Risk Management Key for Cattle Producers Facing Volatile Markets in 2026

Jake Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance shares risk-reduction strategies to help cattle producers prepare for a successful year ahead.

CARTHAGE, Mo. (RFD-TV) — Farms across the country face numerous challenges, from weather to market volatility. Many producers are turning to risk management for guidance on these and other matters. Jake Charleston with Specialty Risk Insurance joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to share insights for producers heading into the new year.

In his interview with RFD-TV News, Charleston discussed a recent Cattle Fax event hosted by Specialty Risk Insurance, highlighting how it provided local cattle producers with valuable market outlooks for the year ahead. He explained that such events are essential for keeping producers informed and helping them make better risk-management decisions.

Charleston also offered final guidance for producers as the year comes to a close, encouraging thoughtful planning and careful consideration of market risks.

Related Stories
Farm CPA Paul Nieffer explains the Farmer Bridge Assistance payment limits, provides clarity on new legislation, and offers advice for producers considering business structure adjustments.
Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins discusses the potential impact of data center growth on farmland, the Landowner Fairness Act, and key priorities for Missouri farmers heading into planting season.
Dr. David Anderson with Texas A&M University AgriLife Extension discusses how geopolitical tensions and the Middle East, along with export disruptions in the Chinese market, will shape cattle markets in the months ahead.
A man accused of orchestrating a nationwide cattle investment fraud scheme has been arrested in California after being on the FBI’s wanted list.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold provides insights on supporting aging populations in rural communities on this week’s Rural Health Matters segment.
OHFB President Bill Patterson shares an update from Washington on the group’s policy priorities and the issues shaping agriculture ahead of the 2026 planting season.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

UNL student fellow Alison Walbrecht shares her perspective on building support for agricultural research, extension, and teaching while gaining hands-on insight into federal policymaking.
HTS Commodities’ Lewis Williamson provides updates on how growers are preparing for spring planting in an unpredictable agricultural landscape.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney explains how geopolitical developments in the Middle East can create energy-driven pressures that impact the supply chain and reshape demand for certain ag products.
Jake Charleston of Specialty Risk Insurance offers his perspective on current cattle market conditions and shares advice for producers seeking to stay protected in an uncertain market.
National Pork Producers Council incoming president Rob Brenneman shares insights from the National Pork Industry Forum in Kansas City, where producers gathered to discuss Farm Bill policy, sustainability, and other priorities for the year ahead.
USDA’s March WASDE report leaves U.S. corn, soybean and wheat ending stocks unchanged while adjusting global production estimates for South America.