Ag economists are closely watching the cattle markets in the coming weeks. They are starting to notice signs that prices could soon shift.
“Quite a few people are nervous that some of the consumer and macro-economic signals are starting to decline, and that could impact meat prices. There’s also a concern about the international markets. This week, the headline was about the Chinese government not renewing a license for U.S. meat export facilities and what that could mean for meat prices,” said Ben Brown.
Brown says demographics play a role, too. He is seeing a shift and says producers are taking advantage of high cattle prices.
“I would also say we are seeing some shifts in demographics. That’s playing out in the data. Producers are choosing this as an opportunity to sell out, take advantage of high cattle prices, and sell out. You know, those cows are going down the road to a different operation. Well, I take that back. A lot of the cows are ending up in processing facilities.”
Brown says drought has also been a concern over the last year, leading to fewer grain-consuming animals. While a lot of different fators are at play right now, he says he is staying focused on market trends.
Wayne Cockrell with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association joined us to discuss preparedness, producer awareness, and the industry’s response to New World screwworm concerns.
January 21, 2026 12:00 PM
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From meatpacking settlements to landmark NEPA rulings, Roger McEowen outlines the top legal developments in 2025 that will shape agriculture in the years ahead.
January 20, 2026 03:39 PM
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Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation joined us to review new policies and regulations supporting the dairy industry and what they mean for the year ahead.
January 20, 2026 03:25 PM
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Despite rising costs and growing food insecurity, meat demand remained strong in 2025 as higher-income consumers offset cutbacks elsewhere. Economists break down the K-shaped economy, upcoming USDA cattle reports, livestock production outlooks, and renewed debate over beef imports and country-of-origin labeling heading into 2026.
January 20, 2026 02:47 PM
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Midland County Livestock Association President Brandon Mitchell reflects on another strong year for the event, including a premium sale that once again topped the million-dollar mark.
January 20, 2026 08:00 AM
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Livestock strength is carrying the farm economy, while crop margins remain tight and increasingly dependent on risk management and financial discipline.
January 19, 2026 05:00 PM
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