Have the Commodity Markets Topped?
March 17, 2011
The Continuous Commodity Index set record highs pretty much from December through February but the trend has recently changed.
December 22, 2010
The coffee market has been trading at 13 year highs as of late around $2.30 a bushel. Chart models are suggesting the next step for the coffee market may be $2.75.
December 9, 2010
I noticed recently that gasoline prices in our neck of the woods are nearing $3 a gallon. And it’s likely that we will surpass $3 in the coming weeks due to the recent run up in crude oil. It surprises me that I haven’t heard more push back on the elevated gasoline prices and their potential draw on the US consumer.
More on Protein Supplies for 2011
December 2, 2010
This model gives us an indication of hog farmer profitability which, as one can tell, has declined sharply in recent months. If I included charts for chicken producers, milk farmers and various other protein producers they would be similar.
November 18, 2010
A lot of attention has been given to China during the past week with the news that they will attempt to slow their economy to mitigate inflation which has had a bearish influence on the commodity markets.
Waning Protein Farmer Margins and Pending Protein Supplies
November 11, 2010
Besides a general seasonal decline in protein prices during the fall, feed prices are currently averaging about 19% above last year and 52% above the 5 year average for this time of the year.
The Elections, Commodities and Ethanol
November 4, 2010
Ethanol in the US is made from grain corn and has had a notable influence of food market volatility in recent years.
October 28, 2010
Butter stocks have become especially short compared to the prior year averages. September 30th US butter stocks were 43% less than last year, 33% less than the five year average for the date and the smallest for any month since December 2008.
Record High Retail Protein Price Average
October 21, 2010
Retail protein prices have risen throughout 2010 reaching what we believe to be a record high for the beef, pork and chicken average.
Chicken Production Slowdown Coming?
October 14, 2010
This signals continued expansion for chicken production above prior year levels in the coming months. Is this really sustainable, however?
E-Insurance: When will the insurance industry adopt modern communication tools?
February 14, 2012
ATMs could distribute prepaid Visa cards
January 23, 2012
PayPal can thrive as a standalone company
January 9, 2012
Europe's CO2 Emissions Trading System works, but it can be improved
December 16, 2011
European women wonder why their insurance premiums will increase
December 15, 2011