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.
Strong supplies and rising stocks point to continued price pressure unless demand accelerates.
February 09, 2026 10:45 AM
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Seasonal price patterns can inform soybean marketing timing, particularly when harvest prices appear unusually strong or weak.
February 09, 2026 10:30 AM
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Low prices are painful now, but production response could support stronger milk markets later in 2026.
February 09, 2026 10:25 AM
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Merck’s Gary Tiller discusses new virtual fencing technology and how fence-free livestock management could change the way ranchers manage land and cattle.
February 06, 2026 05:03 PM
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At CattleCon 2026 in Nashville, RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney discusses profitability, consumer demand, and how the integrated U.S.–Canada beef supply chain impacts cattle producers across North America.
February 06, 2026 04:59 PM
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The USDA’s February WASDE report looms as the CME Ag Economy Barometer shows declining farmer confidence, and more ag industry groups calling for swift policy action.
February 06, 2026 04:18 PM
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