Economists at the Kansas City Fed say that weaker crop prices over the past year have reduced farm income. That has led to lower loan repayment rates and more renewals and extensions. Last year, farm banks issued more than $115 billion in agricultural loans.
Meanwhile, farm bankruptcies are also on the rise. A University of Arkansas study shows more U.S. farms filed in the first three months of 2025 than in all of 2024.
Extension economist Ryan Loy says the 259 filings signal financial stress, similar to that seen in 2018 and 2019. He points to low commodity prices and higher costs for seed, fertilizer, and diesel.
Related Stories
Enforceable origin labels could create clearer premiums for U.S. cattle and address concerns some producers have had with competition from foreign imported beef.
A Reuters report shows China has a soybean “glut,” finding stockpiles at Chinese ports are at record levels, with crushers there holding the most supplies since 2017.
The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) says recent wins in markets like Malaysia and Cambodia help farmers focus on production rather than trade barriers.
Pasture, Rangeland and Forage (PRF) interval selection—not just participation—drives protection levels as rainfall patterns become less predictable across the South.
A smaller U.S. turkey flock and resurgent avian flu have tightened supplies, driving prices higher even as other key holiday foods show mixed trends.
The allure of rural property — with its promise of space, freedom, and self-sufficiency — is undeniable, but local zoning regulations govern the reality.
