Brazilian Weather Challenges May Boost US Corn Demand
Weather challenges in South America could push commodity prices higher for U.S. farmers this fall, according to market analyst Jeff Peterson.
Peterson notes that some parts of Brazil are facing abnormally wet conditions, which could impact corn planting in the southern region.
The first crop of corn in Brazil is typically used domestically for ethanol production, but if there's a shortage, the country may need to import more from the U.S., creating additional demand.
In addition, Peterson says that abnormally dry conditions in northern Brazil could impact soybean planting and potentially delay the safrinha corn crop, which makes up about 75% of Brazil's production.