Cattle futures up ahead of direct business
At the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, live and feeder cattle were higher, ahead of the week’s direct business and taking into consideration the tight supply of ready numbers. June live cattle […]
Closing Grain and Livestock Futures: April 14, 2026
May corn $4.43, up 2 and 3/4 centsMay soybeans $11.58, down 4 and 1/4 centsMay soybean meal $329.70, down $2.20May soybean oil 66.44, down 6 pointsMay Chicago wheat $5.92, up […]
Crop insurance a key to bringing diversification to the Corn Belt
A group of researchers with the Diverse Corn Belt project say transformational federal policy changes are needed to bring more opportunities to Midwestern farmers. During a webinar hosted by the […]
Conflict in Iran could drive higher interest rates, further squeeze farm margins
An ag economist says the conflict in the Middle East could lead to a rise in interest rates over the next year. Michael Langemeier says uncertainty is impacting ag lending. “If we see […]
Export demand at risk as tariff uncertainty grows
An ag policy specialist says a review of President Trump’s tariff policy could create more uncertainty for farmers and ranchers. Brad Lubben with the University of Nebraska says the Administration […]
Machinery crashes account for many insurance claims
An insurance expert says many crashes involving farm machinery are caused by equipment malfunctions. Underwriter Zachary Hinthorn with Country Financial tells Brownfield there are precautions farmers can take before leaving […]
Profitability challenges continue for row crop operations as cattle producers benefit from historic price levels
An ag economist says the health of the farm economy isn’t the same across the board. University of Tennessee’s Charley Martinez says he views it in two main buckets—crops and livestock. “One has had 2 1/2 to […]
Fertilizer prices under fire: USDA targets industry consolidation, supply cuts
USDA officials are criticizing fertilizer companies for idling production amid the conflict in the Middle East. Secretary Brooke Rollins told reporters Monday competition in the marketplace has declined. “The farmers […]
Ohio State calculator helping farmers maximize nitrogen fertilizer use
An agronomy specialist says a new tool from Ohio State University Extension can help farmers manage rising nitrogen fertilizer costs. Rachel Henry says the Corn Nitrogen Rate Calculator determines the […]
AFBF survey reveals mounting financial strain across U.S. agriculture
A recent survey from the American Farm Bureau Federation indicates the majority of U.S. farmers are experiencing stagnant or declining financial conditions. AFBF president Zippy Duvall says more than 5,700 […]