WASHINGTON, DC (RFD-TV) — The Federal Reserve lowered its benchmark interest rate by a quarter-point on September 17, the first cut of 2025. Chair Jerome Powell said the move was a “risk management” step to support the labor market while inflation remains above target. The Fed also raised its 2026 inflation outlook, signaling persistent cost pressures across the economy.
For agriculture, the modest cut should slightly reduce borrowing costs on operating loans, land notes, and equipment financing, giving some relief to producers under heavy debt loads. At the same time, input costs for fuel, fertilizer, and labor remain elevated, limiting overall margin gains. A softer U.S. dollar could lend support to farm exports, but trade demand remains the dominant driver for prices.
Tony’s Farm-Level Takeaway: The Fed’s rate cut offers limited relief for farm credit costs, but persistent inflation keeps input prices high. Farmers may find refinancing opportunities, though cash-flow discipline remains critical.
Following an on-target CPI, the combination could suggest that inflation is cooling.
Mike Vanmaanen, president of the Livestock Marketing Association, joins us Friday on the Market Day Report for a closer look at the Heritage Act.
So, what’s the path forward for “The One, Big, Beautiful Bill” tax legislation? That’s the topic of today’s
Firm to Farm blog post by RFD-TV legal and tax expert Roger McEowen with Kansas’ Washburn School of Law.
Today’s Firm to Farm blog post by RFD-TV legal and tax expert Roger McEowen provides a brief summary of the “One, Big, Beautiful Bill.” If passed in its current form, the legislation would represent the largest tax cuts in history.
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This
Firm to Farm blog post by farm legal and taxation expert Roger McEowen of the Washburn School of Law discusses the Small Tracts Act and resolving issues with the US Forest Service.
Farm legal and taxation expert Roger McEowen discusses the rise of drone technology in agriculture and how the ”plain view” doctrine could inform future regulatory law and insurance inspections of farmland.
April 27, 2025 03:50 PM
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Farm legal and taxation expert Roger McEowen briefly discusses a range of topics related to farm-related taxes, estate planning, and farm transitions.
April 20, 2025 03:34 PM
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