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.

Related Stories
Farmers will need to closely monitor forecasts if the regulatory changes are implemented, as temperature cutoffs will replace fixed spray dates.
Under this agreement, SCDA will administer a program covering infrastructure and timber losses, as well as future economic and market losses.
With China’s pullback, U.S. sorghum producers must broaden their export markets. Building connections now could help stabilize prices and demand for the upcoming larger crop.
Higher domestic rail tariffs and mixed capacity shifts will influence grain movement this harvest. Strong corn exports provide momentum, but logistics costs remain a critical factor.
Sergio Bortolozzo, President of the Brazilian Rural Society, discusses the importance of global collaboration and innovation in empowering women in the agricultural sector.
Malone, Senior Director of Trade Execution at Bunge, emphasized the importance of spaces where women can engage in meaningful conversations about global trade, supply chains, and leadership opportunities.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

While artificial intelligence, or AI, is reshaping both jobs and messaging in agriculture, CoBank data suggests human expertise still matters.
Bubba and Amy Miller run Miller Cattle Company in Eros, Louisiana. After visiting other homesteading fairs, they decided to put on their own.
The new AFBF Women in Agriculture survey is accepting responses from women in the industry across the United States now through March 31.
University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) representative Dr. Dirac Twidwell joins us with the latest on woody encroachment conservation efforts in the Great Plains.
After years of battling misinformation online, Potatoes USA is using artificial intelligence to monitor and respond to false claims about the industry.
We highlight an Iowa FFA student who is harnessing the power of AI technology to assess stress in agriculture-related careers.