“U.S. and Canada large tractor and combine retail sales comparisons weakened again in January, falling 14% year-over-year, after a 4% decline in December, reflecting a combination of more difficult prior-year comparisons, emissions standard changes and reduction of 100% bonus depreciation tax incentives to 50%,” says Robert McCarthy, analyst for RW Baird. “Four wheel drive tractor and combine year-over-year comparisons were particularly weak, falling 29% and 44%, respectively, but dealer inventories appear tight.

“Robust USDA 2012…