Analysts say this week’s data around planting intentions was not surprising, and economists at the Farm Bureau believe trade issues played a role in the results.
“I think this year might have even more uncertainty than normal around the quickly escalating trade war and the big question marks in the biofuel policy space. These dual concerns and uncertainties with sliding prices as well for soybeans, I think, led to some of the significant drop in soybean acres,” said Betty Resnick.
For most farmers, business is as usual despite the current uncertainty in the industry. While this week’s information from USDA was helpful, one broker says he has his sights set a few months out.
”...The May WASDE report will help us to see our first balance sheets for the new crop, corn and beans, but overall, these numbers will change. We won’t see any major changes until we get that June report,” said Greg McBride.
Another big economic indicator out this week shows that producer sentiment is slipping. This month’s Ag Economy Barometer shows a 12-point drop from last month, and it comes after a 15-point drop in February. Economists from Purdue University say weak expectations for the future led to the decline.
Michelle Perez shares more about the American Farmland Trust’s resource to help farmers and producers plan soil health improvements.
December 19, 2025 02:03 PM
·
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer outlines the key difference between previous ECAP payments and the Farm Bridge Assistance Program.
December 19, 2025 01:56 PM
·
Weather-driven transportation disruptions can tighten logistics, affect basis levels, and delay grain movement during winter months.
December 19, 2025 12:55 PM
·
USDA Undersecretary Luke Lindberg outlines the Farm Bridge Assistance Program and responds to calls from lawmakers and ag leaders for more assistance and expanded trade opportunities for farmers.
December 19, 2025 12:46 PM
·
Callahan is no stranger to agricultural trade and has been with the U.S. Trade Representative’s office since 2016.
December 19, 2025 11:53 AM
·
Record ethanol production, coupled with stronger demand, supports corn use despite tighter margins elsewhere.
December 18, 2025 02:32 PM
·
A new maritime biofuels coalition aims to position ocean shipping as a significant growth market for U.S. crops and waste-derived fuels.
December 17, 2025 07:00 AM
·
Sponsored
Golden Harvest’s Corn Technical Product Lead, Todd McRoberts, unveils their line of Northern corn hybrids built for resilience and performance in colder climates.
Transportation access, legal disputes, and fertilizer freight costs will directly influence input pricing and grain movement in 2026.
December 16, 2025 01:37 PM
·