Optimistic Outlook for Cattle Markets

University of Missouri’s livestock economist, Scott Brown, says he’s fairly optimistic about the cattle market over the next several months, especially as you look at the September placements.  “The pre-report estimates actually would have suggested higher placements relative to a year-ago,” Brown says.  “But the most recent report shows placements were actually down 2.9%, so relatively positive or bullish for us.”

Brown also commented that demand, both domestic and global, will need to remain strong to keep prices supported.  And, when he looks at the overall picture, the positive news outweighs the negative.  “Drought in this country is going to have a big effect. Brazil also may be pulling back on the supply side and a little less engaged in 2022,” he says.  “There’s probably a lot of strong demand in places like China for some U.S. beef.  So, all of that is the positive side.” However, Brown also believes the U.S. could see increased competition in countries like Japan, as Australia’s cattle herd continues to rebound following several years of very dry weather.

EDITOR’S TAKE:

The pre-report, along with Brown’s analysis, shows a more positive outlook going forward. This is one more piece of the strong agricultural economy we have been discussing the past several months in the AIR. Case in point as to why we urge all CAD members to look beyond the current circumstances and think about when inventories of trucks are more normalized in the next few weeks and months. Who will be your best customer prospect? We continue to see all kinds of evidence that farmers/ranchers should be at the top of your list.