Corn hits nine-month low as US–Iran peace deal pressures grain markets

Global corn prices fell to a nine-month low on Monday, while wheat and soybeans also declined following news of a preliminary peace agreement between the United States and Iran that could restore shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The deal triggered a sharp drop in oil prices, which in turn weighed on agricultural commodities closely linked to energy markets.

The most active corn contract on the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) fell to its weakest level since August, while wheat dropped to its lowest since April and soybeans reached their lowest level since February. Soft commodities such as sugar also declined amid broader weakness in energy markets.

Analysts note that agricultural markets are increasingly influenced by oil price movements due to the growing role of biofuels, which ties grain demand more closely to energy dynamics. As a result, expectations of lower crude prices have amplified pressure on corn, wheat, and soy.

Market participants said the announcement of a potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz significantly reduced risk premiums in energy trading. This shift quickly spilled over into grains and other commodities that are sensitive to transportation and input costs.

However, traders remain cautious, as the agreement has not yet been formally signed and geopolitical uncertainty in the Middle East persists. Some importers are delaying purchases in anticipation of further price declines, which is also contributing to weaker demand.

Despite the downturn, analysts say a rebound in buying activity could follow if the deal is finalized and prices stabilize at lower levels.

Tags: wheat, corn, prices, soybean