USDA released a much anticipated quarterly Hogs and Pigs report for September today. At 73.8 million head, the total inventory as of 1 September followed the seasonal pattern of peaking for the year in September but was down from last year. This is third consecutive year-over-year decline in the September inventory, and the lowest September inventory since 2017.
Nonetheless, the report was generally in line with the pre-report expectations. The breeding herd and the June through August pig crop were slightly below the consensus forecasts, as were lighter weight feeder pigs. Like the overall swine herd, the breeding herd and market hog inventory are also the lowest since 2017.
Compared to the June report, the Septembe...
What You Need to Know Today: Markets got a surprise with a corn yield of 181.2 bushels/acre in the October WASDE, above the average estimate of 177.6 bushels/acre and up from USDA’s September estimate of 178.5 bushels/acre. Although stronger demand is expected to absorb some of the addit...
Key Takeaways: On Friday afternoon, President Trump announced that Russia will “immediately supply over 300,000 Tons of Diesel Fuel” to the United States. The deal, typical of this administration, is light on details but promises an additional 500,000 tons in November and 1 m...
The USDA has lowered its 2026 red meat production forecasts slightly while forecasting a slight increase in broiler production. Beef is now projected at 24.802 billion pounds, 75 million pounds less than in September. Cow slaughter is expected to be up; however, this will be offset by lower ste...
