South America’s Soybean Farmers Face Major Challenge: Bloomberg Video Activity

5 months ago

Here is an interesting video related to the financial markets, trade and agriculture. Try to answer the questions by yourself. Check vocabulary and answers with me in our lesson, also discuss the speaking topics with me.
B1-B2 level, intermediate

Watch the video and answer the questions.

LISTENING

Easy: What adverse weather conditions are affecting the Brazilian soybean crop?
Easy: Which region in Brazil is mentioned as facing drought conditions, affecting 30% of the country's soybean production?
Moderate: How much did January soybean futures rally in one month, from October 12th to November 16th?
Moderate: What percentage of Argentina's soybean meal exports does Argentina supply?
Moderate: Why are soybean supplies in Argentina running low?
Difficult: Explain the impact of adverse weather conditions in Brazil on the reluctance of producers to sell old crop soybeans.
Difficult: How has the drought in Argentina during the previous production cycle affected the country's reliance on soybeans from Brazil?
Difficult: Discuss the significance of the 31% rally in US soybean meal futures from October 5th to November 15th.
Challenging: Predict how the reliance of Argentina on soybeans from Brazil might impact the global soybean market in the near future.
Challenging: Analyze the potential long-term consequences for the soybean industry in South America if adverse weather conditions persist in both Brazil and Argentina.


SPEAKING

What is it used for? Soybeans are used to make vegetable oil. How many food products can you think of that contain this?
Do you eat soybean products? Do you think eating soybean based products are healthy or unhealthy? 
Some researchers say that vegetable oils are in fact less healthy than using animal based fats for cooking, what is your opinion or preference?
Soybeans, wheat and corn are examples of staple foods, what other examples can you think of?
Supply Chain Challenges: Considering the adverse weather conditions affecting soybean crops in both Brazil and Argentina, how do you think these challenges might impact the global supply chain for soybeans and soy products? Discuss potential consequences on prices, availability, and international trade.
Global Economic Implications: The video text mentions a sharp rally in US soybean meal futures due to poor conditions in Brazil and increased demand from Argentina. How might this price surge in soybean meal futures impact the economies of countries heavily involved in soybean production and export? Discuss potential economic consequences and strategies that countries might employ to mitigate these effects.