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.
Supplemental Disaster Relief Program Stage Two will disburse around $16 billion, approved by Congress last year. Sign-ups begin Monday, and producers have until April to return applications.
November 21, 2025 11:48 AM
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Row crop losses in 2025 are outpacing last year. With no disaster aid yet approved, many operations face a tough financial bridge to 2026 even as Farm Bill improvements remain a year away.
November 20, 2025 05:00 PM
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Farm CPA Paul Neiffer explains the USDA’s Stage Two Supplemental Disaster Relief Program, including application details, deadlines, and guidance for rural producers.
November 20, 2025 03:34 PM
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Farmland values remain stable, but weakened credit conditions and lower expected farm income signal tighter financial margins heading into 2026.
November 20, 2025 01:04 PM
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Jerry Cosgrove with American Farmland Trust explains why farmers and ranchers should start their estate planning now.
November 19, 2025 04:44 PM
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Only properly documented, unexhausted fertilizer applied by prior owners may qualify for Section 180 expensing; broader nutrient-based claims carry significant legal and tax risk.
November 19, 2025 12:52 PM
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A massive rail merger could significantly impact North American agriculture and trade flows.
November 19, 2025 12:46 PM
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Urea and phosphate see the biggest price relief from tariff exemptions, but nitrogen markets remain tight, and spring demand will still dictate pricing momentum.
November 19, 2025 12:31 PM
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Hunter Biram, an extension economist with the University of Arkansas, is tracking Mississippi River water levels as grain shippers shift their focus to transportation following the wrap-up of fall harvest.
November 18, 2025 01:24 PM
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