eCBOT Close, Early Call

eCBOT grains closed firmer Tuesday garnering strength from outside markets.

Soybeans closed the overnight session 22-23c firmer, with wheat up around 12-13c and corn 11-13c higher.

Asian and European stock markets were sharply higher, as was crude oil which posted gains of around $3.50/barrel.

There is also speculation that a declining dollar and slumping shipping costs will spur demand for U.S. supplies from overseas importers.

The Baltic Dry Freight Index fell 11 percent yesterday to 1,976 points, according to the Baltic Exchange in London. That's the lowest since August 2005.

Meanwhile central banks' moves to ease credit may spur demand for commodities according to some speculators.

Early calls for this afternoons CBOT session: Corn futures are expected to open 10 to 13 higher; soybeans 20 to 25 higher; wheat 12 to 15 higher.