Futures markets rallied in recent days following record national average prices paid for fed cattle. With several USDA reports on the way, we are about to get a better picture on where markets are heading in 2025.
AFBF Economist Bernt Nelson spoke with RFD-TV’s own Tammi Arender on what we can expect from upcoming reports, demand in the cattle market, and what producers should keep an eye on.
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Payment totals alone do not show financial stress — production costs and net losses complete the picture.
Heavier weights and strong late-year slaughter supported December production, but lower annual totals highlight ongoing supply tightness heading into 2026.
Rising import pressure and tougher export competition are likely to persist into 2026, supporting domestic supplies while capping export growth.
