World Perspectives
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2012 Was a Spectacular Year for Most U.S. Farmers

Net farm income (profits) has been on an amazing roll for several consecutive years, with 2012 apparently establishing another record all-time high. The key factors, as we've pointed out on many occasions, are:

High prices Generally good yields A great crop insurance program

We've also pointed out the results of record farm profits:

Soaring (literally soaring) land values Soaring cash rental rates Rapidly rising input costs

We say it's been good, but just how good has it been? An adult farm management group from central North Dakota recently sent me their members' consolidated financial report. Here are some of the highlights:

The data was compiled from 71 farms The average farm was 2,740 acres T...

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From WPI Consulting

Weighing in on strategic realignment

WPI’s team was retained by the governing board of a U.S. industry organization to review a decision, reached by vote, to invest significant assets into the development and management of an export trading company. WPI’s team conducted a formal review of this decision and concluded that the current level of market saturation would limit the benefits of the investment. Based on WPI’s analysis and recommended actions, the board subsequently reversed its decision and undertook a strategic planning effort to identify more impactful investments. On behalf of numerous clients, WPI has not only assisted in identifying strategic paths but also advised their implementation.

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