The Latest: April - 2025
Milk Output Is On The Rise
For producers who have been considering retirement for years, slim margins and high cow values offer a lucrative exit ramp. The auction docket is growing, which could allow producers to buy replacements and boost cull rates. Eventually, that could shrink the dairy herd. But for now, slaughter volumes remain low and milk output is on the rise.
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Dairy producers are doing their best to top up the bulk tank while the futures promise decent Class III values. Cheesemakers are going strong, and they report that cheese is moving apace.
View reportThe cheese markets stand well below the summer peaks but have made a surprisingly quick return to the lofty elevations from a month ago. Despite the impressive uphill sprint, the trade is clearly questioning the cheese market’s stamina.
View reportSteep losses at mid-week and a Friday rebound added up to net gains across the board.
View reportCheddar markets lost a lot of ground, but tried to put up a fight. Barrels regained some territory signaling that the market is fumbling about for fair value.
View reportCheesemakers are still going strong, and spot milk continues to move in the Midwest. However, demand is lackluster with foodservice outlets pulling back on orders in some areas.
View reportAlthough cheese prices are much lower now than they were in June, cheese vats remain full. The other dairy markets tumbled this week as well and the futures bled copious red ink.
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