DAILY CATTLE MARKET BRIEFING
January 14, 2026
MARKET SENTIMENT: Bullish (8/10)
- Strong upward momentum in futures markets
- Tight supplies and declining placements supporting prices
- Record-high carcass weights partially offsetting reduced slaughter numbers
KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Live cattle futures up $2.00-2.90 across contracts
- Feeder cattle futures surged $4.20-6.15 higher
- Choice boxed beef cutout value at $357.99, up $0.88
- Cash fed cattle traded at $233, up $1 from previous week
TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
1. USDA raised 2026 beef production forecast to 25.8B lbs on heavier weights, though still down 260M lbs from 2025
2. Active screwworm cases in Mexico within 200 miles of US border, including in wild boars, raising concerns about spread
3. Corn prices dropped sharply after USDA raised harvest estimate to 17B bushels, lowering feed costs
OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should expect continued strong prices through Q1 2026 supported by:
- Declining placements and tighter fed cattle supplies
- Lower feed costs improving feedlot margins
- Strong domestic demand despite record retail prices
- Limited imports with Brazilian quota filled and Mexican border restrictions
However, key risks include potential screwworm spread from Mexico and consumer resistance to high retail beef prices. Strategic risk management recommended given price levels.
January 14, 2026
MARKET SENTIMENT: Bullish (8/10)
- Strong upward momentum in futures markets
- Tight supplies and declining placements supporting prices
- Record-high carcass weights partially offsetting reduced slaughter numbers
KEY PRICE TRENDS:
- Live cattle futures up $2.00-2.90 across contracts
- Feeder cattle futures surged $4.20-6.15 higher
- Choice boxed beef cutout value at $357.99, up $0.88
- Cash fed cattle traded at $233, up $1 from previous week
TOP 3 NEW DEVELOPMENTS:
1. USDA raised 2026 beef production forecast to 25.8B lbs on heavier weights, though still down 260M lbs from 2025
2. Active screwworm cases in Mexico within 200 miles of US border, including in wild boars, raising concerns about spread
3. Corn prices dropped sharply after USDA raised harvest estimate to 17B bushels, lowering feed costs
OUTLOOK:
Ranchers should expect continued strong prices through Q1 2026 supported by:
- Declining placements and tighter fed cattle supplies
- Lower feed costs improving feedlot margins
- Strong domestic demand despite record retail prices
- Limited imports with Brazilian quota filled and Mexican border restrictions
However, key risks include potential screwworm spread from Mexico and consumer resistance to high retail beef prices. Strategic risk management recommended given price levels.
For more detailed information or specific market data, please contact your local extension office or market analyst.