Dairy herd highest in three decades as beef markets boost returns Calf values have skyrocketed, in part because of tight calf supplies but also due to the growing popularity of beef-on-dairy crossbreeding. Altin Kalo May 26, 2026 No Comments With fewer beef cows available, dairy cows now make up a larger share of the cow beef supply feeding America’s hamburger demand. Read More
New World Screwworm cases surge, yet reopening speculation persists For the week ending April 18, 2026, there were 273 NWS cases reported within a 400-mile buffer zone from the US border. Altin Kalo April 27, 2026 No Comments Speculation about reopening the US to imports from Mexico drives volatility in the cattle market. Read More
Fewer calves in the pipeline to sustain future beef supply Market participants along the supply chain, feedlots, packers and retailers struggle to align fixed costs with the cattle supply The calf crop in 2025 weighed in at 32.9 million head, 1.6% lower than the previous year. Altin Kalo February 24, 2026 No Comments
Lower cattle slaughter expected both in short and medium term US cattle numbers are likely to remain limited well into 2028. Altin Kalo January 27, 2026 No Comments Cattle, and therefore beef, prices are likely to remain elevated given the lower pipeline supplies and ongoing suspension of cattle trade with Mexico. Read More
US cattle slaughter likely to fall further in the coming year Fewer heifers are expected to flow into feedlots in 2026. Altin Kalo December 16, 2025 No Comments We do not know when or how USDA will decide to resume trade with Mexico, but even when that happens, trade is likely to be slow given the extra screening requirements.Read More
In the beef market, the higher the peak, the deeper the valley Shifting market dynamics position packers to gain leverage over feedlots. Altin Kalo November 25, 2025 No Comments US could see beef imports increase by another 400 milion to 500 million pounds in 2026.Read More
As cattle markets consolidate, importance of risk management rises Paper profits create excitement but also fear when the market starts to turn. Altin Kalo October 28, 2025 No Comments Producers are making the most money they ever have and also have the most money at risk for the next calf crop. Read More
As summer tailwinds fade, fat trim braces for correction Because fat trim is far less valuable than lean, a rising fat percentage pressures the cutout value. Altin Kalo September 23, 2025 No Comments With imports slowing, grilling season behind us, and carcass weights climbing, the fat trim market could again come under pressure.Read More
Consumers’ growing emphasis on taste and convenience underpins beef demand and cattle prices Taste and freshness now surpass price as the most important factors influencing consumers' beef purchases. Altin Kalo August 26, 2025 No Comments Consumers have steadily increased the share of protein in their diets, with beef consistently ranking at the top. Read More
Cattle supply pipeline continues to shrink There are fewer cattle, and supply will need to get smaller if we have any shot at recovery down the road. Altin Kalo July 22, 2025 One Comment The number of cattle on feed for 150 days or more is expected to be 14% higher than a year ago. Read More