Position your farm for success in 2024 and beyond. BY KRISS NELSON
T
he ever-changing domestic and international markets represent opportunities and challenges for Iowa soybean farmers. “There are a lot of issues happening internationally that farmers may not be putting the dots together about what it means for export markets,” says Matt Herman, Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) senior director of renewable products marketing. To provide insight into global and domestic market trends and their impact on a farmer’s return on investment for 2024 and beyond, ISA is hosting the Farm Forward conference on Jan. 30 in Des Moines. “The Farm Forward event is an exclusive opportunity for Iowa soybean farmers to better understand and navigate the many production and market forces shaping our industry,” says Michael Dolch, ISA senior director of public affairs. “Farmers who attend this event are not just preparing for the next season; they are positioning themselves at the forefront of agricultural innovation and market strategy for years to come.” Keynote speaker Frank Kelly will set the stage for a day leading to what could affect the future of biofuels, soybean breeding and markets.
Kelly, founder and managing partner of Fulcrum Macro Advisors, will provide insights on geopolitical and U.S. political issues, the economics surrounding those matters and the potential implications for the soybean industry. “I think the United States is going to be called Frank Kelly, keynote on more to be a critical speaker for Farm Forward supplier to the world,” says Kelly. “As markets are shifting overseas, there are risks to the food supply outside of the U.S., which may pressure farmers to produce more efficiently than they already do. When there are issues with food security — where do you go? I predict you will go to the freest market in the world.” The conference will entail three panel discussions followed by a question-and-answer session.
“The marketplace is so complex. Let us put some experts in the room and distill the information so you can make informed business decisions.” Brent Swart, ISA president-elect and farmer f rom Spencer
18 | JANUARY 2024 | IASOYBEANS.COM
