1. Soybean Futures Lower Overnight on Weak Sales

Soybean futures took a hit overnight as export sales for the week ending February 5 fell to a new low for the current marketing year. According to a report from the USDA, sales of U.S. soybeans to foreign buyers plummeted to 281,800 metric tons.

This figure represents a 36% drop from the previous week and an alarming 80% decline from the four-week average, marking the lowest sales since the 2025/2026 marketing year commenced on September 1.

Notable buyers included China, with purchases of 286,100 metric tons, followed by Egypt at 167,000 tons, the Netherlands at 57,100 tons, Japan at 522,200 tons, and Malaysia at 30,200 tons.

In contrast, corn sales soared this week, jumping 99% from the prior week to reach 2.07 million metric tons, with Japan being the largest buyer at 616,000 metric tons.

Wheat sales also saw an increase, rising to 488,000 metric tons, up 31% from last week. Key buyers included the Philippines, Mexico, Japan, and Bangladesh.

Since the beginning of the marketing year in September, overseas commitments for soybeans have reached 34.6 million metric tons, reflecting a 20% year-on-year drop. In comparison, corn sales rose by 31% to 60.8 million tons. Wheat sales also climbed 16% to 22.5 million tons, according to USDA data.

As for the futures market, March delivery soybean futures fell by 5¢ to $11.32¼ a bushel. Corn futures also dipped by 1¢ to $4.30¼ a bushel, while wheat saw a decline of 3¼¢ to $5.49¼ a bushel.

2. Corn Demand Remains Strong; Best Months Ahead, USDA Reports

In another report, the USDA highlighted robust demand for U.S. corn, indicating significant year-over-year increases in purchases as the peak shipping season approaches.

Since September 1, overseas buyers have committed to purchasing 60.8 million metric tons of U.S. corn—a 31% rise compared to last year. Export totals have increased by 47% year-on-year, reaching 34.7 million metric tons, according to USDA data.

Peak export season typically covers March to May, which suggests that favorable conditions lie ahead. The USDA has optimistic projections for shipments in the 2025/2026 marketing year, raising its forecast to 3.3 billion bushels, which subsequently lowers ending stock estimates.

While the carryout projection decreased month-on-month, it remains the highest since the 2018/2019 marketing year.

3. Warm, Rainy Weather Expected in Central Missouri

As for the weather, temperatures in central Missouri are expected to remain above normal through the weekend; however, significant rainfall is on the horizon according to the National Weather Service.

Precipitation is likely starting late tonight, with potential totals exceeding an inch along the Interstate 70 corridor. Thunderstorms are anticipated in the southern Plains, which could bring damaging hail and winds.

Looking ahead, the forecast suggests dry weather moving in next week, raising concerns about wildfire risks in Oklahoma and Texas panhandles on Tuesday and Wednesday.