The September 3^rd release of the Purdue University-CME Group Economy Barometer Index for row-crop production fell in August to 100 points. The Index of Current Conditions was down 17 points from July to 83. The Future Expectations Index was down eleven points to 108. The Index is derived from the responses of 400 U.S. farmers and was conducted from August 12^th through 16^th.

Evident conclusions from the survey is that farmers are encouraged by the prospect of high soybean and corn yields, declining inflation, the prospect of lower interest rates and future  energy costs linked to the price of crude oil. The outstanding concern was the anticipated fall in commodity prices reflecting bountiful crops in South America and limited prospects for increased exports and domestic demand, even for biofuels. Many respondents indicated that they would carry higher debt burdens in 2024 mainly due to increased costs of inputs including seed, fuel and fertilizer for the current season.