According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), nationwide beef cattle inventory dropped to 28.2 million this year — the lowest level since the 1970s and down 2% from a year ago.

It takes roughly 18 to 22 months to grow beef cattle to market weight, compared with chickens, which are ready to be slaughtered in six weeks, and hogs, in about six months.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture predicts that beef prices will reach new highs in 2026, as beef production is forecast to decline to 25.1 billion pounds, a 5% drop, from 2025.

Record-high beef prices have failed to shake consumer demand, which stands at its highest in at least 20 years.

Volatility and Risk Cattle farmers are exposed to more risk in cattle than most other agricultural markets because of the greater share of the consumer dollar they receive for their product. Consumer ...

A U.S. beef inventory that continues to decline and strong consumer demand have led to expectations of continuing strength in the cattle markets. But some uncertainty remains for cattle producers.

Aug 25 Live Cattle closed at $219.775, down $0.200, Oct 25 Live Cattle closed at $217.350, up $0.525, Dec 25 Live Cattle closed at $217.300, up $0.675, Aug 25 Feeder Cattle closed at $320.475, up ...

The CME Feeder Cattle Index was back up 27 cents @ $310.60. USDA reported beef stocks at the end of May at 407.786 million lbs, which was down 2.73% from last month and 1.18% below last year.

Beef prices are hitting harder than the butcher’s cleaver. A year ago, a 17-pound brisket cost around $55. Today, it’s nearly $70. That’s a 21% increase.

Live cattle futures closed out the Wednesday session with contracts up 50 to 70 cents and August down 20. Cash trade saw very light $225 Southern action reported on Tuesday. The Wednesday morning ...