DALLAS, Texas (RFD-TV) — Farm finances in the Eleventh Federal Reserve District showed a modest improvement in the third quarter of 2025, helped by widespread summer rains that lifted crop yields and supported pasture conditions. Despite stronger production, bankers reported that low commodity prices continue to pressure farm incomes, especially for row-crop operations entering harvest with several years of weak margins and growing carryover debt. Lenders noted that many farmers are having difficulty preparing 2026 budgets as input costs remain elevated and grain futures remain soft, increasing the likelihood of extended credit and a heavier reliance on government assistance.
Credit conditions reflected these stresses. Loan demand declined during the quarter, even as the availability of funds increased and repayment rates moved only slightly lower. Renewals and extensions continued to rise, suggesting that producers are working to bridge income shortfalls with operating credit. Loan volumes fell across most categories except operating loans. Land markets presented a mixed picture: dryland and ranchland values increased, irrigated land slipped, and cash rents rose for irrigated acres but fell for dryland and ranchland. Bankers also anticipated a downward trend in farmland values heading into winter.
Livestock producers remained a bright spot. Record-high cattle prices continued to bolster ranch incomes and improve repayment strength, creating a clear divide between crop-focused and livestock-focused borrowers as year-end approaches.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Strong yields and higher cattle prices helped stabilize conditions, but weak crop prices and rising carryover debt remain major challenges for Eleventh District farmers.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
The National Milk Producers Federation will launch a new advocacy campaign to secure a final vote, urging House lawmakers to approve the bill as soon as they return from the Thanksgiving recess.
November 25, 2025 01:09 PM
·
AFBF Vice President of Public Policy and Economic Analysis, Dr. John Newton, explains the factors contributing to the growing financial strain in the ag sector and the urgent need for swift economic support.
November 25, 2025 12:40 PM
·
Tyson’s Nebraska plant closure and falling Cattle on Feed numbers send cattle markets tumbling. Analysts warn of tighter supplies, weak margins, and rising global competition.
November 25, 2025 12:05 PM
·
One trader said the products entering the U.S. are primarily grind and trim, noting that the volume and type of beef, on its own, should not cause a major disruption. However, he says fund traders are reacting heavily to headlines rather than market realities.
November 24, 2025 02:42 PM
·
Farmers with unpaid Hansen-Mueller grain should verify delivery records immediately and file indemnity claims quickly, as coverage rules differ sharply by state.
November 24, 2025 02:32 PM
·
According to November’s Cattle on Feed Report, Nebraska now leads the nation in cattle feeding as tighter supplies continue to reshape regional market power and long-term price dynamics.
November 24, 2025 11:47 AM
·
Tyson’s closure reflects deep supply shortages in the U.S. cattle industry, tightening packing capacity, weakening competition, and signaling more volatility ahead for cow-calf producers and feedyards.
November 21, 2025 07:02 PM
·
Screwworm.gov has targeted resources for a wide range of stakeholders, including livestock producers, veterinarians, animal health officials, wildlife professionals, healthcare providers, pet owners, researchers, drug manufacturers, and the general public.
November 21, 2025 02:09 PM
·
Sen. Roger Marshall discusses the Senate’s unanimous passage of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act and what expanded milk options could mean for students and dairy farmers. Industry groups say it is a win for student nutrition and dairy producers.
November 21, 2025 01:19 PM
·
