OMAHA, Neb. (RFD-TV) — The Rural Mainstreet Index has slipped below growth-neutral once again, marking its eighth decline this year and falling to the lowest level since May 2020. Creighton University economist Dr. Ernie Goss joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to break down the latest data.
According to the new report, seven out of ten rural bankers support President Trump’s recent trade steps with China, expressing cautious optimism about future export potential. However, farm loan volumes remain tight, and farmland prices continue to face pressure in many regions.
In his interview with RFD-TV news, Dr. Goss says several factors are driving the decline, including weaker commodity prices, slower farm income, and ongoing uncertainty around trade and interest rates. He noted that key indicators for the ag economy heading into next year will be credit conditions, global trade developments, and overall farm profitability.
Strong cattle markets are masking ongoing financial stress across crop agriculture.
March 04, 2026 08:00 AM
·
Record ethanol demand continues supporting corn markets and rural economies.
March 04, 2026 06:00 AM
·
Purdue University’s Dr. Michael Langemeier discusses the survey’s findings in February and broader signals in the months ahead.
March 03, 2026 02:38 PM
·
Roger McEowen of Washburn University School of Law joined us to discuss key legal and tax issues ranchers should consider as they recover from recent prairie fires across the Southern Plains.
March 03, 2026 01:06 PM
·
Texas lawmakers secure funding for sterile fly production as officials work to stop the New World screwworm from spreading into the U.S. cattle herd.
March 03, 2026 12:20 PM
·
China may no longer serve as a consistent anchor market for U.S. cotton exports. Lewis Williamson of HTS Commodities joined us to discuss the factors influencing planting decisions, river conditions, and what producers are considering as they finalize acreage plans for the season.
March 03, 2026 07:00 AM
·
