To read the headlines, you might get the idea that farmland prices are teetering on a ledge, poised for a big fall. The common script is that weak commodity prices will pull land prices down with them. So why did 160 acres of farmland in Champaign County, Illinois, sell on Nov. 18 for $13,156 per [...]

By Murray Wise Note: This post is based on comments I made in a recent series of presentations for AgriGold. I’m grateful to my friends in this superb company for the opportunity to discuss global trends in agriculture. Most of our day-to-day conversation lately has addressed short term questions. How big will the harvest be? [...]

Now that the crops are in the ground, Murray Wise connects the dots in the current marketplace, looking at current commodity prices, anticipated crop size, carryouts, and the impact of all this on farmland prices. Click the link and listen to this 14-minute conversation while you drive or work out!

We were greatly saddened last week to learn that Terry G. Wilkey, of El Paso, had passed away at the age of 61. Terry was a very fine auctioneer who had on several occasions called sales for Murray Wise Associates. An auctioneer for 40 years, working primarily around central Illinois, Terry was regarded as a [...]

After a decade of cheery headlines about roaring farmland prices, we now seem to have one report after another telling us land prices are falling and projecting more of the same. But how much? Nobody knows. It’s probably a good time to be cautious, but I don’t think we’re in for a major storm. Yes, [...]

For several years now, everybody’s focus has been on farmland prices, and notably on the dramatic rise in prices per acre. But now, we’re seeing a shift to something even more basic: Farm profitability. The narrative is probably familiar to you by now. Corn, soybeans and other commodities are down sharply, and input prices keep [...]

One of the highlights of my career is my ability to help deserving young people pursue their education for careers in agriculture. Students and counselors will want to take note of the opportunities described  below, and I hope you’ll also enjoy reading about some recent scholarship recipients. Scholarship Deadlines Are Approaching Fast MURRAY WISE ASSOCIATES [...]

People are constantly asking me whether it’s a good time to buy farmland. Others want to know if it’s a good time to sell. The answer is yes to both – depending on your needs and objectives, of course. I talk about why in these two short landcasts. Happy listening!

“What will my farm bring?” That is one of the most difficult questions I hear from people who are trying to decide whether to offer their farmland at auction. Markets are constantly changing, and no two farms are exactly alike. That’s why I’ve enjoyed watching the annual competition among agricultural management students at Parkland College. [...]