Producer Sentiment Stabilizes, But Future Expectations Slip | February 2026 Ag Economy Barometer

In this episode of the Purdue Commercial AgCast, Joana Colussi and Michael Langemeier break down results from the February 2026 Purdue University–CME Group Ag Economy Barometer.

The overall barometer rose modestly to 116, driven by improved current conditions. However, the Index of Future Expectations slipped, reflecting continued caution among producers. Crop producers remain under financial pressure, while livestock producers—especially cattle operations—report stronger optimism.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why 63% of producers expect bad financial times ahead for crops

• Continued strength in cattle and livestock sentiment

• Why nearly 70% say it’s a bad time to invest in machinery

• How producers plan to use Farmer Bridge Assistance Payments

• Rising importance of trade policy in farm decision-making

• Farmland value expectations and what they signal for balance sheets

• Farm growth, consolidation, and generational transition trends

What do these shifts in sentiment mean for 2026 decision-making?

Listen in for insights and implications for commercial farms.

Full Ag Economy Barometer report: 👉 https://purdue.ag/agbarometer

The Ag Economy Barometer sentiment index is calculated each month from 400 U.S. agricultural producers’ responses to a telephone survey.

For more farm management content, visit: 👉 https://purdue.ag/commercialag

Subscribe to the podcast: 👉 https://purdue.ag/agcast

Follow us X: https://twitter.com/PUCommercialAg Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PUCommercialAg LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/center-for-commercial-agriculture

#Purdue #AgBarometer #FarmManagement #FarmEconomy #AgOutlook #AgEconomy #Agriculture