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.
Updated Dicamba information is the topic of today’s Firm to Farm blog post by RFD-TV’s agri-legal expert Roger McEowen with the Washburn School of Law.
February 27, 2024 11:19 AM
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On January 31, the U.S. House overwhelmingly passed tax legislation containing provisions of importance to farmers and ranchers in particular and many taxpayers in general.
February 26, 2024 02:49 PM
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In this Firm to Farm blog post by RFD-TV legal expert Roger McEowen, he looks ahead at what might be the biggest issues in ag law and tax in 2024.
February 23, 2024 01:50 PM
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In part seven of his blog series,"Top 10 Developments in Ag Law and Tax in 2023,” agri-legal expert Roger McEowen covers the #1 issues, SCOTUS and defining a “Water of the United States.”
February 22, 2024 01:15 PM
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In part six of his blog series,"Top 10 Developments in Ag Law and Tax in 2023,” farm legal expert Roger McEowen tackles issue #2, foreign ownership of ag land.
February 02, 2024 08:00 AM
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In part five of his blog series, “Top 10 Developments in Ag Law and Tax in 2023,” Roger McEowen tackles issue number three, California’s Prop 12 pork regulations.
February 01, 2024 04:06 PM
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