(Dave Bedard photo)

Diesel prices remain high across Prairies

CNS Canada — While the price of crude oil continues to decline across North American markets, diesel remains stubbornly high in Western Canada. Prices are equal to gasoline, or in some cases, exceeding them by as much as 10 cents in some Saskatchewan and Manitoba locations. “Diesel production in the West has been crimped by […] Read more


(Dave Bedard photo)

Diesel prices seen softening soon

CNS Canada — Canadian diesel prices should go down between now and the end of the summer, according to a fuel expert. Since early May, the price of diesel across the Prairies has largely been in and around the 94-98 cents per litre range. Tom Kloza of the Oil Price Information Service reported prices on […] Read more






Crude oil price has little impact on cattle market

Crude oil price has little impact on cattle market

A review of the numbers fails to show any correlation between the two

Over the past month, I’ve received many inquiries from cattle producers in regards to the relationship between crude oil prices and the cattle market in Western Canada. Cattle prices have remained near historical highs while crude oil values have dropped by nearly 60 per cent since the summer of 2014. Often we are confident that […] Read more

oil derrick pumping in a wheat field

World events impact the farm

When you’re a farmer, world economics have a direct impact on your bottom line. Here’s a review of some of the hotspots to watch for the rest of the winter

Let’s review world events that could impact grain markets. Recent U.S. economic reports show the economy growing at a better-than-expected pace over the last few months. This is starting to push the U.S. dollar higher as investors look to the dollar as a safe investment haven. This is driving the Canadian dollar lower, back down […] Read more


Market macro review for 2015

Market macro review for 2015

World grain supplies, politics, economics and weather can all have an influence on the price of your grain

In this column we’ll look at some macro issues that can and likely will influence grain markets in 2015 and beyond. World supplies Bumper crops in the U.S. An average crop on top of a bumper crop last year in Western Canada. Normal to above average production in the EU, but quality problems this year. […] Read more

silhouette of an oil rig

Low oil prices will definitely impact beef market

Fed cattle prices reached record highs in mid-December with Alberta packers purchasing steers in the range of $179 to $182, up nearly $10 from a month earlier. Market-ready supplies of fed cattle remain relatively tight while consumer demand has increased during the holiday season. Retailers have been selling beef in smaller packages in an effort […] Read more