USA & Global Economic Outlook for 2026 & Beyond
David M. Kohl, Ph.D. | Professor Emeritus
Virginia Tech

What are the economic realities that we can expect from the global and domestic sanctions, tariffs and trade strategies that are intertwined with geopolitical and military uncertainty? This uncertainty impacts your customers’ revenue and cost strategies. How is the global order shifting and what sectors of the economy will it impact?

The cast of three characters in the U.S.A economy: ALICE, HENRY, and HERMAN will determine if smooth sailing or economic white waters are in store at the quarter century mark. Interest rates, real estate, the stock market direction and debt are impacted by all these variables which impact the economic cycle. What are the lead and lag economic indicators telling us about the future of the economy, and how can your bank position to capitalize on the volatility and uncertainty? Dr. Kohl will present a high energy session that you and your team will not want to miss!

An Update from Washington, D.C.
Ed Elfmann | SVP/Agricultural & Rural Banking
American Bankers Association

This session will provide an update on federal agricultural policy that affects the banking industry. We’ll discuss the status of the Farm Bill and related issues. Additionally, an update will be provided on the ACRE Act.

Networking Break

The Pulse of Agriculture and Agricultural Lending
David M. Kohl, Ph.D. | Professor Emeritus
Virginia Tech

In this dynamic and fast-paced session, Dr. David Kohl will provide his timely and insightful analysis of the general and agricultural economies—connecting global and national trends directly to the realities of rural businesses. With decades of experience and a pulse on ag lenders, producers, and industry shifts, Dr. Kohl will explore the key economic forces impacting your customers and portfolios. Gain clarity on the lead and lag indicators that matter most in today’s uncertain environment, from interest rates to commodity cycles, consumer behavior, and geopolitical risk. Dr. Kohl will also break down current and future trends in land values, liquidity, and credit quality, equipping you with the tools to ask the right questions and make proactive decisions.

If you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve, manage risk with confidence, and better serve your agricultural clients, this session is a must-attend.

Lunch

High Impact Weather and Changes in Predictive Science

Andrew Pritchard | Senior Meteorologist, Atmospheric Sciences
Regional Atmospheric Scientist for Canada
Nutrien Ag Solutions

Networking Break

Fields of Change: Understanding Today’s Agricultural Force

Dr. Bert Greenwalt | Professor of Agricultural Economics
Arkansas State University

Jeff Gregory | Credit Manager
Helena Agri-Enterprises, LLC

Andrew Grobmyer | Executive Vice President
Agricultural Council of Arkansas

Cole Plafcan | SVP, Director of Agricultural Banking 
Simmons Bank

This panel session will examine the key trends shaping today’s agricultural landscape and the forces affecting your clients and rural communities. Industry experts will discuss developments in farm policy, labor challenges, commodity pricing, and other critical issues to help you better understand risk, anticipate change, and strengthen your role as a trusted financial partner in agriculture.