New Study Shows Biofuels Are a Catalyst for U.S. Agriculture

A new study from S&P Global Energy says expanded biofuel demand could provide a major boost to U.S. agriculture while strengthening rural economies and improving food and energy security. The report, commissioned by U.S. Farmers and Ranchers in Action, warns that slowing population growth, stagnant food demand, and declining gasoline use could significantly reduce grain demand in the future. Researchers estimate U.S. corn acreage could fall by nearly one-third by 2050 if ethanol blend rates remain unchanged. USFRA Vice Chair Chip Bowling says the findings show biofuels are "not just an energy solution—they're an economic engine that could transform farming's future." The study projects global biofuel production could triple by 2050 under a high-growth scenario. Stronger biofuel markets would support farm income, encourage adoption of new technology, and keep U.S. corn acreage near current levels. Increased biofuel production could boost food and feed supplies by 45 percent compared to baseline projections.

Will Brazil’s Corn and Soybean Production Continue Growing in 2027?

Questions are emerging about whether Brazil can maintain its rapid pace of soybean and corn production growth in the 2027 crop year. Brazil, the world's largest soybean producer and a major corn exporter, is facing several challenges, including low commodity prices, high fertilizer costs, tight credit conditions, and the threat of El Niño-related weather problems. For the past 15 years, Brazil's soybean and corn output has expanded by roughly 6.5 percent annually. USDA forecasts still call for record soybean and corn production in the 2026-27 marketing year, continuing that trend. However, analysts say rising production costs and financial pressures could make those projections difficult to achieve. Brazil relies heavily on imported fertilizer, and higher input costs are squeezing margins that are already near breakeven levels for many producers. Adding to the uncertainty is the potential for a strong El Niño event, which could disrupt soybean planting and impact second-crop corn yields.

Applications Open for 2027 Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence

The American Farm Bureau is now accepting applications for its 2027 Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence. The award, supported by Farm Credit, recognizes military veterans and active-duty service members who have demonstrated excellence in agriculture while making a positive impact in their communities. The winner will receive a $10,000 cash prize along with travel expenses to attend the = Farm Bureau’s Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, next January. AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, "We're proud to shine a spotlight on veterans for their service to our nation and their meaningful contributions to agriculture and their communities." Last year's recipient was retired Army Command Sgt. Maj. Matthew Rutter of South Carolina. After serving 22 years in the military, Rutter helped launch programs that train veterans for careers in agriculture and assist with the transition to civilian life. Applications are due by Sept. 1. The winner will be announced publicly on Veterans Day.

FSA County Committee Nominations are now Open

The USDA is encouraging farmers and ranchers to step forward and serve on local Farm Service Agency county committees. Nominations are now being accepted for the 2026 election cycle, with forms due to local FSA offices by Aug. 3. FSA county committees help make key decisions on how federal farm programs are administered at the local level, including disaster assistance, conservation programs, commodity support, and county office operations. FSA Administrator Bill Beam says, "Local voices matter, and agricultural producers play an important role in shaping how federal farm programs serve their communities." Eligible candidates must participate in or cooperate in a USDA program and live within a Local Administrative Area that is up for election this year. Producers may nominate themselves, be nominated by others, or be nominated by qualifying organizations. More than 7,700 producers currently serve on FSA county committees nationwide. For more information, contact your local FSA office.

AI Use and Skepticism in Agriculture is Broad

A new survey suggests artificial intelligence is gaining traction on America's farms and ranches, though many producers remain cautious about the technology. Research firm MorganMyers found 75 percent of farmers and ranchers have used AI tools such as ChatGPT or Gemini, with nearly half of those users turning to the technology at least weekly. The survey found AI adoption is highest among dairy producers, younger farmers, and larger operations. Smaller farms, older producers, and many row-crop growers are less likely to use the tools. MorganMyers Senior Vice President Greg Ehm says, "Farmers and ranchers aren't resistant to AI. Our survey confirms they're trying it out and can already see areas where it delivers value." Researchers found most producers use AI for practical business purposes, but trust remains a challenge. Many respondents said AI shows promise but still requires human oversight and validation. Proven results and transparency will be key to broader adoption across agriculture.

CME Group Leader Stepping Down

Leadership changes are coming to CME Group, the parent company of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange and a key marketplace for agricultural futures trading. The company announced that longtime CEO Terry Duffy will step down on March 1, 2027, and transition to the role of executive chairman. He will be succeeded by current President and Chief Financial Officer Lynne Fitzpatrick. Duffy has led CME Group through more than two decades of growth and transformation, helping turn the Chicago-based exchange operator into one of the world's largest derivatives marketplaces. "Leading CME Group through more than 25 years of transformative growth has been among the highest honors of my life," Duffy said in a statement. During his tenure, CME moved from traditional floor trading to electronic markets and completed several acquisitions, including a merger with the Chicago Board of Trade. The leadership transition will be closely watched by agricultural producers who rely on CME markets for grain, livestock, and risk-management pricing.

Thursday Watch List

Markets

Thursday will be the final trading session for the week with grain markets closed on Friday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth. For reports, USDA will release the weekly Export Sales report at 7:30 a.m. CDT. Later in the afternoon, USDA will release the June Cattle on Feed report at 2 p.m. CDT.

Weather

The remnants of Tropical Storm Arthur have moved into the central Gulf Coast with a ball of heavy rain that will continue deeper into the Southeast on Thursday. A front from a system that went through the Midwest on Wednesday will sag into the South and Southeast, enhancing showers as well. Behind the system in some cooler air, areas of isolated showers will be possible from the Midwest back through the Canadian Prairies.