The Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City earlier this month launched its Center for Agriculture and the Economy, which will serve as a hub for research and analysis, providing insight into agricultural and rural economic trends. The center will provide monthly agricultural finance updates, a quarterly ag bulletin and regular updates on ag-related topics.
“For many years, the Kansas City Fed has provided critical insights into one of the nation’s most vital industries — agriculture,” said Jeff Schmid, president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. “The establishment of this center formally recognizes our district’s investment in this area and highlights the vital importance that we place on gathering insights from all of those who have a role in the ag economy.”
According to the Fed, the center will serve as a resource within the Federal Reserve system by providing timely analysis of industry developments and conducting ongoing research on the agricultural economy and the rural regions. The center will also continue the Kansas City Fed’s efforts to engage directly with ag producers and industry leaders, to “develop a deeper understanding of emerging developments and trends,” the agency said.
“It is vitally important to us that we include voices from agriculture, including related industries and rural places, in our work,” said Nate Kauffman, senior vice president with the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City and executive director of the new center. “Our goal is that the Center for Agriculture and the Economy will reflect this two-way exchange where, in addition to us taking in information, we also produce research and resources that provide value to those connected to agriculture.”
