Stefan Soloviev: Redefining Agriculture and Railroads

Stefan Soloviev moves with the agility of an athlete but possesses the analytical mind of a mathematician. Despite turning 50 in May, he appears a decade younger. A native New Yorker, he grew up Rollerblading through Central Park on his way to high school but feels just as comfortable on the vast rural lands he owns across Kansas, Colorado, and New Mexico. Without the need for publicity, he has strategically positioned himself to challenge corporate agriculture while supporting local farmers.

A Reluctant Heir with a Vision

In a world that thrives on self-promotion, Soloviev charts his own course. Twenty-five years after purchasing his first farmland—309 acres near Wichita, Kansas, during a stint as a day trader in 1999—he has risen to become one of the largest landowners in the U.S. By 2024, his holdings expanded to an impressive 617,000 acres.

“He’s incredibly humble,” says fellow landowner Shannon Kizer. “Give him a million dollars, and he’ll figure out how to make ten million from it rather than worry about spending it.”

His business mindset was shaped in part by his father, Sheldon Solow (1928–2020), a renowned Manhattan real estate developer known for his legal battles. Though raised as his father’s sole heir, Soloviev distanced himself from that legacy, even reverting to the original spelling of the family name.

A Born Trader

From an early age, Soloviev demonstrated an affinity for trading. By age 10 or 11, he was analyzing stocks and commodities in newspapers. After brief stints at the University of Rhode Island and St. John’s University, he left school following a sports injury to join the Solow Building Corporation. He quickly climbed the ranks but found his father’s combative business style frustrating. Seeking independence, he moved with his young wife to Phoenix, Arizona, at 22, ready to start fresh.

Four years later, he returned to the East Coast under the condition that he would have full control over his father’s residential properties and garages. Despite significantly improving occupancy and efficiency, he never felt truly at home in New York. The call of the West remained strong, leading him to invest in farmland through his company, Crossroads Agriculture.

Learning the Land

Soloviev’s interest in farming stemmed from childhood visits to Long Island’s potato farms. Owning land was a learning curve. “I didn’t know wheat was planted in November, went dormant in winter, and harvested in June,” he recalls. Kansas farmers generously mentored him, deepening his passion.

His fascination with railroads also played a role in shaping his ambitions. When he purchased his first farm, he noted the presence of the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) railway—a detail that later influenced his business strategies.

A Strategic Approach to Agriculture

After an unsuccessful foray into Nebraska farmland, Soloviev refocused on Kansas and Colorado. He adopted an unconventional approach by naming his tracts after childhood streets rather than using numerical section identifiers, allowing him to recall exact locations from memory. Despite his vast holdings, he maintains intimate knowledge of his farms’ yields.

Jarryd Burris, a New Mexico farmer, initially skeptical of Soloviev, became an integral partner. Over time, Burris transitioned to leading Soloviev’s South Region operations, reflecting the deep trust they built. Their collaboration exemplifies Soloviev’s philosophy of forming genuine partnerships rather than imposing top-down management.

Revitalizing Railroads

Soloviev identified another critical issue plaguing farmers: limited railway access, which inflated shipping costs. When the Colorado Pacific Railroad (CoPac) was slated for demolition, he fought in court to acquire and restore it, securing a valuable transportation route. In 2023, he further expanded by purchasing the bankrupt Colorado Pacific Rio Grande Railroad, turning it profitable within two years.

By lowering freight rates, these revitalized lines have improved economic conditions for High Plains farmers, offering them better access to markets. Soloviev also established Weskan Grain, a bulk train-loading facility, to further streamline operations and maximize profits for farm shippers.

A Family-Driven Legacy

Despite overseeing a vast business empire, Soloviev remains committed to his family. His son, Quintin, became vice chairman of the Soloviev Group in 2022 while also pursuing independent passions. Soloviev emphasizes personal growth over obligatory family business involvement, a stark contrast to his own upbringing.

Now based in Delray Beach, Florida, Soloviev is exploring agricultural opportunities in the state. His regular travels to Colorado, Kansas, and New Mexico maintain his connection to his farms, where he personally meets with tenant farmers—an approach that strengthens trust and cooperation.

The Future of Crossroads Agriculture

Soloviev envisions Weskan Grain competing with agribusiness giants within five years. He continues to expand his cattle operations, aiming to grow his Black Angus herd to 7,500 head. His long-term goal? A branded beef product that directly connects consumers with his farm-to-table philosophy.

In real estate, he has significantly improved occupancy at 9 West 57th, a Manhattan landmark he inherited. Through philanthropic efforts, the Soloviev Foundation has contributed millions to causes supporting children and veterans.

Despite inevitable setbacks, Soloviev remains unwavering in his pursuit of excellence. As he once told The Land Report in 2016: “I’ve taken my lumps, but I never stop learning. I’ll never be satisfied because complacency gets you nowhere.”

For Soloviev, success isn’t just about accumulating wealth—it’s about pushing boundaries, supporting communities, and leaving a lasting impact.