Soybean futures settled firm behind strong weekly export sales.

Soybean futures remained firm as weekly export sales exceeded estimates, though total year-end figures remain behind projections. The May contract rose 6'3 to settle at 1170'2. Corn futures reached new recent highs, supported by rising export sales and commitments that are up 29 cents year over year. Price action in the corn market continues to recover losses sustained following the January USDA report, with the May contract closing at 449'6. Wheat futures surged as drought conditions in the Southern Plains intensified, with Kansas drought percentages doubling in a single week. May Wheat futures climbed 20'1 to 595'4 while export commitments remained 15% above the previous year.