Global Demand Signals Keep Corn Rallying Through the Week

Corn markets demonstrated sustained buying interest as Thursday trading concluded with measurable gains, pushing front-month contracts higher by fractional movements ranging from 1/2 to 2 1/2 cents depending on expiration month. The momentum reflects strengthening underlying demand metrics across export channels and international procurement activity.

Export Data Paints a Bullish Picture for Thursday and Beyond

Recent USDA export tracking revealed a significant acceleration in sales momentum. Weekly export commitments totaled 2.38 MMT for the week ending November 13th—marking a four-week high and substantially exceeding analyst expectations of 0.8-2 MMT. Year-over-year comparisons showed this week’s volume running 59.3% ahead of the same period in 2023, signaling enhanced buying interest in global markets.

September shipment data released through delayed Census reporting documented corn exports at record levels, reaching 6.978 MMT (274.7 mbu). This represented a 9.09% sequential jump from August volumes and underscored a robust 60.93% annual comparison. Ethanol shipments during the month totaled 148.4 million gallons, while distiller exports maintained year-over-year gains of 1.47% at 1.059 MMT.

Price Action Reflects Improving Fundamentals

Cash Corn pricing at $4.01 1/2 reflected the bullish tone, with national averages gaining 1 1/2 cents on Thursday’s session. December contract expiration scheduled for Friday added volatility considerations. Looking ahead, March 2026 corn finished at $4.46 1/2 (up 2 1/4 cents), while May 2026 closed at $4.54 1/4 (advancing 2 1/2 cents). December 2025 Corn settled at $4.35 1/4 with a 1/2 cent gain.

International Buying Accelerates Market Momentum

A Taiwan-based importer’s purchase of 65,000 MT overnight provided additional confirmation of solid global demand dynamics. Simultaneously, USDA documented a private export sale commitment of 186,000 MT destined for unspecified markets, further validating the week’s constructive undertone.

South American Supply Adjustments Update Global Outlook

CONAB’s morning release provided updated Brazilian production estimates at 138.88 MMT—a marginal 0.04 MMT increase from their previous assessment. These production signals, combined with Thursday’s export activity, continue shaping price expectations for forward-month contracts across global corn trading venues.