The effects of alternative functional forms on parametric estimation of a multi-product cost function are examined using a sample of rural US banks. Functional forms considered for possible choice are three versions of second-order Taylor-series expansions (or locally-flexible functional...

This paper provides a comparison between grain farms in Ontario and Illinois. The intent is to focus on how the two regions compare, economically, and how government programs in each region differ and affect asset valuations. In general the results indicate that the two economies move in tandem...

Data from a survey of Midwest producers are used to examine the credit-source decisions of farm borrowers. The lender attributes preferred by producers are identified in terms of their importance in selecting credit providers. The influence of farm business information on farmers’ interest...