The Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer climbed to 152 in February, 11 points higher than January.
An improvement in the current situation on U.S. farms drove the stronger sentiment among producers.
The Current Conditions Index hit 137, 28 points higher than January.
The Future Expectations Index rose only three points in February to 159.
This month’s Current Conditions Index capped a long climb from late summer and early fall 2024 when the index bottomed out at 76.
A recent crop-price recovery, anticipated federal aid coming, and a strong livestock sector contributed to the optimism.
The Farm Capital Investment Index jumped 11 points to 59 in February.
This month’s rise in the investment index pushed the index four points above the November reading, which was taken just after the fall election.
The February index was also the most positive reading of the investment climate provided by farmers since May 2021.
