NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — Rural and agriculture-adjacent small businesses saw a slight boost in confidence in November as the NFIB Small Business Optimism Index edged up to 99.0. Still, labor shortages and rising costs continue to pressure farm-country employers. The largest driver of the gain was stronger expectations for real sales, even as owners reported more uncertainty about future capital spending.
Labor quality remained the most pressing challenge across rural Main Street. One-third of small firms still cannot fill open positions, and 89 percent of those hiring report that qualified applicants are scarce — a persistent constraint for ag retailers, equipment shops, grain handlers, and service providers that rely heavily on skilled labor. Inflation pressures also resurfaced: 34 percent of owners raised selling prices, the sharpest monthly jump in more than two decades.
Supply chain disruptions intensified for 64 percent of firms, while capital outlays weakened, suggesting producers and rural businesses remain cautious heading into 2026.
Pork producers should prioritize health and productivity gains, hedge feed and hogs selectively, and watch Brazil’s export pace and China’s sow policy for price signals.
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For tight margins, contract grazing leverages existing acres into new income streams and spreads risk. Here are some tips for row crop farmers looking to diversify.
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Texas Cattle Feeders Association Chairman Robby Kirkland explains how the ongoing U.S.-Mexico border closure impacts feed yards that rely on Mexican cattle due to the New World Screwworm.
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Global nitrogen and phosphate prices remain high despite improved supply fundamentals, with limited Chinese exports and stronger fall applications tightening availability.
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Record output, larger stocks, and softer exports point to a well-supplied domestic ethanol market as harvest progresses.
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U.S. sugar producers and processors should brace for price pressure and challenging export logistics with global sugar supply ramping up — driven by Brazil, India, and Thailand — especially at the raw processing level.
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