US pork exports concluded an excellent first half with another strong performance in June, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the US Meat Export Federation. While well below the record pace established in 2022, June beef exports topped $900 million in value, pushing first-half export value to nearly $5 billion, the USMEF … Read More

The mid-year cattle inventory report showed cattle numbers continue to decline, said Derrell Peel, Oklahoma State University livestock marketing specialist, in a letter called Cow-Calf Corner. Despite sharply higher cattle prices, there is no data to suggest heifer retention or enough decrease in beef cow slaughter to initiate herd expansion, Peel said.  The process thus … Read More

Mexico’s 2024 beef and pork production were forecast by the USDA to increase from 2023 because of stronger producer returns from lower feed prices, as well as increased domestic and international demand. The USDA’s Global Agricultural Information Network made the predictions, adding that beef imports were forecast to remain flat because of sufficient stocks, while … Read More

Sales of slaughter-ready steers from Kansas feedlots in June rose seasonally and as of June 30 were very near the 2017-2021 average and last year. Data comes from a monthly Kansas State University Extension Service survey of select feedlots around the state.  The information on monthly feedlot activities is given to the Livestock Marketing Information … Read More

Large commodity investment firms, known as managed money, trimmed their collective net long live cattle futures position during the week ended Tuesday as cattle owners cut their total net short position. The data came from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s weekly Commitments of Traders report Friday.   FUNDS CUT NET LONG POSITION   As of … Read More

When cattle producers begin rebuilding their herds, the main factor limiting the process could be a dearth of available heifers, said Derrell Peel, Extension Livestock Marketing Specialist at Oklahoma State University, in a University release.   DECLINING INVENTORIES   The July Cattle (Inventory) report showed herds continuing to decrease, he said.  The total inventory of … Read More

Agricultural producer sentiment improved slightly in July as the Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer index rose two points to a reading of 123, said Purdue Agricultural Economist James Mintert, in a University release. Farmers also were more optimistic about their perception of current conditions and future expectations on their farms, Mintert said. The Ag … Read More