Bankers from across the country are warning tough conversations are ahead.
In a Senate Ag Committee hearing this week, one loan officer testified capital is running out across farm country.
“What we’re seeing is continued significant earned network losses across the board. Talking to lenders down in that area, and as well as what I’m seeing in the Midwest, is certain parts of the Southeast part of the country are on year 2-3, if not 4, of losses and having two bankers are starting to work out plans, and having uncomfortable conversations on ‘what is the end game here?’ When I look at the Midwest coming through renewal season, we were able to get all of our renewals completed this year, but those conversations are ‘what is the burn rate of working capital?’ It’s creeping up on us much faster,” said Caleb Hopkins with First Dakota National Bank.
While there could be a rocky road ahead, producer sentiment is up. Economists with Purdue University say the ag economy barometer rose 11 points last month. However, the report showed little change in how producers feel about future prospects.
Pat Hord with the National Pork Producers Council joined us to recap producer meetings in Washington and discuss key policy priorities including Prop 12 and agricultural labor.
April 17, 2026 03:56 PM
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Cattle-on-Feed is down on the year in the USDA’s April report, with lower placements and marketings signaling tighter feedlot activity.
April 17, 2026 03:32 PM
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As data centers expand across Texas, experts and officials weigh economic benefits against concerns over farmland loss, water use, and impacts on agricultural land and rural communities.
April 17, 2026 02:50 PM
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Steven Snow with the U.S. Small Business Administration joined us to discuss tax relief for rural Americans and the long-term benefits of new provisions impacting farmers and small businesses.
April 17, 2026 12:46 PM
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As budget hearings continue on Capitol Hill, policymakers focus on long-term solutions to stabilize the fertilizer market to support U.S. farmers.
April 17, 2026 12:04 PM
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Rising global supplies may cap soybean price strength, while sorghum prices hinge heavily on China’s export demand.
April 17, 2026 11:25 AM
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