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Futures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.

Recent 🌧️ in the US brought relief from drought in various regions, including the Corn Belt, Plains, mid-south, and southeast, with 1-2 inches of precipitation. Mississippi River levels are set to rise by 6-7 feet at Memphis, aiding grain transportation.

Brazil's soybean production estimates continue to decline. Crop scout Cordonnier lowered the estimate to 153 million metric tons (mmt) from 155 mmt. USDA and CONAB will provide updated estimates in January, having previously forecasted over 160 mmt.

US hiring is expected to slow in 2024, impacting wage gains and inflation. Projections suggest annual wage gains may drop to 4.3%. December's jobs report is expected to show 170,000 job gains, but early 2024 could average only 80,000 monthly additions.

US bond yields fell after the Treasury Department's $58 billion 5-year Treasury note sale. Markets anticipate an 86% chance the Fed will keep rates steady in January and an 85% probability of a 0.25% rate cut in March. By December 2024, the Fed's main rate could range from 3.75% to 4%.

Stocks closed higher, with the S&P 500 nearing its record high, up 0.14% at 4,781. 📈 The Dow is poised for a 13% yearly gain, the S&P 500 for 24%, and the Nasdaq for 44%. 📊 Uncertainty remains regarding potential Fed rate cuts and their impact on markets. 🤔