Ben supports Nationwide’s primary forecasting and strategic planning functions. He also frequently provides economic commentary and presentations to key stakeholders of the company.
Russ Johnston serves as President of Nationwide’s Commercial Lines, Excess & Surplus and Specialty businesses.
Share Podcast: Signs of optimism in the Ag industry April 9, 2025 The ag industry started the year facing the same headwinds from 2024, including high input costs and elevated interest rates. Farmers have also been hit hard with the bird flu and the potential for large tariffs with our largest trading partners. However, amid the uncertainty Purdue University’s barometer jumped in recent months as many farmers expressed greater confidence in the future for the ag market. Nationwide economists Ben Ayers and Daniel Vielhaber share why farmers may be feeling more positive, along with their outlook for the ag sector – including an update on egg prices and the potential impact from tariffs. Listen to the Economic Insights by Nationwide podcast: Signs of optimism in the ag industry Key topics addressed in this episode include: The pressures of high operating costs and interest rates continue from 2024 How the bird flu outbreak has led to unprecedented egg price hikes, but recent interventions are stabilizing the market Potential tariffs could elevate prices or decrease availability of certain agricultural products in the US, impacting consumer costs Stay informed on the economy in 2025 Be prepared, stay informed, and leverage our timely commentary from our Nationwide economists to assist with your client relationship strategies. Subscribe to the podcast to stay informed with our upcoming episodes, diving into employment and inflation reports as they are released. Find us however you listen below. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Soundcloud | iHeart | Spotify | Amazon Citations/Disclaimers The information in this report is provided by Nationwide Economics and is general in nature and not intended as investment or economic advice, or a recommendation to buy or sell any security or adopt any investment strategy. Additionally, it does not take into account any specific investment objectives, tax and financial condition or particular needs of any specific person. The economic and market forecasts reflect our opinion as of the date of this report and are subject to change without notice. These forecasts show a broad range of possible outcomes. Because they are subject to high levels of uncertainty, they will not reflect actual performance. We obtained certain information from sources deemed reliable, but we do not guarantee its accuracy, completeness or fairness. Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle, and Nationwide is on your side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2025 Nationwide Share
Industry trends Podcast: Housing Outlook – Can home construction pick up in 2025? February 28, 2025 Economists Ben Ayers and Daniel Vielhaber provide updates on the housing market, home construction and mortgage rates.
Agriculture 2025 global agribusiness trends November 4, 2024 Understand the evolving landscape of agribusiness to provide specialized protection to farmers, ranchers and operators.
Additional service industries 2025 economic trends impacting the auto industry outlook May 5, 2025 Our outlook for the auto market, which has been impacted by high interest rates, rising prices, and tariffs.
