn
ending stocks of 145.1 mmt (17.0% S/U) in “old crop” MY 2017/18 are down from 173.6 mmt (21.9% S/U) in
MY 2016/17, and from 170.9 mmt (23.1% S/U) in MY 2015/16.
An alternative view of the World corn supply‐demand is presented if Chinese corn usage and ending stocks
are isolated from the World market. “World‐Less‐China” corn ending stocks are projected to be 119.6 mmt
(14.35% S/U) in “old crop” MY 2017/18, down from 131.1 mmt (15.9% S/U) in MY 2016/17, but up from 104.2
mmt (13.9% S/U) in MY 2015/16. These figures show that World stocks‐to‐use of corn less China’s direct
influence are projected to be approximately 22% lower (i.e., 14.35% S/U for the “World‐Less‐China” versus
18.5% S/U for the “World” overall in “old crop” MY 2017/18).
At the same time, these figures also show that Chinese ending stocks of corn as proportion of the World
total are declining – down from 51.5% in MY 2015/16, to 43.4% in MY 2016/17, and down to 39.9% in “old
crop” MY 2017/18. The deliberate actions in recent years ‐ taken by the Chinese government to reduce
feedgrain stockpiles – is impacting the relative amount of World total corn stocks they hold. These actions
may eventual increase Chinese import demand for U.S. corn and grain sorghum.
…