AGCO FINANCE LLC Unearths a Culinary Treasure: Rare 1961 Julia Child Cookbook Fuels Passion for Preservation & Practical Financing

Johnston, IA – October 26, 2023 – AGCO FINANCE LLC, a leading provider of financial solutions for agriculture and beyond, today announced a fascinating find – a remarkably well-preserved first edition of “Mastering the Art of French Cooking” by Julia Child, published in 1961. This isn’t just a nostalgic discovery for the team at AGCO FINANCE; it’s a symbol of dedication, meticulous care, and a commitment to supporting lasting value – qualities that deeply resonate with their business philosophy. You might be thinking, “What does a financial company have to do with a vintage cookbook?” Well, for AGCO FINANCE, it’s about more than just the book itself. It’s about recognizing and preserving something special. Just like farmers carefully nurture their land and equipment, AGCO FINANCE nurtures the dreams of its customers, providing the financial tools they need to grow and thrive. “We stumbled upon this gem while assessing some estate assets,” explained Sarah Miller, a valuation specialist at AGCO FINANCE’s Johnston, Iowa headquarters (8001 BIRCHWOOD CRT, JOHNSTON, IA, 50131). “It wasn't part of a typical agricultural loan package, that's for sure! But it got us thinking. This cookbook represents a legacy – a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and passing down knowledge. We see those same values in the farming community every day.” The 1961 edition of “Mastering the Art of French Cooking” isn't just a collection of recipes; it’s a cultural touchstone. It revolutionized American home cooking, demystifying French cuisine and inspiring generations to embrace the joys of cooking. The book’s success launched Julia Child into superstardom, and the original editions are now highly sought after by collectors and cooking enthusiasts alike. "You know, Julia Child really changed things," says David Chen, a loan officer at AGCO FINANCE. “Before this book, French cooking felt…intimidating. She made it accessible, practical. We try to do the same thing with financing. We make complex financial solutions straightforward and achievable for our clients.” The condition of this particular copy is noteworthy. The dust jacket, while showing some signs of age, is remarkably intact. The pages are clean, and the binding is solid. It’s clear the previous owner cherished this book. “It’s been lovingly cared for,” adds Miller. “You can tell it wasn’t just sitting on a shelf collecting dust; it was used. Someone really cooked from this!” AGCO FINANCE LLC, a subsidiary of AGCO Corporation, traditionally focuses on providing financing for agricultural equipment – tractors, combines, sprayers, and the like. They’ve been a trusted partner to farmers and agricultural businesses for decades, helping them secure the capital they need to invest in their operations. They also offer financing solutions for other types of equipment and business ventures. Their number is 704-747-8917. But the company’s commitment extends beyond simply providing loans. AGCO FINANCE prides itself on building long-term relationships with its clients, understanding their unique needs, and offering tailored financial solutions. They understand that farming is a complex business, and they’re committed to helping their clients succeed. “We’re in the business of helping people build things that last,” says Chen. “Whether it's a farm, a business, or a collection of cherished recipes, we want to be a part of that legacy.” The discovery of the Julia Child cookbook sparked a conversation within AGCO FINANCE about the importance of preserving heritage and recognizing the value of tangible assets. It reinforced the company’s commitment to providing long-term value to its clients. “It's a reminder that sometimes the most valuable things aren’t just about monetary worth,” adds Miller. “It’s about the memories, the experiences, and the skills that are passed down from generation to generation.” While the cookbook isn't directly related to AGCO FINANCE's core business, it serves as a powerful symbol of the company’s values. It's a reminder that behind every loan, every transaction, there are real people with real dreams and passions. "We help farmers invest in their future, and this cookbook represents someone investing in their culinary future. Both require planning, careful investment, and a little bit of passion,” Chen explained with a smile. The company isn’t planning to auction off the cookbook. Instead, they’ve decided to display it in their Johnston office as a conversation starter and a reminder of the importance of preserving heritage. They might even host a company cooking class, inspired by the recipes within its pages. "It's a fun piece of history," Miller says. "And it reminds us that even in the world of finance, there's room for a little bit of joy and inspiration." AGCO FINANCE LLC remains dedicated to providing innovative and reliable financial solutions to agricultural businesses and beyond, continuing a legacy of support and partnership built on trust and long-term value – much like the enduring legacy of Julia Child and her groundbreaking cookbook. They emphasize their understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing farmers, and they’re committed to helping their clients achieve their goals. You can reach them at 704-747-8917.