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December 18, 2025

Please note: There will be no Fast 5 Weekly Update for the next 2 weeks in observation of the holidays. We’re wishing you a happy holiday season!

ASA ELECTS 2026 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, WELCOMING 13 NEW BOARD MEMBERS

During its annual election meeting in St. Louis, the American Soybean Association (ASA) Board of Directors voted in the executive committee members who will lead the organization through the coming year’s top advocacy priorities. The board elected Ryan Frieders, Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) District 1 Director, as an At-large Member of the Executive Committee, along with Scott Gaffner, ISA At-Large Director and Secretary, as a new Director.

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TRUMP ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES $12 BILLION FARMER BRIDGE PAYMENTS

The Trump Administration alongside U.S. Secretary of Agriculture staff and farmers from 8 states announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will make $12 billion available in one time bridge payments to American farmers.

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STAY CONNECTED WITH THE ISA MARKET DEVELOPMENT EMAIL CAMPAIGN

The Market Development Email Campaign connects agronomic realities with global demand trends, export opportunities and committee-funded projects to help Illinois farmers understand how ISA is supporting long-term value for their soybeans.

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45Z TAX CREDITS SET TO BRING WINDFALL TO ETHANOL PLANTS

Major changes to the 45Z tax credit are set to go into effect at the end of the month. Scott Irwin, ag economist at the University of Illinois, says the passage of the July reconciliation package is bringing a windfall to ethanol producers.

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PHANTOM OF THE FIELD: SOYBEAN CYST NEMATODE

Soybean cyst nematode (SCN) is the No. 1 yield-robbing pest of soybeans in the Midwest. Many farmers know SCN exists but few realize how much it may be cutting into their bottom line.

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