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Feb. 23, 2025Omaha, Neb. |  By: Jeremy Werner

Rural Mainstreet Index shows problems in Midwest

economy

OMAHA, Neb. - Creighton University's latest Rural Mainstreet Index shows ongoing struggles in the Midwest economy, with the index falling to 38 in February, down from 42.3 in January.

This marks the 17th time in 18 months the index has been below growth neutral at 50. Officials with the Index say low grain prices are a major factor, though livestock prices are seeing some improvement.

While 71% of bankers surveyed expect livestock producers to see positive cash flow in 2025, nearly half believe grain farmers will experience losses this year.

Bankers are also worried about Trump's new tariffs on Canada and Mexico, with only nine percent expecting a positive impact.

Nearly half of U.S. agricultural exports go to Mexico, and retaliation could further harm the Midwest economy.

Other concerns include avian flu outbreaks affecting the poultry industry, weak farm equipment sales, and uncertainty over Congress’ failure to pass a long-term Farm Bill.