WEST LAFAYETTE, IND. (RFD NEWS) — Researchers at Purdue University and CME Group are seeing a notable improvement in farmer sentiment in March, according to the latest Ag Economy Barometer, released on Tuesday morning, signaling cautious optimism across the sector.
The index climbed 11 points in March, reaching 127, despite ongoing producer concerns about rising input costs. Current Conditions also improved, up 6 points from last month, with more respondents saying they believe the U.S. is headed in the right direction.
Looking ahead, Future Expectations jumped 14 points as a growing share of respondents anticipate land values will increase over the next five years—signaling stronger long-term optimism.
Dr. Michael Langemeier, senior author of the report with Purdue University, joins us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report for a deeper look at the latest findings and his overall takeaways from the latest results and offered expectations for the months ahead.
Langemeier discussed the key factors contributing to this month’s rise and whether the increase came as a surprise. He also highlighted survey responses on inflation and interest rate expectations, as well as insights into leasing farmland for solar energy production.
The barometer also tracks farmer perceptions of the U.S. heading in the “right direction,” with Langemeier noting a significant improvement in farmer sentiment over recent months — with 65% agreeing in the latest survey.
For communities that depend on agriculture as their primary economic engine, the recession is not defined by headlines on Wall Street. It is defined by the quiet disappearance of the businesses that once processed, serviced, and supported the crop.
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