While a ban on cattle from Mexico because of the discovery of New World Screwworm in Mexico’s state of Chiappas is set to be lifted partially next week, a full resumption of trade remains pending.  But the ban created a dent in available US feeder cattle supplies that still has to be worked out. The … Read More

Economic activity increased slightly to moderately across the 12 Federal Reserve districts in late November and December, said the Federal Reserve’s Beige Book Wednesday, which outlines the US economy eight times a year.   CONSUMER SPENDING UP   Consumer spending moved up moderately, with most districts reporting strong holiday sales that exceeded expectations, the Beige … Read More

If the genetics are present to finish steers and heifers to a higher quality grade, it is paying them to produce more cattle that yield choice and prime carcasses, and they are doing so, according to data from the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service and compiled by the Livestock Marketing Information Center in Denver. Last year, … Read More

November exports of US red meat posted year-over-year gains across all categories, according to data released by the USDA and compiled by the US Meat Export Federation. US pork exports remained on a record pace, while beef and lamb shipments increased substantially from November 2023, the USMEF said in a release.   PORK EXPORTS ON … Read More

The USDA’s new estimate of 2024 red meat and poultry production was lowered from last month because of lower fourth-quarter beef, pork, broiler and turkey production, according to Friday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand report. Changes in the estimates reflect November production data and preliminary estimates of slaughter numbers and weights for December.   … Read More

With US beef cow numbers near historical lows, and the new year just begun, many cow/calf producers must be wondering if now might be a good time to retain heifers.  Market analysts likely are wondering the same thing and what retention or non-retention will mean to the markets. Oklahoma State University Extension Livestock Marketing Specialist … Read More