The Latest: November - 2025
U.S. Dairy Herd is Likely to Continue to Grow
Producers who had put off expansions when interest rates first climbed in 2022 eventually moved forward with their plans, and many are just now putting cattle into new heifer barns and milk parlors after completing the multi-year permitting, financing, and construction process. Meanwhile, in New York and throughout the heartland, dairy producers jumped at the opportunity to supply new dairy processing facilities. Based on the timing of new processing, the U.S. dairy herd is likely to continue to grow.
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Even with a short week, there was no lack of action in the dairy markets. However, the market took the news poorly with most dairy commodities moving decisively downward.
View reportAfter the enthusiasm ignited by last week’s USDA announcement, most commodities struggled to keep the momentum going. The butter and cheese markets both finished the week on a softer note while dry products, especially whey, fared somewhat better.
View reportMonday’s announcement that the USDA is extending its Farmers to Families Food Box Program spurred dairy commodity prices upward, with all products seeing gains during Tuesday’s spot session.
View reportThere is no word yet on when USDA will begin spending its allocations, which makes it difficult to assess the repercussions for the dairy markets. The dairy funding could make a big splash if it is spent in a short time, or slowly ripple through the markets if spent steadily throughout the next year.
View reportA setback is possible, but it’s impossible to predict the timing or magnitude of a retreat from the highs. Seasoned traders warn “Don’t fight the trend.”
View reportFebruary through December contracts posted life-of-contract highs, a sign of health and good cheer.
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