USDA forecasts corn soybean prices above projections for 2026

The USDA released its annual price projections for corn and soybeans in February, but this year’s outlook appears to buck recent trends. Historically, harvest prices for these crops have only exceeded the February forecasts three times in the last decade. However, 2026 is shaping up differently.

Currently, corn harvest prices are projected to be 7 to 8 percent above the February estimates, while soybeans are even stronger at 15 to 16 percent above. This marks the most significant deviation since 2012.

A closer look at December corn reveals a key technical level. After hitting a low of $4.95 over four consecutive trading sessions, the next target for the 50-day moving average is set at $5.07.

The report was authored by Mark Oppold for Southeast AgNet, providing a detailed analysis of the shifting market dynamics for these key agricultural commodities.