In this week’s Friday Wrap, Brock and Jim break down a winter-driven market that’s shaping cattle prices and reshuffling producer decisions across the country. Bitter cold across the Northern and Central Plains has futures on the rise, as tight supplies, lower gain efficiency, and health concerns push traders to price in risk. Meanwhile, feeder cattle markets held strong with 500–549 lb steers averaging $365.29/cwt, even as forecasts signal softer prices ahead.

The guys also dig into a sharp 19% drop in beef cow slaughter this fall—a signal that producers may be holding cows back and shifting toward herd rebuilding. Brock lays out how this could tighten calf supply heading into spring, influence bred cow values, and reshape leverage in forward contracting over the next 60–120 days.

Finally, they unpack fast-moving developments in U.S.–Brazil trade talks. With tariff reductions back on the table, more Brazilian beef access could pressure domestic boxed beef values—or open new export doors for U.S. programs, depending on how the agreements settle. Jim brings historical perspective on cross-border trade, reminding listeners that headlines move faster than real market impact.

If you’re feeding cattle, considering bred cow retention, buying calves for spring, or just trying to read where the market is headed through the freeze, this episode is packed with practical perspective. From weather pressures to structural herd moves and international trade risk, the Cattle Market Guys have the week wrapped tight.

Key Themes:

• Winter-driven futures surge and feed efficiency concerns
• Feeder cattle holding strong, but forecast prices softening
• 19% drop in beef cow slaughter and implications for herd rebuilding
• Tight supply outlook for spring calf runs
• U.S.–Brazil tariff discussions and potential impacts on procurement and exports

Smart data, real ranch stories—and a whole lot of market signal to chew on.