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| Best of NAMA 2025 |
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FARM CREDIT SYSTEM PROVIDES QUARTERLY UPDATE ON U.S. AND AG ECONOMY
Apr. 14, 2025
Source: Farm Credit Administration
Washington, DC -- The U.S. economy entered 2025 with key indicators in favorable positions, including positive economic growth, inflation modestly above the Federal Reserve's 2% target level, and unemployment a touch over 4%. Expectations for first-quarter economic growth have been reduced, however, by weaker personal consumption, higher imports, and uncertainty surrounding changes in global trade.
Similarly, the U.S. farm sector enters the uncertain trade environment and spring planting season with a strong balance sheet and favorable liquidity. Moreover, farm income in early 2025 is being supported by payments to crop producers authorized under the American Relief Act, as well as generally favorable returns for livestock producers. For the farm sector, the level of interest expense relative to income remains reasonable.
Still, extended periods of lower commodity prices, particularly for cash grains and tree nuts, are evidence of increasing risk. Negative impacts of retaliatory tariffs on U.S. agricultural products will depend on tariff levels and duration, and present additional uncertainty for the sector.
Farmland values are showing signs of weakness and increased volatility, particularly for lower-quality land and in regions producing commodities currently experiencing weaker prices.
The System reported solid financial results for 2024, including strong loan growth, higher earnings, and increased capital levels. Portfolio loan quality remained sound; however, operating conditions in certain agricultural sectors continue to be challenging. As a result, a moderate increase in credit risk is evident. Nonperforming assets increased to 0.81% of loans outstanding and other property owned, compared with 0.45% a year earlier.
Full-year earnings were $7.8 billion, up 4.7% compared with a year ago. Total capital equaled $78.8 billion, up 7.5% year over year, with strong earnings supporting continued capital growth. Overall, the System remains financially sound and is well positioned to meet the credit needs of U.S. farmers and ranchers.
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