Market report for Friday April 5, 2013

Global markets are trading lower this morning as economic and geopolitical concerns rule. US employment numbers for March came in well below expectations. In Canada, March job losses were the highest since 2009. Concerns over North Korea also loom large for investors.
 
With investors likely to move to less risky assets today, expect the US dollar to rise, and commodities to fall.
 
Crops:
The crop sector is being led lower by soybeans. China, the world’s largest importer of soybeans, continues to be cited as the reason investors are liquidating their positions. There are concerns that Chinese bird flu will entice consumers to consume less domestically raised meat – which is fed soybeans. At least one analyst, however, believes that the downward price action may be overdone – but the overall negative tone in markets will likely dominate today.
 
Livestock:
Live cattle futures are opening higher. The positive mood in livestock morning session trading appears to be weak, as investors this week have been taking profit before the trading day is over.
 
 
Disclaimer: This commentary is provided for information only and is not intended as advice