Negotiated cash fed cattle trade remained undeveloped through Thursday afternoon, but Live Cattle futures bounced higher, pulling Feeder Cattle along. Apparently, traders expect solid consumer demand heading into the new year. That’s hard to argue against, given snugger front-month fed cattle supplies and wholesale beef values holding their ground.
After an average of $1.39 higher in the front two contracts, Live Cattle futures closed an average of 45¢ higher (an average of 69¢ higher overall).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 52¢ higher (12¢ higher at the back of the board to 90¢ higher in spot Jan).
Corn futures closed 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed fractionally mixed to 1¢ higher.
Wholesale beef values were weaker on light demand and heavy offerings, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 39¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $215.30/cwt. Select was 38¢ lower at $207.22. Both remained higher week to week.
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