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
Tennessee corn and soy farmer Josh Ogle joins us to discuss rapid planting progress in the state, improving moisture conditions, and early crop development challenges in the MidSouth region.
Beef is leading the decline as slaughter drops and supplies tighten.
Paul Neiffer joined us to explain how USDA’s base acre expansion will be calculated, outline key deadlines for farmers, and discuss how the changes tie into farm program decisions and the broader Farm Bill outlook.
Chad Fiechter joins us to discuss Purdue’s precision ag study, challenges in capturing value from technology, and what farmers should consider when investing in and adopting these tools.
Farm Bureau Economist Dr. Faith Parum discusses USDA’s efforts to expand fertilizer capacity, signals for farm profitability, and AFBF’s Farm Bill expectations.
Authorities say the drones were recovered during a routine inspection after being stolen last month.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Farm Credit’s Christy Seyfert joined us to discuss the ag industry’s push for swift Farm Bill action as it heads toward a House vote.
Feed demand and premiums drive growth for the crop
Purdue economist Dr. Joana Colussi discussed the U.S. and Brazil’s reliance on imported fertilizers and their impact on global food security amid rising input costs.
RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper joined us to discuss the proposed E15 amendment in the Farm Bill, industry reaction to the legislation, and the outlook for year-round E15 sales.
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins plans a farm visit in Missouri, hinting at a possible fertilizer relief announcement on RFD-TV earlier this week. USDA also restructures its research infrastructure and launches new food-safety centers.