Merchandisers' Corner

The Incredible Shrinking Margin

Courtesy of Diana Klemme

Monthly continuation chart
Monthly continuation chart
Source: CFTC weekly Commitment of Traders report

“I’m taking my soybeans down the road this year — their bid is a nickel higher than yours most days anymore, and their moisture discounts are better, too.” Sound familiar? Managers always dread when farmers say they’re going elsewhere — whatever the reason. Sometimes a customer does leave because of price; that farmer is commonly known as a “transaction customer.” This customer typically has little loyalty and always has an eye for the better deal, and may come and go with...
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The Incredible Shrinking Margin

“I’m taking my soybeans down the road this year — their bid is a...

Article • September 26th, 2011
The Magic of Trading in Limit Markets

Diana Klemme explores strategies for selling futures on "limit-down" days.

Article • July 12th, 2011
Affordable Options

CME/CBOT launches Weekly Grain Option Contracts in late May 2011.

Article • May 11th, 2011
Fast Forward

Use technology to your advantage to enhance your business, and to make your...

Article • April 18th, 2011
When $7 = $4.80

How elevator managers can wear the "farm advisor" hat while maintaining...

Article • January 24th, 2011
KC Wheat Futures Shift Gears

Climbing wheat futures make elevator managers struggle to meet margin calls...

Article • December 9th, 2010
Happy Customers Spur Long-Term Success

Excellent customer service requires more than a thank you and a smile...

Article • September 27th, 2010
Bigger Crops Pose Big Challenges

Along with adding space, strategically re-evaluate your firm's position for...

Article • September 20th, 2010
Grains on the Plains

Corn and soybean acreage now exceeds wheat on the Great Plains for the...

Article • July 23rd, 2010
“Common Sense” Trading Decisions

Use charts and spreadsheets to analyze the numbers, and listen to the...

Article • May 11th, 2010
2009 Crop: Record Yield, Record Problems?

Merchandising is more than buying and selling grain; it’s about using...

Article • March 2nd, 2010
About Face?

Must all good things come to an end? Corn futures moved above $3 in the...

Article • February 4th, 2010
A harvest for history

In a matter of months, the main concern shifted from worrying about whether...

Article • January 12th, 2010
Wheat: The Road to Convergence

The CBT unveiled its new wheat contract and Feed & Grain looks at how the...

Article • October 12th, 2009
Makin’ Money

Information on grain handling and marketing strategies to build profits.

Article • August 10th, 2009