Cash corn prices are lower across the U.S. this week, averaging $3.53/bushel while FOB ethanol plant DDGS prices are down $3.75/MT at $134.50/MT. DDGS are priced at 97 percent of cash corn values, up from last week and just below the three-year average of 106 percent. Soymeal prices are lower as well, reaching $323/MT this week, which puts DDGS prices at 42 percent of soymeal.
Merchandisers report that talk of reduced ethanol plant runtimes has firmed offers and that asking prices are higher heading into the week’s end. International inquiries are active, especially from Vietnam, but exporters report slow sales. Barge CIF NOLA values are steady this week while FOB Gulf offers have fallen $6/MT for September shipment. Rail rates are $2-3/MT higher while prices for 40-foot containers are steady this week.