Agriculture and the Economy

The Kansas City Fed is a leader on topics related to the agricultural economy within the Federal Reserve System. Our work provides insights on agricultural and rural economies for our seven-state region of the Tenth Federal Reserve District and nationally.

Latest Updates

Ag Finance Update

Subdued Farm Economy Begins Weighing on Credit Conditions

Agricultural credit conditions continued to tighten in the second quarter and growth in farmland values slowed.

Ag Bulletin

Second Quarter Ag Bulletin

Recent strength in the U.S. ag economy was tempered in the second quarter as farm finances showed some signs of weakening.

Ag Credit Survey

Early Signs of Financial Pressure

Agricultural credit conditions in the Tenth Federal Reserve District tightened further in the second quarter of 2024.

Economic Bulletin

Agricultural Economic Summit Highlights Growing Connection Between Agriculture and Energy

The agriculture and energy sectors have become more tightly connected as renewable energy increases demand for input crops and...

Ag Finance Update

Farm Lending Activity Grows Swiftly

The volume of new operating loans increased 20% from a year ago, which followed a year-over-year increase of 12% last quarter.

Economic Review

The Expanding Role of Renewable Fuel Policy as a Demand Driver in Agriculture

Recent renewable energy policies may lead to higher but more volatile prices for soybeans and other oilseed crops.

Ag Finance Update

Farm Operating Debt Surges in Early 2024

Farm debt at commercial banks continued to grow, boosted by a large increase in farm operating debt.

Economic Bulletin

Not Bullish: U.S. Cattle Herds Hung Up on Higher Interest Expenses

Cattle inventories declined to historically low levels at the start of 2024. Cattle producers may face challenges maintaining...

Economic Bulletin

Interest Expenses on Farmland Debt Could Challenge Farm Profitability

Crop producers with high levels of land debt may struggle to be profitable under higher interest expenses.