Grain Prices Surge on Crop Tour Yield Concerns

A recent crop tour by Pro Farmer has raised concerns about U.S. corn production, leading to an increase in grain prices.

The tour estimated the 2026 U.S. corn yield at 173.2 bushels per acre, below the USDA's estimate of 180.7 bushels. The soybean projection was 53.3 bushels per acre, compared with the USDA's 52.7 bushels.

Crop experts Abhinesh Gopal and Moe Agostino questioned whether the corn estimate was still too optimistic, citing excessive rainfall, storms, hail, and limited sunshine in several key growing areas. Indiana was highlighted as a major concern, with severe weather and excessive moisture affecting crops.

The U.S. corn balance sheet could tighten substantially, potentially pushing the stocks-to-use ratio toward 6 percent. In contrast, Ontario presented a different picture during Agostino's crop tour, with strong crop potential reported in Eastern Ontario corn and soybean yields approaching record levels.