The Latest: October - 2026
Tidal Wave of Milk
The dairy markets are awash in a tidal wave of milk. USDA’s latest Milk Production report showed that August milk output was notably higher than previously thought, and the agency pegged September milk production at 19.4 billion pounds, up 2.6% year over year, far higher than LaSalle Street expected. The recent ups and downs in the dairy markets did not diminish dairy producers’ appetite for growth. They added 26,000 cows last month, lifting the dairy herd to 9.74 million head.
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A 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.
View reportThere is plenty of fodder for both the bulls and the bears, creating a rather schizophrenic trading market. We’re in a full-blown weather market, and the futures will be as fickle as the forecast.
View reportConcerns about worsening demand are colliding with rising supplies as milk floods the market.
View reportAll eyes were on the CME spot Cheddar markets this week as blocks, and especially barrels, moved decisively lower. Spot barrel prices plunged in recent days and Cheddar spot blocks also moved below $2 for the first time since early September.
View reportCME spot Cheddar barrels climbed to an all-time high last Friday and managed to cling to the precipice on Monday. Then their perch gave way and they plunged over the cliff.
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