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PodcastAgriTalkMay 12, 2026

What’s Impacting Wheat Prices Amid Rising Crude Oil Costs?

Wheat futures are rising due to higher crude oil prices and planting reports.

AI-generated source brief by USFarms.ag, based on AgriTalk. How our briefs are made

Source published May 12, 2026. Check the source date before applying seasonal guidance. Brief published .

grain marketscattle marketUSDA reportsplanting progressexecutive orders

Source summary

What this podcast covered

Wheat Market Dynamics

The rise in wheat futures is largely attributed to the increase in crude oil prices, which has historically influenced grain markets. The Kansas wheat tour is also a significant event, as it provides insights into crop conditions that can affect market sentiment.

Cattle Market Uncertainty

President Trump's decision to delay executive orders regarding beef imports has created volatility in the cattle market. This uncertainty is particularly relevant as affordability becomes a key issue leading up to the midterm elections.

Planting Progress Update

Recent reports indicate that corn planting is ahead of the five-year average, with 57% completed, while soybean planting is at 49%. This rapid progress is encouraging for farmers as they prepare for the growing season.

Anticipation of USDA Reports

The upcoming USDA WASDE report is highly anticipated, as it will provide the first official look at the new crop marketing year. Stakeholders are eager to see how the USDA will adjust its estimates based on current planting and yield conditions.

Labor Issues in Agriculture

As the agricultural sector faces labor shortages, discussions around expanding visa programs are becoming increasingly important. States like Idaho and Texas are experiencing population growth, but lack the necessary workforce to support their agricultural needs.

Key takeaways

5 things worth knowing

  1. 01

    Wheat futures are rising due to higher crude oil prices and the Kansas wheat tour.

  2. 02

    Corn planting is ahead of the five-year average at 57%, while soybeans are at 49%.

  3. 03

    President Trump's delayed executive orders are causing volatility in the cattle market.

  4. 04

    The USDA's WASDE report is expected to provide crucial insights into crop conditions and demand.

  5. 05

    Labor issues in agriculture are becoming increasingly pressing as the midterm elections approach.

Source figures at a glance

At a glance

What the podcast covered, in 4 signals

Grain

Wheat rising

Wheat futures

Supported by crude oil prices and planting reports.

Cattle

Market volatility

Cattle futures

Affected by delayed executive orders on beef imports.

Planting

Progressing well

Corn and soybean planting

57% corn and 49% soybeans planted, ahead of averages.

USDA

Upcoming report

WASDE report

Expected to provide insights into crop conditions.

Questions & answers

Quick answers

What factors are driving the rise in wheat prices?

Wheat prices are rising due to higher crude oil prices and the start of the Kansas wheat tour, which has led to increased market activity.

How is the cattle market affected by recent policy changes?

The cattle market is experiencing volatility due to President Trump's delayed executive orders regarding beef imports, which adds uncertainty to pricing.

What is the current status of corn and soybean planting?

As of now, 57% of the corn crop and 49% of the soybean crop have been planted, both ahead of the five-year averages.

Why is the upcoming USDA report significant?

The USDA's WASDE report will provide crucial insights into crop conditions and demand for the new crop marketing year, impacting market expectations.

What labor issues are impacting agriculture?

Labor shortages are becoming a pressing issue in agriculture, with calls for expanded visa programs to address the workforce needs in states like Idaho and Texas.

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