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.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined us to break down the recent Fifth Circuit Court decision overturning a prior Tax Court decision on self-employment tax for limited partners, the ruling’s impact on farmers, and potential next steps in Congress.
January 23, 2026 02:00 PM
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Americans for Prosperity Arkansas Director Ryan Norris talks energy infrastructure, regulatory reform, and the role of critical minerals in supporting rural America.
January 23, 2026 01:54 PM
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Mike Steenhoek with the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses supply chain challenges facing agriculture as snow, sleet and ice threaten most of the Eastern U.S.
January 23, 2026 01:36 PM
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Congressman Adrian Smith of Nebraska joined us with the latest on efforts to secure year-round E15 sales.
January 23, 2026 01:12 PM
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Rural population growth and stabilizing economic indicators point to post-pandemic recovery, but uneven income, shifting industries, and regional divides remain key challenges for rural communities.
January 23, 2026 08:00 AM
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Large-scale land purchases signal rising competition for ranchland, reinforcing its value while reshaping long-term access and control in rural agriculture.
January 23, 2026 07:00 AM
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