Why is ADM Offering "Free" Soybean Storage??

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Today’s episode breaks down ADM’s unusual “free DP” offer, the latest on U.S.–China trade talks, and how it’s all shaping market action this week.

🚜 ADM Deferred Pricing Offer

ADM is now offering deferred pricing at its Decatur, IL facility — a move aimed at jumpstarting soybean deliveries. Farmers can deliver soybeans now, transfer ownership, and set a final price anytime before September 2026.

🟡 No storage fees

🟡 Immediate ADM ownership

🟡 Unusual timing — normally seen after the new year

Slow farmer sales due to weak prices are tightening processor supplies, prompting ADM’s rare “free DP” incentive.

🇺🇸🇨🇳 U.S.–China Trade Talks

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng meet in Malaysia this week. The session sets the stage for a Trump–Xi meeting later this month.

👉 Trump hinted he’s open to lowering tariffs if China resumes soybean purchases “like before.”

👉 The trade truce expires in November, keeping markets on edge.

🌽🫘 Futures Update

Corn and soybeans both ended the week higher:

🌽 Dec ’25 Corn – around $4.23, supported by slow sales and lower yields

🫘 Nov ’25 Soybeans – near $10.20, boosted by domestic demand and trade optimism

Overnight gains continued after Trump’s weekend remarks.

🇧🇷 Brazil Planting Progress

Brazilian soybean planting is racing ahead — 23% complete vs. 9% last year.

🌧️ Well-distributed rain + warm temps are ideal.

📊 Conab projects 177.7 MMT, while USDA is at 175 MMT.

(See 14-day forecast from CropProphet below.)

🐄 Cattle Market Moves

Cattle futures tumbled Friday after Trump hinted at potential steps to lower beef prices.

💬 Analyst Brad Kooima says inflation-adjusted prices remain stable, but political pressure could spark a Brazil beef import deal, worrying U.S. producers.

See the Dec Live Cattle chart below.