Article Abstract:
In the United States there are 2.3 million farms: 1.5 million with sales under $50,000, 679,000 with sales between $50,000-$500,000, and 26,000 with sales in excess of $500,000. Although there has been a two percent annual decrease in the number of farms for several decades, the decrease today is significant due to the acceleration in the number of farms leaving production, the age of the farmers who are in financial trouble, and the number of good farmers leaving the business. In general, the reasons behind the current export crisis began in the 1970s when there were low interest rates, high inflation, a good export market, and farmers who were purchasing land, not for income, but for appreciation potential. In the 1980s, the situation changed and interest rates went up, inflation down, competition increased, and land values plummeted. The financialcrisis affects everyone in rural America and, as a society, we need to determine the importance of a steady, cheap supply of food and preserving the family farm.
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Article Abstract:
Issues are presented concerning the challenges which are faced by grain farmers from weather conditions, to foreign competition and a lack of services. The price risk faced by Australian farmers is discussed.
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Article Abstract:
A series of financial problems recently prompted a re-evaluation of the standards which govern the provision of financial information in South Africa.
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