Karina, the cow that set a Guinness World Record as the world's most expensive. [Instagram]
Karina, the cow that set a Guinness World Record as the world's most expensive. [Instagram]

A Brazilian cow named Karina has entered the record books after selling at auction for $4.74 million.

According to A-Z Animals, a US-based animal media outlet, Karina — a Nelore cow, Brazil's premier breed — sold at a recent auction for $4.74 million, setting a new all-time record for a bovine sale and breaking the Guinness World Record for the most expensive cow ever sold.

Karina is only 3 years old, yet she has claimed the national champion title at Brazil's livestock competitions three years in a row, earning recognition as a new benchmark for the Nelore breed.

Her value lies not in meat production but in her exceptional genetics. The four investors who jointly purchased Karina plan to recoup their investment by selling her eggs at premium prices. Eggs harvested from Karina are implanted into surrogate cows to produce calves carrying her superior genetic traits. Each egg is valued at a minimum of $110,000.

The Nelore breed traces its origins to Ongole cattle brought from India to Brazil in the 1860s. Selectively bred over generations to suit Brazil's climate and environment, the Nelore now accounts for roughly 80 percent of all cattle raised in Brazil — either purebred or crossbred — making it a cornerstone of the country's livestock industry.

Several factors underpin the Nelore's reputation as a high-value breed. The cattle are highly adaptable to hot climates and harsh conditions, boast strong reproductive rates and fast growth, and are known for the flavor and juiciness of their meat.

The farm that raised Karina has a track record of producing record-breaking cattle. In 2023, a cow named Mara sold at auction for $4.38 million, setting the Guinness World Record at the time.

The high-value cattle raised at the farm receive care far beyond that of ordinary livestock. They undergo rigorous health monitoring by veterinary staff and, given their considerable worth, are provided around-the-clock security to prevent theft.

Meanwhile, Karina — a member of the K-pop idol group aespa — reacted warmly to the news about her bovine namesake. Fellow member Winter tagged Karina's Instagram account on a post about the record-breaking cow and left a brief comment that appeared to offer congratulations. Karina replied, "What? I'm so proud."


123@heraldcorp.com