Corn Market Surges on Safrinha Planting Concerns and Strong Global Demand The corn market registered a new session of gains, driven by expectations regarding the upcoming planting window for the second (safrinha) crop and by signs of stronger internal and external demand, according to TF Agroeconômica. The rise reflected climatic, operational, and geopolitical factors that influenced both the B3 (Brazil Stock Exchange) and the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT). At the B3, contracts advanced, tracking the international movement despite a decline in the dollar. Analysts estimate that delays in soybean planting are beginning to alter projections for the safrinha corn crop, reducing the ideal window for cultivation. This scenario adds a risk premium to operations, given the possibility of lower productivity and the migration of some producers to shorter-cycle crops. Concurrently, the domestic market shows increased activity. According to Cepea, domestic demand regained strength last week, raising cereal prices in several regions. In this environment, the January 2026 expiration closed at R$ 76.47, with a daily increase of R$ 2.27 and a weekly gain of R$ 4.51. March 2026 ended at R$ 77.41, up R$ 1.44 for the day and R$ 3.69 for the week. May 2026 finished at R$ 76.43, registering a daily increase of R$ 1.25 and a weekly increase of R$ 3.25. In Chicago, prices also rose, supported by the strong pace of United States exports and renewed tensions in the Black Sea. The December quotation advanced 1.21% to 438.00 dollars per bushel, while March rose 1.12% to 450.00 dollars. The market reacted to the escalation of conflicts in the region following Ukrainian attacks on Russian ships, amidst negotiations involving the U.S. and Russia. Ukraine’s relevance as a major exporter added sensitivity to operations.