Grain Market Commentary 1/2/26
CBOT Pricing:
Grain and soybean markets saw another challenging week, with most contracts declining over 2% after the higher trade during the Christmas week.
Corn ended the day down 1-3 cents. The Mar26 and May26 contracts both closed 2.75 cents lower at $4.375 and $4.455, respectively. The Mar26 finished the week down 12.5 cents and the May26 contract ended the week 12.75 cents lower.
Soybeans closed 1-3 cents down. After opening lower, soybeans found support and rebounded toward the prior open, limiting further losses. The Mar26 contract closed 1.75 cents lower on the day at $10.4575, 26.75 cents down on the week. The May26 contract ended the session at $10.585, 2.5 cents lower on the day, and 25.75 cents lower on the week.
Market Headlines:
The USDA released commodity payment rates on the $12 billion US Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) program:
FBA payments are based on 2025 planted acres, Economic Research Service cost-of-production estimates, and the WASDE report. Of the $12 billion allocated, $11 billion will support row crop producers, while the remaining $1 billion is designated for specialty crop producers.
All intended row crop uses qualify for FBA, except grazing, volunteer stands, experimental plots, green manure, crops left standing or abandoned, and cover crops. Additionally, prevent plant acres are not eligible. However, double-crop acres qualify for assistance, including both the initial and subsequently planted crops.
Payment rates for FBA-eligible commodities:
- Corn: $44.36 per acre
- Soybeans: $30.88 per acre
- Wheat: $39.35 per acre
- Sorghum: $48.11
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins stated that eligible farmers can expect the FBA payments in their bank accounts starting February 28th, 2026.
To learn more about the Farmer Bridge Assistance program, click HERE.
Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro expressed willingness to hold talks with US President Trump:
Maduro said Venezuela is open to receiving US investment in its oil sector and cooperating in efforts to combat drug trafficking. In a New Year’s interview, Maduro stated, “If they want to speak seriously about an agreement to battle drug trafficking, we are ready… If they want Venezuela’s oil, Venezuela is ready to accept US investments.”
Maduro continued to deny US accusations that his government operates as a narco-state. He claimed that cocaine trafficked through the region originates from neighboring Colombia and stated that Venezuela has “the perfect model” to combat drug trafficking.
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