Summary
John Husted's recent testimony at the First Energy corruption trial reveals a complex relationship between political funding and corporate influence. Husted, who received a secret million-dollar payment from First Energy for his campaign, later facilitated a billion-dollar bailout for the company, resulting in a 62% increase in electric bills for consumers. His testimony raises questions about accountability and the implications of corporate contributions to political campaigns.
In a separate discussion, Kent Wilmore, founder and CEO of Cresero Natural Capital, addresses the rising value of farmland in Canada and the challenges facing family-owned farms. With farmland prices increasing due to productivity gains and technological advancements, maintaining family ownership becomes increasingly difficult. Wilmore emphasizes the importance of keeping farms in the family and the need for innovative funding solutions to support young farmers struggling to scale their operations.
The Canadian Agricultural Investment Forum, organized by Wilmore, aims to educate investors about the potential of the agricultural sector, which contributes significantly to the national GDP. The forum highlights the need for capital investment in agriculture, not only in land but also in technology and infrastructure, to ensure the sustainability and productivity of Canadian farms. As urban expansion continues to encroach on farmland, the conversation around food security and the management of agricultural assets becomes more critical.
Show Notes
Enjoy this special feed drop of our sister show 'In This Economy?!'.
Family-owned farms have been at the heart of Canada's economy for decades, and as they grapple with rising costs and a changing economic landscape, the idea of foreign capital may be enticing if executed properly.
Host Mike Eppel speaks to Kent Willmore, Founder and CEO of Crescero Natural Capital, a farmland asset management company. They discuss what future institutional investors have in Canadian farming and agriculture, and how to balance family-run operations with the need for capital.
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