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.
RFD NEWS Markets Specialist Tony St. James reviews the USDA’s Farms and Land in Farms 2025 Summary.
February 18, 2026 01:38 PM
·
Jim Rothermich with the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers joined us to share the latest on farmland real estate markets across the Midwest.
February 17, 2026 12:48 PM
·
Large carry-in stocks across major crops could limit price recovery in 2026/27 unless demand strengthens or weather-related supply reductions occur.
February 16, 2026 12:30 PM
·
Stable small business confidence supports rural economies, but lingering cost pressures and uncertainty continue to shape farm-country decision-making.
February 16, 2026 12:03 PM
·
The USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) has issued final Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) payments totaling more than $1.89 billion.
February 16, 2026 10:55 AM
Specialty Crops Acreage Reporting Deadline for 2025 is March 13
February 13, 2026 04:12 PM
