CBOT soybeans rose, supported by concerns over crop conditions and fresh export news. The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed on Monday that private exporters sold 488,000 tonnes of U.S. soybeans to China, along with another 136,150 tonnes sold to unknown destinations. Cumulative sales to China and unknown destinations have reached 2.72 million tonnes since July 8. On the weather front, the soybean good-to-excellent rating released by the USDA after the close held at 63%, the lowest for this time of year in three years and below market expectations of 64%. Despite forecasts of weekend rainfall in the Midwest, persistently low condition ratings continue to raise concerns over yield prospects. On balance, strong exports and low good-to-excellent ratings provide underlying support for U.S. soybeans, though pressure from improving weather remains. In the short term, prices are likely to maintain a firm and volatile pattern.