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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. The boost was primarily driven by the stronger sentiment among producers, with the Current Conditions Index climbing 28 points to 137 — marking a significant rebound from its low of 76 in late summer and early fall 2024. In contrast, the Future Expectations Index saw only a modest increase, rising 3 points to 159. The recent upswing in sentiment reflects a combination of factors, including a sharp recovery in crop prices, expectations for disaster payments authorized by Congress and continued strength in the U.S. livestock sector. Despite the notable improvement in current conditions, farmers remain more optimistic about the future, as the Future Expectations Index continues to outpace the Current Conditions Index by 22 points. This month’s survey was conducted between Feb. 10-14.
The Farm Capital Investment Index jumped 11 points in February to a reading of 59, reaching its most positive level since May 2021. This month’s increase also placed the index 4 points above its November postelection reading. Compared to previous months, where future expectations primarily led investment sentiment, February’s increase was driven by farmers’ improved assessment of current conditions. Meanwhile, the Farm Financial Performance Index held steady at 110, nearly unchanged from January’s reading of 111. Although the index saw little movement this month, it remains well above last fall’s low of 68.
