The value of the timing option implicit in CBOT corn futures contract is estimated. Separate estimates are obtained for the option without and with convenience yield. The effect of the option on basis behavior at day one of the maturity month is examined and is found statistically significant.

Elasticities of demand for meat imports in Russia are estimated using an AIDS model. The model differentiates among sources of imports as well as kinds of meat, but since the number of observations on Russian imports is limited, an improved block-substitutability restriction is introduced to...

Price theory suggests that commodity prices should be stationary series. Yet, tests for unit roots rather frequently imply that these prices are not stationary. This seeming inconsistency is investigated by applying alternative specifications of unit root tests to prices of corn, soybeans,...

Descriptive statistics and time-series econometric models are used to characterize the behavior of monthly fluid milk prices. Prices in April, May and June appear to be more variable than those in subsequent months, and the spring-time prices are perhaps skewed. Econometric models can capture...

Endogenous variables in structural models of agricultural commodity markets are typically treated as stationary. Yet, tests for unit roots have rather frequently implied that commodity prices are not stationary. This seeming inconsistency is investigated by focusing on alternative specifications...

This paper surveys and evaluates the current state of knowledge about marketing strategies to manage price and revenue risk for farm commodities. What does existing research tell about the benefits and costs of alternative risk management strategies? What are the limitations of this research?...

Expectations about future economic conditions are important determinants of commodity prices. This paper presents a relatively simple model that makes futures prices for corn a function of expected production and inventories and of variables that account for demand shifts. The intent is to...