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.
A rescheduled WASDE, China’s soybean squeeze, barge bottlenecks, and premium beef demand all collide this week — with cash decisions, basis, and risk plans on the line.
November 03, 2025 09:23 AM
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America’s love for burgers depends on open markets. Without lean beef imports, prices would skyrocket, crushing demand and destabilizing the beef industry.
November 01, 2025 09:01 AM
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High milk production and soft retail demand are squeezing prices and margins — making careful feed and risk management essential through year-end.
November 01, 2025 06:54 AM
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Market analyst and friend of the show, Shawn Hackett, says Brazil’s shifting use of crops for biofuel production is a significant factor.
October 31, 2025 01:17 PM
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Texas A&M livestock economist Dr. David Anderson joins Tony St. James to discuss the geopolitical tensions and U.S.-Mexico border closure that are leading to sharp swings in the cattle market.
October 31, 2025 12:50 PM
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Caleb Ragland, president of the American Soybean Association (ASA), shares his reaction to news of soybean sales to China, which is considered both “welcome news” and a return to near-normal trade relations.
October 31, 2025 12:26 PM
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