SPRING 2011 VOL 9, ISSUE 1 www.gleadell.co.uk
Where next for Grain prices? Worldwide grain prices have again caught the attention of the popular media over the past six months as we have seen a fundamental supply squeeze translated into sky rocketing price levels for all grains and oilseeds. The Russian export ban, the Ukrainian export ban and subsequent quota system, the USA’s insatiable appetite for corn (maize) in bioethanol plants - which is expected to grow to 40% of total US production in 2011/2 - and an extremely tight supply and demand situation in EU grain markets have all combined to push the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation’s global price index to an all time high. It is now above the levels seen in 2008.
Contents MARKET PROSPECTS
The chart below here looks back at the last twelve years for the November LIFFE wheat contract and, if projected forwards, it would indicate two things. Firstly, that prices will remain extremely volatile and will move more dramatically than we have seen before. Secondly, that farmers will be given good opportunities to secure a profit for forward marketing years by locking into attractive grain prices at the same time as booking their nitrogen requirement. The price trend is still upwards – the dips will be like falling off a cliff and the rallies will be like looking at the north face of the Eiger – but being involved in food and feed production will be an essential, profitable and at times an extremely exciting business. David Sheppard, managing director, Gleadell Agriculture
UK NOVEMBER LIFFE WHEAT CONTRACT 2000 - 2011
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Gleadell's traders discuss market prospects for feed grain, milling wheat, oilseed rape, pulses, organic sector and oats.
FOCUS ON MALTING BARLEY
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A look at current and future malting barley markets, consumer customers and innovations.
A PARTNERSHIP FOR FARMING SOLUTIONS
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Gleadell's new partnership aims to discuss farming challenges, share relevant resources, swap technical knowledge and seek new opportunities in cropping and technology options for UK agriculture.
VARIETIES FOR AUTUMN 2011
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Newly HGCA-recommended winter oilseed rape and wheat varieties bring yield and agronomic pluses to growers this autumn.
FOCUS ON FERTILISER
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Supply and demand changes, commodity prices, production costs and freight costs continue to direct the market.
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FOCUS ON GLEADELL
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A look at how Gleadell's grain terminal has benefited a leading farming company in the region.
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GLEADELL AROUND THE COUNTRY 60 2000
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Gleadell Agriculture Limited
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Continuing developing prompts a move to new and larger offices for Gleadell's southern team.
www.gleadell.co.uk
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