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Abstract
This paper investigates the informational value of USDA crop progress and condition information
by analyzing reactions of corn and soybean futures markets from 1986 to 2012. Results show
significant differences between close-to-open return variabilities on report-release trading days
and pre- and postreport days. Additionally, market prices tend to react rapidly and rationally to
new crop-condition information. Strongest reactions are found for July and August, when weather
conditions are most critical for the crop, and reactions have increased over time. Overall, these
results suggest that reports have substantial informational value.