OMAHA, Neb. (RFD News) — Weak grain prices continue creating financial pressure across agriculture as the latest Rural Mainstreet Index remained below growth neutral for the fourth straight month.
Creighton University economist Dr. Ernie Goss joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to discuss the newest numbers and what they could mean for the rural economy moving forward.
In his conversation with RFD News, Goss discussed how weak commodity prices continue impacting farmer cash flow and broader economic conditions across rural communities.
The discussion also focused on expectations from bank CEOs regarding economic growth and how current conditions are affecting farm equipment sales.
Goss additionally discussed the region’s farm and ranchland price index, which expanded after falling for three consecutive months.
USDA’s 2026 Food Price Outlook projects food prices rising 3.1%, with higher beef costs and falling egg prices shaping consumer trends.
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