Farmland values have held steady so far this year. One analyst has been watching closely and says profitability will determine how the rest of the year goes.
“If things kind of stay the same, I don’t think we’ll see much change. But if we see any hiccups that affect the farm economy in a negative fashion, I think we could see somewhat of a downturn in general. And you know, those, those geopolitical events, uncertainty, these tariffs and things like that, are all playing a little part in in the in our US economy in general, but, but really have an opportunity to impact the ag economy,” said with Paul Shadegg, Senior Vice President of Real Estate at Farmers National Company.
Analysts have found high commodity prices in 2021-2023 led to growth in both cash rents and land values, which is likely a driving factor behind recent steady prices.
Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
January 20, 2026 02:47 PM
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Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.
January 20, 2026 02:04 PM
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From rising trade tensions in Europe to a pending Supreme Court decision on tariffs and shifting demand from China, global trade policy spearheaded by President Donald Trump continues to shape the outlook for U.S. agriculture—adding uncertainty as farmers navigate another volatile year.
January 20, 2026 01:14 PM
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The Surface Transportation Board rejects the proposed Norfolk Southern–Union Pacific merger, prompting concerns from agricultural shippers about rail consolidation, service reliability, and higher transportation costs.
January 20, 2026 12:25 PM
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Congressional leaders signal momentum toward expanded, targeted farm aid to help producers manage losses and cash-flow stress in 2026.
January 20, 2026 11:48 AM
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Livestock strength is carrying the farm economy, while crop margins remain tight and increasingly dependent on risk management and financial discipline.
January 19, 2026 05:00 PM
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