Farm bankruptcies are soaring year-over-year. An ag attorney says that the new data includes some alarming numbers.
Joe Peiffer says, “The Administrative Office of the United States Courts points out, in the first six months of 2025, 181 Chapter 12 bankruptcies were filed nationwide. That is up 57% from what it was in 2024. That’s more filings than we had in either 2022 or 2023.”
He says that losing the China ag market is a contributing factor, and it will be hard to correct.
“Now China’s buying from Argentina. It’s been buying soybeans from Brazil. Once you lose a market like that, the chances of getting it back are really slim, because we’re no longer viewed as a reliable supplier because of the trade things that are going on.”
Peiffer says that it is not only the financial loss, but the emotional strain on farmers that is taking a toll.
He says that it is “fish or cut the bait” time for a lot of farmers and recommends they talk to an experienced bankruptcy attorney and tax advisor.
Reduced winter placements indicate tighter fed cattle supplies and greater leverage during peak-demand months.
January 09, 2026 06:00 AM
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AFBF Economist Faith Parum provides analysis and perspective on the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program—what commodity growers should know and potential remedies for producers facing crop losses where that aid falls short.
January 08, 2026 02:45 PM
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Farmer Bridge payments are being used primarily to reduce debt and protect cash flow, not drive new spending. Curt Blades with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers joined us to provide insight into the ag equipment market and the factors influencing sales.
January 08, 2026 08:00 AM
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Rail strength is helping stabilize grain movement, but river and export slowdowns continue to limit overall logistics momentum.
January 08, 2026 06:00 AM
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Retail pricing confirms tight cattle supplies and supports continued leverage for producers, reinforcing the need for disciplined risk management.
January 07, 2026 06:00 PM
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China continues to buy U.S. soybeans toward its 12 MMT commitment, as analysts cite data gaps, delivery timing questions, and muted market reaction.
January 07, 2026 11:50 AM
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