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.
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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Recurring (and recent) tax and legal issues impacting farmers and ranchers – it’s the topic of today’s Firm to Farm blog post by farm legal and tax expert Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law.
April 13, 2025 03:22 PM
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Farm legal and taxation expert Roger McEowen discusses tariffs’ impacts on agriculture, deferred payment contracts, tax easement issues, and the rise in warrantless searches on farms and ranches.
April 06, 2025 12:21 PM
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April 01, 2025 01:39 PM
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April 01, 2025 11:33 AM
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Property rights are fundamental constitutional rights. It’s refreshing to see the courts (and a jury) uphold them in a well-balanced manner against other equally fundamental constitutional rights.
March 30, 2025 11:58 AM
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March 26, 2025 10:21 AM
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RFD-TV agricultural law and taxation expert Roger McEowen discusses issues concerning farmers and ranchers, such as trade vs. business, income tax basis, croppers, and like-kind exchanges.
March 23, 2025 11:31 AM
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In his latest Firm to Farm blog post, Roger McEowen discusses the new EPA/COE clarifications concerning WOTUS. The new measures have important implications for farmers, ranchers, and rural landowners.
March 17, 2025 01:02 PM
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