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Cattle Futures Drop Amid Hog Inventory Decline and Outbreak

9/27/2025

35 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

CME cattle futures fell on liquidation; December live cattle at 234.300 cents.
USDA shows US hog inventory down 1.3%; breeding herd down 1.8%.
Brooke Rollins announced plan to boost beef production without direct payments.
USDA halted imports of Mexican cattle over New World screwworm outbreak.
Analysts expect ongoing cattle-price pressure from higher costs and retail pushback.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. cattle market faced a crisis in 2014, with beef prices rising 20% due to drought and increased feed costs. The USDA noted a 1.3% decline in hog inventory, highlighting ongoing livestock management challenges. Recent declines in cattle futures and a halt on Mexican cattle imports due to a New World screwworm outbreak reflect the persistent volatility in U.S. beef production and pricing.

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Story summary

CME cattle futures fell on liquidation; December live cattle at 234.300 cents.
USDA shows US hog inventory down 1.3%; breeding herd down 1.8%.
Brooke Rollins announced plan to boost beef production without direct payments.
USDA halted imports of Mexican cattle over New World screwworm outbreak.
Analysts expect ongoing cattle-price pressure from higher costs and retail pushback.

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