Farmer Optimism Increased in July

According to the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer, farmer sentiment improved in July despite higher input costs and lower commodity prices. Purdue University ag economist Jim Mintertis was puzzled by the increase in optimism from June. “When we asked producers what their biggest concerns are for the upcoming year, they continue to point to the risk of high input costs followed by the risk of low crop and livestock prices and rising interest rates.”