CHS posts wider second quarter loss as costs rise across key segments

The agribusiness firm reported higher losses despite steady revenue growth during the period.

USACHS Inc. has reported a wider net loss for the second quarter of its 2026 fiscal year, as higher costs and weaker margins weighed on its performance across energy, grains and agronomy operations.

The company posted a net loss of $147.1 million (US$147.1 million) for the quarter that ended February 28, 2026, compared to a net loss of $75.8 million (US$75.8 million) during the same period last year. Revenue rose to $8.4 billion (US$8.4 billion), up from $7.8 billion (US$7.8 billion) a year earlier.

“CHS continues to deliver strong operational performance for our owners, despite the significant ongoing global industry challenges that are reflected in our financial results,” said Jay Debertin, president and CEO of CHS Inc.

Energy and grains weigh on results

The company reported a pretax loss of $133.6 million (US$133.6 million) in its energy segment. Higher renewable fuel credit costs and hedging losses drove this decline, even as stronger refining margins and improved fuel sales helped limit the impact.

In grains, CHS recorded a pretax loss of $17.9 million (US$17.9 million), compared to a smaller loss last year. Lower oilseed processing margins reduced earnings, although higher corn export volumes and stronger retail margins provided some support.

The agronomy segment posted a pretax loss of $11.5 million (US$11.5 million). Lower sales volumes in crop nutrients and protection products affected results, but gains from its CF Nitrogen joint venture helped offset part of the decline.

CHS said it has adjusted its reporting structure from fiscal year 2026 to reflect a new operating model built around product lines.

“We will remain focused on cost discipline, operational excellence and supplying our owners with the inputs they need during planting season,” Debertin added.

Leadership change at board level

In a separate development, long-serving board member Dan Schurr stepped down from the CHS Board of Directors on March 30, 2026.

Schurr left before the end of his term after accepting a new role on the board of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. He had served on the CHS board since 2006 and held the position of chair from 2017 to 2025.

“We thank Dan for his two decades of commitment to CHS and the cooperative system,” said C.J. Blew. “His vision, insights and dedication to shared success have been instrumental in CHS growth and strength.”

CHS said the vacant board seat will remain open until members elect a new director at the company’s 2026 annual meeting.

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