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Schoen says NewAg Partners is eyeing up assets being prematurely disposed of by funds limited by their ‘10-year drop-dead PE’ structure, as it targets IRRs in the 12-15% bracket.

The new firm believes the aging agricultural workforce means an investment opportunity worth trillions of dollars will open up in the coming years, said Russell Read.

Kevin Helash says he expects consolidation among biologicals producers to gather pace in the next 12-24 months, as investors focus on strengthening the sub-sector’s early leaders.

UBS group managing director Joe Azelby sees promising demand drivers for farmland but the lack of 'scalable doorways' will limit large investors.

Steve Bruere says covid-19 has highlighted the advantages of owning operations in the region which typically have controlled water systems that allow investors to grow different crops according to demand.

Tom Sarno says Hancock’s timber unit is working to expand capabilities in areas including watershed services, nutrient trading and various forms of mitigation.

Raphael Arndt will move up from CIO to take on Future Fund’s top job and the sovereign wealth fund will soon launch a search for his replacement in the investment role.

Mitchell Presser says ongoing consolidation of supply chains and agriculture-focused technologies is likely to drive deal activity in the years to come.

Rick Vanzura says he expects coronavirus will increase the urgency with which universities, hotels and governments prepare for global trends.

Michael Lauher says he expects sustainability and technology to be key areas of focus for farmland managers and investors in the coming years.