Cattle futures moved higher early in the day, supported by last week’s stronger cash fed cattle prices, looming performance-depressing weather and some thoughts that the bottom is in or near for Choice wholesale beef values. By the end, Feeder Cattle closed mostly higher with help from lower Corn futures, while Live Cattle finished lower, perhaps with technical pressure tied to the broader commodity sell-off.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 48¢ higher, except for an average of 21¢ lower in two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 51¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were steady to $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $172-$173/cwt., $3 higher in Nebraska at $173-$175/cwt. and $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $175. Dressed delivered prices were generally $1-$2 higher at $274-$275.50.
The weighted average five-area direct fed steer price last week was $1.77 higher at $174.01/cwt. The weighted average dressed steer price was $1.91 higher at $274.78.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.67 higher Monday afternoon at 278.83/cwt. Select was 17¢ lower at $259.36/cwt.
Turning to row crops, rains in South America continued to pressure Soybean futures Monday, helping lead grain futures lower.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 10¢ lower through Jly ’24 and then mostly 3¢ to 6¢ lower.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ lower through Jly ’25 and then mostly 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 9¢ to 14¢ lower.
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