Soybeans swung on weather, China, and record crop
USDA stock cuts and strong demand Early in the quarter, the USDA cut its estimate of soybean stockpiles, and strong exports and biofuel demand pushed prices to a two-year high. Dry weather in the Midwest also raised fears about the crop.
This explains the initial bullish driver of the quarter.
Midwest rain and crude oil plunge Midwest rain improved crop conditions, and a sharp drop in crude oil prices reduced demand for soy-based biofuels. These factors reversed the rally and sent prices lower.
This shows the bearish turn that reversed early gains.
Chinese purchases and Black Sea fears Later, Chinese buying and concerns about Black Sea grain supply pushed prices to three-year highs. Ongoing Chinese demand and biofuel use provided support.
This highlights the later bullish factors that drove prices up again.
Record crop and China tariff A record 4.5-billion-bushel US crop and favorable weather weighed on prices. China kept a 10% tariff on US soybeans, capping gains. Black Sea peace talks also posed downside risk by potentially normalizing grain exports.
This shows the bearish factors that limited the upside.