A new report shows the top concern facing ag lenders heading into next year is interest rates.
The Ag Lender Survey shows nearly half of those who responded ranked interest rate volatility as number one, which is up 35.5 percentage points from last year. It shows interest rates have boosted bank net interest margins, but fears of weakening loan demand and strong competition are expected to cut into yields.
Most lenders surveyed say farm profitability increased over the last year but it still remains below the prior average.
Related Stories
While artificial intelligence, or AI, is reshaping both jobs and messaging in agriculture, CoBank data suggests human expertise still matters.
After years of battling misinformation online, Potatoes USA is using artificial intelligence to monitor and respond to false claims about the industry.
Lawmakers are pressing for answers on how Washington’s “managed trade” approach — keeping leverage through long-term tariffs — will affect farmers, global markets, and future export opportunities.
Cattle groups say additional imports would offer little relief for consumers but could erode rancher confidence as the industry begins to rebuild herds.
Harvest Pace, Logistics, and Input Costs Drive Fall Decisions
The USDA’s latest Hogs and Pigs Report caught some analysts off guard. Inventories came in lower than expected, signaling tighter supplies ahead, even as producers return to profitability this year.
