May 18 | Closing Market Report

The May 18, 2026, Closing Market Report highlighted a strong rebound in commodity futures, fueled by optimism over a potential $17 billion increase in Chinese agricultural purchases facilitated by the Trump administration's proposed US-China Board of Trade. Discussing global competitiveness, agricultural economist Joana Colussi noted that while Brazil produces corn at a lower total cost—largely through its second-crop (safrinha) system—the United States remains competitive by achieving double the average yields despite higher overhead and land expenses. Finally, meteorologist Mark Russo reported that favorable weather continues to support rapid planting progress in the US Corn Belt and the safrinha crop in Brazil, though severe long-term dryness continues to plague the US hard red winter wheat regions.---Chapters- Ag Markets with Curt Kimmel, AgMarket.net- Comparing Corn Production Costs in the United States and Brazil- US-China Ag Deliverables: Board of Trade, Soybean Sales, $17bln- Ag Weather with Mark Russo, EverStream.ai ★ Support this podcast ★