The latest Rural Mainstreet Index shows a dire situation unfolding. It fell below growth neutral for the 17th time in 18 months, and Creighton University economists say trade is the leading factor.
A global economic slowdown certainly is not helping out there, and certainly an supply over, I would argue, an oversupply from some of our competitors, such as Brazil and Argentina, pushing, pushing down, prices are holding, holding them down. I should say prices have improved a bit over the last month or two, but still not in a territory that makes the farmer feel good about what that farmer is making,” said Dr. Ernie Goss.
Dr. Goss says other countries are paying attention to our recent tariff action and adds any potential retaliation is likely to hurt U.S. farmers.
Improving consumer confidence supports baseline food and fuel demand, but cautious spending limits upside potential for ag markets in 2026.
January 05, 2026 03:00 PM
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Read the full press release published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
January 05, 2026 02:36 PM
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A look at the legislative year ahead as lawmakers return to Washington with a slate of trade concerns to tackle in 2026—from new Chinese tariffs on beef imports to the USMCA review this summer.
January 05, 2026 12:20 PM
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Farmer Bridge Assistance payments provide immediate balance-sheet support heading into 2026, but remain a short-term bridge rather than a substitute for long-term market recovery.
January 05, 2026 10:17 AM
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The New Year is here, but in Oregon, some ranchers and livestock producers are still trying to recover from record wildfires back in 2024.
January 05, 2026 09:46 AM
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December 30, 2025 12:45 PM
