Corn Futures Climb to .96 Amid Oil Market Concerns

Listen to the Evening Delmarva Farm Report Update — May 1, 2026

DELMARVA — Corn and soybean prices are drawing close attention from Delmarva farmers as planting acreage shifts continue across the region.

Markets

December corn futures climbed to $4.96 today, gaining ground since early April. Market analysts say the increase stems from oil market concerns and potential disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz, not supply and demand fundamentals.

November soybeans settled at $11.68 yesterday, up $0.25 since late March despite heavy ending stocks and limited Chinese buying interest.

USDA projects corn plantings at 95.3 million acres nationwide, down from last year’s 98.8 million. Soybean acreage is expected to jump from 81.2 million to 84.7 million acres this season.

Locally, corn at Laurel Grain Company in Laurel, Delaware is bringing $5.25 a bushel for July delivery. Soybeans there are at $11.44 for July.

Livestock

Livestock markets ended the week lower Friday. August live cattle dropped $0.85 to $247.82 per hundredweight. August feeder cattle fell $1.35 to $372.17.

Forecast

The forecast calls for mostly sunny conditions this afternoon with highs near 62°F. Tonight will be mostly cloudy with a chance of rain showers developing, lows around 49°F. Saturday looks for a slight chance of showers with highs near 60°F.

This article is based on the Delmarva Farm Report Update Evening Edition, May 1, 2026. Hosted by Tom Bradley.