Key Takeaways: 

Expected returns to production for U.S. cow-calf producers have shifted lower from prior forecasts as cattle values fall and feed costs rise. Producer revenues are forecast 4–5 percent below our July outlook and will be 3 percent below 2025 levels. Costs are quickly becoming a bigger concern relative to revenues as cost reductions presently lag the declines in cow-calf operation revenue. Despite the deterioration in expected margins, profits will still likely be just shy of 2025’s record-breaking levels and support strong financial conditions for the industry. That profitability should help boost beef heifer retention, which WPI now forecasts at 4.9 million head, up 4 percent from last year. 

Detailed...