Purdue Commercial AgCast

Farmer Sentiment Is Falling Amid Higher Input Costs

Wed, 06 May 2026 13:00:00 -0400

Farmer sentiment declined in April—the pressure on the farm economy is intensifying.

In this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast, Joana Colussi and Michael Langemeier break down the April 2026 Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer. Rising input costs, increasing concern about fertilizer availability, and global uncertainty tied to geopolitical conflict all contributed to a drop in sentiment.

Tighter margins, rising break-even costs, and weaker financial expectations are beginning to influence how farmers approach investment, growth, and risk management heading into 2026.

More importantly, these signals highlight how producers are shifting from cautious optimism to a more defensive posture.

In this episode, we discuss:

What’s driving the recent decline in farmer sentiment
How fertilizer prices and input availability are impacting decisions
Why 2/3 of farmers expect lower income in 2026
What rising break-even prices mean for crop profitability
Why farmers are pulling back on machinery and capital investments
The widening gap between crop and livestock outlooks
How tight margins are influencing cash flow and strategy
What’s shaping farmland value expectations
Why confidence in the broader U.S. economy is slipping

📊 Read the full Ag Economy Barometer report:
https://purdue.ag/barometer127

—

For more farm management resources, visit:
👉 https://purdue.ag/commercialag

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Lessons From the Delta, Part 8: Why Ducks Are More Valuable Than Crops in the Delta

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Lessons From the Delta continues — and this time, the conversation turns to an unexpected connection between rice farming, water management, and wildlife.

In the 8th and final episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast mini-series, Chad Fiechter and Todd Kuethe travel to eastern Arkansas to explore how rice production systems intersect with conservation—and why organizations like Ducks Unlimited are working directly with farmers.

What starts as a discussion about rice fields quickly expands into a deeper look at water use, groundwater depletion, and how wildlife habitat can create additional economic value on farmland.

The conversation explores:

Why rice fields function as surrogate wetlands for waterfowl
How duck hunting and recreation influence land values in the Delta
The scale of water use in rice production—and why it matters
How farmers are adapting to groundwater decline with new practices
The tradeoffs between yield, water efficiency, and management complexity
Why agriculture in the Delta requires a fundamentally different system approach

With water becoming an increasingly binding constraint, this episode highlights how farmers are balancing productivity, conservation, and long-term sustainability—and what that means for the future of agriculture.

We’ll continue sharing video clips and behind-the-scenes footage from the Arkansas trip on our YouTube channel throughout the series.

Subscribe to the Purdue Commercial AgCast so you don’t miss upcoming episodes in the Lessons From the Delta series.

Learn more about Ducks Unlimited: https://www.ducks.org/

For more farm management resources, visit:
👉 https://purdue.ag/commercialag

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Lessons From the Delta, Part 7: How Rice Farmers Cut $31/Acre Water Costs

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0400

Lessons From the Delta continues — this time from the edge of a 120-acre on-farm reservoir.

In Part 7 of the Purdue Commercial AgCast mini-series, Chad Fiechter and Todd Kuethe visit a rice farm in Arkansas to understand how farmers are managing water, labor, and costs in ways that look very different from the Midwest.

What starts as a farm tour turns into a practical discussion about irrigation strategy, groundwater replacement, and the economics behind building large on-farm reservoirs.

The conversation also covers:

How farmers can save up to $31 per acre by pumping surface water instead of groundwater
Why reservoirs reduce energy costs and improve water temperature for crop performance
Capturing and recycling nutrients through tailwater recovery systems
The tradeoff between taking land out of production and lowering long-term costs
How pump automation reduces labor needs and improves quality of life
Why water management is becoming a central constraint in modern farming systems

This episode builds on earlier conversations in the Delta series and brings the focus directly to how farmers are making real-world management decisions under different constraints.

We’ll continue sharing video clips and behind-the-scenes footage from the Arkansas trip on our YouTube channel throughout the series.

Subscribe to the Purdue Commercial AgCast so you don’t miss upcoming episodes in the Lessons From the Delta series.

For more farm management resources, visit:
👉 https://purdue.ag/commercialag

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Farm Sentiment Is Up… So Why Are Farmers Still Worried?

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:09:53 -0400

Farmer sentiment improved in March—but the underlying pressures in the farm economy haven’t gone away.

In this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast, Joana Colussi and Michael Langemeier break down the March 2026 Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer. Despite rising input costs and global uncertainty tied to geopolitical conflict, farmer sentiment moved higher—driven in part by stronger crop prices and government payments.

But the improvement comes with important caveats.

Tight margins, rising breakeven costs, and shifting risk priorities are shaping how farmers approach investment, production, and long-term strategy.

More importantly, these signals highlight how producers are balancing short-term optimism with longer-term uncertainty.

In this episode, we discuss:
• What’s driving the recent increase in farmer sentiment
• How $35/acre payments and higher corn prices are influencing outlook
• Why only 4% of farmers plan to increase machinery purchases
• How rising input costs are impacting breakeven prices and profitability
• Why financial risk has overtaken marketing risk for many farms
• What farmers expect for inflation and interest rates in the year ahead
• How solar leasing is evolving across regions and land markets
• What’s driving farmland value expectations in 2026

📊 Read the full Ag Economy Barometer report:
https://purdue.ag/barometer126

—

For more farm management resources, visit:
👉 https://purdue.ag/commercialag

Subscribe to the podcast:
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Lessons From the Delta, Part 6: Farming with No Margin for Error

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Lessons From the Delta continues — this time from the perspective of farmers managing one of the most intensive production systems in U.S. agriculture.

In Episode 6 of the Purdue Commercial AgCast mini-series, Chad Fiechter and Todd Kuethe visit with Terry and Trent Dabs of LTD Farms near Stuttgart, Arkansas, to discuss what it takes to operate a rice-based farming system in the Mississippi Delta.

What emerges is a detailed look at a production environment shaped by water management, labor demands, and capital intensity—where daily decisions around irrigation, equipment, and timing carry significant economic consequences.

The conversation also discusses:

• Why rice production requires constant water management and monitoring
• How labor constraints shape daily operations and long-term strategy
• The impact of intensive field conditions on machinery and capital decisions
• How rice is marketed and how payment differs from corn and soybeans
• The role of global markets in determining profitability

As Delta farmers navigate a system defined by irrigation dependence and production intensity, the discussion raises important questions:
What does it take to manage risk in a high-cost production system?
How do labor and water constraints shape farm structure?
And what lessons apply beyond the Delta?

This episode builds on earlier conversations about production systems and farmland economics, and brings the focus directly to the farm level.

We’ll also continue sharing video clips and behind-the-scenes footage from the Arkansas trip on our YouTube channel throughout the series.

Subscribe to the Purdue Commercial AgCast so you don’t miss upcoming episodes in the Lessons From the Delta series.

For more farm management resources, visit:
👉 https://purdue.ag/commercialag

Subscribe to the podcast:
👉 https://purdue.ag/agcast

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Lessons From the Delta, Part 5: Farm Robotics, Labor, and the Future of Field Work

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Lessons From the Delta continues — this time with an unexpected conversation about farm robotics.

In Episode 5 of the Purdue Commercial AgCast mini-series, Chad Fiechter and Todd Kuethe meet Sarah Hinkley, CEO and co-founder of Barn Owl Precision Ag, during a chance stop at a farm in Arkansas.

What begins as a serendipitous encounter turns into a discussion about labor shortages, farm profitability, and how automation is being applied in real-world field conditions.

The conversation also discusses:

• The economic pressure driving labor-saving technologies
• How autonomous “nano tractors” are designed for precision tasks
• The shift from large equipment to networks of smaller machines
• Challenges in scaling robotics across different environments
• Opportunities to reduce chemical inputs through precision weeding

As labor constraints and cost pressures continue to shape farm decisions, technologies like this raise important questions:
What does practical automation look like on the farm?
How quickly can these tools scale?
And where do they fit in existing production systems?

This episode builds on earlier discussions of production systems and research infrastructure, and sets up a return to the farm level in the next episode.

We’ll also continue sharing video clips and behind-the-scenes footage from the Arkansas trip on our YouTube channel throughout the series.

Subscribe to the Purdue Commercial AgCast so you don’t miss upcoming episodes in the Lessons From the Delta series.

For more farm management resources, visit:
👉 https://purdue.ag/commercialag

Subscribe to the podcast:
👉 https://purdue.ag/agcast

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Lessons From the Delta, Part 4: Inside the Research Center Driving U.S. Rice Production

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Lessons From the Delta continues — this time with a look at the research and infrastructure behind rice production.

In Episode 4 of the Purdue Commercial AgCast mini-series, Chad Fiechter and Todd Kuethe visit the Northeast Rice Research and Extension Center in Arkansas to understand how research, water management, and production systems come together in one of the most concentrated rice-growing regions in the United States.

Arkansas produces nearly half of U.S. long grain rice — and a significant share of that production comes from just a few counties surrounding this station. That makes decisions around irrigation, variety selection, and weed control especially important.

The conversation also discusses:

• Why rice production is highly location-dependent
• How groundwater constraints are shaping irrigation strategies
• The role of research centers in testing varieties and production systems
• Differences between flooded rice and row rice systems
• Why weed pressure in rice is fundamentally different from corn and soybeans
• The labor and management intensity required to grow rice

While the crops may differ, the underlying questions remain familiar:
How do you manage risk in a highly specialized system?
How do resource constraints shape production decisions?
And how does research translate into on-farm profitability?

This episode builds on earlier discussions of rice economics and processing, and sets up upcoming conversations on automation and farm-level decision-making in the Delta.

We’ll also continue sharing video clips and behind-the-scenes footage from the Arkansas trip on our YouTube channel throughout the series.

Subscribe to the Purdue Commercial AgCast so you don’t miss upcoming episodes in the Lessons From the Delta series.

For more farm management resources, visit:
👉 https://purdue.ag/commercialag

Subscribe to the podcast:
👉 https://purdue.ag/agcast

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Lessons From the Delta, Part 3: How Investors Are Buying Farmland

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Lessons From the Delta continues — this time focusing on how farmland moves from farmers to investors and back again.

In Episode 3 of the Purdue Commercial AgCast mini-series, Chad Fiechter and Todd Kuethe speak with Colson Tester of AcreTrader about how farmland investment platforms identify properties, evaluate land values, and structure investments for accredited investors.

While farmland has long attracted institutional capital, platforms like AcreTrader are opening the door for retail investors to participate in agricultural land ownership. But farmland investing works differently than most asset classes — deals are often sourced locally, data can be limited, and success depends heavily on working with the farmers operating the land.

The conversation explores:

• How farmland investment platforms source and evaluate farms
• Why buying land at or below market value is critical for long-term returns
• How farms are structured as investment offerings for retail investors
• Typical hold periods and expected return targets for farmland investments
• Why many farmland acquisitions involve sale-leaseback arrangements with operators

During the trip, the group also visited one of the first farms AcreTrader acquired in the Mississippi Delta and discussed how leasing structures, irrigation systems, and local production practices influence farmland values in the region.

As previous episodes in the series have shown, Delta agriculture operates within a different production system — one heavily dependent on irrigation infrastructure and specialized crop rotations. Those same factors also influence how farmland is evaluated as an investment asset.

While the production systems may differ from the Midwest, the strategic questions remain familiar:
How should farmland be valued?
What drives long-term land appreciation?
And how does capital access shape farm growth and business decisions?

This episode builds on the earlier conversations in the series and sets up upcoming discussions on irrigation systems, water management, and how those investments influence farm productivity and land values.

We’ll also continue sharing video clips and behind-the-scenes footage from the Arkansas trip on our YouTube channel throughout the series.

Subscribe to the Purdue Commercial AgCast so you don’t miss upcoming episodes in the Lessons From the Delta series.

For more farm management resources, visit:
👉 https://purdue.ag/commercialag

Subscribe to the podcast:
👉 https://purdue.ag/agcast

Follow us:
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Producer Sentiment Stabilizes, But Future Expectations Slip | February 2026 Ag Economy Barometer

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast, Joana Colussi and Michael Langemeier break down results from the February 2026 Purdue University–CME Group Ag Economy Barometer.

The overall barometer rose modestly to 116, driven by improved current conditions. However, the Index of Future Expectations slipped, reflecting continued caution among producers. Crop producers remain under financial pressure, while livestock producers—especially cattle operations—report stronger optimism.

In this episode, we discuss:

Why 63% of producers expect bad financial times ahead for crops
Continued strength in cattle and livestock sentiment
Why nearly 70% say it’s a bad time to invest in machinery
How producers plan to use Farmer Bridge Assistance Payments
Rising importance of trade policy in farm decision-making
Farmland value expectations and what they signal for balance sheets
Farm growth, consolidation, and generational transition trends

What do these shifts in sentiment mean for 2026 decision-making?

Listen in for insights and implications for commercial farms.

Full Ag Economy Barometer report:
👉 https://purdue.ag/agbarometer

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey.

For more farm management content, visit:
👉 https://purdue.ag/commercialag

Subscribe to the podcast:
👉 https://purdue.ag/agcast

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#Purdue #AgBarometer #FarmManagement #FarmEconomy #AgOutlook #AgEconomy #Agriculture

Lessons From the Delta, Part 2: Land Values, Capital Markets, and the Business of Rice

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 10:30:57 -0500

Lessons From the Delta continues — but this time, the focus shifts from fields to finance.

In Episode 2 of the Purdue Commercial AgCast mini-series, Chad Fiechter and Todd Kuethe sit down with Aaron Shew of Acres to explore how farmland is valued, how capital moves through the Delta, and why agricultural land markets are more complex than most producers realize.

Unlike residential real estate, there is no “Zestimate” for farmland. In many counties, fewer than 10 land transactions occur each year — yet prices can shift 5–10% annually. That creates real challenges for lenders, brokers, investors, and farmers trying to make long-term capital decisions.

The conversation also discusses:

• Why agricultural land data is fragmented and difficult to combine
• How lenders and investment firms evaluate farmland purchases
• The role of mortgage data and transaction history
• What rice farmers are actually paid for — and why it’s different from corn and soybeans
• How milling yield introduces another layer of risk

As the Delta’s irrigation-dependent system shows, land values, water access, and milling economics stack together to create a very different capital structure than what most Midwest producers experience.

While the crops may differ, the business questions are familiar:
How do you value long-term assets in volatile markets?
How does capital flow shape farm strategy?
And how does payment structure influence risk?

This episode builds on Part 1 and sets up upcoming conversations on irrigation automation and capital investment decisions in the Delta.

We’ll also be sharing additional video clips and behind-the-scenes content from the trip on our YouTube channel throughout the series.

Subscribe to the Purdue Commercial AgCast so you don’t miss upcoming episodes in the Lessons From the Delta series.

For more farm management resources, visit:
👉 https://purdue.ag/commercialag

Subscribe to the podcast:
👉 https://purdue.ag/agcast

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Lessons From the Delta, Part 1: What Midwestern Farmers Can Learn From Southern Agriculture

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Southern agriculture operates in a very different environment than the Midwest — different crops, different water management systems, different land structures, and different production risks. But there are powerful lessons for commercial grain producers everywhere.

In this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast, we launch a new mini-series: Lessons From the Delta. After traveling to Arkansas and the Mississippi Delta region, Chad Fiechter and Todd Kuethe share what stood out most about crop diversity, irrigation intensity, farm structure, and regional economics.

From rice and cotton production to groundwater dependence and large-scale irrigation systems, this discussion explores how southern farmers manage risk differently than Midwest corn and soybean producers. The episode also highlights how climate, infrastructure, export access, and conservation programs shape long-term farm strategy in the Delta.

While production practices may differ, the business questions are familiar:
• How do you manage tight margins?
• How do you think about long-term water access?
• What does scale look like in a different production system?
• And what can Midwest farmers learn from a region built around irrigation?

This episode sets the stage for upcoming interviews with producers, researchers, Extension leaders, and conservation organizations across the Delta region.

We’ll also be sharing additional video clips and behind-the-scenes content from the trip on our YouTube channel throughout the series.

Subscribe to the Purdue Commercial AgCast so you don’t miss upcoming episodes in the Lessons From the Delta series.

For more farm management resources, visit:
👉 https://purdue.ag/commercialag

Subscribe to the podcast:
👉 https://purdue.ag/agcast

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#Purdue #FarmManagement #AgEconomy #Agriculture #Irrigation #Rice #Cotton

Farmer Sentiment Drops Sharply — What It Signals for Farm Finances in 2026

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 09:30:00 -0500

Farmer sentiment dropped sharply to start 2026, reflecting growing economic concerns across U.S. agriculture. But beyond the headline decline in the Purdue/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer, this episode focuses on what the shift signals for farm financial stress, investment decisions, and risk management in the year ahead.

In this Purdue Commercial AgCast episode, Michael Langemeier reviews the January survey results and explains the forces behind the drop in producer sentiment. Financial pressure appears to be building, as more producers report tighter cash flow, increased operating loan needs, and a growing share of loans tied to unpaid carryover debt. At the same time, machinery investment plans are slowing, and more farmers expect challenging conditions for U.S. agriculture over the next five years.

Export concerns—especially related to soybean competitiveness with Brazil—also weighed on expectations. While short-term farmland value expectations remain steady, strong land values are supporting balance sheets even as margins stay tight due to high input costs and lower output prices. The episode highlights the contrast between stable asset values and stressed cash flow, a key theme shaping the farm financial outlook.

This discussion goes beyond the numbers to focus on the implications for farm businesses and what producers should be watching as 2026 unfolds.

Full Ag Economy Barometer report: 👉 https://purdue.ag/agbarometer

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey.

For farm management content, visit: https://purdue.ag/commercialag

Subscribe to audio: https://purdue.ag/agcast

Socials: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg

#Purdue #AgBarometer #FarmManagement #FarmEconomy #AgOutlook

When Will Autonomous Farm Equipment Actually Pay?

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 12:00:00 -0500

Are autonomous tractors and farm automation actually cost-effective? In this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast, Chad Fiechter and Josh Strine discuss new research on the economics of large-scale autonomous farm machinery and what it means for machinery investment and labor strategy on commercial corn and soybean farms. The results show that under today’s performance and cost levels, most farms aren’t yet in the economic “ballpark” for autonomy — helping producers understand when it could make sense and when it likely doesn’t.

The conversation covers machinery efficiency, hardware and software costs, labor wages, and equipment operating hours, along with how these factors affect profitability in whole-farm systems. It also explores where autonomous equipment might work first — including labor-constrained farms, expansion situations, and specific field operations — and how future improvements in technology could shift the outlook.

📄 Research article: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atech.2025.101599
🌐 Article summary: https://purdue.ag/3Ze0oir
🌐 Purdue Center for Commercial Agriculture: http://purdue.edu/commercialag

📝 Transcript: https://purdue.ag/3ObvyET
🎧 Subscribe to audio: https://purdue.ag/agcast

#AutonomousFarming #FarmManagement #AgTechnology #Purdue #AgriculturalEconomics #CommercialAgriculture

Adaptation & Strong Relationships: A Conversation with Ben Brown

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Adaptability and strong relationships are becoming just as important as yields and costs in today’s farm economy—and that’s the focus of this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast. Chad Fiechter is joined by Ben Brown of the University of Missouri’s Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute (FAPRI), along with guest hosts, graduate students Avery Pound and Jonah Armstrong, for a conversation that builds on Brown’s recent presentation at the Purdue Top Farmer Conference.

Following his talk on the long-term outlook for corn and soybean markets, Brown expands the discussion to explore how global economic conditions, energy markets, and commodity pricing trends influence farm profitability over time. While cotton is used as a case study in parts of the conversation, the focus remains on broader lessons that apply across crop and livestock operations, including long-run decision-making, strategic partnerships, and how changes in capital and land ownership are reshaping agriculture. The episode highlights why understanding market signals—and building the right relationships—matters for farmers navigating uncertainty and positioning their operations for the future.

Ag Barometer Insights: December 2025 Survey Results

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 09:30:00 -0500

Farmer sentiment dipped slightly in December, with the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer dropping 3 points to 136. The decline was attributable to a softening in producers’ long-term outlook. The Future Expectations Index fell 4 points from the previous month to 140, while the Current Conditions Index remained steady at 128. Crop producers expressed increased concern about the competitiveness of U.S. soybean exports as Brazil expands its role in global markets, contributing to the more cautious outlook. The survey was conducted Dec. 1-5, 2025.

Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results from the Ag Economy Barometer and give their insights into farmer sentiment and the farm economy.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Further details on the full report is available at https://purdue.edu/agbarometer. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast204.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/0Jnm3_yti_g to subscribe and watch.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Subscribe to audio: https://purdue.ag/agcast

Socials: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg

What We Heard This Year—and Where We’re Going

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 13:21:26 -0500

Chad Fiechter and Todd Kuethe reflect on their conversations this past year and talk about future plans. They cover past discussions with notable guests, including Nate Kauffman from the Federal Reserve, Matt Erickson from the Senate, Joe Balagtas from the White House, ag investing consultant Joe Suttles, and Indian hog farmer Brian Martin. Todd shares his upcoming sabbatical plans to teach economies on the Semester at Sea program, while they both share more on their recent trip to Arkansas to learn about rice farming. They explore the impact of AI in agriculture and highlight the importance of understanding different agricultural practices and community perspectives. The conversation wraps up with light-hearted discussions on personal preferences and their hopes for future podcast topics.

Find all the past episodes discussed: https://purdue.ag/agcast

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic and farm management information, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast203.

Check out all of our Purdue Commercial AgCast video interviews on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS0sw5w6odSS111rbY1glHw

Socials: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.linkedin.com/company/center-for-commercial-agriculture

Whoosh in-out #1 by beman87 -- https://freesound.org/s/162841/ -- License: Attribution 3.0

Ag Barometer Insights: November 2025 Survey Results

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 09:30:00 -0500

November brought the highest farmer sentiment reading since June, with the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer jumping 10 points from October to 139. The increase was driven primarily by producers’ more optimistic outlook for the future, as the Future Expectations Index climbed 15 points to 144, while the Current Conditions Index dipped 2 points to 128. November’s survey is the first conducted after the late-October announcement of a U.S.-China trade pact that includes provisions to expand U.S. agricultural exports and revealed a notable improvement in producers’ confidence in future export opportunities. Sentiment also received support from a sharp rise in crop prices between mid-October and mid-November. The barometer survey took place Nov. 10-14.

Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results from the November Ag Economy Barometer and give their insights into farmer sentiment and the farm economy.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/KDhYF5vTo_M to subscribe and watch.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Subscribe to audio: https://purdue.ag/agcast

Socials: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg

Pig Farming in Focus: A Conversation with Brian Martin

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0500

Brian Martin, a fifth-generation pig farmer from Indiana, joins hosts Todd Kuethe and Chad Fiechter in this episode of Purdue Commercial AgCast. Martin shares his extensive experience in raising swine across the country, his involvement with the Indiana Pork Producers Association, and the vital role of internships and diverse experiences in agriculture. He also shares insight into the evolution of the hog industry, the complexities of farm management, and the impact of state policies on agriculture. From strategic business decisions to the challenges of labor and disease management, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the world of modern pig farming.

Learn more about Martin Family Farms: https://teammartinfarms.com/

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic and farm management information, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast201.

Subscribe to audio: https://purdue.ag/agcast

Check out all of our Purdue Commercial AgCast video interviews on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS0sw5w6odSS111rbY1glHw

Socials: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.linkedin.com/company/center-for-commercial-agriculture

Ag Barometer Insights: October 2025 Survey Results

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 09:56:48 -0500

U.S. farmer sentiment edged slightly higher in October, with the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rising 3 points to a reading of 129. The increase was fueled primarily by a rise in the Index of Current Conditions, which climbed 8 points to 130, while the Index of Future Expectations was virtually unchanged at 129, just 1 point higher than in September. Farmers’ appraisals of current conditions highlight a “tale of two economies”: Livestock producers remain highly optimistic about their farm conditions, partly supported by record-high profitability in the beef sector, while crop producers report a more pessimistic view of the current situation on their farms due to low profit margins across major crop enterprises. The barometer survey took place Oct. 13-17.

Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results from the October Ag Economy Barometer and give their insights into farmer sentiment and the farm economy.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/Ujekqgm6DQk to subscribe and watch.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Subscribe to audio: https://purdue.ag/agcast

Socials: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg

D.C. Insights: A Conversation with Joe Balagtas

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 06:30:00 -0400

Joe Balagtas, a former senior economist at the White House's Council of Economic Advisors (CEA) and professor of agricultural economics at Purdue joins colleague hosts Todd Kuethe and Chad Fiechter in this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast. Balagtas shares his unique experiences working at the CEA during the Trump administration and his role in providing the President with critical economic information. He provides a behind-the-scenes glimpse of his daily life, the stress and fulfillment of working under extreme pressure, and the lessons learned which he brings back to academia. The conversation provides insight into the importance of having specialized economists in policymaking and the dynamic nature of the White House during significant events like the trade war and COVID-19 pandemic.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic and farm management information, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast199.

Subscribe to audio: https://purdue.ag/agcast

Check out all of our Purdue Commercial AgCast video interviews on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS0sw5w6odSS111rbY1glHw

Socials: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.linkedin.com/company/center-for-commercial-agriculture

Ag Barometer Insights: September 2025 Survey Results

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 09:30:00 -0400

Farmer sentiment held steady in September, as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose just 1 point to a reading of 126. However, there was a shift in producers’ perceptions of current conditions and their expectations for the future. The Index of Current Conditions fell 7 points to 122, while the Index of Future Expectations climbed 5 points to 128. The survey was conducted following the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s release of the September Crop Production report and the World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report. These reflected farmers’ concerns about current conditions, particularly over record-high corn and soybean yields, which were pressuring crop prices. At the same time, optimism about the future was supported by farmers’ belief that U.S. policy is “headed in the right direction” and by expectations that potential government support, like the 2019 Market Facilitation Program (MFP), will provide payments to farmers in compensation for lower commodity prices. The barometer survey took place Sept. 15-19.

Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results from the September Ag Economy Barometer and give their insights into farmer sentiment and the farm economy.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/Ujekqgm6DQk to subscribe and watch.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Subscribe to audio: https://purdue.ag/agcast

Socials: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg

Irrigated, Pasture & Hay Cash Rent Considerations

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Jim Jansen from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, joins Michael Langemeier to discuss cash rent considerations for irrigation, pasture, and hay leases. They provide factors affecting cash rent including maintenance costs, insurance, and land productivity and emphasize the importance of clear lease agreements. This episode highlights terms related to the three P's of irrigation: pivot, pump, and power; the big three in pasture: fencing, water supply, and controlling noxious weeds; as well as cow-calf pairs and hay cash rental calculations. Offering practical advice for both landlords and operators on fair rental agreements.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/NbMwKl2w2GY to subscribe and watch.

To learn more about Indiana's 2025 farmland cash rental rates, listen to episode #195 on the Purdue Commercial #AgCast. https://purdue.ag/agcast

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast197.

Socials: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #AgCast.

For the full August Purdue Agricultural Economics Report, visit: https://purdue.ag/paer.

Investment Strategies in Ag: A Conversation with Joe Suttles

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 06:05:00 -0400

Joe Suttles, a consultant in ag investing, joins hosts Todd Kuethe and Chad Fiechter in this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast to discuss his role and insights into private equity investments in agriculture. Suttles outlines his responsibilities in working with fund managers and managing existing investments to solve issues. He shares insight into the complexities of agricultural investments, emphasizing the importance of long-term focus and the intricate nature of managing agricultural production businesses. The conversation touches on the alignment and agency challenges in ag businesses, the role of institutional investors, and the potential future trends in farm management and consolidation.

Check out all our “Purdue Commercial AgCast” podcast episodes: https://purdue.ag/agcast

2025 Cash Rental Rates

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 12:30:00 -0400

Purdue ag economists Todd Kuethe and Michael Langemeier discuss Indiana farmland cash rental rates on this, the second of two episodes reviewing the 2025 Purdue Farmland Values and Cash Rental Rates survey results. The survey shows Indiana cash rents continue to rise by about one and a half percent. The episode shares historical trends in cash rents, and how cash rents compare to share and flex lease rents, regional differences, net returns to land, and the increasing interest in flexible cash leases from both landowner and tenant perspectives. Additional resources and detailed survey results are available on the Center for Commercial Agriculture website.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/6agOo0Pif9U to subscribe and watch.

To learn more about Indiana's 2025 farmland cash rental rates, listen to the first podcast in this series, episode #194 on the Purdue Commercial #AgCast.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast195.

Socials: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #AgCast.

For the full August Purdue Agricultural Economics Report, visit: https://purdue.ag/paer.

2025 Farmland Values & Market Trends

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0400

Join Purdue ag economists Todd Kuethe and Michael Langemeier as they discuss Indiana farmland values on this, the first of two episodes reviewing the 2025 Purdue Farmland Values and Cash Rental Rates survey results. The survey shows Indiana land prices continue to rise and are anticipated to continue a modest increase for the rest of 2025 for most of the state. The episode shares insights into U.S. and Indiana farmland value trends, agricultural balance sheets, debt-to-asset ratios, the impact of various economic factors on land values, and future expectations for farmland values.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/GOClD4XQz9Y to subscribe and watch

To learn more about Indiana's 2025 farmland cash rental rates, listen to the second podcast in this series, episode #195 on the Purdue Commercial #AgCast.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast194.

Socials: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #AgCast.

For the full August Purdue Agricultural Economics Report, visit: https://purdue.ag/paer.

Ag Barometer Insights: August 2025 Survey Results

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 09:30:00 -0400

Farmer sentiment dipped again in August as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index fell 10 points to 125. Producers were markedly less optimistic about the future in August as the Index of Future Expectations dropped 16 points to 123. This was the lowest reading for the future index since last September. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share insights into the results of the August 2025 survey, conducted from August 11-15, in this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast. Sentiment differed widely among producers depending on whether their farm is primarily a crop operation or a livestock operation. Responses from crop producers this month were much less optimistic than those from livestock producers, which indicates the disparity in profitability between crop and livestock enterprises. Beef cattle operations in particular are experiencing record profitability as the smallest cattle inventory since 1951 has pushed cattle prices to record levels. This stands in sharp contrast to returns for crop production which have weakened in 2025.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/up5ty6AsICo to subscribe and watch.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Future of Ag Tech: A Conversation with Brant Caley

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 09:33:12 -0400

Join Chad Fiechter and Todd Kuethe as they explore ag technology and the ag economy with guest Brant Caley. Caley, an expert in ag tech, discusses his journey, from playing FFA basketball to working with companies like Trimble, Farmers Business Network (FBN), and now Gradable. The discussion covers the evolution of farm technology, sustainability in grain marketing, the future of agricultural technology - and the potential impact of emerging technologies like AI and LLMs. Whether you're a farmer deeply invested in ag tech or simply curious about the technological transformations reshaping agriculture, this episode is a must-listen.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more farm management information and insights, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Gradable App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/gradable/id6742845206

Ag Barometer Insights: July 2025 Survey Results

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 09:30:00 -0400

Farmer sentiment continues to weaken, as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer declined again in July. The barometer fell 11 points to 135 from June, a reading that resulted from U.S. farmers’ weaker perceptions of both current conditions and future expectations. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share insights into the results of the July 2025 survey, conducted from July 7-11, in this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast. Weak crop prices, a squeeze on farm margins, and a notable difference in sentiment between crop and livestock producers are key factors to the weakened sentiment. Despite high input costs and concerns on long-term profitability, recent policy changes and improved expectations for ag exports, have farmers responding that U.S. policy is headed "in the right direction."

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/kRT0OT9cYew to subscribe and watch.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Inside the Federal Reserve: A Conversation with Nate Kauffman

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 16:11:27 -0400

Nate Kauffman, Omaha Branch Executive of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, joins hosts Todd Kuethe and Chad Fiechter in this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast. Kauffman explains the structure and function of the Federal Reserve System, including the roles of the Board of Governors, the 12 regional reserve banks, and their respective branch offices, and shares how monetary policy is set and the importance of regional input in policy decisions. Kauffman highlights his role in representing Nebraska and the agricultural sector, ensuring their unique economic conditions are considered in national policy discussions. The episode also touches on the use of data and industry interaction in formulating economic insights. Additionally, Kauffman shares anecdotes and practical experiences, emphasizing the Fed’s commitment to transparency and public engagement.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more farm management information and insights, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insights: June 2025 Survey Results

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 09:30:00 -0400

Farmer sentiment weakened in June as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer fell to 146, down from 158 a month earlier. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share their insight into the results of the June 2025 survey, conducted from June 9-13, in this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast. Key takeaways include a sharp decline in the Future Expectation Index, a stable Current Condition Index, a drop in the Farm Financial Performance Index, and a surprising rise in the Farm Capital Investment Index. The episode explores various factors impacting farmer sentiment, such as policy uncertainty, trade, tariffs, input costs, and labor issues.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/1C5-A2Z_vPg to subscribe and watch.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insights: May 2025 Survey Results

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 09:30:00 -0400

Farmer sentiment reached a four-year high in May. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share their insight into the results of the May 2025 Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer survey, conducted from May 12-16, in this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast. The barometer rose 10 points to 158, the highest since May 2021, driven by optimism about future and current farm conditions. The Farm Financial Performance Index also saw an increase, while the Farm Capital Investment Index declined slightly. Other key points include a surprising jump in the Short-Term Farmland Value Expectation Index, shifting attitudes toward ag exports, and concerns about labor impacts due to U.S. immigration policies. Current farmer concerns remain centered on high input costs and interest rates, and there is notable interest in the passage of a new 2025 farm bill.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/GRm0BZYXeR0 to subscribe and watch.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Farmland Investments: A Conversation with Kyle Maple and Pete Drost

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 15:25:59 -0400

Kyle Maple and Pete Drost, professionals in the farmland investment space join hosts Todd Kuethe and Chad Fiechter in this episode of Purdue Commercial AgCast. Maple and Drost share their backgrounds, roles within US Agriculture, and day-to-day tasks in farmland asset management. They share how they identify investment opportunities, source deals through various networks, and the importance of both financial knowledge and effective communication in their field. The discussion also touches on the challenges of managing permanent crops, the evolution of investment management firms in agriculture, and the balancing act of maintaining long-term relationships with farm operators. The conversation provides a look into the impact of water regulations, sustainability in farming, and educating investors about the benefits of farmland as an asset class.

Ag Barometer Insights: April 2025 Survey Results

Tue, 06 May 2025 09:30:00 -0400

Farmer sentiment improved in April as producers expressed more optimism about current and future conditions on their farms. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share their insight into the results of the April 2025 Ag Economy Barometer survey, conducted from April 14-21, in this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast. The Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 8 points to a reading of 148, up from 140 in March. Key topics include the surprising economic optimism among livestock producers, farm capital investment trends, and ongoing trade policy impacts. The conversation also covers survey respondents' expectations for farm input costs, interest rates, and the potential long-term effects of tariffs on U.S. agriculture.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/ZAK199Yq61c to subscribe and watch.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Understanding Ag Policy: A Conversation with Matt Erickson

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:27:39 -0400

Matt Erickson, an ag economic and policy advisor and former chief economist for the U.S. Senate Committee joins hosts Todd Kuethe and Chad Fiechter in this episode of Purdue Commercial AgCast. Erickson shares his background, including his academic journey at Purdue University and internships that led to his extensive career in agricultural policy. He describes his work at various organizations such as the American Farm Bureau Federation, and a key focus on economic and policy analysis for producer impacts. Erickson elaborates on the process of farm bill preparation, the roles within the Senate Ag Committee, and the vital importance of bipartisan cooperation. He also highlights the grassroots involvement in policy development and the significance of gathering insights from both farmers and agricultural associations. The conversation provides a transparent look into the legislative process, the role of economists on Capitol Hill, and the intricate balance between policy formation and constituent needs.

Ag Barometer Insights: March 2025 Survey Results

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 09:30:00 -0400

Weaker expectations for the future led to a decline in farmer sentiment in March as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer index fell 12 points to a reading of 140, down from 152 a month earlier. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share their insight into the results of the March 2025 Ag Economy Barometer survey, conducted from March 10-14, in this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast. They analyze key changes, including a 12-point drop in the index, driven primarily by a decrease in future expectations. The episode covers impacts of trade policies, tariff uncertainties, and their effects on corn and soybean prices. The discussion also touches on farm capital investment, farmland value expectations, anticipated government compensation, and producer sentiments towards inflation and interest rates for 2025.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/rIeEV2hd1G4 to subscribe and watch.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insights: February 2025 Survey Results

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 09:30:00 -0500

U.S. farmer sentiment continued its upward trend in February, as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 11 points from the previous month to a reading of 152. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the February 2025 Ag Economy Barometer survey, conducted from February 10-14, in this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast. They discuss factors driving the rise in producer sentiment, such as higher corn and soybean prices, expected government payments, and a strong livestock sector. The episode also covers trade policy concerns, capital investment plans, and farmland value expectations.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/O3xLgw6KQOU to subscribe and watch.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insights: January 2025 Survey Results

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 09:30:00 -0500

U.S. farmers retained their post-election optimistic outlook at the start of the new year as the January Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index rose 5 points above a month earlier to a reading of 141. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the January 2025 Ag Economy Barometer survey, conducted from January 13-17, in this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast. They discuss improvements in farmer sentiment, the impact of higher corn and soybean prices, and farm financial performance. The episode also explores farmers' expectations regarding operating loans, farmland values, and investments in solar energy projects.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insights: December 2024 Survey Results

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 09:41:29 -0500

Farmer sentiment drifted lower in December as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer dropped 9 points to a reading of 136. The decline was driven by producers’ weaker perspective on current conditions in U.S. agriculture and their farms, with the Index of Current Conditions falling 13 points to 100. Although the Current Conditions Index declined this month, it remains 24 points above its low in September and 5 points higher than in October. The Index of Future Expectations also fell 8 points to 153, remaining 59 points above its September low and 29 points higher than the October reading. This month’s survey was conducted from Dec. 2-6, 2024.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.edu/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast181.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/5L6ypx9J8J0 to subscribe and watch.

Ag Innovation & Policy Direction: A Preview of Upcoming Purdue Top Farmer Conference

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 15:30:00 -0500

This special edition of the Purdue Commercial AgCast features Matt Erickson, policy specialist at Farm Credit Services of America, and Chad Fiechter, research director at Purdue's Center for Commercial Agriculture. They discuss their upcoming presentations at the Purdue Top Farmer Conference on January 10th. Erickson highlights the economic and policy issues under the new administration, including the impact of inflation, tariffs, and the farm bill. Fiechter introduces a new AI-powered app designed to help farmers easily calculate financial ratios using tax and balance sheet data.

Meet Matt and Chad and the rest of the speaker lineup for the Purdue Top Farmer Conference on January 10, 2025 at the Beck Agricultural Center in West Lafayette, Indiana. As one of the most successful and longest-running management programs designed specifically for farmers, Purdue’s Top Farmer Conference brings together some of the nation’s top experts to help you navigate the challenges of today’s agricultural economy. More details, the conference agenda and registration information are at http://purdue.ag/topfarmer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture, https://purdue.edu/commercialag/.

Socials: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #AgCast.

Ag Barometer Insights: November 2024 Survey Results

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 09:44:19 -0500

Farmer sentiment jumped again in November, with the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer climbing 30 points to a reading of 145. This marked the highest level of farmer optimism since May 2021. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the November 2024 Ag Economy Barometer survey, conducted Nov. 11-15, 2024, the week following the U.S. presidential election. Both of the barometer's sub-indices increased in November. The Future Expectations Index saw the largest jump, rising 37 points to 161, while the Current Conditions Index increased 18 points to 113. The November sentiment boost reflects growing optimism about a more favorable regulatory and tax environment for agriculture following the U.S. election.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast179.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/PlvesDCoYj8 to subscribe and watch.

Ag Barometer Insights: October 2024 Survey Results

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 09:30:00 -0500

Farmer sentiment saw an unexpected surge in October ahead of the upcoming U.S. election, according to the latest Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the October 2024 Ag Economy Barometer survey, conducted from Oct. 14-18, 2024. The Barometer Index rose 27 points to 115, with increases in both the Current Condition Index and the Future Expectation Index. Key insights include farmers' improved optimism about 2025 despite high input costs and lower crop prices. Specific survey responses on financial conditions, investment plans, and farmland value expectations are discussed, alongside their potential influences, such as the upcoming election and policy concerns.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast178.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/EV_0yPgTRnY to subscribe and watch.

Flexible vs. Fixed Cash Rent Farmland Leases

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 14:34:14 -0400

Join Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Todd Kuethe, and James Mintert as they discuss farmland rental agreements, with a focus on flexible cash rent leases versus traditional cash rental and crop share arrangements. They combine their comparison of cropland flex leases to cash rental agreements with insights from the 2024 Purdue Farmland and Cash Rental Rate Survey. The discussion covers cash rental trends in west central Indiana, the economic factors influencing changes in rental rates, and the relationship between net returns to land and cash rental rates. They also discuss the benefits and challenges associated with flex leases, emphasizing the importance of clear agreements. The episode also provides an update on Indiana farmland values and points listeners to the array of farmland leasing resources available on the Purdue Center for Commercial Agriculture's website.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast177.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/87bpXxTwm58 to subscribe and watch.

For additional resources and publications on leasing, visit: https://purdue.ag/leasingland. The full August Purdue Agricultural Economics Report with 2024 survey results for farmland values and cash rental rates can be found by visiting: https://purdue.ag/paer.

To learn more about Indiana's 2024 farmland values, listen episode 173 for an in-depth understanding of trends, market dynamics, and future expectations for farmland values with professors Kuethe, Langemeier and Mintert: https://purdue.ag/agcast173 And learn more about Indiana's 2024 farmland cash rental rates by listening to episode 174: https://purdue.ag/agcast174

Socials: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #AgCast.

Exploring the Organic Grain Industry: Challenges and Opportunities

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 09:52:29 -0400

In this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast, Chad Fiechter hosts Michael O'Donnell, a regional manager at Belltown Farms, who focusing on converting conventional farms to organic. The discussion highlights Belltown's operations across multiple states, emphasizing organic grain production. The conversation covers the strategies and challenges of transitioning conventional farms to organic production, the state of organic grain markets, and the impact of consumer trends on organic agriculture. Michael shares insights on crop rotations, equipment, personnel, and market demands, emphasizing the shift towards domestic organic grain production. The episode concludes with optimism for the future of organic farming and Michael's dedication to promoting sustainable agriculture.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. The transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast176.

Socials: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #AgCast.

Ag Barometer Insights: September 2024 Survey Results

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 09:30:00 -0400

In September, the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer recorded its lowest readings since March 2016. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the September 2024 Ag Economy Barometer survey, conducted from Sept. 9-13, 2024. This month, the Ag Economy Barometer fell 12 points to 88, marking significant concerns among producers, especially crop farmers. The discussion highlights shifts in sentiment, the impact of input costs, declining income expectations and profitability, and a detailed look at farmland values and cover crop usage. Understand the current state and future expectations of the U.S. agricultural economy.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast175.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/JEONO4VdIuQ to subscribe and watch.

(Part 2) 2024 Indiana Cash Rent Trends

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 11:43:06 -0400

Join Purdue ag economists Todd Kuethe, Michael Langemeier and James Mintert as they discuss farmland cash rental rates on this, the second episode of two episodes reviewing the 2024 Purdue Farmland Values and Cash Rents Survey results. Each June, Purdue's department of agricultural economics surveys knowledgeable professionals regarding Indiana's farmland and cash rental market. The trio of ag economists review survey results and long-term trends in Indiana cash rental rates, including an examination of regional variation in rates within Indiana. The discussion concludes by examining the relationship between cash rental rates and estimated net returns to land as well as the long-term farmland price to cash rent ratio.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast174.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/Kyt3uyqQeWY to subscribe and watch.

For the full August Purdue Agricultural Economics Report, visit: https://purdue.ag/paer.

To learn more about Indiana's 2024 farmland values, listen to the first podcast in this series (episode 173) for an in-depth understanding of trends, market dynamics, and future expectations for farmland values with professors Kuethe, Langemeier and Mintert.

Socials: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #AgCast.

(Part 1) 2024 Indiana Farmland Values & Market Trends

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 16:17:09 -0400

Join Purdue ag economists Todd Kuethe, Michael Langemeier and James Mintert as they discuss Indiana farmland values on this, the first of two episodes reviewing the 2024 Purdue Farmland Values and Cash Rents Survey results. Each June, the department of agricultural economics surveys knowledgeable professionals regarding Indiana's farmland and cash rental market. The 2024 survey results confirmed that the average value for Indiana farmland hit a new record high this summer. A number of forces, such as high interest rates and lower farm incomes, are placing downward pressure on prices, but the limited supply of land is keeping prices firm. The episode shares insights from the Farm Sector Balance Sheet, USDA data collection methods, regional variations in land values, and the influences of factors such as interest rates and development pressures on farmland prices. Gain an in-depth understanding of trends, market dynamics, and future expectations for farmland values.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast173.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/pMzDTXAJhFA to subscribe and watch.

For the full August Purdue Agricultural Economics Report, visit: https://purdue.ag/paer.

A second podcast on Indiana's 2024 farmland cash rental rates will be released later this month with discussion on cash rent with professors Kuethe, Langemeier and Mintert.

Socials: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg, https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #AgCast.

Ag Barometer Insights: August 2024 Survey Results

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 09:30:00 -0400

The August Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer dropped 13 points from July to a reading of 100, echoing levels seen from fall 2015 to winter 2016 during the early stages of a significant downturn in the U.S. farm economy. The Index of Current Conditions also dropped 17 points to 83, while the Index of Future Expectations decreased by 11 points to 108. Weakening farm income prospects weighed on farmers’ sentiment as the outlook for a bountiful fall harvest was more than offset by declining crop prices. This month’s survey was conducted from Aug. 12-16, 2024.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the August 2024 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Understanding Generational Differences Within A Family Business

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 13:05:40 -0400

Is your farm business prepared for the future? Maria Marshall and Renee Wiatt join host Brady Brewer in this episode to discuss how the many generations of family engaged in a family business interact with one another. One of the challenges in a family business is understanding the differences in generational perspectives on the business and possible succession. This episode reviews results from a recent survey conducted across the Midwest which examines generational differences within farm families seeking to transition their businesses to the next generation. Tune in to gain insights and practical advice to help ensure a successful transfer of your farm to the next generation. This is the second episode in a series focused on succession preparedness.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture with guests from the Purdue Institute for Family Business and the North Central Regional Center for Rural Development. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast171.

Ag Barometer Insights: July 2024 Survey Results

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 09:30:00 -0400

Three broad-based measures of farmer sentiment improved in July as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index rose 8 points to 113, the Index of Current Conditions increased by 10 points to 100, and the Index of Future Expectations at 119 was 7 points higher than a month earlier. Despite declines in corn and soybean prices, Eastern Corn Belt cash prices went down 11% and 5%, respectively, from mid-June to mid-July, farmer sentiment improved in July. This month's Ag Economy Barometer survey was conducted from July 15-19, 2024.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the July 2024 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Agricultural Jobs & Labor Update

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 12:27:12 -0400

Labor availability and labor retention are big issues in the U.S. economy and that's especially true for agribusiness firms and for commercial scale farm operations. According to the latest Purdue Agricultural Job Market Report, job postings are up by 50%. More employers are seeking entry-level candidates with higher levels of education. Additionally, it has become more common for employers to include salary information in their job postings as a way to encourage applications. In this episode, host Brady Brewer joins Josh Strine, a Ph.D. student in Purdue's Department of Agricultural Economics, to discuss the Purdue Ag Jobs Dashboard. They'll bring you up to speed on ag labor issues while reviewing recent trends from the latest June 2024 report. If you're a farm or agribusiness seeking to hire new staff or you're seeking a new career in agriculture, you won't want to miss this episode.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. The transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast169.

Ag Barometer Insights: June 2024 Survey Results

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 09:30:00 -0400

Farmer sentiment drifted downward in June as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer reading of 105 was 3 points lower than a month earlier. The overall decline in sentiment was due to a five-point drop in the Index of Future Expectations, which fell to 112, while the June Current Conditions Index increased to 90, 1 point higher than the May index. High input costs, the risk of lower prices for their products, and rising interest rates continue to weigh on farmer sentiment. This month's Ag Economy Barometer survey was conducted from June 17-21, 2024.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the June 2024 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Farm Retirement & Succession Preparedness

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 13:48:18 -0400

In this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast, host Brady Brewer is joined by Dr. Maria Marshall and Renee Wiatt to explore the crucial topic of farm succession planning and retirement preparedness. They discuss the findings of a recent survey conducted across the Midwest, examining the readiness of farm families to transition their businesses to the next generation. The conversation highlights the challenges and emotional complexities involved, emphasizing the importance of early planning and open communication to ensure both the business's sustainability and the family's cohesion. Listeners will gain valuable insights into effective strategies for balancing family dynamics and business goals during the succession process. This is the first episode in a 3-part series focused on succession preparedness.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Guests from the Purdue Institute for Family Business and the North Central Regional Center for Rural Development. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast167.

Improving Your Strategic Risk Plan

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 10:00:00 -0400

In the third episode of the strategic risk series, the Purdue University Center for Commercial Agriculture's team of ag economists, James Mintert, Michael Langemeier, and Brady Brewer discuss the tradeoff between improving efficiency and resilience of the farm business. This episode provides a series of questions you can use to help evaluate tradeoffs on your farm. The discussion concludes with five key managerial levers you can focus on when thinking about efficiency and resilience.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast166.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/C3r5es8nJao to subscribe and watch.

Ag Barometer Insights: May 2024 Survey Results

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 09:39:11 -0400

U.S. farmers’ outlook improved in May as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer index rose to 108, marking a 9-point increase from April. Both of the barometer’s subindices saw increases, with the Index of Future Expectations climbing 11 points to 117 and the Current Conditions Index rising 6 points. The rise in crop prices played a role in boosting farmer sentiment this month. By mid-May, Eastern Corn Belt cash corn prices had increased by 6% to 7%, and soybean prices had risen by 2% to 3% since the April survey was conducted. The improvement in prices aligned with good corn and soybean planting progress, which likely contributed to the sentiment improvement. This month's Ag Economy Barometer survey was conducted from May 13-17, 2024.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economist James Mintert shares some insight into the results of the May 2024 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

The Impact of Strategic Risks

Fri, 31 May 2024 03:30:00 -0400

In the second episode of the strategic risk series, the Purdue University Center for Commercial Agriculture’s James Mintert, Michael Langemeier, and Brady Brewer provide examples of strategic risks and discuss ways agricultural producers can make their farm operation more resilient to strategic risks. They wrap up their discussion with a scenario-based approach you can adopt to make your farm more resilient to strategic risks.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast164.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/kxvuEVm8vFk to subscribe and watch.

Importance of Managing Strategic Risks

Fri, 24 May 2024 17:25:02 -0400

Dig into strategic risk management for farm businesses with the Purdue University Center for Commercial Agriculture. Join James Mintert, Michael Langemeier, and Brady Brewer as they discuss what strategic risks are and how to start thinking about your farm's ability to withstand shocks. The team of ag economists also discuss how important it can be to identify and capture the business opportunities that sometimes accompany a shock to the operating environment. This is the first episode in a series focused on helping ag producers learn to manage strategic risks.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast163.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/GbXtaQUecGY to subscribe and watch.

Ag Barometer Insight: April 2024 Survey Results

Tue, 07 May 2024 09:30:00 -0400

April witnessed a steep decline in U.S. farmer sentiment, as indicated by the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer, which fell 15 points from March to a reading of 99. April marked the lowest farmer sentiment reading since June 2022 and the weakest current condition rating since May 2020. The sentiment decline was driven by worries regarding the current financial situation on farms and anticipated financial challenges in the coming year. The April Ag Economy Barometer survey was conducted from April 8-12, 2024.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economist James Mintert shares some insight into the results of the April 2024 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Navigating Farm Loan Interest Rates

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 13:35:17 -0400

Total operator interest expense over the past year has increase 43%, leading producers to seek answers among a diversified agricultural credit space. From traditional lenders in ag, like the farm credit system and commercial banks or more non-traditional lenders like implement dealers and co-ops - How do these lenders compare?

Host Brady Brewer, accompanied by guests Dr. Jennifer Iftt, Dr. Noah Miller, and Dr. Gerald Mashange, explore how agricultural loan interest rates vary among lenders. In this episode, they unpack a series of recent FarmDoc articles dissecting the nuances of interest rates in ag loans across various groups of lenders, geographic regions, and different types of farms.

This podcast reviews three Farmdoc articles released by the guests: (1) Farm Loan Interest Rate Trends by Major Lender Group, (2) Farm Loan Interest Rate by Geographic Region, and (3) Do Different Types of Farms Pay Different Interest Rates?

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. The transcript from the discussion, as well as additional resources can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast161.

Ag Barometer Insight: March 2024 Survey Results

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 09:30:00 -0400

U.S. farmers’ perspective on the future improved in March helping to push the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer up 3 points from February to a reading of 114. The Index of Current Conditions at 101 was 2 points below a month earlier while the Index of Future Expectations reached 120, 5 points higher than in February. The split between the current and future indices was driven primarily by farmers’ perception that their financial condition has deteriorated over the last year while they expect their financial situation to improve modestly in the next 12 months. The March Ag Economy Barometer survey was conducted from March 11-15, 2024.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the March 2024 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: February 2024 Survey Results

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0500

The latest Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer reveals a modest increase in farmer sentiment compared to the previous month, though concerns remain regarding farm financial performance in the year ahead. The barometer rose in February posting a reading of 111, 5 points higher than a month earlier. The modest rise in the barometer was attributable to producers expressing somewhat more optimism about the future as the Future Expectations Index rose 7 points to a reading of 115 while the Current Conditions Index was unchanged, both compared to a month earlier. Although farmers’ expectations for the future improved in February, their financial performance expectations did not. February’s Farm Financial Performance Index reading of 85 was 1 point lower than in January and 13 points below its most recent peak in December. Weak crop prices continue to weigh on financial expectations as mid-February Eastern Corn Belt cash prices for corn and soybeans were 7 and 8% lower, respectively, than two months earlier when the December survey was conducted. The February Ag Economy Barometer survey was conducted from February 12-16, 2024.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the February 2024 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Making Your 2024 Crop Insurance Decision

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 12:06:31 -0500

This episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast is a great opportunity for producers to review their crop insurance choices for the upcoming season. Purdue University Center for Commercial Agriculture’s ag economists Michael Langemeier and James Mintert and Brad Lubben, policy specialist and extension associate professor from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, walk participants through key considerations when making their 2024 insurance choices. During the episode they discussed a handy thumb rule to use when considering an increase in coverage levels for revenue protection insurance and the role of SCO insurance for farmers who opt for the PLC program on their corn acreage. After listening to the podcast you’ll be ready to make your 2024 crop insurance decisions.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast158.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/dBaWfegRLLg to subscribe and watch.

PLC or ARC: Making Your 2024 Farm Bill Program Price Protection Decision

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 14:24:36 -0500

Brad Lubben, policy specialist and extension associate professor from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, joins Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier for a discussion on key 2024 farm program details. They highlight differences between the PLC and ARC programs for the 2024 crop year and how benefits from the two programs are likely to differ. After listening to the podcast you’ll be ready to make your 2024 farm program choice.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides, decision tools, and additional farm bill decision resource links, as well as the transcript from this episode can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast157.

You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/o67mmNUJAck to subscribe and watch.

USDA Farm Income Forecast, February 2024 Update

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 13:44:00 -0500

Join host Brady Brewer for an episode with Purdue ag economist Michael Langemeier as they discuss USDA's latest farm income forecast for February 2024. Net farm income is expected to decline by 25% but remain near the long-run average. Gain insight into various crop and livestock sectors as they discuss enterprise revenues, farm household income, production expenses, breakeven prices for an Indiana case farm, and the U.S. farm sector balance sheet.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Transcript from the discussion and more information from the Purdue Top Farmer Conference can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast156.

Ag Barometer Insight: January 2024 Survey Results

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 09:31:12 -0500

Farmer sentiment took a downturn at the start of 2024 as the January Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index fell to a reading of 106, 8 points below a month earlier. Compared to year-end, producers had a more negative outlook of their farms’ current situation along with a weakened outlook for the future as the Current Conditions Index fell 9 points and the Future Expectations Index dropped 7 points, both compared to December. Anticipated lower farm income in 2024 significantly influenced the decline across all indices, evident in the Farm Financial Performance Index registering at 85, which was 12 points lower than a month earlier. The January Ag Economy Barometer survey was conducted from January 15-19, 2024.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the January 2024 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Farm Agility, Resilience & Strategic Risk

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 16:01:00 -0500

Host Brady Brewer recaps Michael Langemeier and Margaret Lippsmeyer's presentation on farm agility and resilience at the 2024 Top Farmer Conference. The discussion revolves around the importance of strategic risk management and the factors that contribute to a farm's resilience. Dr. Langemeier and Margaret highlight the relationships between farm growth, producer sentiment, risk preference, managerial ability, farm resilience, and the use of production ag technologies. The episode also touches upon the differences in producer sentiment between the Top Farmer Conference participants and the nationwide Ag Economy Barometer Survey. Tune in to learn more about the key takeaways from the survey and the strategies that farmers can adopt to become more resilient in their farming operations.

Renewable Diesel Boom & Where Biofuels Are Headed

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 13:39:42 -0500

Host Brady Brewer discussed the "boom" in renewable diesel and its expected impact on the soybean market with Dr. Scott Irwin, a professor of agricultural economics at the University of Illinois. In addition to discussing the renewable diesel market, Dr. Irwin also provides insight into the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) market and potential impacts on U.S. agriculture. Tune in to hear Brady and Scott discuss how the future might play out in these two important markets for U.S. agriculture.

This episode is a recap of Dr. Scott Irwin's presentation at the 2024 Purdue Top Farmer Conference. Scott is the author of "Back To The Futures", a memoir of growing up on a family farm in Iowa and a market primer on commodity futures markets, which Scott has studied extensively over the course of his career, an academic career that is now in its 5th decade. Dr. Irwin is a globally recognized thought leader in agricultural economics and is one of the nation's foremost researchers focused on the impact of biofuels on commodity markets.

The Outlook for Corn & Soybeans

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 16:34:00 -0500

Host Brady Brewer provides a recap of Dr. Chad Hart's presentation on the 2024 agricultural crop market outlook at the Purdue Top Farmer Conference. Dr. Hart, a professor and crop marketing specialist at Iowa State University, explores the shift to “normalcy” for crop prices and farm incomes in 2024. This episode also provides insights into the challenges and opportunities ahead ranging from the impact of possible drought on USDA projections to projected increases in soybean acres.

Farm Bill Directions & Decisions

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 13:39:18 -0500

Join host Brady Brewer as he recaps Dr. Brad Lubben’s presentation on the 2024 ag policy outlook at the Purdue Top Farmer Conference. Dr. Lubben, an extension ag policy specialist at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, navigates the complexities of the current farm bill landscape, detailing challenges faced in 2023 and how we ultimately ended up with a one-year extension of the current legislation. This episode also provides insights into decisions farmers must make in 2024, emphasizing the changing economic landscape’s impact on safety nets and commodity program choices. Tune in for key insights on legislation, policy analysis and implications for the agricultural industry.

Ag Barometer Insight: December 2023 Survey Results

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 09:21:53 -0500

U.S. farmers’ sentiment changed very little in December compared to the preceding month. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer recorded a reading of 114, just one point lower than a month earlier. Both sub-indices of the barometer, the Index of Current Conditions and the Index of Future Expectations, also fell one point below their respective November readings. Looking ahead to 2024, U.S. farmers inflation expectations are markedly lower than they were at the start of 2023. The December Ag Economy Barometer survey was conducted from December 4-8, 2023.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the December 2023 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

USDA Farm Income Forecast, December Update

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 15:30:00 -0500

Curious about the outlook for farm incomes in the coming year? Join host Brady Brewer in this episode with Purdue ag economist Michael Langemeier as they discuss farm income projections outlined in USDA's December Farm Income Forecast. Michael shares producer perspectives from the Ag Economy Barometer and takes a closer look on an Indiana case farm.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/AgCast149.

Ag Barometer Insight: November 2023 Survey Results

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 09:30:44 -0500

Agricultural producers’ sentiment increased for the second consecutive month, as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer index rose 5 points to a reading of 115, a 12% increase compared to the previous year. The sentiment growth is largely attributed to farmers’ improved perceptions of their farms’ financial conditions and prospects. This month’s Ag Economy Barometer survey was conducted from November 13-17, 2023.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the November 2023 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: October 2023 Survey Results

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 09:30:00 -0500

There was a slight uptick in agricultural producers’ sentiment in October, as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer index rose 4 points to a reading of 110. The modest improvement in farmer sentiment resulted from farmers’ improved perspective on current conditions on their farms as well as their expectations for the future. This month’s Ag Economy Barometer survey was conducted from October 16-20, 2023.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the October 2023 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: September 2023 Survey Results

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 09:30:00 -0400

Agricultural producers’ sentiment declined for the second month in a row during September as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer fell 9 points to a reading of 106. Weakening prices for major crops and ongoing concerns about high production costs and interest rates weighed on producers’ minds this month. This month’s Ag Economy Barometer survey was conducted from September 11-15, 2023.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Chad Fiechter share some insight into the results of the September 2023 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

USDA Farm Income Forecast, August Update

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 10:11:50 -0400

Join us in this episode as we dive into the latest USDA farm income forecast released in August 2023. Discover the factors behind a notable 23% drop in net farm income and gain insights into the impact on various commodities, from corn and soybeans to wheat, and even cow-calf operations. Stay informed about how the impact of rising inflation and increased farm input prices are influencing breakevens and farmland values by tuning into this enlightening discussion.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/AgCast145.

Ag Barometer Insight: August 2023 Survey Results

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 09:30:00 -0400

Producer sentiment was notably lower in August, as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer index dipped 8 points to a reading of 115. This month’s decline was fueled by producers’ weaker perception of current conditions both on their farms and in U.S. agriculture. The Current Conditions Index fell 13 points to a reading of 108. The Future Expectations Index also declined, down 5 points in August to a reading of 119. This month’s Ag Economy Barometer survey was conducted from August 14-18, 2023.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the August 2023 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Financing Amid Rate Ripples, an Ag Credit Update

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 13:27:34 -0400

Discover how interest rates impact farming decisions, machinery choices, and the value of farmland. In this ag credit update podcast, Purdue ag economists Brady Brewer and Michael Langemeier discuss recent inflation trends, interest rate trajectories, loan markets and the ripple effects at the farm. Projections from producers on the latest Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer don't line up with policy makers at the Federal Reserve Open Market Committee (FOMC) on where we're headed for 2024. So where are interest rates going?

Tune in to stay ahead of the financial currents affecting agriculture. Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/AgCast143.

(Part 2) Indiana Farmland Cash Rental Rates 2023 Update

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 09:33:32 -0400

Purdue ag economists Todd Kuethe, James Mintert and Michael Langemeier discuss cash rental rates for Indiana farmland in this, the second of two episodes discussing the 2023 Purdue Farmland Values and Cash Rents Survey results. Each June, the department of agricultural economics surveys knowledgeable professionals regarding Indiana's farmland and cash rental market. The 2023 survey results confirm that, statewide, average cash rental rates for Indiana farmland rose about 2% above 2022's rates. However, changes in rates across Indiana's 6 regions were not uniform with rental rates in some regions and for some land quality types actually declining.

To learn more about Indiana's 2023 farmland values, you can listen to the first of two podcasts in this series for a wide ranging discussion on Indiana farmland values with professors Kuethe, Langemeier and Mintert.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast142.

New! You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/_r5ZQej9Wvg to subscribe and watch.

(Part 1) Indiana Farmland Values 2023 Update

Sun, 06 Aug 2023 12:35:00 -0400

Purdue ag economists Todd Kuethe, James Mintert and Michael Langemeier discuss Indiana farmland values on this, the first of two episodes discussing the 2023 Purdue Farmland Values and Cash Rents Survey results. Each June, the department of agricultural economics surveys knowledgeable professionals regarding Indiana's farmland and cash rental market. The 2023 survey results confirm that the average value for Indiana farmland hit a new record high this summer. Growth in values, however, was relatively modest compared to the record high appreciation observed in 2022 and the shifts in farmland values varied quite a bit depending on location within the state and land quality.

To learn more about Indiana's 2023 farmland cash rental rates, listen to the second of two podcasts in this series for a wide ranging discussion on cash rent with professors Kuethe, Langemeier and Mintert.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast141.

New! You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/dPCsvO2GXW4 to subscribe and watch.

Ag Barometer Insight: July 2023 Survey Results

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 09:30:00 -0400

Agricultural producer sentiment improved slightly in July as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose two points above its June reading to an index value of 123. This month's Ag Economy Barometer survey was conducted from July 10-14, 2023.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the July 2023 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: June 2023 Survey Results

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 09:30:00 -0400

Farmer Sentiment rebounded on more optimistic view of future in June as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 17 points to a reading of 121. This month’s survey was conducted from June 12-16, 2023.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the June 2023 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

2023 Purdue Farm Management Tour Prelude: Rowland Farms

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 15:25:47 -0400

Greg and Jacob Rowland discuss their family's farm operation near Campbellsburg, Indiana with Purdue's James Mintert. Rowland Farms has been in operation since the late 1930's and will be featured as part of the Purdue Farm Management Tour on July 11, 2023 in Washington county, Indiana. Greg and Jenny Rowland took over the operation in 1989 and for well over a decade have focused on improving soil health via their use of cover crops to boost their farm's long-term productivity. Looking for expansion opportunities to make it possible to join the family's farm operation full-time, the Rowland's son, Jacob, recently put into operation a new commercial scale cage-free layer house. The highly automated poultry operation features a manure storage system that helps Rowlands obtain maximum value from the poultry litter they apply to their cropland. Hear how the Rowland's cover crop technology has evolved and how adding a new enterprise to the farm operation facilitated bringing the next generation back to the farm.

Meet Greg, Jacob and Jenny Rowland in person and tour their farm operation! Join us for the 90th annual Purdue Farm Management Tour on July 11, 2023 at the Rowland Farm near Campbellsburg, Indiana. More details and registration information are at https://purdue.ag/farmtour.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture, https://purdue.edu/commercialag/.

New! You can find the FULL video episode with Hackman's farm footage on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/PbeJX3SCacE to subscribe and watch.

2023 Purdue Farm Management Tour Prelude: Hackman Family Farm Market

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 13:26:51 -0400

Megan Vanliew and Jacquelyn Jansinski, daughters of Tom & Ruth Hackman, discuss their roles on the Hackman family's farm near Vallonia, Indiana with James Mintert. Hackman Family Farm Market is a diversified farm operation and will be featured as part of the Purdue Farm Management Tour on July 11, 2023. The Hackmans have augmented their row-crop operation with produce including sweet corn, watermelons, cantaloupes, tomatoes and several other produce crops. In addition to supplying several major retailers with watermelons, the Hackman's also market directly to consumers via locations at the farm and in Seymour, Indiana. Their newest enterprise is a subscription based fresh produce delivery service. Hear how Megan, Jacquelyn and other family members value diversification and how they've developed new enterprises to fuel their farm operation's growth while successfully navigating food safety issues.

Meet Megan and Jacquelyn and the rest of the Hackmans in person and tour their farm operation! Join us for the 90th annual Purdue Farm Management Tour on July 11, 2023 at the Hackman Family Farm Market near Vallonia, Indiana. More details and registration information are at https://purdue.ag/farmtour.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture, https://purdue.edu/commercialag/.

New! You can find the FULL video episode with Hackman's farm footage on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/neCFlcH_Ync to subscribe and watch.

Soybean Outlook Update Following USDA’s June WASDE Report

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 11:56:46 -0400

Soybean futures volatility increased sharply this week as futures prices responded to concerns about dry weather possibly impacting crop yields. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Nathanael Thompson discussed the updated soybean outlook on the latest Purdue Commercial AgCast video podcast. The Center's team reviewed this week's soybean crop condition ratings and possible implications for 2023 U.S. soybean yield, production and carryover stocks. Shifting demand prospects for soybeans related to the increased usage of soybean oil for renewable fuels and trade prospects were also featured including a comparison of U.S. exports to those emanating from competing South American exporters. The discussion concluded with an overview of soybean basis, including a discussion of soybean processor and Ohio river basis, using the recently revamped Purdue Crop Basis Tool.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.edu/commercialag/.

New! You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/344-BiC1AHg to subscribe and watch.

Corn Outlook Update Following USDA’s June WASDE Report

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 09:18:16 -0400

Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Nathanael Thompson discussed the updated corn outlook following USDA's June World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report on the latest Purdue Commercial AgCast podcast. The latest corn crop condition ratings were discussed along with implications for 2023 U.S. corn yield, production and carryover stocks. Corn export prospects were also featured with a comparison to South American and Black Sea region exports. The discussion concluded with an overview of corn basis and basis forecasts using the recently revamped Purdue Crop Basis Tool.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.edu/commercialag/.

New! You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/thkEwSt-FrE to subscribe and watch.

Ag Barometer Insight: May 2023 Survey Results

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 09:30:00 -0400

Producer sentiment fell to its weakest reading since July 2022, as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index declined 19 points to a reading of 104 in May. This month’s survey was conducted from May 15-19, 2023.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the May 2023 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: April 2023 Survey Results

Tue, 02 May 2023 09:30:00 -0400

Farmer sentiment improved modestly in April as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer reversed a two-month decline up 6 points to a reading of 123. This month’s survey was conducted from April 10-14, 2023.

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the April 2023 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Critical Juncture for Crop Basis & Your Marketing Strategy for the Remainder of ’22 Crop

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 12:52:50 -0400

Purdue ag economists Nathanael Thompson and James Mintert explore what's been taking place in the Eastern Corn Belt on corn basis, the May/July CBT corn spread, as well as the July/September CBT corn spread, and later discuss how you might pursue some marketing strategies for the remainder of the '22 crop that you might have in storage.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.edu/commercialag/.

New! You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/akgk9a9YluU to subscribe and watch.

Ag Barometer Insight: March 2023 Survey Results

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 09:30:00 -0400

Farmer sentiment weakened again in March as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer fell 8 points to a reading of 117. Both the Index of Current Conditions and Index of Future Expectations declined 8 points in March leaving the Current Conditions Index at 126 and the Future Expectations Index at 113. Weaker prices for key commodities including wheat, corn, and soybeans from mid-February through mid-March were a key factor behind this month’s weaker sentiment reading. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. This month’s survey was conducted from March 13-17, 2023 which coincided with the demise of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Prospective Plantings Report Update

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 16:15:30 -0400

On March 31st USDA released the Prospective Plantings and the March Grain Stocks reports, providing the first estimate of spring 2023 corn and soybean planting intentions. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier reviewed the information contained in both reports and discussed implications for the corn and soybean outlook in 2023.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast130.

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #AgCast.

Ag Barometer Insight: February 2023 Survey Results

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 09:30:00 -0500

The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index dipped 5 points in February to a reading of 125. Farmers’ perspectives regarding both current conditions on their farms and their expectations for the future both weakened. This month’s survey revealed that producers’ confidence in the future growth of U.S. agricultural exports continues to weaken. In addition, although both land value expectation indices remain in positive territory, more producers think farmland values could weaken in the year ahead than on previous surveys. This month’s survey was conducted from February 13-17, 2023.

The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier share some insight into the results of the February 2023 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Financial Risk Management & Contingency Planning

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 15:16:00 -0500

Farming is never the same from year to year - sometimes prices are good, net farm income is high, and other times margins are tight. Planning ahead, or contingency planning for financial hardship is important for any farm operation. In this final episode in the Farm Risk Management series, Purdue's Michael Langemeier and Ed Farris join Brady Brewer to discuss financial risk management. How to evaluate farm financials, update financial statements, analyze performance, and when borrowing makes sense.

This series is based on the Six Pillars of Farm Risk Management course, funded by the North Central Extension Risk Management Education Center.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Find the rest of this farm risk management series and resources at https://purdue.ag/farmriskmgmt. More information on contingency planning is on the Purdue Institute for Family Business' website https://purdue.ag/fambiz.

Making Your 2023 Crop Insurance Decision

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 16:05:00 -0500

This episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast is a great opportunity for producers to review their crop insurance choices for the upcoming season. Purdue University Center for Commercial Agriculture's ag economists Michael Langemeier and James Mintert walk participants through key considerations for their 2023 insurance options. In particular, they discuss a handy thumb rule to use when considering an increase in coverage levels for RP insurance.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/cropinsurance2023.

New! You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/y4gY4j-6ukg to subscribe and watch.

Marketing Risk Management & Contingency Planning

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 15:15:00 -0500

Product, price, place, and promotion are important in marketing to current and potential buyers. In this episode, a continuation of the Farm Risk Management series, Ariana Torres, Renee Wiatt, and Jenna Nees join Brady Brewer to discuss contingency planning for marketing risk management.

This series is based on the Six Pillars of Farm Risk Management course, funded by the North Central Extension Risk Management Education Center.

Social Media Risk Management & Contingency Planning

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 15:18:47 -0500

Farms and agribusinesses are confronted by many different types of risk in today's market, including social media. In this third episode in the Farm Risk Management series, Purdue University's Jenna Nees, Renee Wiatt and Ariana Torres join Brady Brewer to discuss social media's impact on businesses and how to build a contingency plan to protect your farm.

This series is based on the Six Pillars of Farm Risk Management course, funded by the North Central Extension Risk Management Education Center.

February Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 09:37:04 -0500

Purdue agricultural economists Nathanael Thompson, Michael Langemeier, and James Mintert discussed the corn and soybean outlook following USDA's February World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report and provided implications for crop marketing strategies on February 10, 2023.

Monthly Outlook provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and the transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/webinar021023.

Find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel, Purdue Center for Commercial Agriculture, visit https://youtu.be/PpEn7yzReCY to subscribe and watch.

Thinking Like A CFO for Your Farm Operation

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 09:46:35 -0500

Why should you think like a Chief Financial Officer (CFO)? Every farm needs someone to fulfill the CFO role, with or without the title of CFO. Sometimes the role of an accountant and CFO are confused. A CFO uses accounting information to help project what's going to happen on a farm, going well beyond the accounting function. Most farms already have a balance sheet in addition to cash income and expense information that can be used for taxes. That's an accounting role. The individual on the farm with CFO responsibilities is responsible for putting together a set of financial statements and analyzing the information contained in these statements. A farm manager who thinks like a CFO can leverage balance sheet and cash flow information to develop accrual income, sources and uses of funds, and owner’s equity statements which can be used to ensure the farm is well positioned for the future. Join Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier and James Mintert for an episode discussing why you should think like a CFO for your farm operation.

This episode begins a new series on farm financial management. The next episode will be released in a few weeks.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Find the rest of this farm financial management series and related resources at https://purdue.ag/farmfinancialmgmt.

New! You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel, Purdue Center for Commercial Agriculture. Visit https://youtu.be/DUAD_BWp7yM to subscribe and watch.

Ag Barometer Insight: January 2023 Survey Results

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 09:30:00 -0500

The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index rose again in January, to a reading of 130, 4 points above its 2022 year-end index value. The January survey results also pushed the index 34% above its 2022 low point which occurred last June. The barometer’s modest rise in January was primarily attributable to better expectations for the future as the Future Expectations Index rose 5 points to 127 while the Index of Current Conditions, with a value of 136, changed little compared to December. This month’s survey was conducted from January 16-20, 2023. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Importance of Crop Basis when Marketing Grain

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 15:11:00 -0500

Basis is an important component for crop producers to consider when marketing grain because it is used to convert the futures price to a local cash equivalent. Futures prices and basis follow different seasonal patterns so the ability to manage futures price risk and basis risk independently creates an opportunity to improve returns. Join Purdue ag economists and co-creators of the Purdue Crop Basis Tool, Nathan Thompson and Jim Mintert for an episode discussing the advantages of using the Center’s Crop Basis Tool, available for corn and soybeans in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio.

This episode begins a new series on crop marketing. The next episode will cover thumb rules to use when forecasting basis, released in a few weeks.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Find the rest of this crop marketing series and related resources at https://purdue.ag/cropmarketing.

New! You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel, Purdue Center for Commercial Agriculture. Visit https://youtu.be/tNHOQ6sazFw to subscribe and watch.

How Much Have Eggs & Other Food Prices Risen?

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 15:00:00 -0500

With egg prices up nearly 75% and grocery bills on the rise, Jayson Lusk, Distinguished Professor and Department Head of Agricultural Economics joins Brady Brewer to discuss food price inflation. Jayson is also the Director of the Purdue Center for Food Demand Analysis and Sustainability (CFDAS) which provides dashboards and reports on food data, emerging topics, and consumer trends. Although food prices have been on the rise since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, certain grocery items have risen more than others. Jayson shares why many livestock producers are scaling back, the effects of supply chain issues, and how food inflation is affecting consumer spending and preferences.

Podcast provided by Purdue University’s Center for Commercial Agriculture. You can find the CFDAS’s dashboards and the latest report by visiting the CFDAS’s website at https://ag.purdue.edu/cfdas. Slides from this discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/3XWXZWI.

If you enjoyed this podcast, tweet us using #AgCast.

2023 Top Farmer Conference Recap: Interest Rates

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 13:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Purdue’s Brady Brewer was joined by Michael Langemeier, associate director of Purdue’s Center for Commercial Agriculture and Jason Henderson, senior associate dean of Purdue’s College of Agriculture and professor of agricultural economics. The podcast episode was a follow-up to the panel discussion the group had at the 2023 Purdue Top Farmer Conference focused on the U.S. economy, the Federal Reserve’s policy choices in 2023 and what it means for interest rates and the farm economy.

Podcast provided by Purdue University’s Center for Commercial Agriculture. More farm management news and information can be found at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

2023 Top Farmer Conference Recap: Machinery

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 14:00:00 -0500

Associate Professor of Agricultural Economics at the University of Kentucky Tyler Mark joined Purdue's Brady Brewer at the 2023 Purdue Top Farmer Conference to discuss the machinery market. In this episode, the two discuss key factors related to machinery prices, and what buyers should be thinking about as they make equipment purchase decisions in 2023 and 2024.

Podcast provided by Purdue University’s Center for Commercial Agriculture. More farm management news and information can be found at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

2023 Top Farmer Conference Recap: Land Values

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 16:00:00 -0500

Purdue's Brady Brewer was joined by R.D. Schrader, President of Schrader Real Estate and Auction Co., and Howard Halderman, President and CEO of Halderman Real Estate and Farm Management at the 2023 Purdue Top Farmer Conference to discuss land values. In this episode, Brewer, Schrader and Halderman give insights into what is in store for the farmland market, how interest rates may impact farmland markets, and the impact of institutional buyers.

Podcast provided by Purdue University’s Center for Commercial Agriculture. More farm management news and information can be found at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

January Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 17:06:30 -0500

Nathan Thompson and Michael Langemeier joined James Mintert on this podcast to discuss new information from USDA’s January 2023 World Ag Supply & Demand Estimates (WASDE) report, which was released on January 12th. During the podcast, they also provided an update on Eastern Corn Belt corn and soybean basis bids, marketing opportunities for both old and new crop corn and soybeans along with current breakeven estimates for corn and soybean production in 2023.

Podcast provided by Purdue University’s Center for Commercial Agriculture. More farm management news and information can be found at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

2023 Top Farmer Conference Recap: Corn & Soybean Outlook with Iowa State’s Chad Hart

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 13:07:00 -0500

Dr. Chad Hart, crop marketing specialist from Iowa State University, joined Purdue's Brady Brewer on January 6, 2023 at the Purdue Top Farmer Conference to discuss the key factors he is monitoring that will impact both the corn and soybean price outlook in 2023 and 2024.

Podcast provided by Purdue University’s Center for Commercial Agriculture. More farm management news and information can be found at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: December 2022

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 09:32:00 -0500

Producer sentiment improved sharply in December as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index reading of 126 was 24 points higher than a month earlier. Although U.S. farmers were more positive regarding both the current situation as well as their expectations for the future, by far the biggest improvement was in their assessment of current conditions. This month’s survey was conducted from December 5-9, 2022. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Production Risk Management & Contingency Planning

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 15:14:00 -0500

In this second episode of a new series on Farm Risk Management, Jenna Nees, Ed Farris, and Michael Langemeier join Brady Brewer to discuss contingency planning for production risk. Minimizing risk through management practices, reducing production variability, and managing ways to transfer some of the production risk should be reevaluated every year. Implementing diversification, flexibility, vertical integration, and new technology while managing costs can help migrate risk for farms and agribusiness'. Having a written contract in place for production and marketing as well as carrying insurance are important strategies to transfer risk to a third party.

This series is based on the Six Pillars of Farm Risk Management course, funded by the North Central Extension Risk Management Education Center.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Find the rest of this farm risk management series and related resources at https://purdue.ag/farmriskmgmt. More information on strategic business planning is on the Purdue Institute for Family Business' website, https://purdue.ag/fambiz.

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #AgCast.

December Outlook Update: Shifting Gears

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 09:27:37 -0500

Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Nathan Thompson and James Mintert discuss shifting gears with farm management strategies for a tougher operating environment. The team took a longer-term view of the changing cost structure facing corn and soybean prices, key factors likely to impact corn and soybean prices in 2023 and discussed how to use scenarios when analyzing price risk and making marketing decisions. Slides from the webinar podcast can be found at https://purdue.ag/webinar121922.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Human Resource Risk Management & Contingency Planning

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 02:02:00 -0500

Farms and agribusinesses are confronted by many different types of risk, but consideration to human resource risk is overlooked by far too many. If critical functions cannot be completed due to a death, disability, disaster, divorce, or disagreement the farm business cannot operate at full efficiency. One way to combat HR risk is by writing a contingency plan to help decide what to do if key operations are disrupted or key personnel is not available. In this first episode of a new series on Farm Risk Management, Maria Marshall, Renee Wiatt, and Kelly Heckaman join Brady Brewer to discuss contingency planning and human resource risk management.

This series is based on the Six Pillars of Farm Risk Management course, funded by the North Central Extension Risk Management Education Center.

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #PurdueCommercialAgCast.

Ag Barometer Insight: November 2022

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 09:30:00 -0500

Farmer sentiment was unchanged in November as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer came in at a reading of 102, the same as in October. There was however a slight shift in underlying sentiment as the Index of Current Conditions declined 3 points this month to a reading of 98 while the Index of Future Expectations rose 2 points to 104. This month’s survey was conducted from November 14-18, 2022. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Tax Planning & Working Capital in a Strong Income Year

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 07:00:00 -0500

For many crop and livestock producers, 2021 and 2022 were both strong net farm income years making tax planning strategies important. Purdue agricultural economists Brady Brewer and Michael Langemeier discuss strategies that will help reduce tax liabilities while also maintaining working capital. Strategies to consider include deferring income, prepaying expenses, retirement plan contributions, bunching itemized contributions, or hiring your children all of which won’t drain your farm’s working capital as much as using accelerated depreciation. Preserving working capital for family living and principal payments may be necessary for 2023 if higher breakeven prices and lower cash flows hold true to current 2023 projections. Slides from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/3XuIx4D.

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using#PurdueCommercialAgCast.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more farm information and news visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

November Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 15:37:58 -0500

Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Nathan Thompson and James Mintert discuss the corn and soybean outlook following USDA's November Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports along with current export and ethanol grind estimates. Updated corn and soybean basis information and a look at estimated corn and soybean breakeven prices for the 2023 crop are discussed in the outlook update. Slides from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/webinar111122.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: October 2022

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 09:25:00 -0400

Farmer sentiment weakened again in October as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer fell to a reading of 102, down 10 points compared to a month earlier. Both of the barometer’s sub-indices, the Index of Current Conditions and the Index of Future Expectations, declined this month. This month’s survey was conducted from October 10-14, 2022. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

October Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 15:43:41 -0400

Purdue agricultural economists Michael Langemeier, Nathanael Thompson, and James Mintert discuss the corn and soybean outlook following USDA's October Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports along with current export and ethanol grind estimates. Updated corn and soybean basis information and a look at estimated corn and soybean breakeven prices for the 2023 crop were discussed during the podcast. Slides from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/outlook101422.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: September 2022

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 09:25:00 -0400

The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer index drifted lower to a reading of 112 in September which was 5 points lower than a month earlier. These results stand in contrast with future expectations in September which were only 2% weaker than a year ago. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey. This month’s survey was conducted from September 19-23, 2022, a week or more following USDA’s September Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE). The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Farm Impact from Rising Inflation and Interest Rates: September Update

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 16:29:00 -0400

Purdue agricultural economists Brady Brewer and Michael Langemeier discuss updated inflation numbers and interest rates and the impacts on agriculture in this episode. Farm inputs like fertilizer, diesel, machinery and building supplies are discussed, as well as capital investments like land and real estate, and how the cost of debt is affecting budgets and operating interest rates. They also discuss the choice of variable interest rate loans vs fixed interest rate loans, a decision many farmers may be facing. Near the end of the conversation, they discuss the impact to net farm income prospects. Slides from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/3fqPgeu.

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #PurdueCommercialAgCast.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more farm information and news visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

10 Tips for Communications in Your Farm Business

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 11:04:37 -0400

Communication in any business is important, especially in your farm business when many times family is involved. Purdue ag economist Brady Brewer hosts a discussion with Purdue's Farm Succession Planning team that will provide you with 10 tips for better communication within your farm business. Team members Renee Wiatt, Family Business Management Specialist, Kelly Heckaman, Purdue Extension Area XI Director, and Heather Caldwell, Fayette County ANR Educator, discuss their tips for better communication with recognizing family roles, exploring feelings, discussing issues, responsibilities and goals, actively listening and transparency in this farm succession episode.

A pdf of the 10 Tips can also be downloaded from our website at https://purdue.ag/3T2QpYi. More farm succession and transition planning episodes can be found here. More resources can also be found at the Purdue Institute of Family Business.

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #PurdueCommercialAgCast. Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture.

September Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 16:09:57 -0400

Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Nathan Thompson and James Mintert broadcasted the September Crop Outlook webinar on Friday, September 16, 2022. The webinar featured information from USDA’s September Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports along with current export and ethanol grind estimates. The webinar also included updated corn and soybean basis information, a first look at estimated corn and soybean breakeven prices for the 2023 crop and a comparison of flexible cash leasing of farmland to traditional fixed cash rent leasing.

Slides from the discussion can be found at https://ag.purdue.edu/commercialag/home/resource/2022/09/september-corn-soybean-outlook-update-2/

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: August 2022

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 09:25:00 -0400

The Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer farmer sentiment index rose 14 points in August to a reading 117. The rise in the overall measure of agricultural producer sentiment was driven by increases in both the Index of Current Conditions, which rose 9 points to 118 and the Index of Future Expectations, which climbed 16 points to 116. The Ag Economy Barometer is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers' responses to a telephone survey. This month's survey was conducted between August 15-19, after USDA released both the August Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply & Demand Estimates reports. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Indiana Farmland Values & Cash Rental Rates: 2022 Update

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 14:19:32 -0400

Purdue ag economists Todd Kuethe, James Mintert and Michael Langemeier discuss the 2022 Purdue Farmland Values Survey results and the USDA's Land Values report. The department of agricultural economics conducts the Purdue Farmland Value and Cash Rent Survey each June; the survey is produced through the cooperation of numerous professionals knowledgeable regarding Indiana's farmland market. The survey results suggest farmland prices across Indiana rose to all-time highs in June 2022. Statewide, 2022 cash rental rates increased across all land quality classes. Download companion slides or view the video recording on our website here.

https://ag.purdue.edu/commercialag/home/resource/2022/08/indiana-farmland-values-cash-rental-rates-2022-update-webinar/

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #PurdueCommercialAgCast.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on farmland values, cash rents and the farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

August Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 18:18:01 -0400

Purdue agricultural economists Nathan Thompson and James Mintert recorded this podcast on August 12th. The team discussed the corn and soybean outlook following USDA's August World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report and provided implications for crop marketing strategies. Updates on balance sheet estimates for both the 21/22 and 22/23 crop years, ethanol demand, ending stock estimates, corn and soybean basis were all discussed.

Slides from the discussion can be found at https://ag.purdue.edu/commercialag/home/resource/2022/07/august-corn-soyb…outlook-update-2/

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: July 2022 Survey

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 09:25:00 -0400

The Purdue-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index rose 6 points in July to a reading of 103. Producers in this month’s survey were somewhat more optimistic about both current and future economic conditions on their farms than they were in June. This month's survey was conducted from July 11-15, 2022. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers' responses to a telephone survey. Purdue ag economist James Mintert breaks down the results of the July 2022 Ag Economy Barometer survey. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag

Rising Interest Rates...Implications for Farmers

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 14:22:59 -0400

On this episode Purdue ag economists Brady Brewer and Michael Langemeier discuss inflation and interest rates in the agricultural sector as well as the agricultural credit markets. Gain more insight on interest rates, inflation and more!

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #PurdueCommercialAgCast.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more farm information and news visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Farm Succession: Roadmapping Your Farm Transition

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 12:05:39 -0400

On this episode Purdue ag economist Brady Brewer along with the Purdue farm transition team Maria Marshall, Renee Wiatt, and Kyle Weaver, discuss the importance and implementation of roadmapping in your farm succession process.

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #PurdueCommercialAgCast.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Find the rest of this farm succession series at http://purdue.ag/successionplan and more information on farm succession planning on the Purdue Institute for Family Business’ YouTube channel.

July Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 17:36:52 -0400

Purdue agricultural economists Nathan Thompson, Michael Langemeier, and James Mintert recorded this podcast on July 13th,. The team discussed the corn and soybean outlook following USDA's July World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report and provided implications for crop marketing strategies. Updates on balance sheet estimates for both the 21/22 and 22/23 crop years, ethanol demand, ending stock estimates, corn and soybean basis and profitability estimates were all discussed.

Slides from the discussion can be found at https://ag.purdue.edu/commercialag/home/resource/2022/07/july-corn-soybean-outlook-update-2/

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Farm Succession: Financial Readiness for Succession

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 12:58:00 -0400

On this episode Purdue ag economists Brady Brewer and Michael Langemeier, along with extension educator Ed Farris discuss farm financial readiness and how it impacts succession planning.

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #PurdueCommercialAgCast.

Ag Barometer Insight: June 2022 Survey

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 09:25:00 -0400

Farmer sentiment remained weak in June as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer fell to a reading of 97, 2 points below its May reading. This month 51% of survey respondents said they expect their farms to be worse off financially a year from now, the most negative response received to this question since data collection began in 2015. This month’s survey was conducted from June 13-17, 2022. Purdue ag economists Brady Brewer and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the June 2022 Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Farm Succession: Exiting the Business In a Timely Manner

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 10:00:48 -0400

How soon should you start succession planning? What are important things to think about that need transferred? What makes a good business partner, and how can you make this decision?

On this episode, Purdue ag economist Brady Brewer discusses these succession questions along with tips on how to accomplish this transition in your farm business. Joining him in the discussion is the Purdue Farm Transition team, Dr. Maria Marshall, Director of the Purdue Institute of Family Business, and Renee Waitt, Farm Business Management Specialist, along with Denise Schroeder, Area Director and Extension Educator in White County.

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #PurdueCommercialAgCast.

Nontraditional Lenders and their Impact on the Agricultural Credit Markets

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 11:01:01 -0400

In this episode Purdue associate professor and agricultural economist Dr. Brady Brewer along with a panel of experts discuss various aspects of the ag credit market and how nontraditional lenders are impacting the ag credit markets.

June Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 16:18:00 -0400

Purdue agricultural economists Nathan Thompson, and James Mintert hosted a live webinar on June 13th. The team discussed the corn and soybean outlook following USDA's June World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report and provided implications for crop marketing strategies. Updates on balance sheet estimates for both the 20/21 and 22/23 crop years, corn and soybean export prospects, ethanol demand, ending stock estimates, corn and soybean basis, and inflation's likely impact on interest rates along with farm's income projections were discussed.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: May 2022 Survey

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 09:30:00 -0400

The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer plummeted in May to a reading of just 99, the weakest farmer sentiment reading since April 2020. The May 2022 barometer reading marked just the 9th time since data collection began in fall 2015 that the overall measure of farmer sentiment fell below 100. This month’s survey was conducted from May 16-20, 2022. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the May 2022 Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

May Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Mon, 16 May 2022 17:31:29 -0400

Purdue agricultural economists Michael Langemeier, Nathan Thompson, and James Mintert hosted a live webinar on May 16th. The team discussed the corn and soybean outlook following USDA's May World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report and provided implications for crop marketing strategies. Updates on balance sheet estimates for both the 20/21 and 22/23 crop years, corn and soybean export prospects, ethanol demand, ending stock estimates, corn and soybean basis, and inflation's likely impact on interest rates along with farm's income projections were discussed.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Agricultural Job Market & the Purdue Ag Jobs Dashboard

Tue, 10 May 2022 12:12:02 -0400

Wondering what the current agriculture job market is? In this episode Purdue University Center for Commercial Agriculture's ag economists Brady Brewer and Nathan Delay discuss the agricultural job market and the Purdue University Department of Agriculture Economics Ag Jobs Dashboard from the research conducted by grad student Doug Abney. The dashboard is an overview of monthly data collected of the agricultural job market over time, starting the summer of 2021.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the Ag Job Dashboard and farm management, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: April 2022 Survey

Tue, 03 May 2022 09:30:00 -0400

The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer improved in April to a reading of 121, which was 8 points higher than a month earlier. Despite this month’s increase, the ag sentiment index remains 32% lower than its April 2021 reading. This month’s survey was conducted from April 18-22, 2022. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the April 2022 Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Inflation, Interest Rates & the Cost of Farm Inputs

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 15:30:37 -0400

What really is inflation? How is it measured? What is the potential impact on consumers and the ag sector? Purdue agricultural economists Brady Brewer, Michael Langemeier, and James Mintert discuss these questions and the potential impacts of rising inflation & Fed policy on interest rates. Near the end of the conversation, they discuss the long-run relationship between inflation and farm input prices.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. Slides and a transcript from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/agcast85. This podcast was recorded on April 19, 2022. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

April Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 15:23:34 -0400

Purdue agricultural economists Michael Langemeier and James Mintert discussed the corn and soybean outlook following USDA's April World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report and provided implications for crop marketing strategies. Updates on South American corn and soybean production expectations, corn and soybean export prospects, ethanol demand, ending stock estimates, and corn and soybean basis along with farm income projections were all featured in the webinar. Slides from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/webinar041222.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: March 2022 Survey

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 09:30:00 -0400

The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer dipped to a reading of 113 in March, the weakest farmer sentiment reading since May 2020 which was in the early days of the pandemic. The March reading was 12 points lower than a month earlier and 36% lower than in March 2021. This month’s survey was conducted from March 14-18, 2022. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the March 2022 Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Corn & Soybean Prospective Plantings Report Update

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 16:44:56 -0400

Purdue agricultural economists Michael Langemeier, Nathan Thompson and James Mintert discussed the implications of the Prospective Plantings report from USDA-NASS which was released on March 31, 2022. Implications for 2022 crop corn and soybean production based on the report’s planted acreage estimates were discussed along with a “first pass” at what it might mean for carryover estimates into the 2023 crop year. Updated profitability estimates for 2022 corn and soybean production were reviewed based on new crop corn and soybean prices following the report’s release. The podcast also included a review of recent corn and soybean basis levels.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

March Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 11:26:42 -0500

Purdue agricultural economists Michael Langemeier and James Mintert discussed the corn and soybean outlook following USDA's March World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report and provided implications for 2021 and 2022 crop marketing strategies. Updates on ending stock estimates, South American production expectations, and corn and soybean basis along with a discussion of prospects for corn vs. soybean acreage in 2022 were all featured.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Crop Insurance Choices for 2022

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 08:20:39 -0500

Managing risk is always important, but especially so this year. This episode is a great opportunity for producers to review their crop insurance choices for the upcoming season. Purdue University Center for Commercial Agriculture's ag economists Michael Langemeier and James Mintert walk participants through considerations for their 2022 options. Download a companion slide deck at https://purdue.ag/cropinsuranceagcast.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on crop insurance decisions and the farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: February 2022 Survey

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 09:30:00 -0500

The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 6 points in February to 125, matching the sentiment index’s reading from December. This month’s survey was conducted from February 14-18 2022, which was just prior to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the February 2022 Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

February Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 16:16:09 -0500

Purdue agricultural economists Michael Langemeier, Nathanael Thompson and James Mintert discussed the corn and soybean outlook following USDA's February World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report and provided implications for 2021 and 2022 crop marketing strategies. Updates on ending stock estimates, South American production expectations, and corn and soybean basis along with a discussion of prospects for corn vs. soybean acreage in 2022 were all featured in the webinar. Slides from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/webinar021022.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: January 2022 Survey

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 09:38:15 -0500

Farmer sentiment weakened in January as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer declined 6 points to 119, down from 125 a month earlier. This month’s decline leaves the barometer just three points higher than in November and is the second-lowest sentiment reading since July 2020. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the January 2022 Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. This month’s survey was conducted from January 17-21, 2022. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

What We’ve Learned From the Ag Economy Barometer

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 16:29:20 -0500

Center director and Purdue ag economist James Mintert speaks with Eric Atkinson, host of K-State’s Agriculture Today radio program, about what we’ve learned from conducting Ag Economy Barometer surveys since October 2015. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer is a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers and is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

January Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 13:18:22 -0500

In this episode, Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Nathanael Thompson and James Mintert discuss the updated corn and soybean outlook following release of USDA's January Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. The team reviewed new information from USDA and implications for 2021 and 2022 crop marketing strategies. Updates on corn and soybean export prospects, ethanol demand, ending stock estimates, and corn and soybean basis along with crop production cost and income projections were also discussed. Slides from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/webinar011422.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: December 2021 Survey

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 09:30:00 -0500

For only the second time since May, the Ag Economy Barometer rose in December. This month’s index climbed to a reading of 125, 9 points higher than in November. Both the Index of Current Conditions and the Index of Future Expectations rose in December with the rise in the barometer attributable mostly to an improved perspective on current conditions in the agricultural sector. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the December 2021 Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. This month’s survey was conducted from December 8-14, 2021. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

December Outlook Update: Keeping the Bottom Line Black

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 14:45:27 -0500

Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Nathanael Thompson and James Mintert's December 15th seminar during The Indiana Farm Equipment and Technology Expo. The Purdue Center for Commercial Agriculture's team discussed the corn and soybean outlook following release of USDA's December World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report and provided crop marketing and farm management strategies to help keep producers' bottom line black in 2022. Updates on corn and soybean export prospects, ethanol demand, ending stock estimates, and corn and soybean basis along with farm income projections were also discussed. Slides used during the seminar can be found at https://purdue.ag/webinar121521.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: November 2021 Survey

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 09:30:00 -0500

The Ag Economy Barometer slipped to a reading of 116 in November, down 5 points from October and 30% lower than in November 2020 when the barometer stood at 167. Once again, weakness in the barometer was tied to weaker sentiment regarding current conditions as well as weaker expectations for the future. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the November 2021 Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. This month’s survey was conducted from November 15 to 19, 2021. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

November Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 10:07:31 -0500

In this episode, we discuss the updated corn and soybean outlook following release of USDA's November Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Nathanael Thompson and James Mintert review new information from USDA and implications for 2021 crop marketing strategies. Updates on yield and crop production estimates, corn and soybean export prospects, ethanol demand, ending stock estimates, and corn and soybean basis along with farm income projections are also discussed. Slides from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/webinar111021.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: October 2021 Survey

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 09:30:00 -0400

For the third month in a row, agricultural producer sentiment weakened in October as the Ag Economy Barometer declined to 121, 3 points lower than a month earlier. The modest decline in the overall sentiment index occurred as a result of producers’ weaker perceptions regarding both current and future conditions in the production agriculture sector. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the October 2021 Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. This month’s survey was conducted from October 18 to 22, 2021. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

October Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 15:20:03 -0400

In this episode, we discuss the updated corn and soybean outlook following release of USDA's October Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Nathanael Thompson and James Mintert review new information from USDA and implications for 2021 crop marketing strategies. Updates on yield and crop production estimates, corn and soybean export prospects, ethanol demand, ending stock estimates, and corn and soybean basis along with farm income projections are also discussed. Slides from the discussion can be found at https://purdue.ag/webinar101321.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: September 2021 Survey

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 09:30:00 -0400

Sentiment among agricultural producers weakened in September as the Ag Economy Barometer declined 14 points to a reading of 124. This is the weakest farmer sentiment reading since July 2020 when the index stood at 118. Producers were less optimistic about both current and future conditions on their farms and the agricultural sector than they were a month earlier. Purdue ag economist James Mintert reviews the results and gives some insight into the September 2021 Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. This month’s survey was conducted from September 27-29, 2021. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

September Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 15:16:41 -0400

In this episode, we discuss the updated corn and soybean outlook following release of USDA's September Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Nathanael Thompson and James Mintert review new information from USDA and implications for 2021 crop marketing strategies. Updates on crop conditions, corn and soybean export prospects, ethanol demand, ending stock estimates, and corn and soybean basis along with farm income projections are also discussed.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: August 2021 Survey

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 09:30:00 -0400

Agricultural producers’ sentiment improved slightly in August compared to July as the Ag Economy Barometer rose four points to a reading of 138 vs. 134 a month earlier. The modest rise in the barometer was primarily attributable to an improvement in the Index of Current Conditions, which climbed 9 points to 152 while the Index of Future Expectations rose just 2 points to 132. Although the barometer and its two key sub-indices improved in August compared to July, all three indices remain well below the very positive sentiment readings posted this past spring. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the August 2021 Ag Economy Barometer survey, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. This month’s survey was conducted from August 23-27, 2021. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Indiana Farmland Values & Cash Rental Rates: 2021 Update

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 16:51:05 -0400

Purdue ag economists Todd Kuethe, James Mintert and Michael Langemeier discuss the 2021 Purdue Farmland Values Survey results and the USDA's Land Values report. The department of agricultural economics conducts the Purdue Farmland Value and Cash Rent Survey each June; the survey is produced through the cooperation of numerous professionals knowledgeable regarding Indiana's farmland market. The survey results suggest farmland prices across Indiana rose to all-time highs in June 2021. Statewide, 2021 cash rental rates increased across all land quality classes. Download companion slides or a video recording at https://purdue.ag/webinar082021.

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #PurdueCommercialAgCast.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on farmland values, cash rents and the farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

August Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 09:08:19 -0400

Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Nathanael Thompson and James Mintert discussed the corn and soybean outlook following release of USDA's August Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. In this episode, the Purdue team reviews the reports and provides implications for the upcoming crop year.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: July 2021 Survey

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 09:30:00 -0400

On the heels of a sharp two-month decline, the Agricultural Economy Barometer stabilized at a reading of 134 in July, just 3 points below a month earlier. This month’s sentiment index was the weakest barometer reading since July of 2020 and marked a return to sentiment readings observed from 2017 through 2019 when annual average barometer readings ranged from 131 to 133. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the July 2021 Ag Economy Barometer survey, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. This month’s survey was conducted from July 19-23, 2021.. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Farm Succession: Non-Family Transfer

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 16:25:00 -0400

Many farms are not large enough or the next generation may not be interested in the farm business. Some farms may look outside their own family for non-related parties to bring into the farming operation. Purdue ag economists Brady Brewer discusses transferring the farm to a non relative with the Purdue Farm Transition team, Dr. Maria Marshall, Director of the Purdue Institute of Family Business and Renee Wiatt, Farm Business Management Specialist, and Dr. Julia Valliant of Indiana University, Research Scientist with the Ostrom Workshop. Finding a successor, determining a transition plan for the operational business and/or the land, and structuring the transfer process are discussed by the team on this episode.

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #PurdueCommercialAgCast.

July Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 09:30:31 -0400

Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Nathanael Thompson and James Mintert discussed the corn and soybean outlook following release of USDA's July Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. In this episode, the Purdue team reviews the reports and provides implications for the upcoming crop year.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: June 2021 Survey

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 09:30:00 -0400

For the second month in a row, the Ag Economy Barometer declined sharply, falling to a reading of 137, which was 21 points below a month earlier, and the weakest ag producer sentiment reading since July 2020. Producers in June were less optimistic about both current conditions on their farming operations as well as their expectations for the future. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the June 2021 Ag Economy Barometer survey, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. This month’s survey was conducted from June 21-25, 2021. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

USDA Acreage Report & June 30th Outlook Update

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 17:08:14 -0400

According to today's (June 30) released numbers by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), the acreage estimate came in on the low end of expectations. Purdue ag economists James Mintert, Nathanael Thompson, and Michael Langemeier provide a discussion of the implications for corn and soybean markets following USDA's release of the June Acreage report.

The Acreage and Grain Stocks reports are available online at www.nass.usda.gov.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the ag outlook, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Carbon Markets For U.S. Row Crop Producers: Opportunities And Challenges

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 12:20:17 -0400

Questions about agriculture's potential role in carbon sequestration are on many producers' minds these days. Purdue agricultural economists Carson Reeling, Nathanael Thompson and James Mintert discussed the opportunities and challenges of the carbon markets in U.S. agriculture for row crop producers. Download companion slides or a video recording at https://purdue.ag/webinar062421.

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #PurdueCommercialAgCast.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

June Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Tue, 15 Jun 2021 08:25:35 -0400

Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Nathanael Thompson and James Mintert discussed the corn and soybean outlook following release of USDA's June Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. In this episode, the Purdue team reviews the reports and provides implications for the upcoming crop year.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: May 2021 Survey

Tue, 01 Jun 2021 10:06:03 -0400

The Ag Economy Barometer declined 20 points in May to 158 which is the lowest barometer reading since September 2020 when the index stood at 156. Both principal sub-indices, the Index of Current Conditions and Index of Futures Expectations, declined also. Reflecting expectations for a strong crop sector, two-thirds of corn and soybean producers expect farmland cash rental rates to rise in 2022 compared to 2021. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the May 2021 Ag Economy Barometer survey, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. This month’s survey was conducted from May 10-14, 2021. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Farm Succession: Retirement Planning

Thu, 20 May 2021 10:19:00 -0400

Farm families face challenges with retirement planning and implementation similar to other small businesses but are unique as retirement can be implemented in various individualized situations for operations and management transitions. What activities will the retiring generation take part in? Will he/she remain involved in the labor, management, or ownership? Questions always arise on money for retirement living and similar to other businesses, a lawyer, a financial planner, an accountant, and other professionals may be of aid when retirement planning. Purdue ag economists Brady Brewer discusses retirement planning with the Purdue Farm Transition team, Kelly Heckaman, Jeff Pell and Denise Schroeder.

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #PurdueCommercialAgCast.

May Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Fri, 14 May 2021 16:56:18 -0400

Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Nathanael Thompson and James Mintert discussed the corn and soybean outlook following release of USDA's May Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. In this episode, the Purdue team reviews the reports and provides implications for the upcoming crop year.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: April 2021 Survey

Tue, 04 May 2021 09:30:00 -0400

The April reading of the Ag Economy Barometer was 178, virtually unchanged from a month earlier when the index stood at 177 and just 5 points below its all-time high of 183, which was set back in October. Compared to March, however, there was a small change in producers’ perspective on the ag economy as they became more optimistic about the future, while their appraisal of the current situation waned. This month’s survey was conducted from April 19-23, 2021. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the April 2021 Ag Economy Barometer survey, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Farm Succession: Contingency Plan

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 12:12:43 -0400

A contingency plan is a set of procedures that defines how a business will operate in the event that some sort of disruption to the business occurs. Dr. Maria Marshall and Renee Wiatt join Dr. Brady Brewer to discuss what is in a contingency plan, risks that a contingency plan can cover, and why having one is needed for a successful farm transition.

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #PurdueCommercialAgCast.

April Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 16:40:03 -0400

Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Nathanael Thompson and James Mintert discussed the corn and soybean outlook following release of USDA's April Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. On this episode, the Purdue team reviews the reports and provides implications for the upcoming crop year.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more information on the current ag outlook and farm economy, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Ag Barometer Insight: March 2021 Survey

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 09:28:13 -0400

The Ag Economy Barometer rose in March to 177, the highest reading for the barometer since the record high reading of 184 in October. Strong ag commodity prices and improved farm financial conditions continue to support the Ag Economy Barometer readings as we head into spring. This month’s survey was conducted from March 22-26, 2021. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the March 2021 Ag Economy Barometer survey, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the Ag Economy Barometer, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Planting Intentions & March 31st Outlook Update

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 17:30:59 -0400

According to today's (March 31) released numbers by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), growers across the U.S. intend to plant 91.1 million acres of corn, up less than 1% from last year, and soybean producers intend to plant 87.6 million acres in 2021, up 5% from last year. Purdue ag economists James Mintert, Nathanael Thompson, and Michael Langemeier focus on the corn and soybean outlook in light of USDA's March Prospective Plantings and Grain Stocks reports. What does this mean for you?

The Prospective Plantings and Grain Stocks reports are available online at www.nass.usda.gov.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on the ag outlook, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

The Value of Farm Data

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 16:23:09 -0400

Today we are talking about the value of your farm data. Purdue University agricultural economist Brady Brewer is joined by Purdue agricultural economist Nate Delay to discuss the types of farm data, the trust in sharing your data, and what price you'd put on that data. Farm data has come a long way and the value on it is a little unclear - a new Purdue study will help answer that question.

If you are enjoying the podcast, tweet us using #PurdueCommercialAgCast.

Podcast provided by Purdue University's Center for Commercial Agriculture. For more economic information and insights on farm data and agriculture, visit us at http://purdue.edu/commercialag.

Farm Succession: Operating Agreements

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 16:24:48 -0400

Who can join the farm? And how? What terms are set on compensation if equity and contributions aren't equal? In this episode, our eighth in our Farm Transition Planning series, Purdue ag economists Brady Brewer and Michael Langemeier discuss agreements that are important in a farm business with Purdue Farm Transition team member Ed Farris. They talk operating agreements and common provisions, as well as buy/sell agreements. Find the rest of this series at https://purdue.ag/3lnl6I0 and more information on farm succession planning on the Purdue Institute for Family Business’ YouTube channel.

March Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 10:48:46 -0500

Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Nathanael Thompson, and James Mintert discuss the corn and soybean outlook following release of USDA’s March Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. On this episode, the Purdue team reviews the USDA reports and provides implications for the upcoming crop year. Find more information on the current crop outlook and farm economy by visiting the Purdue Center for Commercial Agriculture's website at https://purdue.ag/webinar031021.

Making Your 2021 Crop Insurance Decisions

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 14:12:09 -0500

Crop insurance is an important aspect of nearly every corn and soybean farm’s risk management program. There are some new choices to consider this year, including the Extended Coverage Option (ECO). This episode is a great opportunity for producers to review their crop insurance alternatives as Purdue University Center for Commercial Agriculture's ag economists Michael Langemeier and James Mintert walk participants through considerations for their 2021 choices. Download companion slides or a video recording at https://purdue.ag/webinar030121.

Crop Insurance Tools discussed in the episode can be found at the University of Illinois' Farmdoc website - https://farmdoc.illinois.edu/crop-insurance.

Ag Barometer Insight: February 2021 Survey

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 11:07:44 -0500

February's Ag Economy Barometer changed very little compared to January, down 2 points to a reading of 165. Ongoing strength in ag commodity prices and farm income continue to support producers’ perspective on current conditions while concerns about possible policy changes affecting agriculture and eroding confidence in future growth in ag trade continue to weigh on producers’ future expectations. This month’s survey was conducted from February 15-19, 2021. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the February 2021 Ag Economy Barometer survey, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Farm Succession: Business Entities

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 16:16:20 -0500

Choosing a business entity is a key aspect in liability, taxation, capitalization, decision making, agricultural government payments, and transfer options for all farm businesses. When it comes time to transition your farm business to the next generation, whether your farm is set up as a sole proprietor, partnership, corporation, or LLC, how your business is structured will affect many aspects. Deciding on a business entity requires much thought and advice. In this episode, our seventh in our Farm Transition Planning series, Purdue ag economist Brady Brewer and members of the Purdue Farm Transition team Kelly Heckaman and Ed Farris discuss the impact of business structure in farm succession planning and give examples where it’s important to have structures in place that fit for your business. Find the rest of this series at http://purdue.ag/2OYomxd and more information on farm succession planning on the Purdue Institute for Family Business’ YouTube channel.

Understanding the Five C's of Credit

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 15:47:04 -0500

Purdue University agricultural economist Brady Brewer is joined by Purdue agricultural economist Michael Langemeier to discuss credit underwriting and the criteria financial institutions use to determine eligibility of an applicant. Character, capital, capacity, collateral, and conditions are the five Cs of credit used in credit underwriting. These metrics are used for credit ratings to quantify and decide eligibility, interest rates and credit limits of borrowers. This episode focuses on what credit analyst means for farmers, how each of the 5 Cs are measured, and how farms can use this information for their gain and to manage risk.

February Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 16:34:11 -0500

Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Nathanael Thompson and James Mintert discussed USDA’s February Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. Tight U.S. crop supplies combined with concerns about the South American harvest and prospects for big acreage swings are all on ag producers’ minds. The Purdue team reviewed updated information from USDA and other sources and discussed strategies to consider for 2021. Find more information on the current crop outlook and farm economy by visiting the Purdue Center for Commercial Agriculture's website at https://purdue.ag/webinar021021.

Ag Barometer Insight: January 2021 Survey

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 09:30:00 -0500

The Ag Economy Barometer drifted lower in January to a reading of 167, a decline of 7 points compared to December and equal to the index’s November reading. The barometer’s decline over the last three months is all attributable to weaker expectations for the future as the Index of Future Expectations has fallen 35 points or about 19 percent since October. This month’s survey was conducted from January 18-22, 2021. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the January 2020 Ag Economy Barometer survey, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Farm Succession: Business Governance for Transition Planning

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 15:46:51 -0500

Adding on to our series about Farm Transition Planning, in this sixth episode, we focus on the importance of governance in a farm business. Having policies on who's in power, how decisions are made, and how to hold accountability among team members (especially when it comes to family) makes running a farm business easier. Purdue agricultural economists Brady Brewer and members of the Purdue Farm Transition team Renee Wiatt and Dr. Maria Marshall discuss the impact of governance in farm transition planning and give examples of decisions where it's important to have policies in place (in-laws, prenuptial, social media, employment and compensation). Find the rest of the episodes in this series at https://purdue.ag/3a5jXQb and more information on farm succession planning on the Purdue Institute for Family Business' YouTube channel.

2021 Farm Bill Decisions for Crop Producers

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 09:58:04 -0500

Crop producers need to make their 2021 farm program choices at their local Farm Service Agency (FSA) office (or online) by March 15, 2021. Producers have the option of choosing either the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) or the Price Loss Coverage (PLC) program. Purdue agricultural economists Michael Langemeier and James Mintert review how the most commonly chosen program options during the last sign-up period played out for the 2019 crop and are likely to play out for the 2020 crop. They conclude with a discussion about how to go about making your 2021 program elections. Find the accompanying pdf document of this discussion at http://purdue.ag/2021farmbilldecisions.

January Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 10:05:10 -0500

Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier, Nathanael Thompson and James Mintert discussed United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) January Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. The Purdue team reviewed information released in the USDA reports and looked at what the year ahead may have in store during the webinar. Carryover corn and soybean supplies have tightened considerably, and concerns exist regarding the size of South America's harvest. Find more information on the current crop outlook and farm economy by visiting the Purdue Center for Commercial Agriculture's website at https://purdue.ag/webinar011321.

Ag Barometer Insight: December 2020 Survey

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 09:30:00 -0500

Farmer sentiment improved modestly in December as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose to a reading of 174, up 7 points from November. Both of the barometer’s sub-indices, the Index of Current Conditions and the Index of Future Expectations, were higher in December than in November although the current conditions improvement was three-times the size of the future expectations increase. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the December 2020 Ag Economy Barometer survey, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Farm Succession: Conflict Management for Transition Planning

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 16:26:15 -0500

In this fifth episode of our series about Farm Transition Planning, we focus on conflict management – what is conflict, what causes it, how do we handle it within a farming business to come to a resolution. Purdue agricultural economists Brady Brewer and members of the Purdue Farm Transition team Renee Wiatt, Dr. Maria Marshall and Heather Caldwell discuss the levels and sources of conflict within today’s farm businesses. Working together as a team, possibly across generations of families, the team reviews how to resolve conflict and not avoid it. Find the companion episodes in this series at https://purdue.ag/2WzLZN3 and the YouTube channel on farm succession planning.

December Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 10:13:41 -0500

In this episode, Purdue agricultural economists Michael Langemeier, Nathanael Thompson, and James Mintert discussed USDA’s December Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. As the end of the year is nearing, the Purdue team reviews information released in the USDA reports and looks ahead at what next year may have in store regarding potential profitability estimates for corn and soybeans. Find more information on the current crop outlook and farm economy by visiting the Purdue Center for Commercial Agriculture's website at https://purdue.ag/webinar121120.

December 2020: USDA Farm Income Forecast Update

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 14:26:26 -0500

In this episode, Purdue agricultural economists James Mintert and Brady Brewer discuss the latest December release of the USDA Farm Income Forecast report. Each year, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) forecasts farm income in February and then releases additional updates throughout the year as more data becomes available. This Purdue Commercial AgCast episode discusses the latest updates to the 2020 forecast released by USDA on December 2nd. In an earlier episode, we share more about how to interpret the adjustments - find that episode at 'Understanding USDA Farm Income Forecasts'.

Ag Barometer Insight: November 2020 Survey

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 09:30:00 -0500

U.S. farmers' sentiment weakened following the November 2020 elections, as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer fell 16 points from a month earlier to a reading of 167. The decline in the Ag Economy Barometer was the result of weakened expectations for the future on the part of agricultural producers. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give their insight into the November 2020 Ag Economy Barometer survey, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 agricultural producers. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Crop Cost and Returns

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 10:19:33 -0500

The Purdue Crop Cost and Return Guide offers farmers a resource to project financials for the coming cropping year. Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier and Brady Brewer discuss the latest numbers from the Purdue Center for Commercial Agriculture's decision tool along with tips on how to use this tool to make farm operating decisions. The guide tool discussed in this episode can be accessed and downloaded at https://purdue.ag/budget2021.

November Update on the Crop Outlook

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 17:06:10 -0500

On this episode, Purdue agricultural economists Nathanael Thompson and James Mintert discussed USDA’s November Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. They provide updates on key changes in USDA's corn and soybean balance sheet, implications on the ag trade outlook and marketing strategies, and updated potential profitability estimates for 2021. Find more information on the current crop outlook by visiting the Purdue Center for Commercial Agriculture's website at https://purdue.ag/webinar111120.

Ag Barometer Insight: October 2020 Survey

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 09:30:00 -0500

Farmer sentiment hit a new record high in October as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer climbed to a reading of 183, a 27-point increase compared to September. The reading easily eclipsed the previous record high set back in February, before the pandemic’s onset. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the October 2020 Ag Economy Barometer survey, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Farmer Adoption of Enhanced Conservation

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 11:46:45 -0400

What are and what drives the adoption of "enhanced conservation practices" on the farm? In this episode, Purdue agricultural economists Allan Gray and Brady Brewer discuss their recent research that examines the adoption practices of enhanced conservation practices. This study consisted of focus groups with farmers and agricultural retailers across the Midwest. Dr. Gray and Dr. Brewer discuss what constitutes an enhanced conservation practice according to the study participants along with what drives producer adoption and how retailers view their role in helping farmers analyze what practices they may benefit from adopting. Find out more about the research discussed at https://purdue.ag/3kxkdeC.

October Corn & Soybean Outlook Update

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 15:29:01 -0400

Purdue agricultural economists Michael Langemeier and James Mintert discussed United States Department of Agriculture’s October Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports. This podcast provides information released in the USDA reports and updated profitability estimates and marketing strategies for both corn and soybeans. Find more information on this outlook by visiting the Purdue Center for Commercial Agriculture's website at https://purdue.ag/webinar100920.

Ag Barometer Rises as Crop Prices Rally and USDA Announces CFAP 2

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 09:30:00 -0400

U.S. agricultural producers became more optimistic again in September as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer climbed to 156, the highest reading for the index since the pandemic began last winter and 12 points higher than one-month earlier. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results and give some insight into the September 2020 Ag Economy Barometer survey, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Farm Succession: Human Resources for Transition Planning

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 09:45:38 -0400

Adding to our series about Farm Transition Planning, in this fourth episode, we focus on the human resource side of succession planning. Keeping the farm business running between generations and management tiers can be difficult, but job descriptions and keeping open communication is key. Purdue agricultural economists Brady Brewer and members of the Purdue Farm Transition team Jenna Nees, Denise Schroeder, and Kyle Weaver discuss the importance of having a strong HR strategy and some common issues that many farms face as they transition management roles. Find the companion episodes in this series at https://purdue.ag/34buLZR.

Understanding USDA Farm Income Forecasts

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 08:33:57 -0400

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) releases a number of reports throughout the year. In this episode, Purdue agricultural economists Todd Kuethe and Brady Brewer discuss the latest September release of the USDA Farm Income Forecast report. Each year, USDA forecasts farm income in February and then releases four additional updates throughout the year as more data becomes available. This Purdue Commercial AgCast episode discusses the accuracy and bias of these forecasts along with how to interpret the adjustments.

Fall Corn & Soybean Outlook Following USDA's September 2020 Reports

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 15:21:39 -0400

Purdue agricultural economists Michael Langemeier and James Mintert discussed USDA’s September Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) reports on September 11. The reports provided USDA’s first objective yield estimates for the 2020 corn and soybean crops. The webinar includes an overview of the information on the two reports along with a discussion regarding implications of the changes for the corn and soybean outlook in addition to a review of the likely changes in corn and soybean profitability and what that portends for 2021 cash rental rates. Find more information on this outlook by visiting the Purdue Center for Commercial Agriculture's website at https://purdue.ag/webinar091120.

Ag Barometer Rebounds as Commodity Prices Rally & Agriculture Trade Prospects Improve

Tue, 01 Sep 2020 09:30:00 -0400

Farmer sentiment improved markedly in August as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose to a reading of 144, 26 points higher than a month earlier. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results from the August 2020 Ag Economy Barometer survey, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. The barometer and its two sub-indices all posted their most positive readings since February 2020 when record highs were established and before the pandemic began. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Using Vendor and Trade Credit for Farm Purchases

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 14:20:08 -0400

Purdue University agricultural economist Brady Brewer is joined by Purdue Agricultural Economics graduate student Chad Fiechter and Kansas State agricultural economist Jennifer Ifft to discuss issues surrounding vendor and trade credit in the agricultural finance sector. There has been a lot of growth in farmer use of vendor and trade credit as terms and conditions for this credit can sometimes be cheaper for farmers. This episode focuses on what this credit means for farmers and what pitfalls there may be for a producer that is thinking about using this type of financing for the purchase of equipment or inputs.

Farm Succession: Feasibility of Adding a Family Employee

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 16:18:25 -0400

Adding to our series about Farm Transition Planning, in this third episode, we discuss how to evaluate if the farm can add an employee. As a farm expands, it is important to evaluate the feasibility of adding an operator and/or hired employees as well as the feasibility of purchasing or renting additional land, and machinery and equipment. Purdue agricultural economists Michael Langemeier and Brady Brewer discuss two critical factors: gross revenue and profitability. Find the companion episodes in this series, as well as the article discussed in this episode at https://purdue.ag/3aHRbox.

Indiana Farmland Values & Cash Rental Rates: 2020 Update

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 16:58:13 -0400

Purdue University agricultural economists Todd Kuethe, James Mintert, and Michael Langemeier breakdown the results from the Purdue Farmland Values and Cash Rents Survey conducted in June 2020 and compared that with USDA’s recent Land Values report. The annual Purdue Farmland Value and Cash Rent Survey is conducted by the department of agricultural economics and produced through the cooperation of numerous professionals knowledgeable of Indiana’s farmland market. These professionals provided an estimate of the market value for bare poor, average, and top quality farmland in December 2019, June 2020, and a forecast value for December 2020.

Ag Economy Barometer Stable, But Farmers Less Optimistic About Future

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 09:30:00 -0400

Farmer sentiment in July was virtually unchanged from a month earlier as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose just one point to a reading of 118. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results from the July 2020 Ag Economy Barometer survey, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer small change left it 30 percent below its February 2020 peak and 23 percent below its level a year ago. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Farm Succession: Transitioning Business Management

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 17:21:46 -0400

Following our episode about Farm Transition Planning, we now take a closer look at some of the key areas of forming and executing a farm succession plan. To kick this series off, Purdue Agricultural Economists Michael Langemeier and Brady Brewer cover the topic of transitioning management of a farm from one generation to the next. From goals and objectives, strategy considerations, to how best to structure to the management of the farm, key aspects of transitioning management are discussed. Find the companion article discussed in this episode at https://purdue.ag/39hyS92.

Corn & Soybean Outlook

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 11:03:55 -0400

Purdue agricultural economists Michael Langemeier and James Mintert provide an updated corn and soybean outlook featuring information from USDA’s July World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report and updated crop condition information. Also included are estimated 2019 and 2020 ARC-County and PLC payments, 2020 corn and soybean profitability estimates and some insights into marketing and management decisions for corn and soybean producers.

Forecasting Eastern Corn Belt Corn & Soybean Basis

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 22:05:56 -0400

On this episode, Purdue ag economist Nathan Thompson joins Jim Mintert to discuss corn and soybean basis in the Eastern Corn Belt. Learn about the Crop Basis Tool, which is updated weekly, to forecast basis and provides regional corn and soybean basis information for Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio. They conclude with a look ahead to 2020 corn and soybean basis and provide marketing suggestions for both old-crop still in storage as well as new-crop corn and soybeans. Find more on the Crop Basis Tool at https://purdue.ag/cropbasis.

Farmer Sentiment Rebounds Amidst Ongoing COVID-19 Concerns

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 09:30:00 -0400

Farmer sentiment improved for the second month in a row, rebounding from sharp declines that took place in both March and April. Purdue ag economist James Mintert reviews the results from the June 2020 Ag Economy Barometer, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. The improvement in farmer sentiment left the Ag Economy Barometer 7 percent below one year earlier, while the Index of Future Expectations was still 10 percent below its June 2019 level. The Index of Current Conditions, however, was two percent higher than in June 2019, likely reflecting considerably improved spring planting conditions throughout much of the nation, in addition to support from USDA’s Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP). The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Cover Crop Profitability

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 06:30:00 -0400

Utilizing cover crop treatments can have significant agronomic benefits for a farm. However, implementing this technology introduces additional costs. On this episode, Purdue agricultural economists Brady Brewer and Ph.D. student, Megan Hughes, evaluate the relationship between applied nitrogen and corn yield, and how this relationship is impacted by introducing three different species of cover crops: annual ryegrass, cereal rye, and an oat/radish blend.

The article referenced in this episode can be found at https://purdue.ag/covercropprofit.

Farm Succession: Transition Planning

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0400

Maria Marshall, professor and director of Purdue's Institute for Family Business, joins Brady Brewer to discuss farm succession planning. They answer why it's important to start planning both a management and an ownership transfer ahead of time, who to have on your team of advisors, and the things you can do to start to prepare. The resources discussed in this episode can be found at the Purdue Institute for Family Business, https://purdue.ag/fambiz.

Data and Precision Ag Usage

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 06:30:00 -0400

There is a lot of talk about “big data” in agriculture these days. The farm of the future is said to use multispectral imagery, soil and micro-climate sensors, equipment telematics data, and GPS to drive yield-enhancing decisions. Purdue ag economists, Nate Delay joins Brady Brewer to discuss how farms actually collect, manage, and analyze data during today's episode. Find more information on farm data usage at https://purdue.ag/farm-data-usage.

Ag Outlook Following USDA June World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates

Sat, 13 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0400

Purdue agricultural economists Michael Langemeier and James Mintert provide an updated ag outlook, which includes information from USDA’s June World Ag Supply & Demand (WASDE) report along with updated profitability estimates for corn and soybeans. The podcast also addressed questions regarding eligibility for and assistance provided by USDA's CFAP program.

COVID-19 Continues to Impact Farmer Sentiment; Majority Indicate Economic Assistance Bill Necessary

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 09:30:00 -0400

Farmer sentiment improved slightly in May after falling sharply in both March and April. Purdue ag economists James Mintert and Michael Langemeier review the results from the May 2020 Ag Economy Barometer survey, a nationwide monthly survey of 400 ag producers. The Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer reading in May was 103; the 7 points improvement from April left the gauge of farmer sentiment nearly 40 percent below its February peak of 168. The full report is available at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) Application Details

Wed, 27 May 2020 12:37:10 -0400

Beginning May 26th, USDA's Farm Service Agency is accepting applications for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) from producers who have suffered losses. Indiana FSA Director Steve Brown and staff join Jim Mintert for a discussion on eligibility requirements, payment rates and application details of the 2020 CFAP program. Find more information on this program at https://purdue.ag/CFAP.

Farmland Values in Today's Market

Wed, 20 May 2020 16:00:00 -0400

Purdue agricultural economists Brady Brewer and Todd Kuethe discuss the farmland market during today's episode. With the COVID-19 pandemic and the unprecedented year 2020 is presenting, Todd talks about what has been happening in farmland pricing, sales, policy, and interest rates. He discusses where he thinks the market is headed and may look like over the next 3-5 years.

Find more information on farmland and cash rents at https://purdue.edu/commercialag.

May 2020 Ag Outlook

Fri, 15 May 2020 17:53:36 -0400

Purdue agricultural economists Michael Langemeier and James Mintert provide updated information from USDA’s May World Ag Supply & Demand Estimates (WASDE) release along with updated profitability estimates for corn and soybeans as a result of the COVID-19 global pandemic.

Contingency Planning with Cash Flow Shortages

Fri, 15 May 2020 08:00:00 -0400

As cash flows from the farm operation become tighter due to COVID-19 and weaker commodity prices, it is necessary to find other funds to help pay for asset purchases or delay asset purchases, and to repay debt. On this episode, Purdue agricultural economists Michael Langemeier and Brady Brewer discuss contingency planning, a course of action designed to help a business determine how to respond to possible future events. Contingency plans are often referred to as “Plan B”.

The article referenced in this episode can be found at https://ag.purdue.edu/commercialag/home/sub-articles/2020/04/contingency-planning-with-cash-flow-shortages/.

What the Food Value Chain has Learned and Should Apply Post COVID-19

Wed, 13 May 2020 13:51:04 -0400

COVID-19 has sent shock waves throughout the world, challenging every aspect of life. During this time of great tragedy and uncertainty, the concepts of communication, distance, work, food, and even shopping are suddenly being redefined. Purdue ag economists Allan Gray and Brady Brewer examine many aspects of agricultural business from the design of supply chains to impacts on consumer buying behaviors to the future of international trade.

The article, Potential Learnings and Changes for a Post-COVID-19 Food and Agribusiness Industry, discussed in this episode can be found at https://agribusiness.purdue.edu/potential-learnings-and-changes-for-a-post-covid-19-food-and-agribusiness-industry/.

Agricultural Finance and Credit Update

Wed, 06 May 2020 13:21:23 -0400

Agricultural finance topics such as farm income, equity, debt, federal reserve policy, bank positioning, and credit analysis are covered. Purdue ag economists Jason Henderson and Brady Brewer discuss the current agricultural finance conditions affecting farms and agricultural lenders.

April Ag Barometer Drops Below 100 as Coronavirus Disrupts Agriculture

Tue, 05 May 2020 09:32:13 -0400

Coronavirus concerns, commodity price declines, and supply-chain disruptions sink producer sentiment to a three-year low. Purdue ag economists Michael Langemeier and James Mintert discuss the April Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer. The Ag Economy Barometer is based on responses from 400 U.S. agricultural producers and this month’s survey was conducted from April 19-24, 2020. Learn more at https://purdue.ag/agbarometer.

Update on the Livestock & Meat Situation

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 10:27:19 -0400

Pork and beef packing plant shutdowns along with reductions in demand from the hotel, restaurant, and institutional sector have disrupted U.S. meat and livestock markets. Purdue ag economists Jayson Lusk and James Mintert review the resulting dramatic shifts in pork and beef production along with the impact these shifts have had on U.S. wholesale beef and pork prices as well as prices for cattle and hogs. Charts are available at https://purdue.ag/2YdlbEF.