Update highlights

• January FMMO Class III-IV prices lower
• Fed raises interest rate
• GDT index rises
• Ag producer sentiment starts year stronger
• Coming up

Transitions – whether it’s a cow, calf or person, we all go through them. Sometimes they’re exciting like the birth of a new baby or challenging like saying goodbye to friends. My husband and I are currently facing both of these transitions.

The story of American agriculture includes a history of volatility, perhaps more so than some other major farming countries. Although Thomas Jefferson helped found the republic on the idea that farmers were the chosen people to embody national ideals, it wasn’t long before the same farmers came under threat by large companies, the merchant class and unfavorable financial conditions.

Valentine’s Day is coming up soon, and it’s a great time to express your love to your sweetheart. It’s also a great time to express your love to your children.

Regardless of if the operation has adequate funds or not, you need to have a strong relationship with your lender. Successful farmers know that building a relationship with their lender is a wise business strategy.