US

Investors eyeing agriculture in global markets are increasingly merging their pursuit of profits with a philanthropic zeal.

Pension funds, foundations and endowments want a hedge against inflation and a safe place for their money.

Mounting concern over security of food supplies is spurring a wave of private-sector investment in Africa.

The approved sale of a large Otago dairy farm to Harvard University in the United States is not in New Zealand's long-term interests and shows a lack of clear and strong rules on foreign ownership of NZ land, says Labour.

"Will the Chinese government purchase goods in China to be used on their farmland in Africa? We have seen a few tenders, yes, definitely. Is this becoming a trend? Most likely, and this will be a nice add-on to the business case that we are running here."

An American university is buying a New Zealand dairy farm for more than $28 million as officials and would-be overseas investors get ready for new rules.

New Zealand's Federated Farmers is welcoming the purchase of a big slice of farmland in central Otago by Harvard University for $34.1 million.

Investment managers in the US report rising interest from pension schemes and retail investors in funds that buy and run farmland in developed countries.

TIAA is among the largest institutional investors in agriculture, with investments in more than 400 farms in North America, South America, Australia, and Eastern Europe as part of its General Account.

Wary of fluctuations on Wall Street, more wealthy Americans, private funds and foreigners are putting money into parcels of cornfields, fruit orchards and other US agricultural products.

"I know you will think why should President Obama meddle in the affairs of other countries," writes Devlinder Sharma. "I agree, but at least he can stop the American agribiz and finance companies from indulging in offshore farmland grab."

Michael Burry, the former hedge-fund manager who predicted the US housing market’s plunge, said he is investing in farmland. “I believe that agriculture land -- productive agricultural land with water on site -- will be very valuable in the future.”