Purdue Commercial AgCast

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. 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/agcast188. 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.

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.

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. 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/agcast186. 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.

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.

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. 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/agcast184. 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.

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. 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/agcast183. 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.

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. 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/agcast182. 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.

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.

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.

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.  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/agcast179. You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/PlvesDCoYj8 to subscribe and watch.

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. 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/agcast178. You can find the FULL video episode on our YouTube channel. Visit https://youtu.be/EV_0yPgTRnY to subscribe and watch.

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.

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.

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. 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.ag/barometer108. 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.

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.

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. 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. 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.

  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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 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/agcast154.

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.  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/agcast153.

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. 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/agcast152.

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. 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/agcast151.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.