BEEF

The beef complex is expected to remain firm in the coming weeks, supported by seasonally rising demand and the start of the MLB season. Market strength reflects ongoing supply-side constraints, including lower harvest rates, tightening cold storage inventories, and resilient consumer demand—particularly at retail. The March 1 Cattle on Feed report showed total inventory modestly lower year over year, though placements increased in February, signaling additional supply moving through the pipeline later in the year. Cattle on feed for 150-plus days rose notably, suggesting heavier weights ahead, though this has yet to translate into meaningful relief. Beef production has recently trended lower on both a weekly and annual basis, keeping overall availability tight. While improving packer margins may encourage expanded slaughter schedules and imports could help supplement near-term supply, the broader market remains structurally constrained heading into spring.