As the Fed works to keep inflation under control, higher interest rates have been a big part of that strategy. Research shows the Fed’s ninth district, which includes several large farm states, has seen their rates double over the last couple of years.
“Since about early 2021, interest rates for ag producers have increased around 400 basis points, and what that equates to is four percent interest. To put it into perspective, in 2021, during renewal season, a lot of ag producers were getting around four-and-a-half to 4.6 percent interest rates for their production loans. Now, in 2023, they’re being charged about eight-and-a-half percent. That’s a pretty big increase over two years. In 2023, interest expenses for ag production loans in the district totaled about $840 million. Now, to put that in comparison, in 2021, interest expenses for ag production loans were $415 million. And then, in 2022, the total interest expense paid was $490 million. So, that total interest paid in 2023 is more than double from 2021, so that’s a very large increase in two years,” said Tait Berg.
The Fed reached out to local banks in the area and found the last time interest rates were this high was around 2007.
Gretchen Kuck of the National Corn Growers Association joined us to discuss the Ag Coalition for USMCA’s report findings and expectations ahead of the upcoming USMCA review.
February 11, 2026 12:17 PM
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Kevin Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance discusses the importance of grain bin safety and joint efforts with Nationwide to provide farmers and first responders with access to critical, life-saving rescue tubes.
February 10, 2026 03:57 PM
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RealAg Radio host Sean Haney outlines the Trump Administration’s current trade priorities and what meaningful market expansion looks like for farmers.
February 10, 2026 03:08 PM
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Bankruptcy filings reflect prolonged margin pressure, rising debt, and limited financial flexibility across farm country. Bigger operating loans are helping farms manage costs, but they also signal growing reliance on borrowed capital.
February 10, 2026 01:35 PM
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USDA’s February WASDE report, analysts expect minimal price movement as grain stocks remain steady. Traders weigh renewed Chinese soybean purchases, South American weather, acreage shifts, and upcoming USMCA trade talks.
February 10, 2026 01:11 PM
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Lower freight costs helped sustain export demand amid a challenging pricing environment.
February 10, 2026 06:00 AM
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