Updates
September 13, 2025: from ChatGPT --
If I had to pick, I’d say 2014 was the most recent year that came close to what ranchers are seeing now — high returns, tight supply, good pricing. But this current period may exceed 2014 in some respects, depending heavily on cost control, drought conditions, and how fast inventories rebuild.
September 13, 2025: a reader and I have been having a sidebar discussion on "big bucks" for cattle this fall. Now, from The Wall Street Journal today.
From the linked article, the lede:
Business hasn’t been this good for cattle ranchers in decades, maybe ever. Herds are thin and beef demand is strong, helping send prices for everything from ground beef to steaks to record levels.
Ranchers are putting some of their windfall toward upgrading long-neglected equipment. Others are paying off longstanding debts.
Shaun Loughery is pouring his earnings into bull semen.
In past years, he has spent around $120,000 annually on semen and breeding bulls. The idea is to produce cattle that can yield juicier steaks—and fetch higher prices. This year, Loughery plans to double his typical investment.
And even though his profit is up roughly 35% compared with last year, he isn’t taking a vacation. He’s doing ultrasounds on his pregnant cows, known as bred heifers.
Original Post
From a reader, thank you very much, this morning:
