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.
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StoneX analyst Josh Linville says global supply risks and continued dependence on imported urea are keeping fertilizer markets on edge.
The lockout has not yet signaled a major disruption in the cattle market, but processing reliability remains important in a tight beef supply chain.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer says the “One Big Beautiful Bill” could shift how producers donate grain and commodities to charities.
American Farm Bureau economist Bernt Nelson says consumers are still buying meat despite ongoing price pressures.
Analysts say drought, tight cattle supplies and summer grilling demand continue shaping the protein market outlook.
Some producers remain optimistic about farmland markets while others point to growing pressure on margins and income.
