Despite record high yields from corn and soybeans in today’s WASDE, the forecast for red meat and broiler production in 2025 was reduced slightly from the August report. Both beef and pork production were down, while broiler production was up.
For 2025, beef was down on lower fed cattle slaughter and lower cow slaughter in Q3 and Q4 quarter. Likewise, pork production is reduced based on a slower rate of slaughter for Q3 and Q4 and lighter dressed weights for the third quarter. For 2026, beef production was raised slightly from last month, with yearly production down 336 million pounds to 25.49 million pounds, based on higher fed cattle slaughter. Pork production was held steady from last month and the annual total was 813 milli...
What You Need to Know Today: The corn and soybean markets closed slightly higher in low-volume trade. The wheat market was mixed, with HRW continuing its downward trek on improved moisture. As expected, the bearish cattle on feed report drove down cattle prices and pulled hogs down with it. Mi...
Monday, 25 May is a U.S. holiday, and both the markets and our office will be closed. Please note that the next issue of Ag Perspectives will be published on Tuesday, 26 May. The WPI staff wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend...
USDA’s monthly cattle on feed report was released today. The total number of cattle on feed in feedlots with 1,000 head or more capacity amounted to 11.6 million head, 102 percent of last year. Source: USDA, WPI Placements were up, but part of that is attributable to persistent drought c...