Corn Prices Continue Higher Amid Strong Export Demand

ser_we_are_early · 2026-01-12T17:24:13+00:00

Corn futures show upward movement, with cash valuations rising to $4.08 1/2, driven by strong export demand and favorable technical patterns. However, a shift to bearish sentiment among traders may impact market dynamics.

ser_we_are_early

2026-01-12 17:24:13

Abstract generation in progress

Corn futures maintain their upward trajectory through Tuesday’s trading session, building on the previous day’s strength with gains ranging from 1 to 2 cents across contracts. The momentum reflects solid market fundamentals, particularly strengthened by robust export activity and shifting trader positioning.

Price Action and Market Strength

Current cash corn valuations have risen 1 3/4 cents to $4.08 1/2 according to the CmdtyView national benchmark. This advance continues a constructive technical pattern, with nearby futures at $4.08 1/2 gaining the same 1 3/4 cents. Looking ahead at the contract curve, March 26 Corn trades at $4.46 1/4 (up 1 3/4 cents), May 26 Corn sits at $4.54 (advancing 2 cents), and July 26 Corn holds at $4.60 (up 1 3/4 cents).

Export Demand Supports the Rally

Underpinning the price strength is a remarkable surge in export commitments. Total export sales have reached 50.538 MMT, representing a 30% increase compared to the identical period last year. This performance is notably ahead of schedule—tracking at 62% of the USDA’s full marketing year forecast, exceeding the typical 60% average pace by 2 percentage points. Such export momentum demonstrates sustained global appetite for U.S. corn supplies.

Trader Sentiment Shifts to Bearish

However, the Commitment of Traders data as of December 30 signals a tactical shift among market participants. Managed money repositioned sharply into net short corn futures and options, establishing 23,584 contracts on the short side. This 26,343-contract swing into short positions suggests some traders may be taking profits or anticipating consolidation after the recent advance. Such divergence between bullish export data and bearish trader positioning adds nuance to the market outlook.

How much is corn? Current market values show corn futures trading in the $4.46 to $4.60 range across the near-term contract ladder, with cash corn at $4.08 1/2—reflecting a resilient pricing environment supported by export strength and technical momentum.

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