Farmer Sentiment Rises in July

The Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer farmer sentiment index rose six points in July to a reading of 103.  Producers were somewhat more optimistic about both their current and future economic conditions on their farms compared to June.  Even though there was a slight increase in optimism, there’s still a lot of uncertainty in the agricultural economy.  Key commodity prices, including wheat, corn, and soybeans all weakened during the month, and producers remain concerned over rising input prices and input availability.

Of those surveyed, 42% said higher input prices were a big concern, 19% said lower crop prices, and 17% said rising interest rates.  The Farm Financial Performance Index, primarily an indicator of income expectations in the year ahead, improved five points to a reading of 88 in June. However, 49% of the survey respondents said they expect their farm to be worse off financially a year from now.