Cattle Market Guys - Tuesday Check In 12-30-2025

Holiday market patterns could signal a significant price rally ahead, with forecasts projecting feeder cattle prices to jump to $423.78/cwt in early January. While current trading remains thin following Christmas, historical precedent suggests these post-holiday surges aren't uncommon. Market analysts are closely watching whether these ambitious forecasts will materialize once full trading resumes in the new year.In this mid-week market update, hosts Brock and Jim analyze the current state of cattle markets during the holiday trading lull. They examine cash prices for five-weight steers, currently at $365.28/cwt, and discuss the implications of thin holiday trading volumes on both cash and futures markets.The hosts dive deep into significant industry developments, including Tyson's planned processing plant closure and its potential impact on supply chains. They explore how rising utility costs at processing facilities could create bottlenecks in the system, potentially affecting feeder cattle demand and packer leverage in the coming months.International trade takes center stage as the hosts examine Japan's upcoming audit of Brazil's beef sanitary system in March 2026. This development could reshape global beef trade dynamics, particularly affecting U.S. exports to Asian markets. The episode also covers European agricultural consolidation and its potential ripple effects on international markets.Looking ahead to 2026, Brock and Jim outline key factors to watch, including post-holiday price movements, processing capacity challenges, and evolving global trade dynamics that could impact U.S. cattle producers in the coming year.