Interest rate expectations fuel improved farmer sentiment
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowMore farmers around the country are expecting financial conditions to improve this year, according to the latest Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer.
Purdue says expectations for lower interest rates have led to an increase in farmer sentiment, though higher input costs continue to be a top concern.
The barometer is calculated monthly from a telephone survey of 400 agricultural producers across the country. The newest survey was conducted March 11-15, and saw the barometer rise three points to 114.
The barometer’s Index of Future Expectations also rose five points to 120 in March. Purdue said 48% of respondents expect a decline in the U.S. prime interest rate over the next year, up from 35% in December. Conversely, 32% of producers are expecting an interest rate increase, compared to 43% in February.
Additionally, farmers expressed a rise in optimism about making large investments as the barometer’s Farm Capital Investment Index rose seven points in March. Purdue said 15% of producers said it was a good time to make a large investment, up from 11% at the start of the year.
“Producers who said it’s a good time to invest pointed to strong cash flows on their farms coupled with higher dealer inventories for farm machinery as key reasons,” the university said. “However, a majority of producers still feel hesitant to invest due to concerns about high costs for machinery and construction as well as high interest rates.”
Nearly a quarter of respondents said they believe farmland prices will go up because of inflation expectations.
You can connect the full Ag Economy Barometer results for March by clicking here.