In the News

Be sure to reserve your organization's exhibit space at NAMA's 2012 Conference. For more info, contact Jan Cichello (janc@nama.org) or call her at (913) 491-6500.

presents WEEKLY COMMODITY HIGHLIGHTS

Nearby Futures	Weekly Change	Friday's Close	Year Ago
Corn	+.10	6.41 ¾	7.12 ¾
Soybeans	+.38 ½	12.67 ½	14.04 ½
Wheat	+.14	6.44	8.50 ¾
Cattle	+3.65	128.60	110.28
Hogs	+2.08	90.38	92.18
Cotton	+.84	91.45	204.02
Milk	-.01	16.07	16.98
Crude Oil	+4.57	103.24	86.36

Comments: Grain and soybean futures found support last week from increased demand for U.S. supplies in the world export market and easing concerns about the world economy. Soybean prices led the way higher on China's record commitment to buy 13.4 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans and lower estimates of South American soy production. Wheat futures found support from Egypt's first purchases of U.S. wheat in 8 months and forecasts for a dry spring in the U.S. Plains. Corn futures gains lagged amid concerns about corn-for-ethanol demand and prospects for big U.S. corn plantings. Livestock futures had a strong week with Feb. live cattle posting an all-time high for nearby futures as cash prices in the U.S. Plains shot to record levels of $128-$129.50. Lean hogs posted solid gains on stronger pork prices and tightening beef supplies. Favorable U.S. economic data and expectations for Greece to secure a second EU bailout helped boost investors' appetite for risk in commodity markets last week, but European debt concerns are unlikely to disappear as a negative market factor. Many doubt the Greek bailout will ultimately be successful. Click on the Brock logo or call 1-800-558-3431 for more info on our services.