Commercial banks participating in ag lending are reporting favorable results

Despite a shaky economy, commercial ag lenders say they have been having a good run lately.

Analysts with the University of Illinois found in the fourth quarter of last year, commercial banks specializing in ag lending reported a higher return on average assets. They also found they are more cost-efficient than non-ag banks.

The banking sector is still resilient overall, but Fed Chair Jerome Powell warns the outlook is uncertain because of high inflation.

Related Stories
Real Ag’s Shaun Haney explains how farmers are approaching risk management and the steps they’re taking to strengthen profitability through better financial planning.
Valley Irrigation’s Darren Siekman explains the advantages of their new pivots for growers managing acreages of up to 60 acres.
ASFMRA’s George Baird shares insight on spring planting progress, acreage trends, and the financial factors influencing Mid-South farmers this season.
Heavy cattle weights are cushioning beef supplies despite shrinking herd numbers.
Domestic textile demand plays a shrinking role in supporting U.S. cotton prices.
Strong cattle markets are masking ongoing financial stress across crop agriculture.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

RFD News correspondent Frank McCaffrey reports from Texas on the ongoing water dispute and its implications for U.S. farmers.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney discusses the latest developments in the Supreme Court, trade tariffs, and the future of the USMCA under President Donald Trump.
The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2026 agenda centers on labor stability, biosecurity, and economic resilience for family farms. Expanded DMC coverage improves risk protection for dairy operations facing tighter margins.