Grain Markets and Other Stuff

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0:00 US/China
2:49 EU Proposes "Zero for Zero"
5:33 Fake News
7:08 Corn is Strong
9:27 Crop Progress
10:37 Strong Corn/Soybean Shipments

President Trump Escalates Trade Tensions with New Tariffs 📈
President Trump ramped up the trade war by threatening a 50% tariff on China, which would increase the total tariff rate on Chinese goods to a staggering 104%. This announcement came after China imposed retaliatory tariffs, including a 34% tariff on U.S. imports. Despite these growing tensions, the market selloff eased after news that the Federal Reserve might lower interest rates, and China signaled readiness for further stimulus to boost consumption. While the tariffs remain controversial, some optimism remains in the markets, particularly regarding potential trade talks with Japan and other countries. 🤝

EU Proposes Zero-for-Zero Tariff Deal with the U.S. 🚗
In a bid to avoid a full-blown trade war, the EU proposed a zero-for-zero tariff deal with the U.S. focusing on cars and industrial products. However, the EU also warned of 25% tariffs on U.S. goods if a deal isn't reached by April 15. The EU's proposed agreement could have a significant impact on trade relations, especially with the U.S. demanding commitments from Europe to purchase $350 billion in American energy products. This raises the question—could Trump push for similar deals for U.S. grain exports? 🌾

False CNBC Report Adds Confusion to Market Chaos 📉
CNBC’s unconfirmed report about a potential 90-day tariff pause triggered confusion and a massive selloff in markets, with the Dow experiencing record intraday volatility. Although the White House denied the claims, the confusion contributed to an already tense market environment. 📉

US Corn Futures Hold Steady Despite Tariff Concerns 🌽
U.S. corn futures rallied on Monday, closing above near-term resistance. The May25 contract gained 4+ cents, reaching its highest level in over two weeks. Corn futures have largely remained unaffected by the escalating tariff headlines, with shipments to Mexico and Japan continuing without disruption. In the coming week, U.S. trade talks with Japan will take priority, potentially boosting corn exports. 📈

USDA’s Crop Progress Report Shows Early Planting Activity 🌱
USDA’s first national Crop Progress report for the year shows U.S. corn planting at 2% complete, slightly behind the 3% pace from last year. Spring wheat planting is also on track, with 3% of the crop in the ground. The U.S. winter wheat crop is rated 48% good to excellent, slightly below the five-year average. 🌾

Solid Corn and Soybean Shipments 📦
USDA reported solid corn and soybean shipments last week, with corn exports reaching 62 million bushels and soybean shipments up 64% from the same week last year. Wheat exports, however, were down significantly, with a 33% decrease from the previous week. 📊