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New book: A terrific refresher for veteran agri-marketers...and for those who want to be. "ProSelling" by Purdue Drs. Scott Downey, Dave Downey, Laura Downey and Adayana's Mike Jackson. Published by Agri Marketing For more information, click here.

presents WEEKLY COMMODITY HIGHLIGHTS

Nearby Futures	Weekly Change	Friday's Close	Year Ago
Corn	-.25 ¼	6.65 ½	3.79 ¼
Soybeans	-.26	13.54 ¼	10.26 ¾
Wheat	-.19 ¾	6.72 ½	6.27 ½
Cattle	+2.08	112.63	91.85
Hogs	+1.95	102.78	84.85
Cotton	+2.94	102.08	80.68
Milk	+.05	21.38	13.74
Crude Oil	-4.17	95.70	77.50

Comments: Grain and soybean futures came under pressure last week from forecasts for improved weather in the Midwest production belt and uncertainty about the U.S. debt situation, which caused nervous investors to cut back on exposure in commodity markets. Weak U.S. GDP data released on Friday also spurred new concerns about the general economy. The apparent deal to raise the debt limit may give grain prices a boost, but trading should remain very choppy into the USDA crop report due out Aug. 11. Wheat futures felt fundamental pressure from rising estimates of Black Sea region grain production and exports. Aggressive Russian export prices will remain a negative factor for wheat futures. Live cattle futures rallied as packers paid more for cattle in Plains markets late in the week and export demand for U.S. beef remained strong. Hog futures continued to find support from strong export demand for U.S. pork and hot Midwest weather, which again slowed hog marketings and limited hog weights. Cotton futures rebounded on speculative profit taking spurred by oversold conditions, but weak demand limited the rally. Click on the Brock logo or call 1-800-558-3431 for more info on our services.