Livestock Markets

Tight cattle supplies, delayed herd rebuilding and resilient beef demand point to continued market strength, with economists saying higher cattle price highs in 2026 are still on the table.

Secretary Rollins takes decisive action and shuts down cattle, bison and equine trade due to further northward spread of the devastating pest in Mexico.

USDA’s latest Cattle Inventory report showed U.S. beef cattle numbers fell to the lowest level in 64 years to start the year. Tight supplies and strong demand could push cattle prices to even higher highs in 2025, but uncertainty is infusing more risk and volatility into the markets.

USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) announced it’s canceling the July Cattle Inventory Report. In the announcement, NASS blamed budget cuts from the most recent appropriations bills.

Futures once again sold off late in the session after showing initial strength. December gained 1 penny to $15.80.

Despite USDA reporting that October milk production rose 1.7%, milk prices continue to remain higher. Can $20 milk stick around?

Spring weather typically brings a flush of milk which is why analysts say its possible milk prices may get worse before getting better in 2019.