Rural towns across the U.S. have seen sluggish economies over the last year, with plenty of ups and downs.
Fed Chair Jerome Powell acknowledged a decline in sentiment but assures everyone the economy is on the right track.
“The economy seems to be healthy. We understand that sentiment is quite negative at this time, and that probably has to do with turmoil at the beginning of an Administration that’s making big changes in areas of policy. That’s probably part of it. I do think the underlying unhappiness people have about the economy, though, is more of the price level.”
This week, Powell announced interest rates would be holding steady for now. Inflation reports earlier this month showed promising news. Both measures of inflation came in below analyst expectations, and despite those signs, inputs are expected to remain elevated this year.
Farmers this year will finally be able to update their base acres with the USDA, something that experts warn must be done with complete accuracy.
April 08, 2026 02:10 PM
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Fewer interruptions could translate to improved efficiency—and fewer costly delays when timing matters most.
April 08, 2026 12:23 PM
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K-State’s Dr. Gregg Ibendahl breaks down the impacts of the Middle East ceasefire on energy markets and input costs, and what farmers should watch in the weeks ahead.
April 08, 2026 11:20 AM
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CME Group Executive Director of Ag Research Fred Seamon discusses the recent rise in farmer sentiment highlighted in the March Ag Economy Barometer report.
April 08, 2026 11:14 AM
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Faster approvals could speed projects, but may face scrutiny.
April 08, 2026 10:45 AM
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Coal-based ethanol could weaken long-term export demand for corn-based fuels.
April 08, 2026 10:00 AM
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