The least profitable farmers have been hit the hardest by interest rate hikes

interest rates_financial graph on technology abstract background_Photo by monsitj via Adobe Stock_190463205.jpg

Photo by monsitj via Adobe Stock

Rising interest rates have a hold on most areas of the ag economy, but the least profitable producers have taken the biggest hit.

The Minneapolis Fed says producers in the ninth district have faced more expenses as a result of the current economy. That includes operations in Minnesota, Montana, and the Dakotas.

Right now, the district’s least profitable producers have higher debt per crop, and as rates go up, their cash flows are more sensitive. Those increased expenses could require them to get more funding because of less working capital.

The Fed estimates the least profitable farmers spend three times more on interest.

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