DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
October 29, 2025
MARKET SENTIMENT: Bearish (4/10)
Markets remain under significant pressure following policy uncertainty around imports and border reopening. Futures have seen multiple limit-down days with December Live Cattle now trading around $224/cwt, down sharply from recent highs.
KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Live Cattle futures down $23-24/cwt over past 12 days
- Feeder Cattle futures down $40-42/cwt in same period
- Cash feeder prices 1-3% lower last week
- Choice boxed beef holding steady at $375-380/cwt
TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
1. Potential expansion of Argentina beef imports from 20,000 to 80,000 metric tons under consideration, though analysis suggests minimal price impact (<1% of US supply)
2. US-Mexico border discussions this week regarding possible reopening for live cattle trade after nearly year-long closure
3. Lumpy Skin Disease concerns growing - new vaccination and biosecurity guidance issued by World Organization for Animal Health
OUTLOOK:
While recent policy developments have rattled markets, fundamentals remain supportive with historically tight cattle supplies and lower beef production ahead. The proposed import changes would have limited volume impact. Ranchers should expect continued volatility short-term but underlying supply/demand dynamics suggest prices should find support once policy uncertainty clears. Focus on risk management given current market instability.
Note: This analysis reflects latest market conditions as of Oct 29, 2025. Contact your commodity broker for current market quotes and recommendations.
October 29, 2025
MARKET SENTIMENT: Bearish (4/10)
Markets remain under significant pressure following policy uncertainty around imports and border reopening. Futures have seen multiple limit-down days with December Live Cattle now trading around $224/cwt, down sharply from recent highs.
KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Live Cattle futures down $23-24/cwt over past 12 days
- Feeder Cattle futures down $40-42/cwt in same period
- Cash feeder prices 1-3% lower last week
- Choice boxed beef holding steady at $375-380/cwt
TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
1. Potential expansion of Argentina beef imports from 20,000 to 80,000 metric tons under consideration, though analysis suggests minimal price impact (<1% of US supply)
2. US-Mexico border discussions this week regarding possible reopening for live cattle trade after nearly year-long closure
3. Lumpy Skin Disease concerns growing - new vaccination and biosecurity guidance issued by World Organization for Animal Health
OUTLOOK:
While recent policy developments have rattled markets, fundamentals remain supportive with historically tight cattle supplies and lower beef production ahead. The proposed import changes would have limited volume impact. Ranchers should expect continued volatility short-term but underlying supply/demand dynamics suggest prices should find support once policy uncertainty clears. Focus on risk management given current market instability.
Note: This analysis reflects latest market conditions as of Oct 29, 2025. Contact your commodity broker for current market quotes and recommendations.
For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.