08/03/26 New Month, Same Volatile Factors in Play

08/03/2026 Click Above to Watch the Morning Market Talk Video New Month, Same Volatile Factors in Play On the Grains Grain and soy markets favored the downside overnight as traders monitored weather, geopolitical events and potential Chinese demand. The same volatile market factors that shaped price action through July are still in play as the calendar has flipped to August. Weather is the primary focal point for corn and soybeans and leans bearish, as rains swept across the Corn Belt from Friday through Sunday, providing a needed shot of moisture for many areas. But the driest locations in the northwestern Corn Belt, including northwestern Iowa, had disappointing results. This week’s forecast calls for additional rainfall chances and cooler temperatures. Geopolitics are a mixed bag. Russia and Ukraine continue to attack each other’s grain export capabilities in the Black Sea region. Both have warned of reduced exports while seeking alternative routes. Meanwhile, the sitaution in the Middle East is pivoting back to diplomacy, with President Trump saying the U.S. would engage in talks with Iran today. Chinese demand is cautiously optimisic. More daily sales of U.S. soybeans could surface, with China rumored to have purchased multiple cargoes for shipment out of…