Daily Cattle Market Briefings

Latest market analysis and trends

Daily Market Briefing - November 28, 2025

Published: Friday, November 28, 2025
DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
November 28, 2025

1. MARKET SENTIMENT: Moderately Bearish (4/10)
- Markets attempting to stabilize after recent sharp declines
- Multiple headwinds including trade uncertainty and supply concerns
- Fundamental tightness provides some support despite bearish signals

2. KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Live cattle futures recovered slightly: Feb contract up 5.600 cents to 212.925
- Feeder cattle futures rebounded: Jan contract up 8.050 cents to 315.125
- Boxed beef prices mixed: Choice down $0.42 to $355.51/cwt, Select down $1.81 to $368.28/cwt

3. TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
- Tyson Foods closing Lexington, NE plant and reducing Amarillo, TX operations due to tight cattle supplies
- Cargill announces commitment to keep beef plants open, investing $90M in Colorado facility
- China extends beef import investigation by 2 months, providing temporary relief from restrictions

4. OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should prepare for continued volatility as the industry grapples with:
- Reduced processing capacity from Tyson plant closures
- Ongoing tight cattle supplies and drought impacts
- Potential shifts in trade dynamics with Brazil and Mexico
- Price pressure from administration's focus on lowering consumer beef costs

Recommendation: Consider risk management strategies given the uncertain environment, particularly with processing capacity reductions potentially impacting regional markets. Monitor developments in trade policy and processing capacity closely.

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 27, 2025

Published: Thursday, November 27, 2025
DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
November 27, 2025

1. MARKET SENTIMENT: Bearish (3/10)
- Markets experiencing significant downward pressure following Tyson plant closure news
- Fed cattle prices down $5-10 with packers gaining leverage
- Futures showing extreme volatility with limit-down moves in recent sessions

2. KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Live cattle: Down ~$30/cwt since mid-October
- Feeder cattle: Down ~$42/cwt since mid-October
- Choice boxed beef cutout: $372.05/cwt
- Select boxed beef cutout: $358.97/cwt
- Carcass weights up 32# from last year at 957#

3. TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
- Tyson closing Lexington, NE plant and reducing Amarillo operations, cutting industry capacity by 7-9%
- China extends beef import investigation by two months through January 2026
- Slaughter volume increased to 585,000 head last week, up 9,000 from previous week but still 50,000 under last year

4. OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should expect:
- Continued price pressure as market absorbs reduced processing capacity
- Stronger packer margins as plants reach 90% utilization
- Limited upside potential through year-end as market seeks new equilibrium
- Increased focus on risk management strategies given extreme volatility
- Potential opportunities in local/regional processing but significant barriers remain

The market is undergoing a major structural shift with the Tyson announcement. While fundamentally tight cattle supplies haven't changed, uncertainty around processing capacity and import policy is driving significant near-term weakness. Producers should focus on protecting downside risk while this adjustment plays out.

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 26, 2025

Published: Wednesday, November 26, 2025
DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
November 26, 2025

1. MARKET SENTIMENT: BEARISH (2/10)
- Multiple bearish factors creating significant downward pressure
- Historic plant closure announcement, tariff removals, and heavy cattle weights all contributing to negative sentiment

2. KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Live cattle futures plunged limit down to $207.525 (Feb)
- Feeder cattle futures dropped limit down to $304.975 (Jan)
- Cash fed cattle trading $5-10 lower at $210 live, $330 dressed

3. TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
- Tyson announces closure of Lexington, NE plant and reduced operations at Amarillo, TX facility, cutting ~7,000-8,000 head daily capacity
- Trump administration removes 40% tariff on Brazilian beef imports
- Cattle on feed report shows weights increasing despite lower numbers, suggesting delayed marketing

4. OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should prepare for continued price pressure through year-end due to:
- Reduced packing capacity shifting leverage to processors
- Increased import competition from Brazil and other countries
- Heavy front-end supplies and weights pressuring near-term prices
- Processing margins improving while feeding margins deteriorate

Key action items:
- Consider accelerating marketings of heavy cattle
- Evaluate risk management options given expanded trading limits
- Monitor basis levels for forward contracting opportunities
- Assess winter feed costs and inventory management plans

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 25, 2025

Published: Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Based on these articles, here is a consolidated daily cattle market briefing:

DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
November 25, 2025

MARKET SENTIMENT: Strongly Bearish (2/10)
Major bearish developments including Tyson plant closure announcement and tariff changes have created significant downward pressure and uncertainty.

KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Live cattle futures hit limit down, lowest levels since July
- Cash fed cattle prices dropped $5-10/cwt last week to $340-345 dressed
- Retail beef prices remain elevated but facing pressure from import changes

TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
1. Tyson announces closure of Lexington, NE beef plant (5,000 head/day capacity) and reduction to single shift at Amarillo, TX plant - represents ~7-9% reduction in total US slaughter capacity

2. Trump administration removes beef import tariffs, including 40% tariff on Brazilian beef, potentially increasing imports

3. Latest Cattle on Feed report shows:
- Total on feed Nov 1 at 11.71M head, down 2.2% YOY
- October placements at 2.039M head, down 10% YOY
- Growing front-end supplies with over-150 day cattle up 20%

OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should expect continued significant downward price pressure in the near-term as markets digest these major changes. The Tyson closure signals a structural adjustment to tight cattle supplies that will likely persist through 2026-27. While reduced capacity could eventually help stabilize prices once the initial shock wears off, increased beef imports and current market uncertainty pose ongoing challenges. Focus should be on risk management and careful marketing decisions in this volatile environment.

FORMAT: Email Newsletter
TIME TO READ: 5 minutes

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 22, 2025

Published: Saturday, November 22, 2025
DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
Date: November 22, 2025

MARKET SENTIMENT: Bearish (4/10)
Prices continuing downward trend with multiple headwinds, though fundamentals remain supportive longer-term.

KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Cash cattle: Down $3-5/cwt in both North ($225) and South ($228)
- December live cattle futures: Down $2.25 to $219.15/cwt (-11.8% from October high)
- Choice boxed beef cutout: Down 0.7% to $375.06/cwt
- Spreads widening between cattle prices and retail beef

TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
1. Mexican border reopening to feeder cattle imports and reduced Brazil beef tariffs putting downward pressure on prices
2. Administration announces $15B farm aid package coming in December to help struggling producers
3. Major price spreads emerging - retail beef-to-cattle spread increased $0.81/lb since 2020, indicating packer/retail margins expanding

OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should prepare for continued near-term price pressure as Mexican imports resume and Brazilian beef enters market. However, tight domestic cattle supplies and strong consumer demand provide underlying support. Focus will be on Friday's delayed Cattle on Feed report for supply clarity. Consider risk management strategies given increased volatility.

Key factors to watch:
- Government Cattle on Feed report Friday
- Cash trade development at lower price levels
- Impact of resumed Mexican cattle flow
- Further policy moves on trade/prices

The market appears to be pricing in both Mexican cattle and Brazilian beef availability. While fundamentals remain historically tight, external factors are currently driving sentiment more than supply/demand dynamics.

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 21, 2025

Published: Friday, November 21, 2025
Here's your consolidated daily cattle market briefing for November 21, 2025:

DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING

1. Market Sentiment: BEARISH (3/10)
- Sharp declines in cash cattle prices across regions
- Growing concerns over Mexican border reopening and Brazilian beef imports
- Futures markets showing significant volatility and downward pressure

2. Key Price Trends:
- Cash cattle: North $225/cwt (-$2-5), South $228/cwt (-$4)
- Choice boxed beef: $375.06/cwt (-0.7%)
- Live cattle futures (Dec): $219.15 (-1.0% week-over-week)
- Feeder cattle futures mixed: Nov up 3.8%, but most 2026 contracts lower

3. Top 3 NEW Developments:
- Mexican border reopening to feeder cattle imports putting pressure on prices
- Administration reducing/removing tariffs on Brazilian beef imports
- USDA reporting largest weekly slaughter volume since mid-summer at 576,000 head (+16,000 from previous week)

4. Brief Outlook:
Ranchers should prepare for continued price pressure in the near term as markets adjust to increased supply channels from Mexico and Brazil. While fundamentals remain supportive with tight domestic supplies, external factors and policy changes are creating headwinds. The upcoming USDA Cattle on Feed report (Friday) will be crucial for price direction. Consider risk management strategies given the heightened market volatility.

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 20, 2025

Published: Thursday, November 20, 2025
Here's a structured daily briefing for November 20, 2025:

DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING

1. MARKET SENTIMENT: Bearish (4/10)
- Markets under significant pressure from political/administrative actions targeting beef prices
- Sharp declines in futures with live cattle down $33 and feeders down $70 from October highs
- Packer margins turning positive after extended negative period

2. KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Cash fed cattle: $218-224, down $4-7 from last week
- Choice cutout: $371.23, down $0.72
- Select cutout: $353.55, down $1.40
- Carcass weights up 30# from last year at 956#

3. TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
- Trump administration announces major policy shifts targeting beef prices, including expanded import quotas and DOJ investigation of packers
- Feedlot placements expected down 7-8% in upcoming COF report
- Online grocery sales hit record $12.5B in September, with meat department sales showing continued growth

4. BRIEF OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should prepare for continued market volatility through year-end, with a potential seasonal low in early December. While fundamentals remain supportive (tight supplies, strong demand), political pressure and uncertainty around trade/import policies could create headwinds. Current breakeven projections show potential losses of $19/cwt on new placements, suggesting caution in near-term cattle buying decisions. The supply situation points to higher prices longer-term, but immediate pressure from administrative actions may delay price recovery.

The market appears caught between bullish supply fundamentals and bearish political intervention, creating a challenging environment for producers making marketing decisions. Focus should be on managing risk and maintaining flexibility in marketing plans.

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 19, 2025

Published: Wednesday, November 19, 2025
Based on the provided articles, here is a consolidated daily briefing for November 19, 2025:

DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING

1. Market Sentiment: BEARISH (3/10)
- Markets showing significant uncertainty and weakness due to political intervention
- Live cattle futures down $33 from October highs
- Feeder cattle futures down $70 from October peaks
- Open interest in live cattle futures down by 70,000 contracts

2. Key Price Trends:
- Cash cattle: $3-5 lower live, $5-10 lower dressed
- Live sales: North $225, South $228
- Dressed sales: $351-355 ($7-9 lower)
- Packer margins turned positive after several months of losses
- Retail beef prices remain elevated with Choice cutout at $371.95 (+$1.54)

3. Top 3 NEW Developments:
- Trump administration drops tariffs on over 200 food items including beef imports
- DOJ launches new investigation into meatpacking companies for potential collusion
- Cattle on Feed report expected Friday to show: inventories -2-3%, placements -7-8%, marketings -7%

4. Brief Outlook:
Ranchers should expect continued market volatility and downward pressure on prices in the near term due to political uncertainty. However, fundamental supply tightness remains supportive longer-term with:
- Reduced placements pointing to lower future supplies
- Strong retail demand continuing despite high prices
- Packer margins improving which could support cash prices
- Seasonal low expected in first half of December before potential recovery

The key risk factor is continued political intervention aimed at lowering consumer beef prices, which is creating significant market uncertainty despite supportive underlying fundamentals.

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 18, 2025

Published: Tuesday, November 18, 2025
Based on the provided articles, here is your consolidated daily briefing:

DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
Date: November 18, 2025

1. MARKET SENTIMENT: Moderately Bearish (4/10)
- Fed cattle prices down $3-5/cwt live and $5-10/cwt dressed last week
- Packer margins turned positive after several months of losses
- Market uncertainty persists due to Trump administration trade policy shifts

2. KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Live cattle futures rebounded to close near $220
- Cash cattle traded at $228 in South, $225 in North
- Carcass weights up 24 lbs YOY at 950 lbs
- Choice cutout steady at $370.41, Select up $2.06 to $356.30

3. TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
- Trump administration removes tariffs on over 200 food items including beef imports
- JBS warns US beef margins to tighten through 2026 due to tight cattle supplies
- Slaughter volume increased to 576,000 head, largest since mid-summer but still well below 2024

4. OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should expect continued price volatility in the near term as the market digests recent trade policy changes. While fundamentals remain supportive with tight supplies, uncertainty around imports and political intervention could pressure prices. Key factors to watch include:
- Impact of tariff removals on import flows
- Packer margins and slaughter levels
- Consumer reaction to high retail beef prices
- Further policy moves targeting food inflation

The market appears to be at an inflection point with competing bullish supply fundamentals and bearish policy/trade developments. Producers should stay nimble with marketing plans given the fluid situation.

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 15, 2025

Published: Saturday, November 15, 2025
DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
Date: November 15, 2025

MARKET SENTIMENT: Bearish (3/10)
Current market showing significant downward pressure from policy uncertainty and bearish fundamentals.

KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Fed cattle prices down $3-5/cwt live and $5-10/cwt dressed
- Live cattle futures down $6 across all contracts
- Southeast 500-600 lb steers at $370/cwt, up $1.80 but still $25 below mid-October
- Choice boxed beef cutout down $2.84 to $370.73

TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
1. White House considering waiving tariffs on food imports, including beef from Argentina, sending futures sharply lower
2. Omaha Steaks CEO warns ground beef could hit $10/lb by Q3 2026 due to tight supplies
3. Tyson Foods reports third consecutive year of beef segment losses totaling $1.135B in FY25

OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should prepare for continued price pressure in the near-term due to:
- Ongoing policy uncertainty around beef prices and trade
- Weakening packer margins driving lower bids
- Heavy marketing weights and slower turnover impacting supply dynamics
- Some stabilization possible heading into holiday demand period but overall bearish tone likely to persist through year-end

Producers should focus on risk management strategies and carefully evaluate marketing windows given the volatile environment. Consider forward contracting opportunities if available at profitable levels.

Stay informed on policy developments and monitor basis levels closely as markets adjust to changing fundamentals.

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 14, 2025

Published: Friday, November 14, 2025
DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
November 14, 2025

MARKET SENTIMENT: Bearish (3/10)
Markets remain under significant pressure with futures seeing limit down moves and cash prices following lower. Policy uncertainty and political scrutiny of the beef sector continue to weigh heavily on market psychology.

KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Fed cattle: $5-10 lower with Southern cash at $228, Northern at $225 live/$350 dressed
- Futures: Live cattle down $6 across all contracts
- Choice boxed beef: Marginally lower at $373.57 (-$0.88)
- Feeders: Mixed with heavy feeders lower while light calves show resistance to decline

TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
1. President Trump called for DOJ investigation into meatpackers, alleging price manipulation despite major packers reporting significant losses in beef operations
2. USDA opened new sterile fly facility in Tampico, Mexico to combat screwworm threat
3. Tyson projected continued beef segment losses of $4-6M in coming fiscal year, following $1.135B in losses over past 3 years

OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should expect continued volatility and downward price pressure in the near term as markets grapple with political uncertainty. However, fundamental supply tightness remains supportive longer-term, with drought conditions favorable for herd rebuilding. Buyers and sellers are showing extreme caution in transactions given market instability.

Key factors to watch:
- Political developments around beef pricing investigations
- Holiday middle meat demand trends
- Pace of heifer retention for herd rebuilding

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 13, 2025

Published: Thursday, November 13, 2025
DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
November 13, 2025

MARKET SENTIMENT: Moderately Bearish (4/10)
Markets remain under pressure from multiple uncertainties, though showing some signs of technical support after recent selloffs. Futures trading mixed with live cattle down and feeders slightly higher.

KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Live cattle futures down 1.35 cents to 227.20 cents/lb
- Feeder cattle up marginally by 0.325 cents to 329.15 cents/lb
- Cash cattle markets: North steady at $230/cwt, South $3-4 lower at $232/cwt
- Wide basis between futures and cash prices persists

TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
1. Trump administration's Justice Department investigation into meatpackers over high beef prices creates market uncertainty, with potential for increased Argentine beef imports adding supply pressure

2. Progress reported in US-China agricultural trade talks, with potential removal of retaliatory tariffs and port fees that could boost export opportunities

3. Federal government reopening provides some stability, though labor market concerns weigh on beef demand outlook

OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should expect continued volatility in the near term as markets digest multiple crosscurrents. While fundamentally tight supplies remain supportive, political and trade uncertainties are likely to keep pressure on prices. The technical picture remains challenged after recent selloffs, suggesting caution is warranted until clarity emerges on import policies and demand factors. Focus should be on risk management given elevated uncertainty levels.

Key action items for ranchers:
- Consider price protection on any rallies
- Monitor developments on Argentine/Brazilian import policies
- Watch cash market trends for signs of stabilization

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 12, 2025

Published: Wednesday, November 12, 2025
DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
November 12, 2025

MARKET SENTIMENT: Moderately Bearish (4/10)
The cattle market continues to face headwinds from multiple factors, including potential import policy changes and technical selling pressure. Live cattle futures declined while feeders showed modest gains in mixed trading.

KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- CME December live cattle down 1.35 cents to 227.20 cents/lb
- CME January feeders up 0.325 cents to 329.15 cents/lb
- Cash cattle prices holding steadier than futures with Southern trade at $232/cwt

TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
1. Federal government reopening provides market support, but labor market concerns raise doubts about beef demand strength
2. China signals willingness to resume agricultural trade cooperation with Canada, potentially affecting global beef trade flows
3. USDA/China agreement on port fee suspension could reduce export costs for US beef shipments

OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should expect continued volatility in the near term as markets digest multiple crosscurrents. While tight cattle supplies remain supportive, uncertainty around import policies and consumer demand could cap upside. The technical picture has weakened but fundamentals suggest extreme downside may be limited. Focus areas to watch:
- Progress on Mexican border reopening for cattle imports
- Consumer reaction to high retail beef prices
- Implementation of China trade measures
- Government shutdown resolution impact on demand

Time will be needed for markets to find equilibrium amid these evolving factors. Maintaining flexibility in marketing plans is advised.

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 11, 2025

Published: Tuesday, November 11, 2025
DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
Date: November 11, 2025

1. MARKET SENTIMENT: BEARISH (4/10)
- Market facing significant headwinds from government shutdown impacts on SNAP benefits
- High retail beef prices and demand concerns weighing on outlook
- CME futures showing vulnerability despite recent technical bounce

2. KEY PRICE TRENDS
- Live cattle futures (Dec) settled at 221.350 cents/lb (+2.575 cents)
- Feeder cattle (Jan) closed at 319.575 cents/lb (+3.975 cents)
- Retail beef prices remain at record levels, with ground beef leading inflation

3. TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS
a) Trump Orders DOJ Investigation: President calls for probe into alleged meat packer price manipulation and collusion
b) SNAP Benefits Crisis: USDA orders states to halt full food aid payments amid shutdown, potentially impacting beef demand
c) Mexican Border Update: Agriculture Secretary signals potential reopening of Mexican cattle imports as screwworm situation improves

4. OUTLOOK
Ranchers should prepare for increased market volatility in the near term. While tight supplies continue to support prices, several bearish factors are emerging:
- Potential Mexican border reopening could increase feeder cattle supply
- Food assistance program disruption may dampen domestic demand
- DOJ investigation adds uncertainty to packer behavior and pricing

Action Items:
- Consider price risk management strategies given heightened volatility
- Monitor Mexican border situation for supply implications
- Watch retail demand signals as SNAP benefit issues unfold

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 8, 2025

Published: Saturday, November 8, 2025
DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
November 8, 2025

MARKET SENTIMENT: Bearish (3/10)
Markets remain under significant pressure from political uncertainty and supply concerns, though underlying fundamentals remain unchanged. Recent sharp declines in futures suggest a major shift in market psychology.

KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Live cattle futures down sharply, settling at $218.78 after limit-down moves
- Cash cattle $3-4 lower in Texas/Kansas at $232
- Choice boxed beef down $1.57 to $376.40
- Feeder cattle futures seeing extreme volatility with $200-300/head value drops

TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
1. Political intervention causing market turmoil - Trump administration pushing for increased imports from Argentina and potential reopening of Mexican border for cattle imports
2. Futures market experiencing technical selling cascade as long positions liquidate, triggering stop-loss orders
3. Industry shifting toward more forward contracting as price volatility increases, marking change in risk management approach

OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should expect continued high volatility in the near term as markets digest political developments. However, fundamental supply/demand dynamics remain supportive of strong prices once uncertainty subsides. Key factors to watch:
- Potential reopening of Mexican border to cattle imports
- Changes to Brazil beef import tariffs
- Holiday meat demand trends
- Pace of herd rebuilding efforts

The market appears to be in a temporary correction phase driven more by sentiment than fundamentals. While prices may remain volatile, the long-term supply shortage should continue supporting historically strong price levels once the current uncertainty passes.

Remember: Current market psychology and political rhetoric are creating opportunities but require careful risk management. Focus on fundamentals rather than short-term volatility.

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 7, 2025

Published: Friday, November 7, 2025
DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
November 7, 2025

1. MARKET SENTIMENT: BEARISH (3/10)
The market is experiencing significant bearish pressure with futures hitting limit down following Tuesday's rout. Trader reluctance to take long positions amid administration price concerns and forced hedging activity is creating a negative feedback loop.

2. KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Live cattle: Limit down moves in futures
- Cash cattle: $232 in Texas/Kansas ($3-4 weaker)
- Northern markets: $360 dressed/$230 live (steady)
- Choice cutout: $377.97 (-$0.29)
- Select cutout: $360.76 (+$0.51)

3. TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
a) Major hedge funds and feeding companies forced to short positions by lenders, creating cascading selling pressure with few buyers willing to step in
b) Increased producer interest in forward contracting after years of resistance, signaling shift in market psychology
c) Slaughter volumes dropped to 559,000 head (-14,000 WoW, -56,000 YoY) as packers adjust to retail demand

4. OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should expect continued high volatility in the near term. Current market conditions suggest:
- Hedged operators face difficult choices between "going naked" or locking in losses
- Forward contracting may offer stability as spot market risks increase
- Recovery potential exists but requires renewed buyer confidence
- Current breakeven projections show $25.53/cwt losses on new placements

Action Point: Consider forward contracting portions of inventory if acceptable basis levels can be secured. Risk management strategies are increasingly critical in this volatile environment.

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 6, 2025

Published: Thursday, November 6, 2025
DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
November 6, 2025

MARKET SENTIMENT: Bearish (3/10)
Markets showing significant downward pressure with futures hitting limit down, though cash trade remains surprisingly resilient. Heavy selling pressure linked to political factors and potential forced liquidation.

KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Live cattle futures: Limit down
- Cash cattle: Steady to $3 lower ($232 in TX/KS, $360 dressed/$230 live in North)
- Choice cutout: $378.26 (+$0.68)
- Feeder cattle: Sharp decline, especially in heavier weights

TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
1. White House policy concerns triggering market instability - administration's targeting of beef prices causing traders to avoid long positions
2. Major shift in producer psychology - increasing interest in forward contracting after years of holding for higher prices
3. Slaughter volumes dropped significantly (559,000 head, down 56,000 from last year) with packers making late-week adjustments

OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should prepare for continued volatility in the near term. While cash markets are showing resistance to the futures decline, political pressure and reduced trader participation suggest ongoing downside risk. However, fundamental supply tightness (reduced placements, lower occupancy levels) could provide support once the current selling pressure subsides. Consider these strategies:
- Evaluate forward contracting opportunities given increased basis opportunities
- Monitor placement decisions carefully with current breakeven projections showing $250/head losses
- Watch for holiday demand potentially supporting middle meat prices

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 5, 2025

Published: Wednesday, November 5, 2025
DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
November 5, 2025

MARKET SENTIMENT: Bearish (3/10)
Markets showing significant weakness with futures suffering $4-5 losses and cash prices declining notably from previous week's levels.

KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Cash cattle: South $235-236, North $230 ($8 lower)
- Dressed prices down $10 to $360
- Choice cutout at $377.58 (down $1.67)
- Feeder futures down approximately $7

TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
1. Weekly slaughter volume dropped significantly to 559,000 head (-56,000 vs last year), with packers making late-week adjustments based on retail demand signals
2. Incoming cattle weights are averaging 25# heavier than last year, reflecting improved summer grazing conditions
3. Carcass weights reached 948#, up 22# from last year, potentially pressuring near-term prices

OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should prepare for continued price pressure in the near term. Several factors suggest caution:
- Reduced slaughter volumes indicate processors are pulling back
- Heavier cattle weights mean more beef supply per head
- Market psychology has shifted bearish, though fundamentals may provide support at lower levels

Key Action Points:
- Consider price protection strategies for Q4
- Watch holiday middle meat demand for potential support
- Monitor drought conditions in Southern Plains which could impact herd expansion plans

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 4, 2025

Published: Tuesday, November 4, 2025
DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
Date: November 4, 2025

1. MARKET SENTIMENT: Moderately Bearish (4/10)
- Markets showing increased volatility and downward pressure
- Psychology shifting as producers accept lower price trend
- Reduced slaughter numbers indicate cautious packer behavior

2. KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Cash cattle: South $235-236, North $230 ($8 lower)
- Choice cutout: $379.25 (up $1.12)
- Select cutout: $359.93 (up $1.28)
- Weekly slaughter down 14,000 head from previous week
- Carcass weights up 22# from last year at 948#

3. TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
a) Border opening rumors for December 1 creating market uncertainty
b) Placement weights running 25# heavier than last year due to improved summer grazing conditions
c) Significant reduction in auction market receipts and country movement leading to sharp drops in placements

4. BRIEF OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should prepare for continued price pressure in the near term. However, fundamental support exists from:
- Reduced cattle movement and lower placements
- Strong quality grades (84.2% Choice or better)
- Potential holiday demand for premium cuts
- Favorable drought conditions supporting herd expansion

Key Action Point: Consider forward pricing strategies while maintaining flexibility, as market fundamentals remain supportive despite near-term bearish sentiment.

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

Daily Market Briefing - November 1, 2025

Published: Saturday, November 1, 2025
DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
November 1, 2025

1. MARKET SENTIMENT: Bearish (4/10)
- Restaurant Performance Index hit lowest level since March at 99.4
- Negative restaurant traffic for 8th straight month
- Only 34% of operators expect higher sales in next 6 months
- Fed cattle prices declined $8-10 from previous week

2. KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Live cattle: $230-235.50, down $8-10 from last week
- Choice cutout: $375, well below $415 peak earlier this year
- Carcass weights: 948 lbs, up 22 lbs year-over-year
- Feeder cattle: $30-50 lower across major markets

3. TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
- Trump administration released 13-point plan to "Fortify American Beef Industry" focused on expanding supply
- Certified Angus Beef reports near-record sales of 1.235 billion lbs despite tight supply
- Restaurant operators showing increased pessimism about economic conditions with RPI remaining in contraction

4. OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should prepare for continued pressure on prices in the near-term as multiple headwinds persist:
- Expanded processing capacity initiatives
- Potential changes to import policies with Mexico/Brazil
- Weak restaurant demand
- Government focus on lowering consumer beef prices

However, underlying fundamentals remain supportive longer-term with:
- Record consumer demand for premium beef
- Historically tight cattle supplies
- Strong export markets in key regions
- Improved grazing conditions supporting herd rebuilding

The market appears to be seeking new equilibrium levels as both fundamental factors and policy initiatives create conflicting pressures. Producers should focus on risk management strategies given the heightened volatility.

For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.

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