FEDERAL AGRICULTURAL MORTGAGE CORP

Previous wording

Farmer Mac's business activities, financial performance, and results of operations are, by their nature, subject to risks and uncertainties, including those related to the agricultural industry, rural infrastructure industries, access to the capital markets, the regulatory environment, the level of prevailing interest rates and overall market conditions. The following risk factors should be considered along with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in Item 7 of this report, including the risks and uncertainties described in the "Forward-Looking Statements" section. Because new risk factors likely will emerge from time to time, management can neither predict all potential risk factors nor assess the effects of those factors on Farmer Mac's business, operating results, and financial condition or how much any factor, or combination of factors, may affect Farmer Mac's actual results and financial condition. If any of the following risks materialize, Farmer Mac's business, financial condition, or results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. Farmer Mac undertakes no obligation to update or revise this risk factor discussion, unless required by applicable law.

Current wording

Farmer Mac's business activities, financial performance, and results of operations are, by their nature, subject to risks and uncertainties, including those related to the agricultural industry, infrastructure industries, access to the capital markets, the political and regulatory environment, the level of prevailing interest rates, and overall market conditions. The following risk factors should be considered along with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in Item 7 of this report, including the risks and uncertainties described in the "Forward-Looking Statements" section. Because new risk factors likely will emerge from time to time, management can neither predict all potential risk factors nor assess the effects of those factors on Farmer Mac's business, operating results, and financial condition or how much any factor, or combination of factors, may affect Farmer Mac's actual results and financial condition. If any of the following risks materialize, Farmer Mac's business, financial condition, or results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. Farmer Mac undertakes no obligation to update or revise this risk factor discussion, unless required by applicable law.

Previous wording

In a tightly-linked global economy, recent or continuing disruptive global events have contributed and may continue to contribute to economic stress on America’s agricultural producers and rural infrastructure by disrupting or transforming markets, systems, or resources that America’s farmers, ranchers, and rural service providers rely on to remain profitable. This includes supply chain disruptions that prevent producers from accessing critical resources or that inhibit exports, inflationary effects that put downward pressure on demand for agricultural products or that may increase production expenses, and rising interest rates that may increase the risk that Farmer Mac’s borrowers may default on their loans. For example, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, conflict in the Middle East, and severe weather conditions and natural disasters have all contributed to recent or current economic stress on producers and service providers in rural America. Depending on the severity and frequency of these types of disruptive events, as well as the capability of governments and global markets to effectively mitigate the resulting negative effects, a prolonged period of economic stress, including a broader economic downturn or recession, could ensue from these events, which could increase stress on Farmer Mac’s borrowers and their ability to remain profitable and make payments on their loans.

Current wording

In a tightly-linked global economy, recent or continuing disruptive global events have contributed and may continue to contribute to economic stress on America’s agricultural producers and infrastructure by disrupting or transforming markets, systems, or resources that America’s farmers, ranchers, and rural service providers rely on to remain profitable. This includes supply chain disruptions that prevent producers from accessing critical resources or that inhibit exports, inflationary effects that put downward pressure on demand for agricultural products or that may increase production expenses, and higher interest rates that may increase the risk that Farmer Mac’s borrowers may default on their loans. Depending on the severity and frequency of these types of disruptive events, as well as the capability of governments and global markets to effectively mitigate the resulting negative effects, a prolonged period of economic stress, including a broader economic downturn or recession, could ensue from these events, which could increase stress on Farmer Mac’s borrowers and their ability to remain profitable and make payments on their loans.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac assumes the ultimate credit risk of borrower defaults on its agricultural mortgage and rural infrastructure loan assets, and Farmer Mac's earnings, which come from net interest income, guarantee fees, and commitment fees on those assets, depend significantly on their performance. Widespread and sustained repayment shortfalls on loans in Farmer Mac's portfolio could result in losses, particularly if the value of the available collateral does not cover Farmer Mac's exposure, and could materially and adversely affect Farmer Mac’s business, operations, operating results, financial condition, liquidity, or capital levels. The occurrence of these disruptive events and resulting negative economic effects may also heighten other risk factors described in this report.

Current wording

Farmer Mac assumes the ultimate credit risk of borrower defaults on its agricultural mortgage and infrastructure loan assets, and Farmer Mac's earnings, which come from net interest income, guarantee fees, and commitment fees on those assets, depend significantly on their performance. Widespread and sustained repayment shortfalls on loans in Farmer Mac's portfolio could result in losses, particularly if the value of the available collateral does not cover Farmer Mac's exposure, and could materially and adversely affect Farmer Mac’s business, operations, operating results, financial condition, liquidity, or capital levels. The occurrence of these disruptive events and resulting negative economic effects may also heighten other risk factors described in this report.

Previous wording

Climate change and the occurrence of weather-related events, or other natural or environmental disasters could have a material adverse effect on Farmer Mac’s business, operating results, or financial condition.

Current wording

Weather-related events or other natural or environmental disasters could have a material adverse effect on Farmer Mac’s business, operating results, or financial condition.

Previous wording

In addition to the general risks posed by adverse weather conditions, Farmer Mac’s exposure to credit risk and the market value of loan collateral is potentially subject to risks associated with the long-term effects of climate change, as farmers and ranchers face increasing, as well as increasingly-severe, weather incidents. The U.S. experienced 28 separate billion-dollar weather disasters in 2023, surpassing 2020 (which had 22 billion-dollar weather disasters) as the highest level in the 40 years tracked by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Many climatologists predict increases in average temperatures, more extreme temperatures, and increases in volatile weather over time. These physical changes may prompt changes in regulations or consumer preferences, which in turn could have negative consequences for the business models of borrowers, such as increasing costs, reducing the value of assets, and increasing operating expenses. For example, long and persistent heat and drought conditions affected agricultural production regions in the western and midwestern parts of the United States in 2021 and 2022. There was a sizable improvement in conditions in 2023 for large portions of the West Coast, especially California, but drought conditions have intensified in other areas of the country. Approximately 14% of the continental U.S. was classified as being in severe to exceptional drought as of January 2, 2024, according to data from the National Center for Environmental Information. The effects of climate change could make some agricultural properties less suitable for farming or for other alternative uses. Extended periods of drought and dryness can reduce agricultural productivity, cause lasting damage to permanent crops like fruit and tree nuts, and result in producers leaving some fields fallow due to lack of water. These and other effects of climate change could have an adverse impact on farming operations and the value of loan collateral, which could have a material adverse effect on Farmer Mac’s business, operating results, or financial condition.

Current wording

In addition to the general risks posed by adverse weather conditions, Farmer Mac’s exposure to credit risk and the market value of loan collateral is potentially subject to risks associated with farmers and ranchers facing increasing, as well as increasingly-severe, weather incidents. The U.S. experienced 27 separate billion-dollar weather disasters in 2024, surpassed only by the 28 billion-dollar weather disasters in 2023, both of which significantly exceeded the previous high set in 2020 (which had 22 billion-dollar weather disasters) as the highest level in the more than 40 years tracked by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration ("NOAA"). Many climatologists predict increases in average temperatures, more extreme temperatures, and increases in volatile weather over time. These physical changes may prompt changes in regulations or consumer preferences, which in turn could have negative consequences for the business models of borrowers, such as increasing costs, reducing the value of assets, and increasing operating expenses. At the end of 2024, approximately 70% of the United States is classified as experiencing some level of drought or dryness according to the National Drought Mitigation Center, USDA, and NOAA. The effects of severe weather events could make some agricultural properties less suitable for farming or for other alternative uses. Extended periods of drought and dryness can reduce agricultural productivity, cause lasting damage to permanent crops like fruit and tree nuts, and result in producers leaving some fields fallow due to lack of water. These and other effects of severe weather could have an adverse impact on farming operations and the value of loan collateral, which could have a material adverse effect on Farmer Mac’s business, operating results, or financial condition.

Previous wording

Other external factors outside of Farmer Mac's or borrowers' control may impair borrowers' profitability and ability to repay their loans in Farmer Mac's portfolio, which could have a material adverse effect on Farmer Mac's financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, or capital levels.

Current wording

Political and other external factors outside of Farmer Mac's or borrowers' control may impair borrowers' profitability and ability to repay their loans in Farmer Mac's portfolio, which could have a material adverse effect on Farmer Mac's financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, or capital levels.

Previous wording

Other external factors beyond Farmer Mac's or borrowers' control could impair borrowers' profitability, such as volatility in demand for agricultural products or electricity in rural areas; variability in borrowers' input costs; protracted regional, domestic, or global economic stress (whether due to disruptive global events or otherwise); legislative or regulatory actions affecting rural borrowers; U.S. trade policy affecting the demand for agricultural exports or the price of imports required for borrowers' operations; increased competition among producers due to oversupply or available alternatives; and adverse changes in interest rates and land values. Any of these factors could put downward pressure on the value and profitability of a farming, agribusiness or rural utilities operation, which could then inhibit the related borrower's repayment capacity on one or more loans that Farmer Mac may have from that borrower in its portfolio. A significant number of defaults, or a single default from a large borrower exposure, stemming from one or more of these factors could have a material adverse effect on Farmer Mac's financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, or capital levels.

Current wording

Other external factors beyond Farmer Mac's or borrowers' control could impair borrowers' profitability, such as volatility in demand for agricultural products or electricity in rural areas; variability in borrowers' input costs; increased competition among producers due to oversupply or available alternatives; and adverse changes in interest rates and land values. Any of these factors could put downward pressure on the value and profitability of a farming, agribusiness, or rural utilities operation, which could then inhibit the related borrower's repayment capacity on one or more loans that Farmer Mac may have from that borrower in its portfolio. A significant number of defaults, or a single default from a large borrower exposure, stemming from one or more of these factors could have a material adverse effect on Farmer Mac's financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, or capital levels.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac's credit risk may increase due to decline in the collateral values securing the loans in Farmer Mac's portfolio. Specialized or highly improved collateral, such as storage and processing facilities, permanent plantings, or rural utilities and renewable energy facilities, increase the risk of undercollateralization in a default scenario because producers requiring specialized or highly improved collateral are generally less able to adapt their operations or switch functional production when faced with adverse conditions. Highly improved properties also face higher risk of loss in a default scenario, as the pool of potential purchasers in a sale or foreclosure action may be smaller for a highly improved property than for a property that is adaptable to multiple uses. If a borrower defaults and Farmer Mac forecloses on a loan secured by property that is specialized or highly improved, Farmer Mac has experienced, and may in the future experience, losses if the value of the property has dropped significantly since origination or if there is a limited pool of potential purchasers willing to purchase the property at the price necessary for Farmer Mac to recoup its investment. Farmer Mac's credit risk may also increase due to a decline in the enterprise value of borrowers whose loans have been underwritten based on the estimated value of the borrower as a going concern. External market factors outside of the borrower's control may cause stress in the related industry, such as decrease in market demand, disruptions in supply chain, geopolitical or regulatory action, or increased market competition. A borrower's management decisions, such as poorly executed acquisitions or growth strategies or inability to adapt to changing market conditions, may also adversely affect that borrower's ability to repay its loan. In these scenarios, the borrower may experience downward pressure on cash flows and liquidity, which not only may contribute to an increased risk of default, but also could decrease the borrower's enterprise value. Farmer Mac may incur losses if the value of the collateral securing a loan or the enterprise value of a borrower is less than the outstanding principal balance of Farmer Mac's loan at the time of foreclosure or sale, liquidation, or other disposition of the business. If losses caused by declines in collateral value or borrower enterprise value occur across a large number of loans, or across loans with large principal balances in the aggregate, this could have a material adverse effect on Farmer Mac's financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, or capital levels.

Current wording

Farmer Mac's credit risk may increase due to a decline in the collateral values securing the loans in Farmer Mac's portfolio. Specialized or highly improved collateral, such as storage and processing facilities, permanent plantings, rural utilities, broadband, and renewable energy facilities, increase the risk of undercollateralization in a default scenario because producers requiring specialized or highly improved collateral are generally less able to adapt their operations or switch functional production when faced with adverse conditions. Highly improved properties also face higher risk of loss in a default scenario, as the pool of potential purchasers in a sale or foreclosure action may be smaller for a highly improved property than for a property that is adaptable to multiple uses. If a borrower defaults and Farmer Mac forecloses on a loan secured by property that is specialized or highly improved, Farmer Mac has experienced, and may in the future experience, losses if the value of the property has dropped significantly since origination or if there is a limited pool of potential purchasers willing to purchase the property at the price necessary for Farmer Mac to recoup its investment. Farmer Mac's credit risk may also increase due to a decline in the enterprise value of borrowers whose loans have been underwritten based on the estimated value of the borrower as a going concern. External market factors outside of the borrower's control may cause stress in the related industry, such as decrease in market demand, disruptions in supply chain, geopolitical or regulatory action, or increased market competition. A borrower's management decisions, such as poorly executed acquisitions or growth strategies or inability to adapt to changing market conditions, may also adversely affect that borrower's ability to repay its loan. In these scenarios, the borrower may experience downward pressure on cash flows and liquidity, which not only may contribute to an increased risk of default, but also could decrease the borrower's enterprise value. Farmer Mac has incurred, and may in the future incur, losses if the value of the collateral securing a loan or the enterprise value of a borrower is less than the outstanding principal balance of Farmer Mac's loan at the time of foreclosure or sale, liquidation, or other disposition of the business. If losses caused by declines in collateral value or borrower enterprise value occur across a large number of loans, or across loans with large principal balances in the aggregate, this could have a material adverse effect on Farmer Mac's financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, or capital levels.

Previous wording

Concentrations in Farmer Mac's loan or investments portfolios, or to one or more borrowers or counterparties, may increase Farmer Mac's exposure to credit risk, which could materially and adversely affect its business, operating results, and financial condition.

Current wording

Concentrations in Farmer Mac's loan or investment portfolios, or to one or more borrowers or counterparties, may increase Farmer Mac's exposure to credit risk, which could materially and adversely affect its business, operating results, and financial condition.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac's exposure to credit risk may also increase due to concentrated exposure to a particular borrower or counterparty. Farmer Mac’s portfolio consists of loans varying in size and by borrower, including large exposures ($25 million or more) to individual borrowers. The default of any one of these borrowers could negatively affect Farmer Mac's financial condition. Farmer Mac also has concentrated exposures to individual business counterparties on AgVantage securities, which are general obligations of institutional counterparties secured by eligible loans held by the issuing institution. Although AgVantage securities are collateralized by eligible loans in a principal amount equal to or greater than the principal amount of the securities outstanding, Farmer Mac could suffer losses if the market value of the loan collateral declines and the counterparty defaults. Taking possession of the loan collateral upon a default by the AgVantage counterparty could also result in higher current expected credit losses for Farmer Mac's loans held on balance sheet, as well as increased capital requirements. As of December 31, 2023, $9.0 billion of the $10.0 billion of AgVantage securities outstanding had been issued by only three counterparties. A default by any of these counterparties could have a significant adverse effect on Farmer Mac's business, operating results, and financial condition.

Current wording

Farmer Mac's exposure to credit risk may also increase due to concentrated exposure to a particular borrower or counterparty. Farmer Mac’s portfolio consists of loans varying in size and by borrower, including large exposures ($25 million or more) to individual borrowers. The default of any one of these borrowers could negatively affect Farmer Mac's financial condition. Farmer Mac also has concentrated exposures to individual business counterparties on AgVantage securities, which are general obligations of institutional counterparties secured by eligible loans held by the issuing institution. Although AgVantage securities are collateralized by eligible loans in a principal amount equal to or greater than the principal amount of the securities outstanding, Farmer Mac could suffer losses if the market value of the loan collateral declines and the counterparty defaults. Taking possession of the loan collateral upon a default by the AgVantage counterparty could also result in higher current expected credit losses for Farmer Mac's loans held on balance sheet, as well as increased capital requirements. As of December 31, 2024, $7.6 billion of the $8.5 billion of AgVantage securities outstanding had been issued by three counterparties. A default by any of these counterparties could have a significant adverse effect on Farmer Mac's business, operating results, and financial condition.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac's exposure to credit risk may also increase due to concentrated exposure to one or more investment types or counterparties in the investment portfolio Farmer Mac maintains for liquidity. This investment portfolio consists primarily of cash and cash equivalents, U.S. Treasury securities, investment securities guaranteed by U.S. Government agencies and GSEs, and asset-backed securities backed primarily by U.S. Government-guaranteed loans. Farmer Mac regularly reviews concentration limits to ensure that its investments are appropriately diversified and comply with policies approved by Farmer Mac's board of directors and with applicable FCA regulations, but Farmer Mac is still exposed to credit risk from issuers of the investment securities it holds, particularly to issuers to whom Farmer Mac may have a higher concentration of exposure relative to the rest of Farmer Mac's investment portfolio. For example, as of December 31, 2023, Farmer Mac held at fair value $3.7 billion of investment securities guaranteed by GSEs. A default by multiple issuers of investment securities held by Farmer Mac or by a single issuer of investment securities in which Farmer Mac is more heavily concentrated could have an adverse effect on Farmer Mac's business, operating results, and financial condition.

Current wording

Farmer Mac's exposure to credit risk may also increase due to concentrated exposure to one or more investment types or counterparties in the investment portfolio Farmer Mac maintains for liquidity. This investment portfolio consists primarily of cash and cash equivalents, U.S. Treasury securities, investment securities guaranteed by U.S. Government agencies and GSEs, and asset-backed securities backed primarily by U.S. Government-guaranteed loans. Farmer Mac regularly reviews concentration limits to ensure that its investments are appropriately diversified and comply with policies approved by Farmer Mac's board of directors and with applicable FCA regulations, but Farmer Mac is still exposed to credit risk from issuers of the investment securities it holds, particularly to issuers to whom Farmer Mac may have a higher concentration of exposure relative to the rest of Farmer Mac's investment portfolio. For example, as of December 31, 2024, Farmer Mac held at fair value $4.3 billion of investment securities guaranteed by GSEs. A default by multiple issuers of investment securities held by Farmer Mac or by a single issuer of investment securities in which Farmer Mac is more heavily concentrated could have an adverse effect on Farmer Mac's business, operating results, and financial condition.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac's guarantee and purchase commitment obligations to third parties, including LTSPCs and securities guaranteed by Farmer Mac, are obligations of Farmer Mac only and are not backed by the full faith and credit of the United States, FCA, or any other agency or instrumentality of the United States other than Farmer Mac. As of December 31, 2023, Farmer Mac had $4.1 billion of contingent liabilities related to LTSPCs and securities issued to third parties and guaranteed by Farmer Mac, which represents Farmer Mac's exposure if all loans underlying these LTSPCs and guarantees defaulted and Farmer Mac recovered no value from the related collateral. If this were to occur, the funds available for payment on these guarantees and LTSPCs could be substantially less than the aggregate amount of the corresponding liabilities. As of December 31, 2023, Farmer Mac held cash, cash equivalents, and other investment securities with a fair value of $5.9 billion that could be used as a source of funds for payment on its obligations, including its guarantee and LTSPC obligations. Although Farmer Mac believes that it remains well-collateralized on the assets underlying its guarantee and LTSPC obligations to third parties and that the estimated probable losses for these obligations remain low relative to the amount available for payment of claims on these obligations, Farmer Mac's total contingent liabilities for these obligations could exceed the amount it may have available for payment of Farmer Mac's obligations, including claims on Farmer Mac's contingent obligations. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis—Risk Management—Credit Risk – Loans and Guarantees" for more information on Farmer Mac's management of credit risk.

Current wording

Farmer Mac's guarantee and purchase commitment obligations to third parties, including LTSPCs and securities guaranteed by Farmer Mac, are obligations of Farmer Mac only and are not backed by the full faith and credit of the United States, FCA, or any other agency or instrumentality of the United States other than Farmer Mac. As of December 31, 2024, Farmer Mac had $4.5 billion of contingent liabilities related to LTSPCs and securities issued to third parties and guaranteed by Farmer Mac, which represents Farmer Mac's exposure if all loans underlying these LTSPCs and guarantees defaulted and Farmer Mac recovered no value from the related collateral. If this were to occur, the funds available for payment on these guarantees and LTSPCs could be substantially less than the aggregate amount of the corresponding liabilities. As of December 31, 2024, Farmer Mac held cash, cash equivalents, and other investment securities with a fair value of $7.0 billion that could be used as a source of funds for payment on its obligations, including its guarantee and LTSPC obligations. Although Farmer Mac believes that it remains well-collateralized on the assets underlying its guarantee and LTSPC obligations to third parties and that the estimated probable losses for these obligations remain low relative to the amount available for payment of claims on these obligations, Farmer Mac's total contingent liabilities for these obligations could exceed the amount it may have available for payment of Farmer Mac's obligations, including claims on Farmer Mac's contingent obligations. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis—Risk Management—Credit Risk – Loans and Guarantees" for more information on Farmer Mac's management of credit risk.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac uses interest rate swap contracts and hedging arrangements to manage its interest rate risk. Farmer Mac clears a significant portion of its interest rate swaps through a swap clearinghouse and uses the services of a futures commission merchant to post and receive mark-to-market margin amounts. Farmer Mac also transacts non-cleared (bilateral) derivative contracts directly with swap counterparties and posts and receives collateral to secure the market value of those contracts. A failure of any of these counterparties could cause intra-day disruption for Farmer Mac's swap operations if the failure were to prompt a termination of all or part of Farmer Mac's swap positions or if Farmer Mac were unable to quickly access margin or collateral amounts. These conditions could be exacerbated in volatile market conditions, in which the market could move against Farmer Mac's position before Farmer Mac had time to reposition its swaps. These events could have a negative effect on Farmer Mac's operations and liquidity and could expose Farmer Mac to more interest rate risk, which could materially and adversely affect its business, operating results, and financial condition. As of December 31, 2023, the aggregate notional balance of Farmer Mac's cleared swaps was $20.5 billion, and the aggregate notional balance of Farmer Mac's non-cleared swaps was $5.2 billion.

Current wording

Farmer Mac uses interest rate swap contracts and hedging arrangements to manage its interest rate risk. Farmer Mac clears a significant portion of its interest rate swaps through a swap clearinghouse and uses the services of a futures commission merchant to post and receive mark-to-market margin amounts. Farmer Mac also transacts non-cleared (bilateral) derivative contracts directly with swap counterparties and posts and receives collateral to secure the market value of those contracts. A failure of any of these counterparties could cause intra-day disruption for Farmer Mac's swap operations if the failure were to prompt a termination of all or part of Farmer Mac's swap positions or if Farmer Mac were unable to quickly access margin or collateral amounts. These conditions could be exacerbated in volatile market conditions, in which the market could move against Farmer Mac's position before Farmer Mac had time to reposition its swaps. These events could have a negative effect on Farmer Mac's operations and liquidity and could expose Farmer Mac to more interest rate risk, which could materially and adversely affect its business, operating results, and financial condition. As of December 31, 2024, the aggregate notional balance of Farmer Mac's cleared swaps was $19.1 billion, and the aggregate notional balance of Farmer Mac's non-cleared swaps was $5.7 billion.

Previous wording

•reduced demand for agricultural real estate loans or rural infrastructure loans due to regional, domestic, or global economic conditions; and

Current wording

•reduced demand for agricultural real estate loans or infrastructure loans due to regional, domestic, or global economic conditions; and

Previous wording

•expanded funding alternatives available to agricultural and rural infrastructure borrowers.

Current wording

•expanded funding alternatives available to agricultural and infrastructure borrowers.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac's business and ability to generate revenues and profits largely depends on its ability to purchase eligible loans or place eligible loans under guarantees or LTSPCs and to purchase or guarantee AgVantage securities. Farmer Mac conducts a significant portion of its business with a few business counterparties. This concentration of business could potentially result in increased variability in Farmer Mac's business as existing assets pay down or mature and the status and needs of Farmer Mac's customers evolve. In 2023, ten institutions generated approximately 81% of loan purchase volume in the Agricultural Finance line of business. As of December 31, 2023, approximately 90.1% of the $10.0 billion outstanding principal amount of AgVantage securities (of which $2.4 billion and $1.2 billion will be maturing in 2024 and 2025, respectively) were issued by three institutions. As of December 31, 2023, transactions with two institutions represented nearly all of the business volume under Farmer Mac's Rural Infrastructure Finance line of business. Farmer Mac's ability to maintain the current relationships with its business counterparties or customers and the business generated by those business counterparties or customers is significant to Farmer Mac's business. As a result, the loss of business from any one of Farmer Mac's key business counterparties could decrease Farmer Mac's revenues and profitability. Farmer Mac may be unable to replace the loss of business of a key business counterparty or customer with alternate sources of business due to limitations on the types of assets eligible for Farmer Mac's secondary market, which could adversely affect Farmer Mac's business and decrease its revenues and profits.

Current wording

Farmer Mac's business and ability to generate revenues and profits largely depends on its ability to purchase eligible loans or place eligible loans under guarantees or LTSPCs and to purchase or guarantee AgVantage securities. Farmer Mac conducts a significant portion of its business with a few business counterparties. This concentration of business could potentially result in increased variability in Farmer Mac's business as existing assets pay down or mature and the status and needs of Farmer Mac's customers evolve. In 2024, ten institutions generated approximately 65% of loan purchase volume in the Agricultural Finance line of business. Between December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2024, the outstanding balance of Farmer Mac's AgVantage securities decreased by approximately $1.5 billion. As of December 31, 2024, approximately 89.1% of the $8.5 billion outstanding principal amount of AgVantage securities (of which $1.6 billion and $1.2 billion will be maturing in 2025 and 2026, respectively) were issued by three institutions. As of December 31, 2024, transactions with two institutions represented nearly all of the business volume under Farmer Mac's Infrastructure Finance line of business. Farmer Mac's ability to maintain the current relationships with its business counterparties or customers and the business generated by those business counterparties or customers is significant to Farmer Mac's business. As a result, the loss of business from any one of Farmer Mac's key business counterparties could decrease Farmer Mac's revenues and profitability. Farmer Mac may be unable to replace the loss of business of a key business counterparty or customer with alternate sources of business due to limitations on the types of assets eligible for Farmer Mac's secondary market, which could adversely affect Farmer Mac's business and decrease its revenues and profits.

Previous wording

The potential for operational risk exposure also exists as a result of Farmer Mac's interactions with, and reliance on, third parties. Farmer Mac's business relies on its ability to process, evaluate, and interpret significant amounts of information, much of which third parties provide or process. Yet Farmer Mac's ability to implement safeguards preventing disruption or unauthorized access to third-party systems or infrastructure is more limited than for its own systems or infrastructure. If the financial, accounting, data processing, backup, information technology, or other operating systems and infrastructure of third parties with whom Farmer Mac interacts or upon whom it relies fail to operate properly, are subject to unauthorized access, or are disrupted, then Farmer Mac may be impacted in the same manner as it would be due to inadequacies or failures in Farmer Mac's own internal processes, personnel, systems, cybersecurity program, or infrastructure.

Current wording

The potential for operational risk exposure also exists as a result of Farmer Mac's interactions with, and reliance on, third parties. Farmer Mac's business relies on its ability to process, evaluate, and interpret significant amounts of information, much of which third parties provide or process. Yet Farmer Mac's ability to implement safeguards preventing disruption or unauthorized access to third-party systems or infrastructure is more limited than for its own systems or infrastructure. If the financial, accounting, data processing, backup, information technology, or other operating systems and infrastructure of third parties with whom Farmer Mac interacts or upon whom it relies fail to operate properly, are subject to unauthorized access or improper use, or are disrupted, then Farmer Mac may be impacted in the same manner as it would be due to inadequacies or failures in Farmer Mac's own internal processes, personnel, systems, cybersecurity program, or infrastructure.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac’s internal loan servicing function and reliance on third-party servicers could expose Farmer Mac to operational risks that could adversely affect its business, operating results, or financial condition.

Current wording

Farmer Mac’s internal loan servicing function and reliance on third-party servicers exposes Farmer Mac to operational risks that could adversely affect its business, operating results, or financial condition.

Previous wording

Effective and reliable loan servicing is essential for Farmer Mac to successfully operate its business. Starting in 2021, Farmer Mac has expanded its internal loan servicing function through two strategic acquisitions that included the loan servicing rights for a sizeable portion of Farmer Mac’s Agricultural Finance mortgage loan and USDA Securities portfolios, as well as servicing rights for eligible agricultural mortgage loans that are held by an unrelated third party. Farmer Mac has also acquired experienced servicing personnel and an operational servicing platform during that time. This expansion of servicing responsibilities and personnel has required Farmer Mac to implement processes and controls for a business function that Farmer Mac has previously not operated and still has limited experience executing and managing. Farmer Mac also continues to rely on experienced third-party servicers to service the portion of Farmer Mac’s Agricultural Finance mortgage loan portfolio not serviced directly by Farmer Mac. Although Farmer Mac has established servicing standards and requirements to which these third-party servicers are required by contract to adhere and on which they must report to Farmer Mac, Farmer Mac does not manage the processes and controls of these third-party servicers. The ineffective implementation, operation, or oversight of one or more of the servicing processes or controls employed by Farmer Mac or any of its third-party servicers could expose Farmer Mac to operational risk that could adversely affect Farmer Mac’s business, operating results, or financial condition.

Current wording

Effective and reliable loan servicing is essential for Farmer Mac to successfully operate its business. Starting in 2021, Farmer Mac expanded its internal loan servicing function through two strategic acquisitions that included the loan servicing rights for a sizeable portion of Farmer Mac’s Agricultural Finance mortgage loan and USDA Securities portfolios, as well as servicing rights for eligible agricultural mortgage loans that are held by an unrelated third party. Farmer Mac has also acquired experienced servicing personnel and an operational servicing platform during that time. This expansion of servicing responsibilities and personnel has required Farmer Mac to implement processes and controls for a business function that Farmer Mac has previously not operated and still has limited experience executing and managing. Farmer Mac also continues to rely on experienced third-party servicers to service the portion of Farmer Mac’s Agricultural Finance mortgage loan portfolio not serviced directly by Farmer Mac. Although Farmer Mac has established servicing standards and requirements to which these third-party servicers are required by contract to adhere and on which they must report to Farmer Mac, Farmer Mac does not manage the processes and controls of these third-party servicers. The ineffective implementation, operation, or oversight of one or more of the servicing processes or controls employed by Farmer Mac or any of its third-party servicers could expose Farmer Mac to operational risk that could adversely affect Farmer Mac’s business, operating results, or financial condition.

Previous wording

A deficiency, failure, interruption, or breach in Farmer Mac's or its service providers' technology and information systems, infrastructure, or cybersecurity program, including the occurrence of a cybersecurity incident, could result in a loss of business, damage to Farmer Mac's reputation, the disclosure or misuse of confidential or proprietary information, or increased costs or liability to Farmer Mac, which could adversely affect Farmer Mac's business, operating results, or financial condition.

Current wording

A deficiency, failure, interruption, or breach in Farmer Mac's or its service providers' technology and information systems, infrastructure, or cybersecurity program, including the occurrence of a cybersecurity incident, could adversely affect Farmer Mac's business, operating results, or financial condition.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac relies heavily on technology and information systems, including from third parties, for the secure collection, processing, transmission, and storage of confidential, proprietary, and personal information in its information systems (and those of third parties) to conduct and manage its business operations. These technology and information systems encompass an integrated set of hardware, software, infrastructure, and personnel organized to facilitate the planning, control, coordination, operations, and decision-making processes within Farmer Mac. As the importance and complexity of Farmer Mac’s technology and information systems has increased, and as new technologies are developed that are used by its customers, Farmer Mac, or its service providers to support its business and operations, the risks posed to Farmer Mac’s information systems and data from cybersecurity attacks that threaten the confidentiality, integrity, or availability of Farmer Mac’s information technology assets and resources and its data have increased. Like many other financial institutions, Farmer Mac and its third party service providers face regular attacks by threat actors attempting to gain unauthorized access to, or disrupt, its information systems and access or acquire its data, including from organized criminal groups, hackers, nation states, activists, insiders, and other unauthorized third parties. These threats come from a variety of different sources, including cyber-attacks, computer viruses, malware, exploits of system and network vulnerabilities, human error, phishing, ransomware, and distributed denial of service attacks. The threats Farmer Mac faces and the methods used to gain unauthorized access to or disrupt its information systems and data, or those of its service providers, are evolving. Farmer Mac is not always able to prevent or recognize attacks, and Farmer Mac's existing cybersecurity defenses may not be sufficient to detect attacks in a timely manner. Also, Farmer Mac may be unable to implement effective preventive measures or proactively address these threats until after a cybersecurity incident has been discovered. Moreover, any employees or agents of Farmer Mac’s (or its third-party customers or vendors) who have authorized access to confidential, proprietary, or personal information could also intentionally, inadvertently, or erroneously disseminate the information to unauthorized third parties.

Current wording

To conduct and manage its business operations, Farmer Mac relies heavily on technology and information systems, including from third parties, for the secure collection, processing, transmission, and storage of confidential, proprietary, and personal information in its information systems (and those of third parties). These technology and information systems encompass an integrated set of hardware, software, infrastructure, and personnel organized to facilitate the planning, control, coordination, operations, and decision-making processes within Farmer Mac. Risks to Farmer Mac's information systems and data as a result of cybersecurity attacks has increased as the importance and complexity of Farmer Mac’s technology and information systems has increased, and as new technologies are developed that are used by its customers, Farmer Mac, and its service providers to support its business and operations. Like many other financial institutions, Farmer Mac and its third-party service providers, vendors, and suppliers face regular attacks by threat actors attempting to gain unauthorized access to, or disrupt, its information systems and access or acquire its data, including from organized criminal groups, hackers, nation states, activists, insiders, and others. These threats come from a variety of different sources, including cyber-attacks, computer viruses, malware, exploits of system and network vulnerabilities, human error, phishing, ransomware, and distributed denial of service attacks. The threats Farmer Mac and its third-party service providers face and the methods used to gain unauthorized access to or disrupt their information systems and data are evolving. Farmer Mac is not always able to prevent or recognize attacks, its existing cybersecurity defenses may not be sufficient to detect attacks in a timely manner or to fully investigate an attack, and it may be unable to implement effective preventive measures or proactively address these threats until after a cybersecurity incident has been discovered. Farmer Mac also may have limited or no control over its service providers' handling of cybersecurity incidents, including their recognition and prevention practices. Any employees or agents of Farmer Mac’s (or its third-party customers or vendors) who have authorized access to confidential, proprietary, or personal information could also intentionally, inadvertently, or erroneously disseminate the information to unauthorized third parties.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac’s current information security program with cybersecurity procedures, policies, practices, and controls, may not be sufficient to prevent unauthorized access to its information technology assets or data, which could lead to a significant disruption to business operations; unauthorized access to or acquisition, destruction, alteration, release, theft, or loss of confidential, proprietary, or personal data; fraud (on Farmer Mac and/or its customers); extortion; financial and economic loss or costs; errors in its financial statements; impairment of its liquidity; harm to employees, customers, or vendors; liability or service interruptions to its customers; loss of customers or vendors; violation of data protection laws and other litigation and legal risk; increased regulatory or legislative scrutiny; or reputational damage. Farmer Mac also could be subject to litigation and government enforcement actions as a result of any such failure. Any such claim or proceeding could cause us to incur significant unplanned expenses in excess of Farmer Mac's insurance coverage, which could adversely affect Farmer Mac's financial condition and results of operations. The amount and scope of insurance Farmer Mac maintains may not cover all expenses related to such claims. Also, Farmer Mac's service providers may also experience interruptions to their technology, facilities, and information systems that could adversely impact Farmer Mac and over which Farmer Mac may have limited or no control. Finally, the risk of unauthorized access to confidential, proprietary, or personal information through information system breaches or inadvertent dissemination may be heightened in a remote-working environment, which is currently more prevalent at Farmer Mac.

Current wording

Farmer Mac’s current information security program with cybersecurity procedures, policies, practices, and controls, may not be sufficient to prevent unauthorized access to its information technology assets or data, which could lead to a significant disruption to business operations; unauthorized access to or acquisition, destruction, alteration, release, theft, or loss of confidential, proprietary, or personal data; fraud (on Farmer Mac and/or its customers); extortion; financial and economic loss or costs; errors in its financial statements; impairment of its liquidity; harm to employees, customers, or vendors; liability or service interruptions to its customers; loss of customers or vendors; violation of data protection laws and other litigation and legal risk; increased regulatory or legislative scrutiny; or reputational damage. Even when an attempted cybersecurity attack or other security breach is successfully avoided or thwarted, Farmer Mac may need to expend substantial resources in doing so, may be required to take actions that could adversely affect customer satisfaction or behavior, or may be exposed to reputational damage. Farmer Mac also could be subject to litigation and government enforcement actions as a result of any failure in its procedures, policies, practices, and controls. Any such claim or proceeding could cause us to incur significant unplanned expenses in excess of Farmer Mac's insurance coverage, which could adversely affect Farmer Mac's financial condition and results of operations. The amount and scope of insurance Farmer Mac maintains may not cover all expenses related to those claims. Also, the risk of unauthorized access to confidential, proprietary, or personal information through information system breaches or inadvertent dissemination may be heightened in a remote-working environment, which is currently more prevalent at Farmer Mac.

Previous wording

Failure by Farmer Mac's third-party loan servicers, third-party applications, information systems providers, and other service providers to protect confidential information from unauthorized access and dissemination could result in liability for Farmer Mac or damage Farmer Mac's reputation, which could have a negative effect on Farmer Mac's business, operating results, or financial condition.

Current wording

Failure by Farmer Mac's third-party loan servicers, third-party applications, information systems providers (including artificial intelligence systems), and other service providers to protect confidential information from unauthorized access and dissemination could have a negative effect on Farmer Mac's business, operating results, or financial condition.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac relies on third parties, including loan servicers, information systems providers, software-as-a-service (SaaS) providers, cloud computing service providers, law firms, and other service providers, to perform various functions that support Farmer Mac’s business and operations. Farmer Mac depends on these third parties to collect, process, transmit, and store a variety of confidential, proprietary, or personal information, including sensitive financial information and customer information. Just as Farmer Mac is subject to numerous cyber-attacks from a variety of actors, so too are these third parties. Farmer Mac requires third parties who collect, process, or store confidential, proprietary, or personal data to adhere to security policies, processes, and controls. However, the control systems, cybersecurity program, infrastructure, and personnel associated with third parties with which Farmer Mac does business or obtains services are beyond its control. Farmer Mac is aware of cybersecurity incidents involving its third party service providers in the past, and although Farmer Mac has not experienced a material loss of data or disruption of its operations due to a breach of third party systems, unauthorized access to a third party service provider's information technology assets or data may significantly impact Farmer Mac's operations in the same manner as incidents on its own systems.

Current wording

Farmer Mac relies on third parties, including loan servicers, information systems providers, software-as-a-service (SaaS) providers, cloud computing service providers, law firms, and other service providers, to perform various functions that support Farmer Mac’s business and operations. Farmer Mac depends on these third parties to collect, process, transmit, and store a variety of confidential, proprietary, or personal information, including sensitive financial information and customer information. Just as Farmer Mac is subject to numerous cyber-attacks from a variety of actors, so too are these third parties. Farmer Mac requires third parties who collect, process, or store confidential, proprietary, or personal data to adhere to security policies, processes, and controls. However, the control systems, cybersecurity program, infrastructure, and personnel associated with third parties with which Farmer Mac does business or obtains services are beyond its control. Farmer Mac is aware of cybersecurity incidents involving its third party service providers in the past. Although Farmer Mac has not experienced a material loss of data or disruption of its operations due to a breach of third party systems, unauthorized access to a third party service provider's information technology assets or data may significantly impact Farmer Mac's operations in the same manner as incidents on its own systems.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac relies upon a variety of third parties to run and operate its business, including servicers who perform certain duties for loans Farmer Mac has purchased. Farmer Mac also relies upon a variety of third-party applications, services, and tools that are not developed by Farmer Mac, including cloud-based platforms and related data centers, to host data and support and operate certain aspects of its services and business operations. These third parties – particularly servicers – maintain, transmit, and receive confidential, proprietary, and personal information, including customer information. The unauthorized access to, acquisition, misuse, mishandling, unavailability, or destruction of Farmer Mac's data or confidential information stored by these third parties or on their applications and systems, or unauthorized access to or disruption of these third party applications, services, or tools could result in: unauthorized access to Farmer Mac's own systems; significant disruption to its business operations; fraud (on Farmer Mac and/or its customers); extortion; financial and economic losses or costs; errors in financial statements; impairment of its liquidity; harm to its employees, customers, or vendors; liability or service interruptions to its customers; loss of customers or vendors; violation of data protection laws and other litigation and legal risk; increased regulatory or legislative scrutiny; reputational damage; or litigation and government enforcement actions.

Current wording

The unauthorized access to, acquisition, misuse, mishandling, unavailability, or destruction of Farmer Mac's data or confidential information stored by these third parties or on their applications and systems, including artificial intelligence systems, or unauthorized access to or disruption of these third party applications, services, or tools could result in: unauthorized access to Farmer Mac's own systems; significant disruption to its business operations; fraud (on Farmer Mac and/or its customers); extortion; financial and economic losses or costs; errors in financial statements; impairment of its liquidity; harm to its employees, customers, or vendors; liability or service interruptions to its customers; loss of customers or vendors; violation of data protection laws and other litigation and legal risk; increased regulatory or legislative scrutiny; reputational damage; or litigation and government enforcement actions.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac is subject to interest rate risk due to the timing differences in the cash flows of the assets it holds and the liabilities issued to fund those assets. Farmer Mac's primary strategy for managing interest rate risk is to fund asset purchases with debt together with financial derivatives that have similar duration and convexity characteristics to help mitigate impacts from interest rate changes across the yield curve. However, the ability of borrowers to prepay their loans before the scheduled maturities increases the likelihood of asset and liability cash flow mismatches. In a changing interest rate environment, these cash flow mismatches affect Farmer Mac's earnings if assets repay sooner than expected and the resulting cash flows must be reinvested in lower-yielding investments, particularly if Farmer Mac's related funding costs cannot be correspondingly repaid. Conversely, if assets repay more slowly than anticipated and the associated debt issued to fund the assets must be reissued at a higher interest rate, Farmer Mac's earnings could be adversely affected. In addition, rapid changes in interest rates could have a negative effect on Farmer Mac's net interest income across quarters. For example, since 2022, the Federal Reserve has rapidly increased the target range for the federal funds rate by 5.25% in an effort to combat rising inflation. Although Farmer Mac benefited from higher nominal interest rates in its investment portfolio, if those nominal interest rates decline, Farmer Mac may earn less interest income on its investments in future periods. Furthermore, a future period of rapid increase or decline in interest rates may create or exacerbate periods of market volatility that could adversely affect Farmer Mac's ability to manage interest rate risk, which could have a material adverse effect on Farmer Mac's operating results or financial condition. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis—Risk Management—Interest Rate Risk" for more information on Farmer Mac's management of interest rate risk.

Current wording

Farmer Mac is subject to interest rate risk due to the timing differences in the cash flows of the assets it holds and the liabilities issued to fund those assets. Farmer Mac's primary strategy for managing interest rate risk is to fund asset purchases with debt together with financial derivatives that have similar duration and convexity characteristics to help mitigate impacts from interest rate changes across the yield curve. However, the ability of borrowers to prepay their loans before the scheduled maturities increases the likelihood of asset and liability cash flow mismatches. In a changing interest rate environment, these cash flow mismatches affect Farmer Mac's earnings if assets repay sooner than expected and the resulting cash flows must be reinvested in lower-yielding investments, particularly if Farmer Mac's related funding costs cannot be correspondingly repaid. Conversely, if assets repay more slowly than anticipated and the associated debt issued to fund the assets must be reissued at a higher interest rate, Farmer Mac's earnings could be adversely affected. In addition, rapid changes in interest rates could have a negative effect on Farmer Mac's net interest income across quarters. Although Farmer Mac has benefited from higher nominal interest rates in its investment portfolio, if those nominal interest rates decline, Farmer Mac may earn less interest income on its investments in future periods. A future period of rapid increase or decline in interest rates may create or exacerbate periods of market volatility that could adversely affect Farmer Mac's ability to manage interest rate risk, which could have a material adverse effect on Farmer Mac's operating results or financial condition. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis—Risk Management—Interest Rate Risk" for more information on Farmer Mac's management of interest rate risk.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac's financial derivatives provide economic hedges of interest rate risk, changes in the fair values of financial derivatives can cause volatility in net income and in capital, particularly if those financial derivatives are not designated in hedge accounting relationships or if there is any ineffectiveness in a hedge accounting relationship. As interest rates increase or decrease, the fair values of Farmer Mac's derivatives change based on the position Farmer Mac holds relative to the specific characteristics of the derivative. Farmer Mac's core capital available to meet its statutory minimum capital requirement can be affected by changes in the fair values of financial derivatives, as noted above. Adverse changes in the fair values of Farmer Mac's financial derivatives that are not designated in hedge accounting relationships and any hedge ineffectiveness that results in a loss would reduce the amount of core capital available to meet this requirement. In 2023 and 2022, Farmer Mac recorded a gain of $5.1 million and a gain of $13.5 million, respectively, from changes in the fair values of its financial derivatives as a result of movements in interest rates during those years. Farmer Mac recorded losses of $5.4 million and gains of $5.8 million in 2023 and 2022, respectively, related to ineffectiveness in hedge accounting relationships.

Current wording

Farmer Mac enters into financial derivatives transactions to hedge interest rate risks inherent in its business and carries its financial derivatives at fair value in its consolidated financial statements. Although Farmer Mac's financial derivatives provide economic hedges of interest rate risk, changes in the fair values of financial derivatives can cause volatility in net income and in capital, particularly if those financial derivatives are not designated in hedge accounting relationships or if there is any ineffectiveness in a hedge accounting relationship. As interest rates increase or decrease, the fair values of Farmer Mac's derivatives change based on the position Farmer Mac holds relative to the specific characteristics of the derivative. Farmer Mac's core capital available to meet its statutory minimum capital requirement can be affected by changes in the fair values of financial derivatives, as noted above. Adverse changes in the fair values of Farmer Mac's financial derivatives that are not designated in hedge accounting relationships and any hedge ineffectiveness that results in a loss would reduce the amount of core capital available to meet this requirement. In 2024 and 2023, Farmer Mac recorded gains of $3.3 million and $5.1 million, respectively, from changes in the fair values of its financial derivatives as a result of movements in interest rates during those years. Farmer Mac recorded gains of $11.5 million and losses of $5.4 million in 2024 and 2023, respectively, related to ineffectiveness in hedge accounting relationships.

Previous wording

Changes in interest rates have required, and in the future may require, Farmer Mac to post cash or investment securities to collateralize its derivative exposures due to corresponding changes in the fair market values of these derivatives. If changes in interest rates were to result in a significant decrease in the fair value of Farmer Mac's derivatives, Farmer Mac would be required to post cash, cash equivalents, or investment securities, possibly within a short period of time, to satisfy its obligations under its derivatives contracts. As of December 31, 2023, Farmer Mac posted $84.6 million of cash and $207.2 million of investment securities as collateral for its derivatives in net liability positions. If Farmer Mac is required to fully collateralize a significant portion of its derivatives in an adverse interest rate environment, it could have a material adverse effect on Farmer Mac's liquidity position or operating results.

Current wording

Changes in interest rates have required, and in the future may require, Farmer Mac to post cash or investment securities to collateralize its derivative exposures due to corresponding changes in the fair market values of these derivatives. If changes in interest rates were to result in a significant decrease in the fair value of Farmer Mac's derivatives, Farmer Mac would be required to post cash, cash equivalents, or investment securities, possibly within a short period of time, to satisfy its obligations under its derivatives contracts. As of December 31, 2024, Farmer Mac posted $46.9 million of cash and $213.4 million of investment securities as collateral for its derivatives in net liability positions. If Farmer Mac is required to fully collateralize a significant portion of its derivatives in an adverse interest rate environment, it could have a material adverse effect on Farmer Mac's liquidity position or operating results.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac's accounting policies and methods are fundamental to how it records and reports its financial condition and results of operations. Some of these policies and methods require management to make estimates and assumptions in preparing Farmer Mac's consolidated financial statements. Incorrect estimates and assumptions by management in connection with preparing Farmer Mac's consolidated financial statements could adversely affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the reported amounts of income and expenses. For example, as of December 31, 2023, Farmer Mac's assets and liabilities recorded at fair value included financial instruments valued at $5.6 billion whose fair values management estimated in the absence of readily observable fair values (in other words, level 3). These financial instruments measured with significant unobservable inputs represented 18.8% of total assets and 52.4% of financial instruments measured at fair value as of December 31, 2023. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis—Critical Accounting Estimates" for more information about fair value measurement. If management makes incorrect assumptions or estimates that result in understating or overstating reported financial results, it could materially and adversely affect Farmer Mac's business, operating results, reported assets and liabilities, financial condition, reputation, or capital levels.

Current wording

Farmer Mac's accounting policies and methods are fundamental to how it records and reports its financial condition and results of operations. Some of these policies and methods require management to make estimates and assumptions in preparing Farmer Mac's consolidated financial statements. Incorrect estimates and assumptions by management in connection with preparing Farmer Mac's consolidated financial statements could adversely affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the reported amounts of income and expenses. For example, as of December 31, 2024, Farmer Mac's assets and liabilities recorded at fair value included financial instruments valued at $5.5 billion whose fair values management estimated in the absence of readily observable fair values (in other words, level 3). These financial instruments measured with significant unobservable inputs represented 17.7% of total assets and 47.8% of financial instruments measured at fair value as of December 31, 2024. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis—Critical Accounting Estimates" for more information about fair value measurement. If management makes incorrect assumptions or estimates that result in understating or overstating reported financial results, it could materially and adversely affect Farmer Mac's business, operating results, reported assets and liabilities, financial condition, reputation, or capital levels.

Previous wording

The trading price of Farmer Mac's Class C non-voting common stock ("Class C stock") has at times experienced substantial price volatility and may remain volatile. For example, the trading price of the Class C stock ranged from $113.53 per share to $194.92 per share during 2023. The trading price may fluctuate in response to various factors, including short sales, hedging, the presence or absence of a share repurchase program, stock market influences in general that are unrelated to Farmer Mac's operating performance, or sales of significant amounts of the stock by large holders. Farmer Mac typically grants equity awards each year that are based on the Class C stock, including grants that vest over time or upon the achievement of specified performance goals. Sales of stock acquired upon vesting or the exercise of equity awards by Farmer Mac's officers, directors, or employees, whether under an established trading plan or otherwise, could adversely affect the trading price of the Class C stock. All of these factors may be exacerbated during periods of low trading volume for Farmer Mac's Class C stock, which averaged 57,662 shares daily during 2023 and may have a prolonged negative effect on its trading price or increase price volatility.

Current wording

The trading price of Farmer Mac's Class C non-voting common stock ("Class C stock") has at times experienced substantial price volatility and may remain volatile. For example, the trading price of the Class C stock ranged from $169.46 per share to $216.45 per share during 2024. The trading price may fluctuate in response to various factors, including short sales, hedging, the presence or absence of a share repurchase program, stock market influences in general that are unrelated to Farmer Mac's operating performance, or sales of significant amounts of the stock by large holders. Farmer Mac typically grants equity awards each year that are based on the Class C stock, including grants that vest over time or upon the achievement of specified performance goals. Sales of stock acquired upon vesting or the exercise of equity awards by Farmer Mac's officers, directors, or employees, whether under an established trading plan or otherwise, could adversely affect the trading price of the Class C stock. All of these factors may be exacerbated during periods of low trading volume for Farmer Mac's Class C stock, which averaged 52,650 shares daily during 2024 and may have a prolonged negative effect on its trading price or increase price volatility.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac and many of its business counterparties are subject to comprehensive government regulation, and unanticipated changes to those laws and regulations could adversely affect Farmer Mac's business, operating results, reputation, or financial condition.

Current wording

Farmer Mac and many of its business counterparties are subject to comprehensive government regulation, and changes to those laws and regulations could adversely affect Farmer Mac's business, operating results, reputation, or financial condition.

Previous wording

Farmer Mac is a GSE with a statutory charter that may be amended by Congress at any time, and is also regulated by government agencies, including the FCA and the SEC. Although Farmer Mac is not aware of any pending legislative or regulatory proposals that would materially impact its business or operations, Farmer Mac's ability to effectively conduct its business is subject to risks and uncertainties related to political developments that could affect Farmer Mac or GSEs generally. These political risks and uncertainties may be heightened under a new Congress or Presidential administration. Farmer Mac cannot predict whether or when legislative or regulatory initiatives may commence that, if successful, could negatively affect the status of Farmer Mac as a GSE or how Farmer Mac operates, and which could have a material and adverse effect on Farmer Mac's business, operating results, financial condition, or capital levels. See "Business—Government Regulation of Farmer Mac" for more information about the rules and regulations governing Farmer Mac's activities.

Current wording

Farmer Mac is a GSE with a statutory charter that may be amended by Congress at any time, and is also regulated by government agencies, including the FCA and the SEC. Although Farmer Mac is not aware of any pending legislative or regulatory proposals that would materially impact its business or operations, Farmer Mac's ability to effectively conduct its business is subject to risks and uncertainties related to political developments that could affect Farmer Mac or GSEs generally. These political risks and uncertainties generally are heightened under a newly-elected Congress and Presidential administration. For example, five members of Farmer Mac's board of directors serve at the pleasure of the President of the United States. Also, the organization and operation of Farmer Mac's federal safety and soundness regulator, the Farm Credit Administration, could be affected by efforts to consolidate or otherwise reorganize federal financial regulatory agencies. Farmer Mac cannot predict whether or when legislative or regulatory initiatives may commence that, if successful, could negatively affect the status of Farmer Mac as a GSE or how Farmer Mac operates, and which could have a material and adverse effect on Farmer Mac's business, operating results, financial condition, or capital levels. See "Business—Government Regulation of Farmer Mac" for more information about the rules and regulations governing Farmer Mac's activities.

Previous wording

Any of the risks described in this section could materially and adversely affect Farmer Mac's business, operating results, financial condition, reputation, capital levels, and future earnings. For more information about Farmer Mac's risk management, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Risk Management" in Item 7 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Current wording

Any of the risks described in this section could materially and adversely affect Farmer Mac's business, operating results, financial condition, reputation, capital levels, and future earnings. For more information about Farmer Mac's risk management, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Risk Management" in Item 7 of this report.