Economic Minute

Compeer’s Economic Minute with Dr. Roberts

The agricultural economy is constantly shifting – sometimes in predictable ways, other times in ways that leave farmers asking, “What’s next?” That’s where Compeer’s Economic Minute comes in. 

Follow monthly updates led by Compeer Financial’s agricultural economist Dr. Megan Roberts as she delivers practical, no-nonsense insights to help farmers and agribusiness professionals make informed financial decisions with confidence.

Pause in Rate Cuts? Inflation, Tariffs & Ag Markets in Focus

March 5, 2025

New U.S. tariffs on key trade partners, plus high inflation and a steady labor market suggest the Federal Reserve may hit pause on further rate cuts. Meanwhile, ag commodity prices have cooled after an early 2025 rally. What’s driving these shifts, and how might they impact your ag business?

Meet Dr. Megan Roberts

Dr. Megan Roberts is a seasoned agricultural economist at Compeer Financial, bringing decades of experience in farm economics, agribusiness education and policy analysis. With deep roots in agriculture, Megan combines academic expertise and hands-on farming experience to provide real-world insights that help farmers navigate economic challenges and opportunities.

Before joining Compeer, Megan spent years teaching agricultural economics and business in higher education, including leadership roles in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system and as an Extension educator at the University of Minnesota. She holds a doctorate in agricultural education from Texas A&M University, along with a master’s and bachelor’s degree in agriculture from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities.

Beyond academia, Megan is a farmer herself, living on a farrow-to-finish hog, corn and soybean farm in southern Minnesota with her husband and son. Growing up on a dairy farm and now co-managing her family’s operation, she understands the day-to-day realities of farming, giving her a unique perspective that blends economic theory with practical application.

Megan is a regular speaker at industry events and published author on farm business strategies and ag policy. Her ability to break down complex economic trends into actionable insights makes her a trusted resource for today’s farmers and agribusiness professionals.