Daily Cattle Current Podcast

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Cattle Current Podcast—March 24, 2025
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was active on very good demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices were $7-$8 higher in the Southern Plains at $210/cwt. and $6-$9 higher in the North at $212-$215. Dressed delivered prices were $10 higher at $335.
Cattle futures closed lower Friday after early strength on likely week-end profit taking and positioning.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.58 lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $4.20 lower ($1.87 lower at the front to $5.05 lower at the back).
Cattle futures should find some early-week support tied to the friendly Cattle on Feed report (see below).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.15 lower Friday afternoon at $325.91/cwt. Select was 28¢ higher at $309.64.
Week to week on Friday, Choice was $7.64 higher and Select was $3.32 higher. Choice was up $11 over the past two weeks.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 560,000 head was 24,000 head less than the prior week and 33,000 head less than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 6.7 million head was 452,000 head less (-6.3%). Estimated year-to-date beef production of 5.8 billion pounds was 143.3 million pounds less (-2.4%).
Turning to the grain complex, futures were mixed again Friday.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures closed mostly 2¢ higher. Soybean futures closed 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 21, 2025
Cattle futures extended gains Thursday, supported by recently higher wholesale beef values and the increasing likelihood of higher cash fed cattle prices for the week. Through mid-morning Friday, Cattle futures were lower ahead of the monthly Cattle on Feed report.
On Thursday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.36 higher. Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.46 higher.
There was no AMS report for negotiated cash fed cattle prices Thursday afternoon. Through mid-morning Friday, there were reports of significantly higher week-to-week bids.
Last week, FOB live prices were $202-$203/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $206 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $325.
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed Thursday.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 7¢ higher through old-crop contracts and then mostly fractionally mixed. Front months were supported by strong weekly export demand.
Kansas City Wheat futures closed 5¢ to 8¢ lower through away May and then fractionally lower to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 4¢ higher through near Sep and then fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 20, 2025
Cattle futures were higher Wednesday, supported by surging wholesale beef values, firmer outside markets and possibly an eye toward Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Pre-report estimates are for February feedlot placements to be about 14% less year over year, February marketing to be down about 8% and the March 1 cattle on feed inventory to be down 2%.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.01 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.84 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $202-$203/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $206 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $325.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $6.29 higher Wednesday afternoon at $329.61/cwt. Select was 55¢ lower at $308.68.
Grain and Soybean futures softened Wednesday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts,
Corn futures were mostly 2¢ lower to 3¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures 8¢ to 11¢ lower. Soybean futures 4¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 19, 2025
Cattle futures were narrowly mixed Tuesday with pressure from outside markets and wonderment about this week’s cash fed cattle prices.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were narrowly mixed, from unchanged to 12¢ lower in five contracts to an average of 13¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 20¢ higher, except for 15¢ lower in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $202-$203/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $206 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $325.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.16 higher Tuesday afternoon at $323.32/cwt. Select was $1.33 higher at $309.23.
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed again Tuesday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Kansas City Wheat futures were fractionally mixed. Corn futures were 1¢ to 3¢ lower. Soybean futures were 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 18, 2025
Cattle futures closed higher Monday, supported by last week’s bounce in cash fed cattle prices and stronger wholesale beef values.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.77 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.74 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $5-$6 higher in the Southern Plains at $202-$203/cwt. and $4-$6 higher in the North at $206/cwt. Dressed delivered prices were $8-$10 higher in Nebraska at $325 and $5-$10 higher in the western Corn Belt at $325.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live fed steer price last week was $5.02 higher at $205.30. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $8.54 higher at $324.97.
Choice boxed beef cutout value $2.89 higher Monday afternoon at $321.16/cwt. Select was $1.58 higher at $307.90.
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed Monday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Kansas City Wheat futures 18¢ to 19¢ higher with traders apparently adding premium. Corn futures were 2¢ to 3¢ higher. Soybean futures were fractionally higher to 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 17, 2025
Cash fed cattle prices helped lead Cattle futures higher Friday and for the week.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was light to moderate on good demand in the North through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were $3-$5 higher at $205/cwt. in a light test. Dressed delivered prices in Nebraska were $8-$10 higher at $325. Dressed delivered prices in the western Corn Belt the previous week were $315-$320.
Trade in the Southern Plains was light to moderate on good demand. Although too few transactions for a trend, there were some FOB live trades at mostly $202. The previous week, prices in the region were $197.
Wholesale beef values softened on the day with Choice boxed beef cutout value $1.42 lower Friday afternoon at $318.27/cwt. Select was $1.15 lower at $306.32. Week to week, however, Choice was $3.37 higher and Select was 52¢ higher.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 587,000 head was 9,000 head more than the previous week. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 6.1 million head was 417,000 head fewer (-6.4%) than the same period last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 5.3 billion pounds was 123.1 million pounds less (-2.3%).
As alluded to, Cattle futures closed higher Friday, fueled by stronger cash fed cattle prices and continued feeder cattle bullishness in the country.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 72¢ higher (30¢ higher at the back to $1.12 higher at the front). Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 93¢ higher (27¢ higher at the back to $1.75 at the front).
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures were an average of $2.32 higher and Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $4.76 higher.
Turning to the grain complex Friday, futures were mixed with likely profit taking and position squaring.
Corn futures were 1¢ to 8¢ lower through Dec ‘25 and then unchanged to fractionally lower. Kansas City Wheat futures 1¢ to 3¢ lower. Soybean futures were mostly 5¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 14, 2025
Cattle futures were mixed Thursday with support from growing optimism about cash fed cattle prices this week but pressure from bearish outside markets.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were mixed, from unchanged to an average of 22¢ lower in four contracts to an average of 48¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 60¢ lower, except for unchanged to an average of 20¢ higher in three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on very light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $197/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $200-$202 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $315-$317 in Nebraska and $315-$320 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.41 lower Thursday afternoon at $319.69/cwt. Select was 6¢ lower at $307.47
Grain and Soybean futures were higher Thursday, helped along by stronger weekly exports.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ to 6¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures 13¢ to 15¢ higher. Soybean futures were 5¢ to 11¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 13, 2025
Cattle futures gained traction Wednesday with recently stronger wholesale beef values and prospects of higher cash fed cattle prices this week.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.51 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.92 higher
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in Kansas through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some early FOB live trades at $200/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was mostly inactive on very light demand.
Last week, FOB live prices were $197/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $200-$202 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $315-$317 in Nebraska and $315-$320 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 10¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $321.10/cwt. Select was 67¢ higher at $307.53
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed Wednesday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 7¢ to 8¢ lower, pressured by concerns about Canada imposing tariffs on U.S. ethanol imports if the trade war escalates.
Kansas City Wheat futures were 1¢ to 2¢ higher. Soybean futures were 7¢ to 11¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 12, 2025
Cattle futures were mixed Tuesday.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 71¢ lower (7¢ to $1.20 lower), except for 37¢ higher in away Jun with likely profit taking ahead of this week’s cash trade.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.01 higher, fueled by strong cash demand in the country.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $197/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $200-$202 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $315-$317 in Nebraska and $315-$320 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.62 higher Tuesday afternoon at $321.20/cwt. Select was 9¢ lower at $306.86.
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed Tuesday amid continued tariff confusion and little impetus in the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates. More about that report momentarily.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 2¢ lower to 1¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures mostly 5¢ to 7¢ lower. Soybean futures were 3¢ lower to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 11, 2025
Cattle futures on Monday were mostly able to hold on to the previous session’s strong gains tied to higher cash fed cattle prices and recently stronger wholesale beef values, despite significantly lower outside markets.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 34¢ higher, except for 2¢ lower in spot Apr.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 93¢ higher (27¢ higher in spot Mar to $1.60 higher at the back), except for 12¢ lower in Apr.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $197/cwt., but $2-$4 higher in the North at $200-$202. Dressed delivered prices were $2-$4 higher in Nebraska at $315-$317 and $3-$7 higher in the western Corn Belt was $315-$320.
The five-area, weighted average direct FOB live steer price was $2.63 higher week to week at $200.28/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $3.51 higher at $316.43.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.68 higher Monday afternoon at $317.58/cwt. Select was $1.15 higher at $306.95.
Nearby Corn and Kansas City Wheat futures were higher Monday with likely positioning ahead of Tuesday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 1¢ to 3¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures mostly 14¢ higher, also supported by domestic weather concerns. However, Soybean futures were mostly 8¢ to 11¢ lower with pressure including South American harvest pressure.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 10, 2025
Cattle futures rebounded Friday, fueled by the higher cash fed cattle prices in the North.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.76 higher ($1.55 higher at the back to $4.00 higher at the front).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.76 higher.
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $5.46 higher ($3.42 higher at the back to $7.70 higher toward the front). During the same period, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $5.85 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on very light demand in the Southern Plains through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Trade was active on good demand in Nebraska but light with moderate demand in the western Corn Belt.
For the week, FOB live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $197/cwt., but $2-$4 higher in the North at $200-$202. Dressed delivered prices were $2-$4 higher in Nebraska at $315-$317. The dressed delivered price in the western Corn Belt was $313.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.78 higher Friday afternoon at $314.90/cwt. Select was $2.29 higher at $305.80. Week to week on Friday, Choice was $3.07 higher and Select was $3.75 higher.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 578,000 head was 12,000 head more than the previous week but 6,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 5.5 million head was 410,000 head fewer (-6.9%) than the same period last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 4.8 billion pounds was 129.6 million less (-2.6%).
Turning to the grain complex, futures were mixed Friday.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 5¢ higher through old-crop contracts and then mostly 2¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower. Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher, except for fractionally lower to 3¢ lower through the front three contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 7, 2025
Cattle futures softened Thursday as outside markets turned more bearish and the week’s cash fed cattle trade remained unestablished.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 46¢ lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 94¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand in Kansas to mostly inactive on very light demand elsewhere through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $197 in the Southern Plains and $198 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $313.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 42¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $313.12/cwt. Select was 98¢ higher at $303.51.
Grain and Soybean futures rose Thursday, supported by stronger demand and reports of delayed U.S. tariffs on Mexico and Canada.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 4¢ to 9¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures unchanged to 7¢ higher. Soybean futures were 12¢ to 17¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 6, 2025
Cattle futures gained Wednesday and continued to retrench, supported by higher outside markets.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $2.08 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $3.39 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on light demand in in the Southern Plains to a standstill elsewhere through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $197 in the Southern Plains and $198 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $313.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.33 lower Wednesday afternoon at $313.54/cwt. Select was $1.49 lower at $302.53.
Grain and Soybean futures were higher Wednesday, taking a breather from recent tariff pressure.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were mostly fractionally higher to 5¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 7¢ to 9¢ higher. Soybean futures were 7¢ to 14¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 5, 2025
Cattle futures steadied Tuesday after initial pressure tied to new U.S. tariffs and worries about how trading partners will respond.
Dan Halstrom, president and CEO of the U.S. Meat Export Federation says, “We are reviewing the retaliatory measures announced by Canada and China and are watching for details on the response from Mexico.
He explains, “These three markets accounted for $8.4 billion in U.S. red meat exports last year, including nearly $4 billion to Mexico. While the United States is the primary supplier of pork and beef to Mexico, Halstrom says, U.S. red meat has already been facing heightened competition in this critical market.”
Last year U.S. beef exports equated to more than $415 per fed steer or heifer slaughtered and pork exports equated to more than $66 per head slaughtered. These exports, a large share of which are underutilized cuts and variety meat, help producers maximize the value of every animal produced and allow U.S. consumers to enjoy more of the cuts they prefer.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.28 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 43¢ higher, except for an average of 23¢ lower at either end of the board.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in Kansas through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some early live FOB trades t $195/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was at a standstill.
Last week, FOB live prices were $197 in the Southern Plains and $198 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $313.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 92¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $314.85/cwt. Select was $1.61 higher at $304.02.
Grain and Soybean futures were lower again Tuesday, but off session lows, in defense against U.S. tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ to 4¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 9¢ to 12¢ lower. Soybean futures were 9¢ to 13¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 4, 2025
Cattle futures extended losses from the previous session on Monday, and for the same reasons: long-position liquidation by funds tied to growing uncertainty tied to looming U.S. tariffs and concerns about domestic economic growth.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 71¢ lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 74¢lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on very light demand in all regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $197/cwt., $1-$2 lower in Nebraska at $198 and $1-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $198. Dressed delivered prices were $2 lower at $313.
The five-area direct weighted average FOB live steer price last week was $1.99 lower at $197.65. The weighted averaged dressed delivered steer price was $2.20 lower at $312.92.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.10 higher Monday afternoon at $313.93/cwt. Select was 36¢ higher at $302.41.
Grain and Soybean futures continued to unwind Monday with the looming threat of U.S. tariffs.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 5¢ to 13¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 9¢ to 11¢ lower. Soybean futures were 12¢ to 15¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 3, 2025
Cattle futures closed lower Friday with the week’s lower cash fed cattle trade, sluggish wholesale beef prices, position squaring and wariness over the impact of U.S. tariffs set to begin this week.
Live Cattle futures were an average of $2.58 lower.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.45 lower.
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of 80¢ lower (10¢ to $1.55 lower), except for an average of 19¢ higher in the back three contracts. Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 5.10 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate on light to moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were $2 lower at $197/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was light on light to moderate demand. Although too few to trend, there were some FOB live trades in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt at $198. The previous week, prices were $199-$200 in Nebraska and $199 to $201 in the western Corn Belt.
Dressed delivered prices were $2 lower in Nebraska at $313. The previous week, prices were $315 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 65¢ higher Friday afternoon at $311.83/cwt. Select was 8¢ lower at $302.05.
Grain futures sank Friday with apparent risk-of fund selling tied to looming U.S. tariffs and more bearish economic growth expectations, in tandem with week-end and month-end position squaring.
Corn futures closed 9¢ to 11¢ lower through old-crop contracts and then mostly 4¢ to 6¢ lower. Week to week on Friday, they were an average of 28¢ lower in the front six contracts.
Kansas City Wheat futures closed 7¢ to 13¢ lower on Friday. Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 12¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 28, 2025
Cattle futures gained Thursday with support from lower feed futures and the likelihood of fewer Mexican cattle imports when new tariffs begin.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 67¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.06 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill in the Southern Plains to limited on very light demand in the North through Thursday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $199/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $199-$200 in Nebraska and $199-$201 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $315.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.72 lower Thursday afternoon at $311.18/cwt. Select was $1.11 lower at $302.13.
Grain futures were lower again Thursday with likely liquidation prior to the first notice day on Friday, looming U.S. tariffs and initial domestic grain production estimates (see below).
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 8¢ to 14¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 12¢ to 15¢ lower. Soybean futures were mostly 3¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 27, 2025
Cattle futures softened Wednesday with the lack of weekly cash direction in the fed cattle market.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 74¢ lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 71¢ lower, except for 20¢ higher in spot Mar.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand in Kansas to a standstill elsewhere through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $199/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $199-$200 in Nebraska and $199-$201 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $315.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.42 lower Wednesday afternoon at $312.90/cwt. Select was 89¢ lower at $303.24.
Grain and Soybean futures were softer again Wednesday with pressure including positive crop progress and planting in South America and USDA’s first planting projections, albeit unofficial, expected during this week’s Agricultural Outlook Forum.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures unchanged to 3¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 6¢ to 7¢ lower. Soybean futures were 5¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 26, 2025
Cattle futures were higher Tuesday, helped along by stronger wholesale beef values, another day of lower Corn futures and follow-through support tied to the recent Cattle on Feed report.
Toward the close on Tuesday, Live Cattle futures were an average of 82¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.98 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $199/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $199-$200 in Nebraska and $199-$201 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $315.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 59¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $314.32/cwt. Select was 16¢ higher at $304.13.
Grain and Soybean futures eased lower again Tuesday with likely month-end position squaring and wariness about any initial acreage projections USDA shares during this week’s Agricultural Outlook Forum.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 1¢ to 2¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 2¢ to 3¢ lower. Soybean futures were 1¢ lower to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 25, 2025
Cattle futures closed higher Monday, buoyed by the recent Cattle on Feed report and a sharp decline in Grain futures.
Toward the close on Monday, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.31 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $4.10 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $4 lower in the Southern Plains at $199/cwt., $3-$4 lower in Nebraska at $199-$200 and $2-$4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $199-$201. Dressed delivered prices were $5-$6 lower at $315.
The five-area direct weighted average FOB live steer price last week was $3.27 lower at $199.64/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $5.40 lower at $315.12.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.96 higher Monday afternoon at $313.73/cwt. Select was $1.41 higher at $303.97.
Grain and Soybean futures were lower Monday with pressure including tariff concerns, early month-end position squaring and perhaps wariness about any initial acreage projections USDA shares during this week’s Agricultural Outlook Forum.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 5¢ to 8¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 10¢ to 11¢ lower. Soybean futures were 8¢ to 10¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 24, 2025
Cattle futures firmed on Friday and closed higher week to week, despite the decline in cash fed cattle prices.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 47¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.09 higher.
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of 96¢ higher (7¢ to $1.57 higher), except for an average of 21¢ lower in two nearby contracts. Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 2.20 higher week to week.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand in Kansas to light on light demand elsewhere through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $4 lower in the Southern Plains at $199/cwt. and $3.00 to $3.50 lower in Nebraska at $199.50 to $200. Dressed delivered prices in Nebraska were $5-$6 lower at $315.
The previous week, FOB live prices were $203 in the western Corn Belt, where dressed delivered prices were $320-$321.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.86 lower Friday afternoon at $310.77/cwt. Select was 62¢ lower at $302.56. Week to week, Choice was $3.93 lower and Select was $4.58 lower.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 563,000 head was 2,000 head more than the previous week but 27,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 4.4 million head was 379,000 fewer (-8.0%) than the same period a year earlier. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 3.8 billion pounds was 144.6 million pounds less (-3.6%).
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed Friday.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 7¢ lower through Jly ’26 and then mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ higher. Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 6¢ lower through near Aug and then mostly 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 21, 2025
Cattle futures were lower Thursday with dimming cash fed cattle price prospects, unwinding wholesale beef values, more bearish outside markets and perhaps positioning ahead of the monthly Cattle on Feed report due out Friday. Ahead of the report, analysts see January placement 3% higher year over year, January marketings about 2% higher and the on-feed inventory Feb. 1 at about 99%.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 65¢ lower, except for unchanged in spot Feb. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.11 lower, except 20¢ higher in Nov.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill in the Texas Panhandle to light on light demand elsewhere, through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few FOB live trades in Kansas at $199/cwt., and a few dressed delivered trades in Nebraska at $315, but too few transactions to trend in any region.
Last week, FOB live prices were $203/cwt. in all regions. Dressed delivered prices were $320-$321.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.26 lower Thursday afternoon at $312.63/cwt. Select was 58¢ lower at $303.18.
Soybean futures led Corn futures higher Thursday amid chatter from the White House that a trade deal with China could get done.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Soybean futures were 9¢ to 13¢ higher. Corn futures were unchanged to 6¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 5¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 20, 2025
Cattle futures basically paddled in place Wednesday, awaiting the week’s cash fed cattle direction.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 49¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 25¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $203/cwt. in all regions. Dressed delivered prices were $320-$321.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.88 lower Wednesday afternoon at $313.89/cwt. Select was 5¢ higher at $303.76.
Grain and Soybean futures were softer Wednesday with likely profit taking and producer selling.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were mixed from 4¢ lower to 3¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 10¢ to 12¢ lower. Soybean futures were 5¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 19, 2025
Live Cattle future firmed Tuesday while Feeder Cattle futures bounced higher.
Toward the close on Tuesday, Live Cattle futures were mixed, from unchanged to an average of 7¢ lower through the front four contracts to an average of 71¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.49 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $203/cwt. in all regions. Dressed delivered prices were $320-$321.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 7¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $315.77/cwt. Select was $2.52 lower at $303.71.
Grain and Soybean futures were higher Tuesday with likely short covering and recent demand improvement.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 4¢ to 7¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 7¢ to 8¢ higher. Soybean futures were 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 18, 2025
There was no USDA report for Monday negotiated cash fed cattle trade at press time.
Last week, FOB live prices were $203/cwt., which was $3 lower in the Southern Plains, $5 lower in Nebraska and $2-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt.
Dressed delivered prices were $7-$8 lower in Nebraska at $320-$321. The previous week, dressed delivered prices were $328 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.00 higher Monday afternoon at $315.70/cwt. Select was 91¢ lower at $306.23.
Futures and Equity markets were closed Monday in observance of President’s Day.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 17, 2025
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill in the Southern Plains through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. In the North, trade ranged from slow on moderate demand in the western Corn Belt to moderate on moderate demand in Nebraska.
For the week, FOB live prices were $203/cwt., which was $3 lower in the Southern Plains, $5 lower in Nebraska and $2-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt.
Dressed delivered prices were $7-$8 lower in Nebraska at $320-$321. The previous week, dressed delivered prices were $328 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.70 lower Friday afternoon at $314.70/cwt. Select was $2.70 lower at $307.14. Week to week on Friday, Choice was $7.17 lower and Select was $5.76 lower.
Cattle futures closed lower Friday as wholesale beef valued moved seasonally lower, cash fed cattle prices lost ground and funds likely exited more positions.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.46 lower. Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.24 lower.
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.92 lower through the front four contracts to an average of 47¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 1.72 higher.
Wheat led grain and Soybean futures higher Friday with likely short covering by funds.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures closed 20¢ to 23¢ higher through Mar ’26 and then 13¢ to 19¢ higher. Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 12. 2025
Cattle futures closed lower Tuesday with pressure including less packer production, apparent non-commercial long liquidation and more pessimism around this week’s cash fed cattle price potential.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.29 lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.68 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in the Southern Plains through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few transactions to trend, there were some FOB live trades at $203/cwt. Elsewhere, trade was at a standstill.
Last week, FOB live prices were $206/cwt. in the Southern Plains $208 in Nebraska and $205-$208 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $328.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.04 lower Tuesday afternoon at $322.46/cwt. Select was $1.71 lower at $312.21.
Grain and Soybean futures were lower Tuesday with traders disappointed by the lack of news in the World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 2¢ to 8¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 4¢ to 5¢ lower. Soybean futures were 2¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 11, 2025
Cattle futures rose Monday, building on the previous session’s firmer tone, following last week’s rout.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 97¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.45 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $206/cwt. in the Southern Plains $208 in Nebraska and $205-$208 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $328.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price last week was $2.52 lower at $207.05/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steer prices was $2.09 lower at $326.98.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.63 higher Monday afternoon at $323.50/cwt. Select was $1.02 higher at $313.92.
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed Monday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ to 5¢ higher with likely betting on bullish adjustments in the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates due out Tuesday.
However, Kansas City Wheat futures were 6¢ to 8¢ lower and Soybean futures were fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 10, 2025
Cattle futures stabilized Friday, following a week of losses driven by opening of the Mexican border to feeder cattle, discovery of a new bird flu train in dairy cattle, packer-announced production cuts for the coming week and lower cash fed cattle prices.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 38¢ higher, except for unchanged in near Apr.
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $3.82 lower ($3.17 lower at the back to $5.52 lower toward the front).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 43¢ higher, except for an average of 23¢ lower in the front three contracts.
Week to week on Friday, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $8.04 lower ($5.87 lower toward the back to $10.82 lower in spot Mar).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on very light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $206/cwt., $2 lower in Nebraska at $208 and $2-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $205-$208. Dressed delivered prices were $2 lower at $328.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.11 lower Friday afternoon at $321.87/cwt. Select was $1.87 lower at $312.90.
Week to week on Friday, Choice boxed beef cutout value was $5.81 lower and Select was $4.17 lower.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 584,000 head was 16,000 head fewer than the previous week and 33,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 3.3 million head was 304,000 head fewer (-8.5%) than the same period last year. Year-to-date estimated total beef production of 2.8 billion pounds was 124.3 million pounds less (-4.2%).
Grain and Soybean futures closed lower Friday on likely profit taking and weekend position squaring.
Corn futures closed 5¢ to 7¢ lower through old-crop contracts and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ lower. However, they closed an average of 6’4¢ higher week to week through the front six contracts.
Kansas City Wheat futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower on Friday.
Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ to 11¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 5, 2025
As logic suggested, Cattle futures lost ground Monday, between likely technical correction, the weekend announcement from APHIS that Mexican cattle imports to the U.S. will resume this week and tariffs levied on Canada, Mexico and China, though Mexican tariffs are now postponed for a month.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.04 lower. Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $4.84 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was inactive on very light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $6-$7 higher in the Southern Plains at $208/cwt. and steady to $2 lower in in the North at $210. Dressed delivered prices were steady to $2 higher at $330.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price was 38¢ higher at $209.57/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered price was 45¢ lower at $329.07.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.31 higher Monday afternoon at $331.99/cwt. Select was $2.77 higher at $319.84.
Grain and Soybean futures gained Monday when announcement came that new Mexican tariffs were postponed for a month and perhaps some betting on a deal getting done with China.
Corn futures closed 5¢ to 6¢ higher through Jly ‘26 and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
Kansas City Wheat futures closed 5¢ to 6¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 16¢ higher through Mar ‘26 and then 7¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 3, 2025
Cattle futures bounced back Friday, buoyed by the week’s stronger cash fed cattle prices and ahead of what turned out to be a generally neutral USDA Cattle report compared to expectations (see below).
Live Cattle futures were an average of 74¢ higher (12¢ higher at the front to $1.07 higher at the back). Week to week they were an average of 40¢ lower, except for an average of 3¢ higher in the back three contracts.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.40 higher. They were an average of 70¢ lower week to week.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill in the Texas Panhandle to slow on moderate demand elsewhere through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $6-$7 higher in the Southern Plains at $208/cwt. and steady to $2 lower in Nebraska at $210, where dressed delivered prices were steady to $2 higher at $330.
The previous week, FOB live prices were $210-$212 in the western Corn belt, where dressed delivered prices were $330.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 20¢ higher Friday afternoon at $327.68/cwt. Select was $1.17 higher at $317.07. Week to week on Friday, Choice boxed beef cutout value was 24¢ lower but Select was 78¢ higher.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 600,000 head was 1,000 head more than the previous week but 32,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 2.7 million head was 266,000 head fewer (-9%) than the same period last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 2.3 billion pounds was 116.4 million pounds less (-4.7%).
Turning to the grain complex, grain and Soybean futures closed lower Friday with week-end and month-end squaring and likely positioning ahead of the looming tariffs announced Saturday (see below).
Corn futures were 6¢ to 8¢ lower through old-crop contracts and then mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Kansas City Wheat futures were 8¢ to 9¢ lower through May ’26 and then 6¢ to 7¢ lower.
Soybean futures were 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 31, 2025
Cattle futures continued to correct lower Thursday, as wholesale beef prices continued lower and despite hefty gains in Southern Plains fed cattle prices. Keep in mind, the much-anticipated USDA Cattle inventory report will be released Friday afternoon.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $2.04 lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.46 lower, except for $1.35 higher in expiring Jan.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate on very good demand in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon, with FOB live prices $6-$7 higher at $208/cwt., with a few up to $209 in Kansas.
Trade was slow on moderate demand in the North, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some dressed delivered trades in Nebraska at $330 and a few FOB live trades in the western Corn Belt at $210.
Last week, FOB live prices were $210-$212 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $328-$330 in Nebraska and $330 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.06 lower Thursday afternoon at $327.48/cwt. Select was $4.77 lower at $315.90.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 29, 2025
Last week’s upward momentum in cash prices, and stubbornly strong Choice boxed beef prices, helped support gains in Cattle futures Tuesday.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $2.39 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.98 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $201-$202/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $210-$212 in Nebraska and the Western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $328-$330 in Nebraska and $330 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.37 higher Tuesday afternoon at $332.45/cwt. Select was $1.41 higher at $321.96.
Grain and Soybean futures see-sawed back to positive Tuesday, as traders parse South American weather, the threat of Trump tariffs and all of the rest.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 2¢ to 4¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 7¢ to 8¢ higher. Soybean futures were mostly 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 28, 2025
Last week’s hefty cash prices helped Live Cattle futures mostly gain Monday.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 80¢ higher, except for an average of 9¢ lower in the back three contracts. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 90¢ lower, except for 70¢ higher in waning spot Jan.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding 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 $201-$202/cwt., $7-$8 higher in Nebraska at $210-$212/cwt. and $6-$7 higher in the Western Corn Belt at $210-$212. Dressed delivered prices were $6-$8 higher in Nebraska at $328-$330 and $8-$10 higher in the western Corn Belt at $330.
The five-area direct weighted average FOB live steer price last week was $5.52 higher at $209.19/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $7.74 higher at $329.72.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.16 higher Monday afternoon at $330.08/cwt. Select was $4.26 higher at $320.55.
Grain and Soybean futures eased lower Monday with pressure including growing concern about President Trump’s recent promise to increase tariffs Feb. 1.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ to 4¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 6¢ lower. Soybean futures were 6¢ to 10¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 27, 2025
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was active on very good demand in the North through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were $7 higher in Nebraska at $210-$212/cwt. and $6-$7 higher in the Western Corn Belt at $210-$212. Dressed delivered prices were $6-$8 higher In Nebraska at $328-$330 (a few up to $339) and $8-$10 higher in the western Corn Belt at $330 (a few up to $338).
Trade in the Southern Plains was mostly inactive on light demand with too few transactions to trend. For the week FOB live prices were steady in Kansas at $201. The previous week, FOB live prices were steady in the Texas Panhandle at $201.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.04 lower Friday afternoon at $327.92/cwt. Select was 92¢ lower at $316.29. Week to week, Choice was $5.77 lower and Select was $3.54 lower.
Sharply higher cash fed cattle prices helped Cattle futures continue their upward trend on Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.12 higher ($1.15 to $3.00 higher). Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.11 higher (10¢ higher to $3.67 higher in spot Feb).
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $4.02 higher across a broad range and Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $5.29 higher across a broad range.
Corn and Soybean futures retreated Friday on likely profit taking and Argentina’s reduction in export taxes for domestic producers.
Corn futures were mostly 2¢ to 3¢ lower through Jly ’26 and then 1¢ lower.
Soybean futures were 7¢ to 9¢ lower through near Aug and then mostly 3¢ lower.
Kansas City Wheat futures were 10¢-11¢ lower through May ’26.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 24, 2025
Cattle futures extended gains Thursday on bullish fundamentals and stronger outside markets.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 83¢ higher. Live Cattle futures were an average of 66¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are steady in Kansas at $201/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $201 in the Texas Panhandle, $203-$205 in Nebraska and $203-$206 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices $322 in were Nebraska and $320-$322 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.06 lower Thursday afternoon at $330.96/cwt. Select was 78¢ lower at $317.21.
Traders added some South American weather premium back into Corn and Soybean futures.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 4¢ to 5¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 4¢ lower. Soybean futures were 6¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 23, 2025
Cattle futures powered ahead Wednesday with little apparent explanation other than exuberant fund-buying and perhaps bullish positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Pre-report estimates peg the Jan. 1 feedlot inventory 0.2% lower year over year, December placements 1.8% higher and December marketings 1.3% higher.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $3.75 higher ($3.00 to $6.40 higher). Live Cattle futures were an average of $2.23 higher ($1.87 to $3.02 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on moderate demand to mostly inactive on moderate demand through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service, with too few transactions to trend. Some early FOB live trade was noted in the Texas Panhandle at $202.
So far this week, FOB live prices are steady in Kansas at $201/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $201 in the Texas Panhandle, $203-$205 in Nebraska and $203-$206 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices $322 in Nebraska and $320-$322 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 3¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $332.02/cwt. Select was $1.56 lower at $317.99.
Grain and Soybean futures were lower Wednesday with likely profit taking.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 1¢ to 5¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 1¢ to 2¢ lower. Soybean futures were 3¢ to 10¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 22, 2025
Feeder Cattle futures were pressured by stronger Corn futures, worries about cold-damaged winter wheat pasture in the Southern Plains and perhaps growing hesitancy related to the ultimate opening of the Mexican border to feeder cattle. Toward the close, they were down an average of $1.63 lower, except for 85¢ higher in spot Jan.
Live Cattle futures were narrowly mixed Tuesday, awaiting the week’s cash trade. They were an average of 35¢ higher, except for unchanged to an average of 6¢ lower in three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was light on light demand in Kansas through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were steady at $201/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was mostly inactive on very light demand
Last week, FOB live prices were $201 in the Texas Panhandle, $203-$205 in Nebraska and $203-$206 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices $322 in Nebraska and $320-$322 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.11 lower Tuesday afternoon at $332.05/cwt. Select was 11¢ higher at $319.55.
Corn and Soybean futures were higher Tuesday, helped along by the drier South American weather outlook and more optimism regarding tariffs.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ to 6¢ higher. Soybean futures were 24¢ to 33¢ higher.
Wheat futures gained on prospects of freeze damage in the Southern Plains. Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Kansas City Wheat futures were 25¢ to 26¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 21, 2025
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $201/cwt., steady to $1 higher in Kansas at $201, unevenly steady in Nebraska at $203-$205 and $1-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $203-$206. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher in Nebraska at $322 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $320-$322.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 53¢ lower Monday afternoon at $333.16/cwt. Select was 39¢ lower at $319.44.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 20, 2025
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand in the Southern Plains to light to moderate on light to moderate demand in the North through Friday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $201/cwt., steady to $1 higher in Kansas at $201, unevenly steady in Nebraska at $203-$205 and $1-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $203-$206. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher in Nebraska at $322 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $320-$322.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 28¢ higher Friday afternoon at $333.69/cwt. Select was 45¢ higher at $319.83. Week to week, Choice was 85¢ higher and Select was $5.69 higher.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week was 603,000 head, which was 14,000 head more than the previous week but 2,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 1.5 million head was 219,000 head fewer (-12.9%) than the same period a year earlier. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 1.3 billion pounds was 138.2 million pounds less (-9.7%).
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed Friday, perhaps with some positioning on the long weekend.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 38¢ lower, except for an average of 19¢ higher in the front two contracts. Live Cattle futures closed from an average of 29¢ lower in six contracts to an average of 15¢ higher.
Week to week on Friday, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.34 lower, except for $1.15 higher in spot Jan. Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.56 lower
Corn and Soybean futures were mixed Friday.
Corn futures closed 8¢ to 10¢ higher through old-crop contracts on tighter stocks relative to demand, then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher. Week to week, they were an average of 12’4¢ higher through old-crop contracts; up an average of 33¢ over the past two weeks.
Kansas City Wheat futures closed mostly unchanged to fractionally lower on Friday. Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 15¢ higher through near Aug, and then 1¢ to 7¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 17, 2025
Cattle futures lost ground Thursday, with likely profit taking, technical resistance and perhaps reaction to chatter about when cattle imports from Mexico might resume.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was active on good demand in Nebraska through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service, with FOB live prices unevenly steady at $202-$205/cwt. and dressed delivered prices $2 higher at $322.
Trade was light to moderate on moderate to good demand in the western Corn Belt with FOB live prices steady to $3 higher at $203-$205. Dressed delivered prices last week were $320.
In the Southern Plains, trade was light on light demand with too few transactions to trend. For the week, dressed delivered prices are $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $201 and steady to $1 higher in Kansas at $201.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 73¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $333.41/cwt. Select was $1.34 higher at $319.38.
Cattle futures lost ground Thursday, with likely profit taking, technical resistance and perhaps reaction to chatter about when cattle imports from Mexico might resume.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.95 lower. Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.36 lower.
Corn and Soybean futures were lower Thursday with likely producer selling and profit taking.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 4¢ to 6¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 9¢ lower. Soybean futures were 19¢ to 22¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 16, 2025
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was light on light demand in the Texas Panhandle through Wednesday afternoon with FOB live prices $1 higher at $201/cwt. in a light test, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices were steady to $1 higher in Kansas at $201 on moderate trade and demand.
Elsewhere, trade was mostly inactive on very light demand.
Last week, FOB live prices were $203 in Nebraska and $200-$205 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $320.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.16 higher Wednesday afternoon at $334.14/cwt. Select was 67¢ lower at $318.04.
Cattle futures gained Wednesday with help from more optimistic outside markets and the prospects of at least steady cash fed cattle trade.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.13 higher. Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.24 higher.
Corn and Soybean futures were mixed Wednesday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were mostly 1¢ to 4¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 2¢ to 3¢ lower. Soybean futures were 4¢ to 8¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast — Jan. 15, 2025
Cattle futures consolidated Tuesday awaiting this week’s cash fed cattle direction.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 52¢ higher across a broad range. Live Cattle futures were an average of 49¢ lower across a broad range.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade mostly inactive on very light demand in all regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were 200/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $200-$201 in Kansas, $203 in Nebraska and $200-$203 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $320.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 37¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $332.98/cwt. Select was $1.14 higher at $318.71.
Corn and Soybean futures softened Tuesday with likely profit taking in the wake of the recent surge higher.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly fractionally higher.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 7¢ lower, except for 3¢ higher in expiring Jan.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 14, 2025
Cattle futures were lower Monday on likely profit taking and positioning following last week’s charge higher.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.42 lower. Live Cattle futures closed an average of 96¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade mostly inactive on very light demand in all regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $3-$4 higher in the Texas Panhandle at 200/cwt., $4 higher in Kansas at $200-$201, $3 higher in Nebraska at $203 and steady to $5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $200-$203. Dressed delivered prices were $5 higher at $320.
Last week’s weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price was $3.65 higher at $202.58/cwt. The weighted five-area average dressed delivered steer price was $5.29 higher at $320.25.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 51¢ higher Monday afternoon at $333.35/cwt. Select was $3.43 higher at $317.57.
Corn and Soybean futures continued higher Monday with follow-through support from Friday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates, dragging Wheat along.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures closed 5¢ to 7¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 9¢ to 11¢ higher. Soybean futures closed 20¢ to 30¢ higher
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 13, 2025
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was light on moderate demand in the Southern Plains and Nebraska through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Trade in the western Corn Belt was limited on light demand.
For the week, FOB live prices were $4 higher in the Southern Plains at 200-201/cwt., $3 higher in Nebraska at $203 and steady to $5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $200-$203. Dressed delivered prices were $5 higher at $320.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.06 higher Friday afternoon at $332.84/cwt. Select was $5.79 higher at $314.14.
Week to week on Friday, Choice was $7.60 higher and Select was $17.42 higher.
Estimated beef production so far this year illustrates the slower year-over-year production pace, down 161.7 million pounds (-17.6%) compared to the same time last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 870,000 head was 217,000 head fewer (-20%).
Cattle futures continued higher Friday, buoyed by higher cash fed cattle prices and stronger wholesale beef values.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.26 higher (75¢ higher at the back to $3.12 higher at the front). Week to week, they were an average of $6.07 higher ($5.22 to $7.52 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 86¢ higher Friday (27¢ to $1.37 higher). Week to week, they were an average of $3.39 higher ($2.37 higher at the back to $4.27 higher in spot Feb).
Turning to the grain complex, Corn and Soybean futures bounced higher with help from cuts to yield and. Ending stocks in the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed 14¢ to 15¢ higher in old-crop contracts and then mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher. Week to week, they were an average of 20’6¢ higher through old-crop contracts.
Soybean futures closed 16¢ to 26¢ higher through Jan ’26 and then 8¢ to 13¢ higher.
Kansas City Wheat futures closed mostly 2¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 10, 2025
Cattle futures took a step higher Thursday, helped along by the prospects of higher cash fed cattle prices and stronger wholesale beef values.
Before settlement, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $3.26 higher. Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.96 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand in the western Corn Belt to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
However, there were reports of $200 live cash prices in the Southern Plains and more up North.
Last week, FOB live prices were $196-$197/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $200 in Nebraska and the western Corn. Dressed delivered prices were $315.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.17 higher Thursday afternoon at $330.78/cwt. Select was $1.46 higher at $308.35.
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed Thursday between South American weather and positioning ahead of the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates and Grain Stocks report due out Friday.
Before settlement, Corn futures were 1¢ to 2¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 2¢ lower. Soybean futures were mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 9, 2025
Cattle futures closed lower Wednesday on likely profit taking and the absence of weekly cash fed cattle direction.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.38 lower. Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.67 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $196-$197/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $200 in Nebraska and the western Corn. Dressed delivered prices were $315.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.82 higher Wednesday afternoon at $328.61/cwt. Select was $1.46 higher at $306.89.
Grain and Soybean futures were lower Wednesday with pressure from the higher U.S. dollar and perhaps some positioning ahead of the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates and Grain Stocks report due out this Friday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 2¢ to 4¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 5¢ to 6¢ lower. Soybean futures were mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 8, 2025
Strong fundamentals and increasing open interest helped lift Cattle futures Tuesday.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.95 higher. Live Cattle futures were an average of 74¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $196-$197/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $200 in Nebraska and the western Corn. Dressed delivered prices were $315.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.31 lower Tuesday afternoon at $325.79/cwt. Select was $2.10 higher at $305.43.
Grain and Soybean futures closed mixed Tuesday with traders keeping in mind the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates and Grain Stocks report due out this Friday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were mainly unchanged. Kansas City Wheat futures were 2¢ to 3¢ higher. Soybean futures were mostly fractionally lower to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 7, 2025
Cattle futures closed higher Monday on bullish fundamentals, following the previous session’s profit taking.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.82 higher. Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.48 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $4 higher in the Southern Plains at $197/cwt., $3-$4 higher in Nebraska at $200 and $3-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $200. Dressed delivered prices were $8 higher at $315.
Last week’s five-area direct weighted average FOB live steer price was $4.12 higher at $198.93. The weighted averaged dressed delivered steer price was $7.91 higher at $314.96.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.86 higher Monday afternoon at $327.10/cwt. Select was $6.61 higher at $303.33.
Grain and Soybean futures were higher Monday, buoyed by South American weather expectations.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 4¢ to 6¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 13¢ to 14¢ higher. Soybean futures were 1¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 6, 2025
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was active to moderate on very good demand in the North through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Trade in the Southern Plains was light on good demand.
For the week, FOB live prices were $4-$5 higher in the Southern Plains at mainly $197/cwt., $3-$4 higher in Nebraska at $200 and $3-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $200. Dressed delivered prices were $8 higher at $315.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.76 higher Friday afternoon at $325.24/cwt. Select was $2.49 higher at $296.72.
Based on the last full week of December, estimated total cattle slaughter in 2024 was about 1.2 million head less (-3.7%) year over year, while estimated beef production was 169.1 million pounds less (-0.6%).
Cattle futures closed lower Friday with likely profit taking.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.32 lower. Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.02 lower, except for 45¢ higher in spot Feb.
Week to week on Friday, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.32 higher (32¢ to $3.62 higher) except for 70¢ lower in the back contract. Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.57 higher through the front three contracts and then an average of 37¢ higher.
Grain and Soybean futures closed lower Friday.
Corn futures closed 7¢ to 9¢ lower through old-crop contracts and then mostly 5¢ lower with some likely producer selling.
Kansas City Wheat futures closed 12¢ to 13¢ lower through Jly ’26, pressured by poor exports and positive domestic production conditions. Net U.S. weekly export sales for the week ending Dec. 26 were down 77% from the previous week — a marketing year lower — and 68% less than the prior four-week period.
Soybean futures closed mostly 16¢ to 21¢ lower, also pressured by anemic export sales — down 51% from the prior week and down 67% from the previous four-week average.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 3, 2024
Cattle futures rose Thursday, led by cash.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.41 higher. Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.35 higher, except for $1.22 lower in newly minted away Jun.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was light to moderate on good demand in Kansas through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were $3-$4 higher at $196/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was limited on good demand with too few transactions to trend.
FOB live prices last week were $192-$193/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $196-$197 in Nebraska and $195-$197 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $307.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 24¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $323.48/cwt. Select was 29¢ lower at $294.23.
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed on Thursday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Soybean futures were 1¢ to 3¢ higher. Corn futures were 1¢ to 3¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 6¢ to 8¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 2, 2025
Cattle futures gained Tuesday, helped along by expectations of steady to higher cash fed cattle prices this week.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.78 higher. Live Cattle futures were an average of 72¢ higher, except for 22¢ lower in expiring Dec.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on very light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices last week were $192-$193/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $196-$197 in Nebraska and $195-$197 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $307.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.15 lower Tuesday afternoon at $324.22/cwt. Select was 24¢ lower at $294.52.
Grain and Soybean futures closed higher Tuesday with traders apparently adding South American weather risk premium as they squared year-end positions.
Soybean futures closed 14¢ to 19¢ higher. Corn futures were mostly 4¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 31 to Jan. 2, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on very light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices last week were $1-$2 higher at $192-$193/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $196-$197 in Nebraska and $195-$197 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher at $307.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.99 higher Monday afternoon at $325.37/cwt., supported by slower packer production. Select was $3.63 higher at $294.76.
Cattle futures mostly edged higher Monday.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 37¢ higher, except for an average of 28¢ lower in the back two contracts. Live Cattle futures were an average of 25¢ higher, except for an average of 28¢ lower in two contracts.
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed on Monday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Soybean futures were 2¢ to 4¢ higher. Corn futures were 1¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 30, 2024
Cattle futures extended gains Friday, supported by another day of stronger wholesale beef values and higher cash fed cattle prices.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 97¢ higher. Live Cattle futures were an average of 69¢ higher. Week to week on Friday, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $4.23 higher. Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.96 higher ($2.12 to $3.97 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from light to moderate on moderate demand in the Southern Plains to light on light demand in the North through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices were $1-$2 higher in the Southern Plains at $192-$193/cwt.
There were some early live FOB trades in the western Corn Belt at $196 and a few dressed delivered trades in Nebraska at $307, but too few to trend.
The previous week, FOB live prices were $195-$195.50 in Nebraska and $195-$196 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $305.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.99 higher Friday afternoon at $322.38/cwt. Select was $2.36 higher at $291.13. Week to week on Friday, Choice was $6.53 higher and Select was $5.22 higher.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 434,000 head was 67,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 31 million head was 1.2 million head less (-3.7%) than the same time a year earlier. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 26.4 billion pounds was 169.1 million pounds less (-0.6%).
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed Friday.
Corn futures closed mixed, from fractionally higher to 1¢ higher in old-crop contracts and then fractionally lower to 1¢ lower. They were an average of 6’3¢ higher through the front six contracts week to week, supported by demand. Net weekly U.S. export sales of corn were 46% more than the previous week and 39% more than the prior four-week average.
Kansas City Wheat futures were 3¢ higher helped along by stronger recent demand. Net weekly U.S. export sales were 34% more than the previous week and 64% more than the prior four-week average.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 8¢ lower, giving back some of the previous session’s South American weather premium and pressured by a reminder of lagging demand. Weekly net U.S. export sales were 31% less than the previous week — a marketing year low — and 47% less than the prior four-week average.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 27, 2024
Cattle futures were sharply higher Thursday, buoyed by stronger wholesale beef values and the prospects of steady to higher cash fed cattle trade again this week.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $3.79 higher. Live Cattle futures were an average of $2.47 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand in the Southern Plains to a standstill in North through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $191/cwt., in the Southern Plains on a light test, $195-$195.50 in Nebraska and $195-$196 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $305.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.41 higher Thursday afternoon at $320.39/cwt. Select was $2.02 higher at $288.77.
Grain and Soybean futures bounced higher Thursday, perhaps with short covering and perceived value buying.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 4¢ to 6¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 8¢ higher. Soybean futures were 12¢ to 16¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 24-25, 2024
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed Monday with traders appearing to view Friday’s Cattle on Feed report as neutral.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 31¢ higher. Live Cattle futures were narrowly mixed, from an average of 42¢ lower to an average of 11¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $191/cwt., in the Southern Plains on a light test, $195-$195.50 in Nebraska and $195-$196 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $305.
The weekly weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price was 42¢ higher at $194.73. The weighted averaged dressed delivered steer price was $2.20 higher at 305.64.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 13¢ higher Monday afternoon at $315.98/cwt. Select was 84¢ higher at $286.75.
The grain complex was mixed Monday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Soybean futures were mostly 3¢ to 5¢ lower. Corn futures were unchanged to 2¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 23, 2024
Cattle futures closed higher Friday, helped along by rebounding outside markets and steady to higher cash fed cattle prices. .
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.26 higher. Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.14 higher (62¢ higher at the back to $1.85 higher toward the front).
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.00 lower ($1.00 to $3.62 lower). Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.63 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand in the Southern Plains to slow on light to moderate demand elsewhere, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were steady in Kansas at $191/cwt., unevenly steady in Nebraska at $195-$195.50 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $195-$196. Dressed delivered prices were $305, which was steady to $5 higher in Nebraska and steady to $3 higher in the western Corn Belt. FOB live prices in the Texas Panhandle the previous week were $191-$192 in a light test.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.84 lower Friday afternoon at $315.85/cwt. Select was $1.80 higher at $285.91.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 617,000 head was 8,000 head more than the previous week but 4,000 head less than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 30.6 million head was 1.1 million head less (-3.6%) year over year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 26 billion pounds was 121.3 million pounds less (-0.5%).
Soybean futures were 10¢ to 13¢ higher through Aug ’26 and then mostly 7¢ to 8¢ higher, supported by short covering. Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Daily—Dec. 20, 2024
Cattle futures moved lower Thursday with the lack of weekly cash fed cattle trade direction and perhaps wariness over Friday’s Cattle on Feed report.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.97 lower. Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.81 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill in the Texas Panhandle to light on light demand elsewhere through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $191-$192/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $191 in Kansas, $195 in Nebraska and $193-$196 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $300-$305.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $5.85 higher Thursday afternoon at $320.69/cwt. Select was $1.44 lower at $284.11.
Grain and Soybean futures closed mixed Thursday, with a bounce in Soybeans after recent aggressive selling.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Soybean futures were 11¢ to 13¢ higher. Corn futures were 2¢ to 3¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 5¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 19, 2024
Cattle futures were lower Wednesday as wholesale beef values weakened, outside markets turned negative, and perhaps with some early positioning ahead of Friday’s Cattle on Feed report.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 72¢ lower. Live Cattle futures were an average of 79¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from light on light demand in Nebraska to inactive on very light demand elsewhere through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $191-$192/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $191 in Kansas, $195 in Nebraska and $193-$196 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $300-$305.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 79¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $314.84/cwt. Select was $2.95 lower at $285.55.
Grain and Soybean were lower again on Wednesday, once again led by Soybeans.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 5¢ to 6¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 3¢ to 4¢ lower. Soybean futures were 24¢ to 26¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 18, 2024
Cattle futures firmed but closed mixed on Tuesday.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.80 higher. Live Cattle futures were narrowly mixed from an average of 21¢ lower, to an average of 19¢ higher.
Given the temporary suspension of Mexican cattle imports, and the timing late last month, it will be interesting to see how traders position ahead of Friday’s Cattle on Feed report. Depending on the source, analyst estimates ahead of the report see November placements about 4% less year over year and marketings down about 2%, leaving cattle on feed Dec. 1 about even.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was inactive on very light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $191-$192/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $191 in Kansas, $195 in Nebraska and $193-$196 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $300-$305.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.74 lower Tuesday afternoon at $315.63/cwt. Select was $1.07 lower at $288.50.
Grain and Soybean futures softened Tuesday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 1¢ to 2¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 6¢ to 7¢ lower. Soybean futures were 6¢ to 8¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 17, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was inactive on very light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $191-$192/cwt, steady in Kansas at $191, $4-$6 higher in Nebraska at $196 and $3-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $193-$196. Dressed delivered prices were $3-$8 higher in Nebraska at $300-$305 and $5-$8 higher in the western Corn Belt at $302-$305.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live fed steer price last week was $3.41 higher at $194.31/cwt. The weighted averaged dressed delivered fed steer price was $6.23 higher at $297.21.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 98¢ higher Monday afternoon at $317.37/cwt. Select was $5.71 higher at $289.57.
Cattle futures closed lower Monday with likely profit taking.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.37 lower. Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 75¢ lower across a broad range with most of the pressure in the front three contracts.
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed Monday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts,
Corn futures were 1¢ to 3¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were fractionally lower to 1¢ higher. Soybean futures were 5¢ to 8¢ lower
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 16, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to inactive on very light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $191-$192/cwt, steady in Kansas at $191 and $4-$5 higher in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt at $195-$196/cwt. Dressed delivered prices were $8 higher in Nebraska at $305 on a light test and $5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $302.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.15 higher Friday afternoon at $316.39/cwt. Select was $3.38 higher at $283.86. Week to week on Friday, Choice was $4.35 higher and Select was $7.13 higher.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 609,000 head was 5,000 head fewer than the previous week and 38,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 30 million head was 1.1 million head less (-3.7%). Year-to-date estimated beef production of 25.5 billion pounds was 131.5 million pounds less (-0.5%).
Cattle futures closed mixed Friday, with Live Cattle supported by higher cash fed cattle prices and stronger wholesale beef values.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 66¢ lower. Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 93¢ higher in the front four contracts (22¢ to $1.52 higher) to an average of 21¢ lower.
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $3.09 higher ($1.25 higher at the back to $6.27 higher in spot Dec). During the same period, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.17 higher (from 55¢ higher at the back to $3.00 higher toward the front).
Grain and Soybean futures closed lower Friday with likely profit taking and farmer selling.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 8¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 13, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices climbed higher in the North Thursday where trade was slow with moderate to good demand through the afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Compared to last week, FOB live prices were $4-$5 higher in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt at $195-$196/cwt. For the week, dressed delivered prices are $8 higher in Nebraska at $305 on a light test and $5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $302.
Trade in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon was mostly inactive on light demand. FOB live prices in Kansas earlier in the week were steady at $191. FOB live prices in the Texas Panhandle the previous week were $190-$191.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.01 higher Thursday afternoon at $315.24/cwt. Select was $2.37 higher at $280.48.
Cattle futures softened Thursday, with some likely profit taking and despite higher cash fed cattle prices and stronger wholesale beef values.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.06 lower. Live Cattle futures were an average of 81¢ lower, except for unchanged in the spot contract.
Grain and Soybean futures softened Thursday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 2¢ to 5¢ lower with likely profit taking and farmer selling. Kansas City Wheat futures were 4¢ lower. Soybean futures were mostly fractionally mixed.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 12, 2024
Cattle futures continued higher Wednesday amid strong fundamentals and prospects for higher cash fed cattle trade this week.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.63 higher. Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.60 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand in the Southern Plains to limited on light demand in the North through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were some early FOB live prices at $193/cwt. in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt but too few to trend.
Established trade so far this week is steady at $191 FOB live in Kansas.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190-$191 in the Texas Panhandle and $190-$192 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $297.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 31¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $311.23/cwt. Select was $1.54 lower at $278.11.
Grain and Soybean futures firmed Wednesday, with follow-through support from the World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates, offset by chart resistance in Corn.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly fractionally higher. Soybean futures were mostly 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 11, 2024
Cattle futures were strongly higher Tuesday, helped along by early indications of steady to higher cash prices.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.77 higher. Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.48 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in Kansas through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were steady at $191/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from mostly inactive to a standstill.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190-$191 in the Texas Panhandle and $190-$192 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $297.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.41 lower Tuesday afternoon at $311.73/cwt. Select was 31¢ higher at $279.65.
Grain and Soybean futures were higher Tuesday, benefiting from the friendly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below).
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts,
Corn futures were mostly 6¢ to 7¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 6¢ higher. Soybean futures were 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 10, 2024
Cattle futures were mostly higher Friday, supported by last week’s higher cash fed cattle trade and stronger wholesale beef values.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 45¢ higher, except for an average of 12¢ lower at either end of the board. Live Cattle futures were an average of 44¢ higher.
There was no Monday afternoon USDA fed cattle sale summary available at press time.
Last week, FOB live prices were $191/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $191-$192 in Nebraska and $190 in the western Corn Belt.
Dressed delivered prices in the western Corn Belt were $297. Prices in Nebraska the previous week were $295.
The five-area direct weighted average FOB live steer prices last week was 93¢ higher at $190.90. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was 57¢ higher at $297.21.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.10 higher Monday afternoon at $314.14/cwt. Select was $2.61 higher at $279.34.
Grain and Soybean futures closed mixed Monday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 4¢ to 5¢ higher. Soybean futures were 1¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 9, 2024
Cattle futures closed mainly higher Friday, boosted by higher cash fed cattle prices and despite USDA announcing a National Milk Testing Strategy aimed at surveillance of the nation’s milk supply and dairy herds for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.04 higher. Live Cattle futures closed an average of 39¢ higher, except for an average of 20¢ lower in two contracts.
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.84 lower (60¢ to $2.60 lower). Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.15 lower during the same period.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from light on light demand in the Texas Panhandle to slow on light demand in other regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $1-$3 higher on a light test in the Texas Panhandle at $191/cwt., $1 higher in Kansas at $191, steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $191-$192 and steady in the western Corn belt at $190.
Dressed delivered prices in the western Corn Belt were $297, which was from $3 higher to $8 lower. Prices in Nebraska the previous week were $295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.20 higher Friday afternoon at $312.04/cwt. Select was 37¢ lower at $276.73.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 614,000 head was 24,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 29.4 million head was 1.1 million head fewer (-3.6%). Estimated year-to-date beef production of 24.9 billion pounds was 108.3 million pounds less (-0.4%).
Grain and Soybean futures closed mixed Friday.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher, supported by weekly export sales and perhaps some betting on favorable adjustments in next week’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Kansas City Wheat futures closed 1¢ higher through Dec ’25 and then mostly fractionally lower. Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 6, 2024
Cattle futures weakened further Thursday sans weekly cash fed cattle direction and sluggish Choice wholesale beef values.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.88 lower. Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.66 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand in the Southern Plains to slow on light demand in the North through Thursday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $190-$192 in Nebraska and $185-$190 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $290 in Nebraska and $294-$305 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 49¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $307.84/cwt. Select was 60¢ lower at $277.10.
Grain and Soybean futures closed higher Thursday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher, supported by weekly export sales that were 63% more than the previous week and 4% more than the prior-four-week average. Kansas City Wheat futures were 10¢ to 11¢ higher. Soybean futures were 7¢ to 10¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 5, 2025
Cattle futures tracked lower Wednesday as traders await the week’s cash fed cattle direction and Choice wholesale beef values struggle.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.46 lower.
Live Cattle futures were an average of 91¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand in the North to a standstill in the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $190-$192 in Nebraska and $185-$190 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $290 in Nebraska and $294-$305 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.50 lower Wednesday afternoon at $308.33/cwt. Select was $2.37 higher at $277.70.
Grain and Soybean futures continued mixed again Wednesday with overall pressure including the strength of the U.S. dollar and uncertainty related to the coming shift in presidential administrations
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 1¢ to 2¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were fractionally higher to 3¢ higher. Soybean futures were 6¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 4, 2024
Cattle futures found some footing Tuesday, led by Feeder Cattle as the CME Feeder Cattle Index continued to rise — up about $5 in the last two days.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.48 higher. Live Cattle futures were an average of 73¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $190-$192 in Nebraska and $185-$190 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $290 in Nebraska and $294-$305 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.68 lower Wednesday afternoon at $309.33/cwt. Select was $1.67 lower at $275.33.
Grain and Soybean futures closed mixed again Tuesday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were fractionally lower to 1¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 1¢ to 2¢ higher. Soybean futures were 2¢ to 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 3, 2024
Cattle futures softened Monday, led by Feeder Cattle, perhaps pressured by profit taking.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.31 lower. Live Cattle futures were an average of 40¢ lower, except for an average of 20¢ higher in the back two contracts.
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 $2-$3 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $190/cwt., $3-$4 higher in Kansas at $190, $3-$4 higher in Nebraska at $190-$192 and $2-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $185-$190. Dressed delivered prices were $5 higher in Nebraska at $290 and $4-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $294-$305.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.49 higher Monday afternoon at $313.01/cwt. Select was $2.70 higher at $277.00.
Grain and Soybean futures closed mixed Monday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were fractionally lower to 2¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were fractionally lower to 2¢ higher. Soybean futures were 4¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 2, 2024
Cattle futures closed mainly higher Friday, with week-to-week gains supported by stronger cash fed cattle prices and wholesale beef values.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.24 higher. Week to week, they were an average of $4.60 higher; an average of $11.51 higher over the past two weeks.
Live Cattle futures were an average of 51¢ higher (2¢ to 75¢ higher), except for 2¢ lower in spot Dec. Week to week they were an average of $1.19 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was inactive on very light demand in all regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $2-$3 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $190/cwt., $3-$4 higher in Kansas at $190, $3-$4 higher in Nebraska at $190-$192 and $2-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $185-$190. Dressed delivered prices were $5 higher in Nebraska at $290 and $4-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $294-$305.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 74¢ lower Friday afternoon at $310.52/cwt. Select was unchanged at $274.30. Week to week, Choice was $3.11 higher and Select was up $2.23.
Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 28.7 million head was 1.1 million head less (-3.6%) than the same time last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production was 110.5 million pounds less (-0.5%).
Grain and Soybean futures closed mixed Friday.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 7¢ higher through Jly ’25 and then mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
Kansas City Wheat futures closed mostly 2¢ to 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 28-29, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate with good demand in all regions through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices were $190/cwt. in all regions, which was $2-$3 higher in the Texas Panhandle, $3-$4 higher in Kansas, $2-$3 higher in Nebraska and $2-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices last week were at $290 in Nebraska and $290-$300 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 31¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $311.26/cwt. Select was $1.19 lower at $274.30.
Cattle futures closed higher Wednesday, supported by stronger cash fed cattle prices. Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 75¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 88¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 27, 2024
Feeder Cattle futures continued higher Tuesday, buoyed in part by the temporary suspension of live cattle imports from Mexico (see below).
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.74 higher. Live Cattle futures were narrowly mixed, from an average of 19¢ lower in four contracts to an average of 21¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill in all regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $186-$187/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $187-$188 in Nebraska and $186-$188 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $290 in Nebraska and $290-$300 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.86 higher Tuesday afternoon at $311.57/cwt. Select was $1.75 higher at $275.49.
Turning to the grain complex, futures were mixed. Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ to 5¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 1¢ to 2¢ higher. Soybean futures were 2¢ lower to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 26, 2024
Feeder Cattle futures gained on Monday, due in part to USDA’s temporary suspension of imports and transit of live cattle from Mexico after the positive detection of New World screwworm in that nation (see below).
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.13 higher, except for 45¢ lower in the back contract. Live Cattle futures were narrowly mixed: unchanged to an average of 27¢ lower through the front four contracts and then an average of 23¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $186/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Kansas at $186-$187, $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $187-$188 and $1-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $186-$188. Dressed delivered prices were steady at $290 in Nebraska and $290-$300 in the western Corn Belt.
The five-area direct weighted average FOB fed steer price last week was $1.60 higher at $186.39/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was 72¢ higher at $291.56.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.30 higher Monday afternoon at $309.71/cwt. Select was $1.67 higher at $273.74.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were mostly 2¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 6¢ to 8¢ lower. Soybean futures were 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 25, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light to moderate demand in all regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $186/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Kansas at $186-$187, $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $187-$188 and $1-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $186-$188. Dressed delivered prices were steady in Nebraska at $290. The previous week dressed delivered prices in the western Corn Belt were $290-$300.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 62¢ higher Friday afternoon at $307.41/cwt. Select was 85¢ lower at $272.07. Week to week on Friday, Choice was $4.07 higher, but Select was $4.07 lower.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 631,000 head was 25,000 head more than the previous week. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 28.2 million head was 975,000 head fewer (-3.3%) than the same period last year. Year-to-date beef production of 23.9 billion pounds was 27.8 million pounds fewer (-0.1%) than the same time last year.
Cattle futures continued higher Friday, bolstered by the week’s firmer Choice wholesale beef value and steady to stronger cash fed cattle prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.08 higher on Friday and were an average of $6.91 higher week to week.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 48¢ higher Friday. Week to week, they were an average of $3.06 higher.
Grain and Soybean futures continued lower Friday.
Corn futures were mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 2¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 7¢ higher through Nov ‘25 and then mostly 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 22, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand in the North to a standstill in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were some dressed delivered sales in Nebraska at $290/cwt., which was steady with last week.
Last week, FOB live prices were $185/cwt., in all regions. Dressed delivered prices were $290-$300 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 40¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $306.79/cwt. Select was $1.93 higher at $272.92.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 80¢ higher with continued support from improved winter grazing prospects. Live Cattle futures were an average of 23¢ lower with likely pressure from positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Grain and Soybean futures were lower Thursday with pressure including the higher U.S. dollar.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ to 4¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 6¢ to 7¢ lower. Soybean futures were 9¢ to 12¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 20, 2024
Cattle futures continued higher Tuesday, helped along by this week’s firmer Choice wholesale beef values.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.50 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.43 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on very light demand through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $185/cwt., in all regions. Dressed delivered prices were $290 in Nebraska and $290-$300 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.51 higher Tuesday afternoon at $308.79/cwt. Select was $3.54 lower at $271.91.
Grain and Soybean futures closed higher Friday as traders appeared to apply more risk premium based on Russia’s war with Ukraine.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 1¢ to 2¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 2¢ higher. Soybean futures were 7¢ to 11¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 19, 2024
Cattle futures extended gains Monday, led once again by Feeder Cattle and underpinned by strong cash demand for calves and feeder cattle.
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.41 higher. Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.18 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $185/cwt., in all regions. Dressed delivered prices were $290 in Nebraska and $290-$300 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.94 higher Monday afternoon at $307.28/cwt. Select was 69¢ lower at $275.45.
Grain and Soybean futures closed higher Friday as traders appeared to apply more risk premium based on Russia’s war with Ukraine.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were fractionally higher to 5¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 12¢ to 14¢ higher. Soybean futures were 8¢ to 11¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 18, 2024
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.16 higher on Friday, leading the complex higher. Week to week on Friday, they closed an average of $5.58 higher, buoyed by lower Corn futures and strong cash demand in the country with added support from recent rains in wheat pasture country.
Live Cattle futures were an average of 73¢ higher, except for unchanged in spot Dec. Week to week on Friday, they closed an average of $1.39 higher, except for an average of 40¢ lower in the front two contracts.
That was despite weaker negotiated cash fed cattle prices.
For the week, FOB live prices were $185/cwt., which was $2 lower in the Southern Plains, $1-$2 lower in Nebraska and steady to $3 lower in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $4 lower at $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 46¢ lower Friday afternoon at $303.34/cwt. Select was 52¢ lower at $276.14.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 606,000 head was 13,000 head fewer than the previous week and 33,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 27.6 million head was 1.1 million head fewer (-3.7%) than the same period last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 23.4 billion pounds was 125.7 million pounds less (-0.5%).
Grain and Soybean futures closed higher Friday on likely corrective buying.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 5¢ higher through Jly ’25 and then 2¢ to 3¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures closed 4¢ to 8¢ higher. Soybean futures closed mostly 5¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 15, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light to moderate demand in the North through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Based on the latest established trends, FOB live prices are $1-$2 lower in Nebraska at $185/cwt. and $3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $182-$185. Dressed delivered prices are $4 lower at $290.
Trade was limited on light demand in the Southern Plains. Although too few to trend, there were some early FOB live trades at $185. Prices last week were $187.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.14 lower Thursday afternoon at $303.80/cwt. Select was $2.00 lower at $276.66.
Cattle futures were mostly lower Thursday, pressured by lower cash fed cattle prices and sluggish wholesale beef values.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 95¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 56¢ lower, except for $1.22 higher in spot Nov and unchanged at the back.
Grain and Soybean futures were lower Thursday, with pressure from the stronger U.S. Dollar and positive growing conditions.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 4¢ to 7¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 6¢ to 8¢ lower. Soybean futures were 14¢ to 19¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 14, 2024
Cattle futures mainly edged higher Wednesday, awaiting established weekly cash fed cattle trade.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were narrowly mixed, from an average of 15¢ lower in the front three contracts to an average of 15¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 59¢ higher, except for 35¢ lower in spot Nov.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from light on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some early dressed delivered sales in Nebraska at $290/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $3 lower in the Southern Plains at $187/cwt., $3-$4 lower in Nebraska at $186-$187 and $2-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $185-$188. Dressed delivered prices were $2-$4 lower in Nebraska at $294 and $4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $294.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.33 lower Wednesday afternoon at $306.94/cwt. Select was $1.26 lower at $278.66.
Grain and Soybean futures were lower Wednesday, with continued pressure from the stronger U.S. Dollar.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 2¢ to 3¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 5¢ to 6¢ lower. Soybean futures were mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 13. 2024
Cattle futures extended gains Tuesday, supported by another day of firmer Choice boxed beef cutout values and likely short covering.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 96¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.56 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $3 lower in the Southern Plains at $187/cwt. and $3-$4 lower in Nebraska at $186-$187 and $2-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $185-$188. Dressed delivered prices were $2-$4 lower in Nebraska at $294 and $4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $294.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 6¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $308.27/cwt. Select was $1.92 higher at $279.92.
Grain and Soybean futures were lower Tuesday, with likely pressure from the stronger U.S. Dollar, profit taking and producer selling.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 1¢ to 2¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 11¢ to 13¢ lower. Soybean futures were mostly 8¢ to 13¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 12. 2024
Cattle futures found some footing Monday, helped along by the firmer boxed beef cutout values.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 21¢ higher, except for unchanged in spot Dec and $1.00 higher at the back of the board. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 87¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $3 lower in the Southern Plains at $187/cwt. and $3-$4 lower in Nebraska at $186-$187 and $2-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $185-$188. Dressed delivered prices were $2-$4 lower in Nebraska at $294 and $4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $294.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live fed steer price last week was $3.29 lower at $186.53. The weighted average dressed delivered fed steer price was $3.84 lower at $293.13.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 28¢ higher Monday afternoon at $308.21/cwt. Select was $2.65 higher at $281.84.
Grain and Soybean futures were lower Monday, presumably pressured by a higher U.S. dollar, farmer selling and sharply lower crude oil prices.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 1¢ to 3¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 3¢ to 5¢ lower. Soybean futures were 5¢ to 9¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 11, 2024
Cattle futures closed sharply lower Friday, pressured by lower cash prices, lower wholesale beef values and the Goldman role.
Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.38 lower. Week to week on Friday, they ranged from an average of $1.31 lower in the front four contracts to an average of 93¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.33 lower Friday. Week to week, they were an average of $1.28 lower, except for an average of 20¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from moderate on moderate demand in Nebraska to light on light demand in other major cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices were $3 lower in the Southern Plains at $187/cwt. and $2-$4 lower in Nebraska at $186-$188. Although too few to trend, there were some early trades in the western Corn Belt at $185-$186, where prices the previous week were $190.
Dressed delivered prices the previous week were $296-$298 in Nebraska and $298 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.53 lower Friday afternoon at $307.93/cwt. Select was 53¢ lower at $279.19.
Week to week on Friday, Choice boxed beef cutout value was $8.41 lower at $307.93/cwt. Select was $5.84 lower at $279.19. Over the past two weeks, Choice was down $14.31 and Select was $15.89 lower.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 619,000 head was 4,000 head more than the previous week but 4,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 27 million head was 1 million head fewer (-3.7%) than the same period last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 22.9 billion pounds was 117.5 million pounds less (-0.5%).
Turning to the grain complex, futures were mixed.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower. Soybean futures were mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher through Jan ’26 and then mainly fractionally lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 8, 2024
Cattle futures extended gains Thursday with follow-through support from outside markets.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 83¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 82¢ higher, except for unchanged in spot Nov.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190/cwt. in all regions with dressed delivered prices at $296-$298 in Nebraska and $298 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $6.13 lower Thursday afternoon at $309.46/cwt. Select was $3.48 lower at $279.72.
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed again Thursday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Soybean futures were 17¢ to 23¢ higher, boosted by weekly soybean oil exports. Corn futures were 2¢ to 3¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 3¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 7, 2024
Cattle futures were higher Wednesday, buoyed by aggressively stronger equity markets.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.04 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.64 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190/cwt. in all regions with dressed delivered prices at $296-$298 in Nebraska and $298 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.62 lower Wednesday afternoon at $315.59/cwt. Select was $2.04 lower at $283.20.
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed Wednesday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 4¢ to 8¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 1¢ to 3¢ lower. Soybean futures were mixed, from 2¢ lower to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 6, 2024
Cattle futures eased higher Tuesday, helped along by more bullish outside markets.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 28¢ higher, except for 25¢ lower in spot Dec. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 40¢ higher, except for 12¢ lower in spot Nov and no trade in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand in the western Corn Belt to a standstill in other major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190/cwt. in all regions with dressed delivered prices at $296-$298 in Nebraska and $298 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 30¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $317.21/cwt. Select was $1.92 lower at $285.24.
Grain and Soybean futures were stronger Tuesday with follow-through support from positive export sales.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were fractionally higher to 2¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 5¢ to 6¢ higher. Soybean futures 2¢ to 7¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 5, 2024
Cattle futures were lower Monday with likely technical pressure and uncertainty ahead of the election.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 75¢ lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 94¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190/cwt. with dressed delivered prices at $296-$298 in Nebraska and $298 in the western Corn Belt.
The five-area direct weighted average FOB live steer price last week was 23¢ lower at $189.82. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $1.93 lower at $296.97.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 34¢ higher Monday afternoon at $316.91/cwt. Select was $2.13 higher at $287.16.
Grain and Soybean futures were stronger Monday bolstered by positive export sales.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were fractionally mixed to 1¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were fractionally higher to 4¢ higher. Soybean futures were 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 4, 2024
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 15¢ higher, except for an average of 54¢ lower on either end of the board. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.64 higher, supported by strong cash trade.
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.11 lower and Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.77 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was inactive on very light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices are steady to $1 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $190/cwt. and steady in other regions at $190. Dressed delivered prices were steady to $2 lower at $296-$298 in Nebraska and $298 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.26 lower Friday afternoon at $316.34/cwt. Select was 34¢ lower at $285.03. Week to week on Friday, Choice was $5.90 lower and Select was $10.05 lower.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 615,000 head was 8,000 head fewer than the previous week and 21,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 26.4 million head was 1.0 million less (-3.8%) than the same period last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 22.3 billion pounds was 140.2 million pounds less (-0.6%).
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed Friday with support from recent export sales but continued harvest pressure and uncertainty surrounding the impending election.
Corn futures were 2¢ to 3¢ higher through Jly ’25 and then unchanged to fractionally mixed. Kansas City Wheat futures were 1¢ to 2¢ lower. Soybean futures were fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Currrent Podcast—Nov. 1, 2024
Live Cattle futures were mixed Thursday and Feeder Cattle futures were lower with pressure from recently lower wholesale beef prices and month-end position squaring.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures ranged from an average of 12¢ lower in three contracts to an average of 50¢ higher, except for $4.60 higher in expiring Oct. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 62¢ lower, except for 17¢ higher in new spot Nov and $1.02 higher in expiring Oct.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand in Nebraska to a standstill in the Texas Panhandle through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are steady to $1 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $190/cwt. and steady in other regions at $190. Dressed delivered prices are steady to $2 lower at $296-$298 in Nebraska and $298 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.84 lower Thursday afternoon at $317.60/cwt. Select was $3.95 lower at $285.37.
Corn and Soybean futures received support from export sales Thursday. For the week ending Oct. 24, net U.S. corn export sales were 7% higher than the previous four-week average and net U.S. soybean sales were 39% more than the prior four-week average.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were mostly 1¢ higher. Soybean futures were 5¢ to 7¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 5¢ lower, pressured by the wetter outlook for winter wheat areas of the country.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 31, 2024
Cattle futures continued to move lower Wednesday with weaker wholesale beef values and likely technical correction.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.31 lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.14 lower, except for 82¢ higher in expiring Oct.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was light to moderate, on moderate demand in the Western Corn Belt through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB Live prices were steady to $1 lower at $189-190/cwt. Dressed delivered prices were steady at $298 in a light test.
Elsewhere, trade was slow on light to moderate demand. Although too few to trend, there were some early FOB live sales at $190 in the Southern Plains.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190-$191/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle $190 in Kansas and mostly $190 in Nebraska, where dressed delivered prices were $298.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.17 lower Wednesday afternoon at $319.44/cwt. Select was 64¢ lower at $289.32.
Heading toward the close Wednesday, through Sep ’25 contracts, Soybean futures were mostly 10¢ to 12¢ higher on likely short covering. Corn futures fractionally mixed to 2¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Futures Podcast—Oct. 30, 2024
Cattle futures ran out of steam Tuesday with technical pressure and lower wholesale beef values.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.32 lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.76 lower, except for 7¢ higher in spot Oct.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190-$191/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle $190 in Kansas and mostly $190 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher in Nebraska at $298 and $2-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $298-$300 in a light test.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.89 lower Tuesday afternoon at $320.61/cwt. Select was $2.22 lower at $289.96.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Kansas City Wheat futures were 12¢ to 13¢ higher Tuesday with the bearish crop rating in Monday’s Weekly Crop Progress report indicating, 38% was in Good (33%) or Excellent (5%) condition versus 47% at the same time last year. 23% was rated as Poor (16%) of Very Poor (7%) compared to 18% a year earlier.
Corn futures were fractionally higher to 3¢ higher. Soybean futures were 2¢ to 8¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 29, 2024
Cattle futures were higher Monday, shrugging off Friday’s Cattle on Feed report, supported by high cash trade.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 24¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 86¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $2-$3 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $190-$191/cwt., mostly $2 higher in Kansas at mainly $190 and $2-$3 higher in the North at mostly $190. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher in Nebraska at $298 and $2-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $298-$300 in a light test.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.26 higher Monday afternoon at $323.50/cwt. Select was $2.90 lower at $292.18.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 28, 2024
Feeder Cattle futures were narrowly mixed Friday with likely trepidation ahead of the monthly Cattle on Feed report (see below). On Friday, Feeder Cattle closed from an average of 12¢ higher across the front half of the board to an average of 32¢ lower across the back half. They were also narrowly mixed in early-Monday trading.
Live Cattle futures were an average of 11¢ lower, except for 40¢ higher in spot Oct and unchanged in April.
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.09 higher (27¢ to $2.07 higher). Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 80¢ higher in the front three contracts to an average of $1.60 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand in the North to inactive on very light demand the Southern Plains through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend.
For the week, FOB live prices were $2-$3 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $190-$191/cwt., mostly $2 higher in Kansas at mainly $190 and $2-$3 higher in the North at mostly $190. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher in Nebraska at $298 and $2-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $298-$300 in a light test.
Last week’s weighted average five-area direct FOB live fed steer was $2.44 higher at $190.05. The average dressed delivered steer price was $2.69 higher at $298.90.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.07 higher Friday afternoon at $322.24/cwt. Select was 74¢ higher at $295.08. Week to week on Friday, Choice was $1.59 higher and Select was 88¢ higher.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 623,000 head was 15,000 head more than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 25.7 million head was 1 million head less (-3.8%). Year-to-date beef production of 21.8 billion pounds was 146.5 million pounds less (-0.7%).
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 24. 2024
Feeder Cattle futures softened Wednesday. Perhaps some of the softness had to do with the announcement yesterday that an E. coli outbreak in several states had been linked to a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder; more specifically, slivered onions (see below).
Toward the close, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.95 lower. Live Cattle futures were an average of 16¢ lower, except for 5¢ higher in away-Oct.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $188/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $187-$188 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $296.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.55 lower Wednesday afternoon at $321.41/cwt. Select was 97¢ higher at $295.77.
Turning to the grain complex, toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were fractionally higher to 3¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were little changed. Soybean futures were 1¢ to 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 23, 2024
Cattle futures gained Tuesday, with support from the continued increase in Choice boxed beef cutout values.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 89¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.33 higher
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $188/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $187-$188 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $296.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.10 higher Tuesday afternoon at $323.96/cwt. Select was $1.41 lower at $294.80.
Corn and Soybean futures were higher again Tuesday with follow-through support.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts,
Corn futures were 4¢ to 7¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 3¢ higher. Soybean futures were mostly 12¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 22, 2024
Cattle futures softened Monday, likely nudging chart resistance and perhaps with some early positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 50¢ lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.10 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were mainly $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $188/cwt. and steady in the North at $187-$188/cwt. with dressed delivered prices also steady at $296.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live fed steer price last week was $187.61/cwt., which was 40¢ more than the previous week. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was 29¢ higher at $296.21.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.21 higher Monday afternoon at $322.86/cwt. Select was $2.01 higher at $296.21.
Corn and Soybean futures were higher Monday, helped by recent export sales.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were mostly 3¢ to 4¢ higher. Soybean futures were 4¢ to 10¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 21, 2024
Cattle futures closed higher Friday, helped along by lower grain futures prices, stronger wholesale beef prices and the week’s steady-to-higher cash trade.
Live Cattle futures were an average of 83¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.98 higher. However, week to week on Friday, Live Cattle were an average of 65¢ lower and Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.50 lower, unable to overcome the early-week technical correction.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were mainly $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $188/cwt. and steady in the North at $187-$188/cwt. with dressed delivered prices also steady at $296.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.39 higher Friday afternoon at $320.65/cwt. Select was 68¢ higher at $294.20. Week to week on Friday, Choice was $9.48 higher and Select was $5.48 higher, with the Choice-Select spread the widest on Friday since last October.
Turning to the grain complex, Wheat and Soybean futures closed lower with improving weather in South America, harvest pressure, the stronger U.S. dollar and chatter that Russia was going to begin exporting wheat.
Kansas City Wheat futures were 11¢ to 15¢ lower. Soybean futures were 12¢ to 18¢ lower through Jly ’25 and then 10¢ to 11¢ lower. Corn futures were 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 16, 2024
Cattle futures closed lower Tuesday, with likely profit taking and technical correcting. Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.19 lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $3.08 lower
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $186-$187/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $187-$188 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were steady at $296.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.51 higher Tuesday afternoon at $316.83/cwt. Select was $2.99 higher at $292.09.
Grain and Soybean futures closed lower again, amid harvest pressure and lower outside markets, including Crude Oil.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 6¢ to 7¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 5¢ to 7¢ lower. Soybean futures were mostly 7¢ to 9¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 15, 2024
Cattle futures closed mostly higher Monday, supported by Choice wholesale beef values and softer Corn futures.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 26¢ higher, except for 40¢ lower in spot Oct. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 79¢ higher, except for an average of 51¢ lower in the front two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were generally steady to $1 higher at $186-$187/cwt. in Kansas, $187 in the Texas Panhandle and $187-$188 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were steady at $296.
Last week’s weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price was 32¢ higher at $187.21/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was 8¢ lower at $295.92.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.10 higher Monday afternoon at $313.32/cwt. Select was 38¢ higher at $289.10.
Grain and Soybean futures closed lower Monday, with pressure including a positive South American weather outlook and the recently stronger U.S. dollar.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 8¢ to 9¢ lower through. Kansas City Wheat futures were 13¢ to 14¢ lower. Soybean futures were 9¢ to 10¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 14, 2024
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Negotiated cash fed cattle prices ended last week generally steady to $1 higher. FOB live prices were generally $186-$187/cwt. in Kansas, $187 in the Texas Panhandle and $187-$188 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were steady at $296.
Cattle futures closed mixed on Friday but higher week to week. Live Cattle futures were an average of 25¢ lower, except for unchanged in away Dec. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 48¢ higher (5¢ to $1.05 higher), except for an average of 34¢ lower in the front two contracts.
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.03 higher (25¢ to $1.70 higher). Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.69 higher (7¢ to $4.60 higher).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.27 higher Friday afternoon at $311.12/cwt. Select was $2.01 lower at $288.72. Week to week on Friday, Choice was $8.64 higher and Select was $1.11 higher.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 586,000 head was 25,000 head fewer than the previous week and 30,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 24.5 million head was 975,000 head fewer (-3.8%). Year-to-date beef production of 20.7 billion pounds was 152.7 million pounds less (-0.7%).
Turning to crops, Grain and Soybean futures closed lower Friday, lacking support from the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 4¢ to 6¢ lower. Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 11¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 11, 2024
Cattle futures gained Thursday, with steady to stronger cash fed cattle prices and higher wholesale beef values.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 66¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.16 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to moderate on moderate demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are steady to $1 higher in Kansas at $186-$187/cwt. and steady in the North at $187. Dressed delivered prices are steady at $296.
Last week, FOB live prices were $186 in the Texas Panhandle.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.77 higher Thursday afternoon at $309.95/cwt. Select was $2.10 higher at $290.73.
Corn and soybean futures were lower Thursday with harvest pressure and more positive weather in South America. There was also likely positioning ahead of the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates due out on Friday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 2¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 1¢ to 2¢ higher. Soybean futures were 3¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 10, 2024
Cattle futures were lower Wednesday, with overbought conditions and the lack of weekly cash direction.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 73¢ lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.11 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the western Corn Belt through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few FOB live trades at $187/cwt., but too few to trend. Elsewhere, trade was at a standstill.
Last week, FOB live prices were $186 in the Southern Plains, $187 in Nebraska and $187-$188 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $296.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.34 higher Wednesday afternoon at $308.18/cwt. Select was 2¢ higher at $288.63.
Turning to grains, toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were fractionally mixed. Kansas City Wheat futures were 4¢ to 5¢ higher. Soybean futures were mostly 2¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 9, 2024
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 54¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.51 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $186/cwt., steady in Nebraska at $187 and mostly steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $187-$188. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher in Nebraska at $296 and $2-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $296.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 91¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $306.84/cwt. Select was 72¢ lower at $288.61.
Corn and soybean futures were lower Tuesday with harvest pressure and a more positive planting outlook for South America.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were mostly 2¢ to 5¢ lower. Soybean futures were 15¢ to 19¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were fractionally lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 7, 2024
Cattle futures closed higher Friday, helped along by more bullish outside markets, indications of stronger cash trade and perhaps added confidence from the resolution to the dock strikes, at least for now.
Live Cattle futures were an average of 63¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.48 higher (45¢ to $2.25 higher). Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures were an average of $2.97 higher and Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $3.78 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade and demand were moderate in the Southern Plains through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were $1 higher at $186/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was slow on light demand with too few transactions to trend.
Last week FOB Live prices were mostly $187 in Nebraska and $186-$187 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $292-$294.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.78 higher Friday afternoon at $302.58/cwt. Select was $4.32 higher at $287.61.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 611,000 head was 1,000 head fewer than the previous week and 16,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 23.9 million head was 950,000 head fewer (-3.8%) than the same period a year earlier. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 20.2 billion pounds was 150.1 million pounds less (-0.7%).
Grain and Soybean futures closed lower again Friday with harvest pressure.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 4¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures closed 11¢ to 13¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 8¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 4, 2024
Cattle futures were mixed Thursday, awaiting the week’s cash direction.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 72¢ lower, except for an average of 19¢ higher in the back three contracts. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 34¢ higher, except for an average of 66¢ lower in the front two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week FOB Live prices were $185/cwt. in the Southern Plains, mostly $187 in Nebraska and $186-$187 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $292-$294.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 1¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $299.80/cwt. Select was 28¢ lower at $268.78.
Net U.S. beef export sales the week ending Sept. 26 of 22,500 metric tons for 2024 were up noticeably from the previous week and up 68% from the prior four-week average. Increases were primarily for South Korea, China, Mexico, Japan and Taiwan.
Grain and Soybean futures closed lower Thursday, likely pressured by producer selling and profit taking.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ to 4¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 5¢ to 8¢ lower. Soybean futures were 5¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 3, 2024
Cattle futures gained Wednesday with expanding open interest from fund buying.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.59 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $3.00 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week FOB Live prices were $185/cwt. in the Southern Plains, mostly $187 in Nebraska and $186-$187 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $292-$294.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 36¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $299.81/cwt. Select was $1.37 lower at $283.93.
Grain futures closed higher Wednesday, led by wheat with weather and war premium.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 1¢ to 2¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 17¢ to 19¢ higher. Soybean futures were 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 2, 2024
There was no afternoon USDA fed cattle report available at press time.
Last week, FOB Live prices were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $185/cwt., $2 higher in Nebraska at $186-$187 and steady to $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $185-$187. Dressed delivered prices were mostly $2-$4 higher in Nebraska at mainly $294 and $4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $294 in a light test.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.09 higher Tuesday afternoon at $300.17/cwt. Select was 77¢ higher at $285.30.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 31¢ higher, except for unchanged in two contracts.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 64¢ lower, except for unchanged at either end of the board, pressured by another day of higher Corn futures.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ to 5¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 12¢ to 15¢ higher. Soybean futures were mostly fractionally mixed.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 1, 2024
There was no afternoon USDA fed cattle report available at press time.
Last week, FOB Live prices were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $185/cwt., $2 higher in Nebraska at $186-$187 and steady to $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $185-$187. Dressed delivered prices were mostly $2-$4 higher in Nebraska at mainly $294 and $4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $294 in a light test.
The weekly weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price was $2.14 higher week to week at $186.15/cwt. The weekly weighted average dressed delivered steer prices was $3.12 higher at $293.53.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.39 higher Monday afternoon at $298.08/cwt. Select was $2.45 higher at $284.53.
Toward the close, Live Cattle futures closed were an average of 38¢ higher with follow-through support from last week’s higher cash fed cattle prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 93¢ lower except for 17¢ higher at the back with pressure from higher Corn futures.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 5¢ to 6¢ higher, buoyed by the neutral to friendly Grain Stocks report and likely quarter-end short covering. Kansas City Wheat futures were 5¢ to 7¢ higher. Soybean futures were 6¢ to 9¢ lower on an improved South American weather outlook.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 30, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand in the north to a standstill in the Southern Plains through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB Live prices were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $185/cwt., $2 higher in Nebraska at $186-$187 and steady to $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $185-$187. Dressed delivered prices were mostly $2-$4 higher in Nebraska at mainly $294 and $4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $294 in a light test.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 32¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $296.69/cwt. Select was 29¢ lower at $282.08.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 612,000 head was 2,000 head more than the previous week and the same as the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 23.3 million head was 938,000 fewer (-3.9%) than the same time last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 19.7 billion pounds was 163.9 million pounds less (-0.8%).
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 26¢ lower to an average of 14¢ higher in three contracts.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 31¢ higher except for 47¢ lower at the back.
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.48 higher and Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.08 higher.
Grain and Soybean futures were higher Friday, ahead of Monday’s Grain Stocks report and perhaps with some month- and quarter-end squaring.
Corn futures were mostly 3¢ to 4¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 1¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 20¢ to 24¢ higher through Jly ’25 and then mostly 12¢ to 18¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 25, 2024
Cattle futures were mixed but mostly higher Tuesday, supported by recently firmer wholesale beef prices stemming from slower packer production.
Recently firm and higher wholesale beef prices, as packers slow production, helped Cattle futures mostly extend gains Monday.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures closed an average of an average of 26¢ higher, except for an average of 3¢ lower in three contracts. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 40¢ higher, except for an average of 6¢ lower in two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $183/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $184-$185 in the north. Dressed delivered prices were $290-$292 in Nebraska and $290 in the western Corn Belt on a light test.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 8¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $301.89/cwt. Select was 92¢ lower at $286.87.
Grain and soybean futures closed mixed Tuesday.
Toward the close and through Sep ’25 contracts, Corn futures were fractionally lower to 1¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 3¢ to 6¢ lower. Soybean futures were 3¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 24, 2024
Cattle futures furthered gains Monday with follow-through support from last week, as well as the neutral Cattle on Feed report.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures closed an average of an average of 88¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 75¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $2-$3 higher in the Southern Plains at $183/cwt. and $1-$2 higher in the North at $184-$185. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher in Nebraska at $290-$292 and from $2 higher to $4 lower in the western Corn belt at $290 in a light test.
The five-area direct weighted average FOB live steer price last week was $1.90 higher at $184.01. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was 20¢ lower at $290.41.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.62 higher Monday afternoon at $301.81/cwt. Select was 80¢ lower at $287.79.
Soybeans rallied Monday, boosted by thoughts that China’s easing monetary policy would spur demand. Corn and wheat followed with added support from South American weather worries.
Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Soybean futures were 24¢ to 27¢ higher. Corn futures were 10¢ to 11¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 12¢ to 13¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 23, 2024
Cattle futures continued higher Friday, spurred along by higher cash fed cattle prices.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.01 higher across a wide range, from 5¢ higher at the back to $2.50 higher in spot Oct, except for 10¢ lower in away Dec.
Feeder Cattle futures were mixed Friday, closing from an average of 37¢ higher in five contracts to an average of 48¢ lower.
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.92 higher, and Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $4.52 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the Texas Panhandle through Friday afternoon with FOB live prices $2 higher at $183/cwt., according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Trade and demand were moderate in Kansas with FOB live prices $2-$3 higher at $183.
Trade and demand were moderate in the North. FOB live prices were $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $184 and $1-$2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $184-$185. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher in Nebraska at $290-$292. Dressed delivered prices the previous week were $288-$294 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 63¢ higher Friday afternoon at $300.19/cwt. Select was 33¢ higher at $288.59.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 610,000 head was 10,000 head fewer than the previous week and 17,000 head fewer than the previous year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 22.7 million head was 943,000 head fewer (-4%). Estimated year-to-date beef production of 19.1 billion pounds was 192.9 million pounds less (-1%).
Harvest pressure continued to weigh on grain futures Friday.
Corn futures were mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were fractionally lower to 1¢ lower. Soybean futures were mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 20, 2024
Cattle futures bounced higher Thursday with support from bullish outside markets and perhaps with some positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 94¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures an average of $2.64 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live FOB prices were $181/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $180-$181 in Kansas, $181-$182 in Nebraska and $182-$183 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $288-$294.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.82 lower Thursday afternoon at $299.56/cwt. Select was $1.49 lower at $288.26.
Net 2024 U.S. beef export sales of 15,500 metric tons for the week ending Sept. 12 were 36% more than the previous week and 2% more than the prior four-week average, according to USDA’s weekly report. Increases were primarily for South Korea, China, Japan, Canada and Mexico.
Harvest pressure and anemic export sales weighed on grain futures Thursday.
Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 5¢ to 7¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 11¢ to 13¢ lower. Soybean futures were mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 19, 2024
Cattle futures were narrowly mixed Wednesday as traders waited for weekly cash direction.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 25¢ higher, except for unchanged and 32¢ lower on either end of the board. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 28¢ higher, except for an average of 9¢ lower in three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live FOB prices were $181/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $180-$181 in Kansas, $181-$182 in Nebraska and $182-$183 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $288-$294.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.53 lower Wednesday afternoon at $301.38/cwt. Select was $2.47 lower at $289.75.
Heading toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Grain futures were mixed Wednesday.
Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts. Corn futures were fractionally mixed. Kansas City Wheat futures were 1¢ lower. Soybean futures were mostly 5¢ to 8¢ higher, supported by early reports of lower yields than expected.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 18, 2024
Cattle futures gained Tuesday.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.11 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.80 higher
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live FOB prices were $181/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $180-$181 in Kansas, $181-$182 in Nebraska and $182-$183 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $288-$294.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 66¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $303.91/cwt. Select was 8¢ higher at $292.22.
Heading toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, grain futures were narrowly changed. Corn futures were 1¢ to 2¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were fractionally higher. Soybean futures were 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 17, 2024
Cattle futures were narrowly mixed Monday, with Live Cattle edging lower and Feeder Cattle mostly eking out gains.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 21¢ lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 30¢ higher, except for unchanged and 32¢ lower in two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, Live FOB prices were steady to $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $181/cwt., steady to $1 lower in Kansas at $180-$181, mostly steady in Nebraska at $181-$182 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $182-$183.
Dressed delivered prices were steady to $6 higher in Nebraska at $288-$294 and steady to $8 higher in the western Corn Belt at $288-$294.
The five-area direct weighted average FOB live steer price last week was 93¢ higher at $182.11/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered price was $3.07 higher at $290.61.
Grain futures were lower Monday amid the improved international weather outlook and potential profit taking.
Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 1¢ to 3¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 18¢ to 19¢ lower. Soybean futures were 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 16, 2024
Cattle futures were narrowly mixed Friday, ending a week of recovery.
Live Cattle futures were an average of 15¢ higher, except for unchanged to 37¢ lower in the front three contracts. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 38¢ lower.
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $3.56 higher, gaining back a little more than what was lost the previous week. Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $6.70 higher ($5.72 to $8.17 higher) during the same period.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light to moderate demand in the Southern Plains to light on moderate demand in the North through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, Live FOB prices are steady to $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $181/cwt., steady to $1 lower in Kansas at $180-$181, mostly steady in Nebraska at $181-$182 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $182-$183.
Dressed delivered prices were steady to $6 higher in Nebraska at $288-$294 and $2-$6 higher in the western Corn Belt at $288-$294.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.27 lower Friday afternoon at $304.91/cwt. Select was $1.47 lower at $294.17.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 620,000 head was 78,000 more than the previous holiday-shortened week, but 11,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 22.1 million head was 932,000 head fewer (-4.1%). Estimated year-to-date beef production of 18.6 billion pounds was 204.1 million pounds less (-1.1%).
Corn futures faded the increased yield projections in Thursday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures were mostly 3¢ to 6¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 10¢ to 13¢ higher. Soybean futures were 2¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 13, 2024
Cattle futures gained Thursday, supported by steady to higher cash prices and a late-day bounce in outside markets.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 87¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.67 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, Live FOB prices are steady to $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $181/cwt. and steady to $1 lower in Kansas at $180-$181.
Last week, FOB live prices were $180-$181 in Nebraska and $180-$183 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $288 in Nebraska and $286-$288 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 18¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $307.18/cwt. Select was $1.26 higher at $295.64.
Corn futures faded the increased yield projections in Thursday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were fractionally higher 7¢ higher in expiring spot Sept. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly fractionally lower. Soybean futures were 7¢ to 11¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept 12, 2024
Cattle futures gained Wednesday with apparent optimism about the potential for higher cash fed cattle prices this week.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures were narrowly mixed, from an average of 71¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.62 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, Live FOB prices were $180-$181/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $181 in Kansas, $180-$181 in Nebraska and $180-$183 in the western Corn Belt
Dressed delivered prices were $288 in Nebraska and $286-$288 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 87¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $307.36/cwt. Select was $2.63 lower at $294.38.
Corn and Soybean futures edged higher in nearby contracts Wednesday, as traders prepared for Thursday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were fractionally higher 1¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 1¢ to 4¢ higher. Soybean futures were 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 11, 2024
Cattle futures hovered amid two-sided trading Tuesday.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures were narrowly mixed, from an average of 34¢ lower in the front four contracts to an average of 28¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 49¢ higher, except for 2¢ lower in Mar.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, Live FOB prices were $180-$181/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $181 in Kansas, $180-$181 in Nebraska and $180-$183 in the western Corn Belt
Dressed delivered prices were $288 in Nebraska and $286-$288 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 29¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $308.23/cwt. Select was $1.48 lower at $297.01.
Corn and Soybean futures were lower Tuesday, pressured by the yield outlook and weaker crude oil prices.
Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts.
Corn futures were 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 2¢ to 3¢ lower. Soybean futures were 17¢ to 20¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 10, 2024
More bullish outside markets helped Cattle futures bounce back Monday.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.91 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $3.87 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, Live FOB prices were $2-$3 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $180-$181/cwt., $1-$2 lower in Kansas at $181, $3-$4 lower in Nebraska at $180-$181 and steady to $5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $180-$183.
Dressed delivered prices were steady to $4 lower in Nebraska at $288 and $2-$4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $286-$288.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price last week was $2.63 lower at $181.18/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $2.75 lower at $287.54.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 89¢ lower Monday afternoon at $308.52/cwt. Select was $2.36 higher at $298.49.
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed Monday with apparent short covering providing support.
Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were fractionally higher to 2¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 1¢ lower, except for 5¢ higher in spot Sep. Soybean futures were 10¢ to 14¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept 9, 2024
Negative outside markets and softer cash fed cattle prices helped pressure Cattle futures again Friday. Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.83 lower. Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.60 lower. Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures were an average of $3.09 lower and Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $7.30 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand in the Southern Plains to slow on light demand in the North through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, Live FOB prices were $2 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $181/cwt., $1-$2 lower in Kansas at $181, $4 lower in Nebraska at $180 and steady to $5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $180-$183.
Dressed delivered prices were steady to $4 lower in Nebraska at $288 and $2-$4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $286-$288.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.10 lower Friday afternoon, at $309.41/cwt. Select was 66¢ lower at $296.12.
Estimated total cattle slaughter during the holiday-shortened week of 542,000 was 69,000 head fewer than the previous week and 17,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 21.4 million head was 926,000 head fewer (-4.1%) than the same period a year earlier. Total estimated year-to-date beef production of 18 billion pounds was 216.2 million pounds less (-1.2%).
Grain and Soybean futures closed lower Friday amid pressure from lower outside markets and wonderments about next week’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 6¢ lower. However, Corn futures closed an average of 6’2¢ higher through the front six contracts week to week on Friday. That’s an average of about 15¢ higher in those contracts over the past two weeks.
On Friday, Kansas City Wheat futures closed 10¢ to 11¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 15¢ to 19¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 6, 2024
Cattle futures closed lower Thursday, pressured by lower cash fed cattle prices in the South and skittish outside markets.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.64 lower. Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.23 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from moderate on moderate demand in the Texas Panhandle to slow on light to moderate demand in Kansas through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live FOB prices were $181/cwt., which was $2 lower in the Texas Panhandle and $1-$2 lower in Kansas.
Elsewhere, trade was slow on light demand with too few transactions to trend.
Last week, FOB live prices were $184 in Nebraska and $183-$185 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $288-$292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 9¢ lower Thursday afternoon, at $311.51/cwt. Select was $2.61 lower at $296.78.
Grain futures softened Thursday with likely farmer selling. Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 2¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures closed 2¢ to 4¢ lower. Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 5, 2024
Live Cattle futures were an average of 23¢ lower, except for an average of 24¢ higher in three contracts, with pressure from early cash weakness in the South.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.23 lower, pressured by lower Live Cattle and higher Corn.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand in Kansas to a standstill elsewhere through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some early live FOB trades in Kansas at $180/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $183 in the Texas Panhandle, $182-$183 in Kansas, $184 in Nebraska and $183-$185 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $288-$292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 93¢ higher Wednesday afternoon, at $311.60/cwt. Select was 72¢ lower at $299.39.
Grain and Soybean futures continued to rally Wednesday with likely short covering and thoughts forecast yield increases might be less than expected.
Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ to 5¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 15¢ to 16¢ higher. Soybean futures were mostly 8¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept 2 and 3-2024
Cattle futures gained Friday as traders closed their book for the week and month. Support included firmer wholesale beef values and positive outside markets.
Live Cattle futures were an average of 96¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 87¢ higher.
Cattle futures also gained week to week. Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.96 higher (47¢ higher at the back to $3.27 higher at the front). Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.64 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to inactive on very light demand with too few transactions to trend through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were steady in the Texas Panhandle at $183/cwt., $1 lower in Kansas at $182-$183, steady in Nebraska at $184 and $1-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $183-$185.
Dressed delivered prices were $3-$5 lower in Nebraska at $288-$292. Dressed delivered prices in the western Corn Belt the previous week were $293-$295.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 611,000 head was 3,000 head more than the previous week but 20,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 20.9 million head was 910,000 head fewer (-4.2%) than the same time last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 17.6 billion pounds was 219.4 million pounds less (-1.2%).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 68¢ higher Friday afternoon, at $309.34/cwt. Select was 37¢ lower at $295.82.
Grain and Soybean futures continued higher Friday.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher. Week to week on Friday, Corn futures closed an average of 8’6¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures closed 4¢ to 7¢ higher through Jly ‘25 on Friday and then mostly 2¢ higher. Soybean futures closed 6¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 30, 2024
Cattle futures were lower Thursday, pressured by steady to weaker cash fed cattle prices and the recent decline in wholesale beef values.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.45 lower, except for $1 higher in expiring spot Aug. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.28 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in all regions through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are $1-$2 lower in Kansas at $182/cwt. and steady at $184 in Nebraska, where dressed delivered prices are $1-$3 lower at $292.
Last week, FOB live prices were $183/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle and $184-$188 in the western Corn Belt, where dressed delivered prices were $293-$295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.37 higher Thursday afternoon, at $308.66/cwt. Select was $1.44 lower at $296.19.
Grain and Soybean futures were higher Thursday with traders apparently adding some weather premium.
Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ to 5¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were mainly 4¢ higher. Soybean futures were 11¢ to 14¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 29, 2024
Cattle futures softened Wednesday with pressure including the lack of weekly cash direction and a sharp decline in wholesale beef values.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 67¢ lower. Feeder Cattle futures were narrowly mixed from an average of 44¢ lower to an average of 11¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $183/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle $183-$184 in Kansas, $184 in Nebraska and $184-$188 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $293-$295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.68 lower Wednesday afternoon, at $307.29/cwt. Select was $2.62 lower at $297.63.
Grain futures were mixed Wednesday.
Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 2¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 7¢ to 11¢ higher on apparent short covering. Soybean futures were 7¢ to 10¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 28, 2024
Cattle futures mainly extended gains Tuesday with hopes the near bottom has been carved, supported by ongoing relative demand strength.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.35 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 55¢ higher, except for an average of 25¢ lower in the front two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $183/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $183-$184 in Kansas, $184 in Nebraska and $184-$188 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $293-$295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.93 lower Tuesday afternoon, at $311.97/cwt. Select was 6¢ higher at $300.25.
Grain futures were higher Tuesday, with apparent recent producer selling and the cheaper U.S. dollar providing support.
Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 4¢ to 6¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 7¢ to 12¢ higher. Soybean futures were 6¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 27, 2024
Cattle futures moved higher Monday, although many thought traders might see bearishness in more placements than expected in Friday’s Cattle on Feed report.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 89¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.59 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $183/cwt., $1-$2 lower in Kansas at $183-$184, $6 lower in Nebraska at $184 and $3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $184-$188. Dressed delivered prices were $5-$6 lower in Nebraska at $293-$295 and $3 lower in the western Corn belt at $293-$295.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price last week was $3.60 lower at $185.54/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $4.11 lower at $293.93.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.44 lower Monday afternoon, at $315.90/cwt. Select was 27¢ lower at $300.19.
Grain futures were mixed Monday. Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 4¢ to 5¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were fractionally lower to 3¢ higher. Soybean futures were 4¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 26, 2024
Cattle futures were narrowly mixed Friday as traders waited the monthly Cattle on Feed report, which will likely be viewed as neutral to slightly bearish (see below).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 29¢ lower except for 2¢ higher in spot Aug. Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 49¢ higher in the front three contracts to an average of 62¢ lower.
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.69 lower (22¢ to $2.92 lower). Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.17 lower week to week (20¢ to $3.37 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $183/cwt. and generally steady to $3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $187.50. Dressed delivered prices were $3-$6 lower in Nebraska at mostly $295 and $3 lower in the western Corn belt at $293-$295 in a light test.
The previous week, FOB live prices were $185 in Kansas and $190 in Nebraska.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.35 higher Friday afternoon, at $317.34/cwt. Select was $1.57 lower at $300.46.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 608,000 head was 6,000 head more than the previous week, but 18,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 20.3 million head was 893,000 head fewer (-4.2%) than the same time last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 17.1 billion pounds was 226.2 million pounds less (-1.3%).
Grain futures continued to leak lower Friday, while Soybean futures gained on increasing export demand.
Soybean futures were 8¢ to 11¢ higher. Corn futures closed fractionally lower to 3¢ lower through Sep ’25 and then unchanged to 1¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures closed 6¢ to 10¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 23, 2024
Short covering on Thursday, ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report appeared to be the main driver of firming Cattle Futures. Heading into the close Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.22 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.89 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are $2 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $183/cwt. and generally steady to $3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $187.50. Dressed delivered prices are $3-$6 lower in Nebraska at mostly $295 and $3 lower in the western Corn belt at $293-$295 in a light test.
Last week, FOB live prices were $185 in Kansas and $190 in Nebraska.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 78¢ higher Thursday afternoon, at $315.99/cwt. Select was 95¢ higher at $302.03.
Grain and soybean futures were lower Thursday pressured by positive weather and yield estimates.
Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 4¢ to 6¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly were 8¢ lower. Soybean futures were 18¢ to 22¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 19, 2024
Cattle futures closed lower Friday, pressured by technicals and the week’s lower cash fed cattle prices.
Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.91 lower ($1.22 to $2.62 lower). Week to week, they were an average of $1.21 lower (35¢ to $2.85 lower).
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $4.62 lower on Friday. Week to week, they were an average of $3.53 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate on moderate demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices are $1 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $185/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle and steady to $2 lower in Kansas at $185, $3 lower in Nebraska at $190 and $2-$6 lower in the western Corn Belt at $187-$191. Dressed delivered prices were $4-$7 lower in Nebraska at $298-$301 and $7-$9 lower in the western Corn Belt at $296-$298.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 51¢ lower Friday afternoon, but $4.74 higher week to week. Select was 56¢ higher Friday and $4 higher week to week.
Grain and soybean futures were mostly lower Friday amid the familiar pressure of the optimistic yield projections and ongoing sluggish export demand.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher. Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 12¢ lower through Aug ’25 and then 7¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 15, 2024
Cattle futures gained Wednesday, supported by positive outside markets.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 87¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.67 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $186/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $185-$187 in Kansas, mostly $193 in Nebraska and $190-$193 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $305.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.05 lower Wednesday afternoon at $314.88/cwt. Select was 11¢ lower at $300.50/cwt.
Toward the close on Wednesday, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 2¢ to 3¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 1¢ lower. Soybean futures were mostly 5¢ to 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 14, 2024
Cattle futures gained Tuesday, supported by positive outside markets and firmer wholesale beef values.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.43 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.59 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $186/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $185-$187 in Kansas, mostly $193 in Nebraska and $190-$193 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $305.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.10 higher Tuesday afternoon at $316.93/cwt. Select was 44¢ higher at $300.61/cwt.
Turning to the grain complex, Corn and Soybean futures were lower Tuesday, pressured by favorable weather and the outlook for high yields, in tandem with anemic export demand.
Toward the close on Tuesday, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 4¢ to 5¢ lower. Soybean futures were 20¢ to 23¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 13, 2024
Cattle futures were unable to extend gains from the previous session, apparently pressured once again, in part by demand concerns.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures closed an average of 80¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.79 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $186/cwt. and mostly $2-$3 lower in Kansas at $185-$187, where live delivered prices were $190-$190.50. FOB live prices are $3 lower in Nebraska at $193 and mainly $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at mostly $193. Dressed delivered prices were $5 lower at $305.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price last week was $3.11 lower at $191.34. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $5.59 lower at $304.01.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.12 higher Monday afternoon at $315.83/cwt. Select was $1.58 higher at $300.17/cwt.
Turning toward the close on Monday, Corn futures were 4¢ to 6¢ higher with support from lower than expected carryover in the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below).
Through Jly ’25 contracts, Kansas City Wheat futures were were 5¢ to 6¢ lower. Soybean futures were mostly 12¢ to 16¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 12, 2024
Cattle futures closed higher with week-end positioning and positive outside markets but were lower week to week, unable to recover from the early-week meltdown.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.92 higher (77¢ to $3.12 higher). However, they were an average of about $2.44 lower week to week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.77 higher Friday but were an average of $6.22 lower week to week.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $186/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle and mostly $186-$193 in Kansas, where live delivered prices were $190-$190.50. FOB live prices were $3 lower in Nebraska at $193 and $3-$4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $190-$193. Dressed delivered prices were $5 lower at $305.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 59¢ higher Friday afternoon at $312.71/cwt. Select was 56¢ higher at $298.59/cwt.
Grain and soybean futures continued lower Friday ahead of Monday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates with many expecting increased yields.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures closed fractionally higher to 2¢ higher through May ’25 and then mostly fractionally lower. Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 9, 2024
Cattle futures lost ground Thursday with pressure from lower cash fed cattle prices and softening wholesale beef values.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.13 lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.89 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from moderate on moderate demand in the Texas Panhandle to limited or light on moderate demand elsewhere through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $186/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle and mostly $186-$193 in Kansas. FOB live prices are $3 lower in Nebraska at $193 and $1-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $193. Dressed delivered prices are $5 lower at $305.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.73 lower Thursday afternoon at $312.12/cwt. Select was 80¢ lower at $298.03/cwt.
Grain and soybean futures were lower again Thursday with pressure from bullish production weather.
Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 2¢ to 4¢ lower through Jly ’25. Kansas City Wheat futures were 3¢ to 5¢ lower. Soybean futures were 5¢ to 11¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 8, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill in the Texas Panhandle to slow on light demand elsewhere through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are $3 lower in Nebraska at $193/cwt. and $1-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $193. There were a few trades in Kansas at $190.50 but too few to trend.
Last week, FOB live prices were $188 in the Texas Panhandle and $188-$195 in Kansas. Dressed delivered prices were $310.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.96 lower Wednesday afternoon at $313.85/cwt. Select was 79¢ lower at $298.83/cwt.
Cattle futures continued to grind for support from the recent selloff Wednesday as early cash fed cattle prices eroded.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 30¢ higher, except for an average of 4¢ lower in three contracts. Feeder Cattle futures closed were average of 88¢ lower.
Grain and soybean futures closed lower Wednesday with pressure from promising yields. The monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates are due out Monday.
Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ to 4¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 3¢ to 5¢ lower. Soybean futures were mostly 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 7, 2024
Cattle futures tried for gains early in Tuesday’s session, in the wake of the recent selloff but ended mainly slightly lower.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 32¢ lower except for an average of 33¢ higher in three contracts. Feeder Cattle futures closed were average of 36¢ lower, except for 5¢ higher at the back.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill elsewhere through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $188/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $187-$195 in Kansas, $196 in Nebraska and $194-$196 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $310/cwt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value $2.13 lower Tuesday afternoon at $315.81/cwt. Select was 44¢ lower at $299.62.
Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 2¢ to 4¢ higher. Soybean futures were 10¢ to 17¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 6, 2024
Cattle futures sank lower again Monday, tracing the selloff in outside markets.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $3.58 lower. Feeder Cattle futures closed were average of $6.57 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $188/cwt., $2 lower to $7 higher in Kansas at $188-$195, $2 lower in Nebraska at $196 and $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $194-$196. Dressed delivered prices were $2 lower at $310/cwt.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price was 76¢ lower last week at $194.45/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $1.74 lower at $309.60.
Wholesale beef prices did rebound Monday, with Choice boxed beef cutout value $4.17 higher in the afternoon at $317.94/cwt. Select was 85¢ higher at $282.34.
Grain and soybean futures extended gains Monday. Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ to 4¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 2¢ to 3¢ higher. Soybean futures were mostly 11¢ to 15¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 5, 2024
Cattle futures continued to carve a sharp path lower Friday, as equity markets unwound with growing concerns of recession.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.02 lower. Feeder Cattle futures closed average of $4.15 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from moderate on moderate demand to inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $188/cwt., $2 lower to $7 higher in Kansas at $188-$195, $2 lower in Nebraska at $196 and $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $194-$196. Dressed delivered prices were $2 lower at $310/cwt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 98¢ higher Friday afternoon at $313.77/cwt. Select was 29¢ lower at $297.17/cwt.
Short covering on profit taking earlier in the week helped Grain and Soybean futures close higher Friday. Corn futures closed 4¢ to 5¢ higher. Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 12¢ higher. KC HRW Wheat futures closed 5¢ to 7¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 2, 2024
Cattle futures were sharply lower Thursday, weighed down by wobbly cash trade, technical selling, bearish outside markets and lower wholesale beef values.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.84 lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $4.97 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light to moderate demand in the Southern Plains to slow on light demand in the North through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Although too few to trend, there were some early FOB live trades in the Southern Plains at $188/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190 in the Southern Plains, $198 in Nebraska and $196-$198 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $312/cwt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.98 lower Thursday afternoon at $312.79/cwt. Select was $2.70 lower at $297.46/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales of 17,700 metric tons (2024) the week ending July 25 were 32% more than the previous week and 35% more than the prior four-week average, according to USDA’s weekly report. Increases were primarily for South Korea, Japan, Mexico and China.
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed Thursday.
Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were fractionally mixed. Kansas City Wheat futures were 5¢ to 7¢ higher on likely short covering. Soybean futures were 6¢ to 10¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 1, 2024
Cattle futures were narrowly mixed Wednesday, awaiting the week’s cash direction.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 34¢ lower. Feeder Cattle futures were narrowly mixed, from an average of 55¢ lower to an average of 29¢ higher with the most support in nearby months.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $198 in Nebraska and $196-$198 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $312/cwt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 29¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $314.77/cwt. Select was $1.22 lower at $300.16/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures were narrowly mixed Wednesday.
Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ to 6¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were fractionally lower to 2¢ lower. Soybean futures were 1¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 31, 2024
Cattle futures were narrowly mixed but mainly higher Tuesday.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 41¢ higher, except for 12¢ lower in three contracts.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 39¢ higher, except for 31¢ lower in three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $198 in Nebraska and $196-$198 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher at $312/cwt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 33¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $314.48/cwt. Select was 14¢ lower at $301.38/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures were lower Tuesday with continued pressure from the favorable weather outlook.
Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 6¢ to 7¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 3¢ to 5¢ lower. Soybean futures were mostly 16¢ to 30¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 30, 2024
Cattle futures stepped lower Monday with apparent technical selling.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.20 lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.75 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $1.50-$2 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $190/cwt., $2-$3 higher in Kansas at $190, $2 higher in Nebraska at $198 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $196-$198. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher at $312/cwt.
Last week’s weighted average five area direct FOB live steer price was $1.54 higher at $195.21/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $1.30 higher at $311.34.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.04 higher Monday afternoon at $314.81/cwt. Select was $4.06 higher at $301.52/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures closed mixed Monday.
Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 2¢ to 3¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 5¢ to 7¢ higher. Soybean futures were mostly 5¢ to 10¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 29, 2024
Cattle futures closed mixed to higher Friday, buoyed by higher cash fed cattle prices and firmer wholesale beef values.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed from 13¢ lower to 28¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.13 higher with added support from lower Corn futures.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to moderate on moderate demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $1.50-$2 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $190/cwt., $2-$3 higher in Kansas at $190 and $2 higher in the North at $198. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher at $312/cwt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.31 higher Friday afternoon at $313.77/cwt. Select was $2.35 higher at $297.46/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 600,000 head was 16,000 head more than the previous week but 16,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 17.9 million head was 833,000 head fewer (-4.5%) than the same period last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 15.1 billion pounds was 236.9 million pounds less (-1.5%).
Grain futures closed lower Friday with likely profit taking, producer selling and a more favorable weather outlook.
Soybean futures closed 22¢ to 38¢ lower. Corn futures closed 9¢ to 11¢ lower through Jly ’25 and then mostly 6¢ to 8¢ lower. KC HRW Wheat futures closed 10¢ to 16¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 26, 2024
Cattle futures closed higher Thursday, supported by the prospects of steady to higher cash trade, as well as more favorable domestic economic growth than expected.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.01 higher across a wide range. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 52¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to inactive on very light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were som early live FOB sales in Kansas at $190/cwt.
Last week, live FOB prices were $188-$188.50 in the Texas Panhandle, 187-188 in Kansas and $196 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $310/cwt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 22¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $312.46/cwt. Select was $1.15 higher at $295.11/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed Thursday.
Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts Corn futures were mostly 3¢ higher. Soybean futures were mostly 13¢ to 15¢ higher as traders applied more weather premium. However, Kansas City Wheat futures were 6¢ to 7¢ lower on bullish harvest reports and anemic export sales.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 25, 2024
Cattle futures were mostly lower Wednesday, pressured by bearish outside markets and the lack of weekly cash direction.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 71¢ lower, except for unchanged to an average of 45¢ higher in the front three contracts. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.79 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live FOB prices were $188-$188.50/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, 187-188 in Kansas and $196 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $310/cwt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 53¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $312.68/cwt. Select was $2.70 lower at $293.96/cwt.
Grain futures firmed Wednesday, while Soybean futures declined after recent gains.
Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were fractionally high to 1¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were fractionally higher to 2¢ higher. Soybean futures were mostly 9¢ to 11¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 24, 2024
Cattle futures extended gains Tuesday. Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.21 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.72 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live FOB prices were steady to 50¢ higher in the Texas Panhandle at $188-$188.50/cwt. steady to $1 lower in Kansas at $187-$188 and $2 lower in the North at $196. Dressed delivered trades were $2 lower at $310/cwt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 23¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $313.21/cwt. Select was $1.67 lower at $296.66/cwt.
Traders continued adding weather premium to Soybean futures Tuesday. Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Soybean futures were mostly 4¢ to 7¢ higher. Corn futures were fractionally higher to 1¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 23, 2024
Cattle futures strengthened Monday, helped along by positive outside markets and the monthly Cattle on Feed report (see below), which indicated fewer placements than expected last month.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.05 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 54¢ higher, well off session highs, capped by advancing Corn futures.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live FOB prices were steady to 50¢ higher in the Texas Panhandle at $188-$188.50/cwt. steady to $1 lower in Kansas at $187-$188 and $2 lower in the North at $196. Dressed delivered trades were $2 lower at $310/cwt.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price last week was 57¢ lower at $193.67. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $2.56 lower at $310.04.
Choice boxed beef cutout value (p.m.): 39¢ lower at $313.44/cwt. Select was 47¢ lower at $298.33/cwt.
Soybeans led the grain complex higher Monday with short covering and apparent weather premium based on the global outlook.
Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Soybean futures were 21¢ to 33¢ higher. Corn futures were 10¢ to 11¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 22, 2024
Cattle futures continued mostly lower Friday ahead of the monthly Cattle on Feed report (see below), which could provide some support Monday.
Live Cattle futures were an average of 47¢ lower, except for an average of 65¢ higher in the front two contracts. Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures were an average of 85¢ lower (40¢ to $1.30 lower), except for 72¢ higher in spot Aug.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 94¢ lower on Friday. They were an average of $1.73 lower week to week (92¢ lower at the back to $3.05 lower at the front).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand in the Southern Plains to slow on light demand in the North through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live FOB prices were unevenly steady in the Southern Plains at $188/cwt. and $2 lower in the North at $196. Dressed delivered trades were $2 lower at $310/cwt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.32 lower Friday at $313.83/cwt. Select was 66¢ lower at $298.80.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $8.23 lower week to week on Friday at $313.83/cwt. Select was $3.51 lower at $298.80. Over the last two weeks, Choice is down $16.60 and Select is down $6.26.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 584,000 was 17,000 fewer than the previous week and 42,000 head fewer (-6.7%) than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 17.3 million head was 821,000 head fewer (-4.5%) than the same period last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 14.6 billion pounds was 242.5 million pounds less (-1.6%).
Turning to the grain complex, Grain and Soybean futures were mixed Friday in search of a bottom and also likely impacted by the widespread internet outage.
Corn futures closed fractionally mixed to unchanged. Kansas City Wheat futures 7¢ higher through May ’25 and then mostly 3¢ higher. Soybean futures were mostly 7¢ to 10¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 19, 2024
Cattle futures sagged lower Thursday with the week’s wobbly cash fed cattle trade, sharply lower outside markets and likely positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $2.06 lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.47 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light to moderate demand in the North to mostly inactive on light demand in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live FOB prices are unevenly steady in the Southern Plains at $188/cwt. and dressed delivered trades are $2 lower in Nebraska at $310/cwt.
Last week, live FOB prices were mostly $198 in the North with dressed delivered prices at $312 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.01 lower Thursday afternoon at $316.15/cwt. Select was $1.22 higher at $299.46/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 18, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light to moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon with early FOB live trades at $188/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were mostly $198 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were mostly $312.
Live Cattle futures strengthened Wednesday as cash fed cattle traded steady in the South. Feeder Cattle futures were narrowly mixed, perhaps with some positioning and wariness ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report. Estimates ahead of the report peg June placements at 3% less year over year, June marketings about 8% less and the July 1 on-feed inventory about 1% more.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.10 lower Wednesday afternoon at $318.16/cwt. Select was $3.15 lower at $298.44/cwt.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 78¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were mixed, from an average of 24¢ lower in the front three contracts to an average of 39¢ higher.
Grain and Soybean futures continued to firm Wednesday with more short covering and some support from the lower U.S. dollar.
Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 8¢ to 12¢ higher. Soybean futures were 4¢ lower to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 17, 2024
Cattle futures mostly strengthened Tuesday, supported by bullish outside markets.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 57¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 72¢ higher, except for unchanged in spot Aug and an average of 9¢ lower in the back two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $188/cwt. in the Southern Plains $198 in Nebraska and mostly $198 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $312 in Nebraska and mostly $312 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.23 lower Tuesday afternoon at $319.26/cwt. Select was $3.23 lower at $301.59/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures firmed Tuesday with likely short covering. Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ to 5¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 6¢ to 7¢ lower. Soybean futures mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 16, 2024
Feeder Cattle futures moved higher Monday, helped along by wilting Corn futures, while Live Cattle futures sought near-term direction. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 62¢ higher.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were narrowly mixed, from 25¢ lower to 37¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $188/cwt. in the Southern Plains $198 in Nebraska and mostly $198 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $312 in Nebraska and mostly $312 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 57¢ lower Monday afternoon at $321.49/cwt. Select was $2.51 higher at $304.82/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures took a step lower Monday, pressured by the continued positive weather outlook. Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 11¢ to 12¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 12¢ to 16¢ lower. Soybean futures were 26¢ to 29¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 15, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to limited with very light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $188/cwt., steady in Nebraska at $198 and steady to $3 lower in the western Corn Belt at mostly $197-$198.50. Dressed delivered prices were $2 lower in Nebraska at $312. Dressed delivered prices in the western Corn Belt the previous week were $312-$315.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 75¢ higher (12¢ to $1.15 higher). However, they were an average of $2.63 lower week to week on Friday. Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.37 higher on Friday but were an average of $4.66 lower week to week.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 41¢ higher Friday afternoon at $322.06/cwt. Select was $1.07 lower at $302.31/cwt. Week to week on Friday, Choice was down $8.37 and Select was $2.75 lower.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 601,000 head was 79,000 head more than the previous holiday-shortened week, but 32,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 16.7 million head was 778,000 head fewer (-4.5%) than the same period last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 14.1 billion pounds was 226.2 million pounds less (1.6%).
Corn futures firmed Friday, buoyed by a bullish WASDE (see below). They closed mostly 1¢ to 4¢ higher, but they were an average of 9’7¢ lower through the front six contracts week to week on Friday.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 10¢ to 16¢ lower through Dec ’25 and then unchanged to 8¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed fractionally lower to 12¢ lower through May ’25 and then mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 12, 2024
Cattle futures firmed Thursday.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 28¢ higher, except for 5¢ lower in the back contract. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.04 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow with light to moderate demand in the North to inactive with very light demand in the South through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $188/cwt., steady in Nebraska at $198 and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at mostly $198. Dressed delivered prices are $2 lower in Nebraska at $312. Dressed delivered prices in the western Corn belt the previous week were $312-$315.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.40 lower Thursday afternoon at $321.65/cwt. Select was 56¢ lower at $303.38/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures gained Thursday on oversold conditions. Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ to 5¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 15¢ to 22¢ higher. Soybean futures were mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 11, 2024
Cattle futures continued to unwind Thursday, pressured by declining wholesale beef value and lower cash trade in the South.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 61¢ lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.94 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were $2 lower at$188/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from limited on light demand to inactive on light demand with too few transactions to trend.
The previous week, FOB live prices were $198 in Nebraska and $198-$200 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $314 in Nebraska and $312-$315 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.61 lower Wednesday afternoon at $324.05/cwt. Select was 37¢ lower at $303.94/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures continued lower Wednesday ahead of Friday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 3¢ lower to 5¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 12¢ to 13¢ lower. Soybean futures were 13¢ to 25¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 10, 2024
Cattle futures tried to gain early again in Tuesday’s session but broke back, apparently spurred in part by a knee-jerk reaction to mid-day Choice boxed beef prices which were $4.87/lower; Select was $1.69 lower.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.52 lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.92 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle and $190-$193 in Kansas.
The previous week, FOB live prices were $198 in Nebraska and $198-$200 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $314 in Nebraska and $312-$315 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.81 lower Tuesday afternoon at $325.66/cwt. Select was 41¢ lower at $304.31
Front-month grain futures firmed Tuesday while Soybean futures continued to erode. Positive weather continues to apply pressure. As the week continues, traders will also be positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were mostly fractionally higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly fractionally higher to 8¢ higher in spot Jly. Soybean futures were 14¢ to 21¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 9, 2024
Cattle futures tried to gain early in Monday’s session but ran out of steam to close lower in what turned out to be a risk-off day in ag commodities, perhaps with some positioning at the beginning of the Goldman Roll.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.34 lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.01 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were steady in the Texas Panhandle at $190/cwt. and steady to $3 higher in Kansas at $190-$193.
The previous week, FOB live prices were $198 in Nebraska and $198-$200 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $314 in Nebraska and $312-$315 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 4¢ higher Monday afternoon at $330.47/cwt. Select was 34¢ lower at $304.72/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures lost ground Monday, with added pressure from more moisture in the forecast. Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 12¢ to 17¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 14¢ to 21¢ lower. Soybean futures were 15¢ to 30¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 8, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the Southern Plains through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were steady at $190/cwt. in a light test.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from limited on light demand to inactive on very light demand with too few transactions to trend.
The previous week, FOB live prices were mostly $198 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were mostly $312 but stretched as high as $317.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 59¢ higher Friday afternoon at $330.43/cwt. Select was 68¢ higher at $305.06/cwt.
Cattle futures mainly drifted lower in light post-holiday trade on Friday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 20¢ lower, except for an average of 41¢ higher in the front two contracts.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.49 lower.
Grain and Soybean futures rallied on Friday, with Wheat receiving support from export sales and Corn buoyed by a spottier rain forecast.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ higher. KC HRW Wheat closed 11¢ to 15¢ higher. Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 5 and 5, 2024
Cattle futures extended gains Wednesday, supported by strong wholesale beef values and prospects of steady to higher cash fed cattle prices for the holiday-shortened week. Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 71¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.88 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190/cwt. in the Southern Plains at mostly $198 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were mostly $312 but stretched as high as $317.
For added perspective, last month’s weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price was $8.82 higher year over year at $193.33/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $13.04 higher at $307.26.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 55¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $329.84/cwt. Select was $2.10 lower at $304.38/cwt.
Corn and Kansas City Wheat futures softened Wednesday with pressure from favorable weather. Heading into the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were mostly 2¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 6¢ to 10¢ lower. Soybean futures were 7¢ to 11¢ higher.
Futures and equity markets will be closed Thursday in observance of Independence Day.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 3, 2024
Cattle futures rallied Tuesday, supported by strong wholesale beef values, which were propped up further by lost production at Cargill’s plant in Dodge City for a few days this week, due to a partial roof collapse, owing to heavy rain last weekend. Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.54 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $3.06 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190/cwt. in the Southern Plains and mostly $198 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were mostly $312, but stretched as high as $317.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.21 higher Tuesday afternoon at $330.39/cwt. Select was 7¢ higher at $306.48/cwt.
Front-month Corn and Soybean futures gained Tuesday, likely with additional short covering. Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were mostly fractionally higher. Soybean futures were mostly fractionally higher to 5¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 3¢ to 10¢ lower with likely harvest pressure.
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Cattle Current Podcast‚July 2, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were steady to $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $190/cwt., unevenly steady in Kansas at $190, steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $198 (some up to $200) and mainly steady to $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at mostly $198.
Dressed delivered prices were steady to $2 higher in Nebraska at $312 and $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $312. Prices ran as high as $317 in both regions.
Last week’s five-area direct weighted average FOB live steer price was 97¢ higher at $195.81. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $2.92 higher at $313.47.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.86 higher Monday afternoon at $329.18/cwt. Select was $1.91 higher at $306.41.
Cattle futures softened again Monday with sluggish interest. Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 87¢ lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.05 lower.
As for the grain complex, short covering seemed to be the order of the day. Toward the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were mainly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 10¢ to 13¢ higher. Soybean futures were 7¢ to 12¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 1, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate on moderate demand in Kansas through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were unevenly steady at $190/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was slow on light to moderate demand with some early FOB live trades in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt at $198, but too few to trend.
The previous week, FOB live prices were $189-$190/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle and mainly $197-$198 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices the previous week were $310-$312 in Nebraska and $310 in the western Corn Belt with prices stretching as high as $314.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 609,000 head was 11,000 head fewer than the previous week and 42,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 15.6 million head was 729,000 head fewer (-4.5%) than the same time last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 13.1 billion pounds was 209.7 million pounds less (-1.6%) year over year.
Cattle futures softened Friday with likely profit taking, month-end positioning and traders apparently leery to step out ahead of the week’s cash fed cattle trade.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 88¢ lower. Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $3.14 higher in the front three contracts ($1.25 to $5.90 higher) as the expiring spot Jun closed some of the broad gap with cash. From there Live Cattle were an average of 75¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.72 lower on Fiday. Week to week they were an average of 60¢ lower, except for 92¢ higher in spot Aug.
Corn futures dove lower Friday with the bearish Acreage report (see below), applying pressure to Wheat and Soybeans, along with likely month-end position squaring.
Corn futures closed 10¢ to 16¢ lower through Jly ’25 and then mostly 1¢ to 4¢ lower. Week to week they were an average of 31’0¢ lower through the front six contracts, an average of 47’3¢ lower over the past two weeks.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 5¢ to 10¢ lower through May ’25 and then fractionally lower to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed fractionally lower to 3¢ lower through near Nov and then mostly 1¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 28, 2024
Cattle futures softened Thursday, with likely profit taking and no cash direction.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 55¢ lower, except for $1.47 higher and unchanged in the front two contracts. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.01 lower, except for 15¢ higher in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $189-$190/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $188-$191 in Kansas, and mainly $197-$198 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt.
Dressed delivered prices were $310-$312 in Nebraska and $310 in the western Corn Belt with prices stretching as high as $314.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 48¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $323.33/cwt. Select was 16¢ lower at $302.70/cwt.
Corn and Soybean futures were lower again Thursday with likely positioning ahead of Friday’s Acreage and Grain Stocks reports. Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 1¢ to 10¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 11¢ to 13¢ higher. Soybean futures were mostly 2¢ to 10¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 27, 2024
Cattle futures powered ahead Wednesday, helped along by record and near-record high cash fed cattle prices at a strong premium to the Board. Floundering Corn futures added support.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.60 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.24 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $189-$190/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle $188-$191 in Kansas, and mainly $197-$198 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt.
Dressed delivered prices were $310-$312 in Nebraska and $310 in the western Corn Belt with prices stretching as high as $314.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 54¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $322.85/cwt. Select was $2.40 lower at $302.86/cwt.
Corn and Soybean futures were lower Wednesday with likely positioning ahead of Friday’s Acreage and Grain Stocks reports.
Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 5¢ to 7¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were fractionally higher to 2¢ higher. Soybean futures were 3¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 26, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $189-$190/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle $188-$191 in Kansas, and mainly $197-$198 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt.
Dressed delivered prices were $310-$312 in Nebraska and $310 in the western Corn Belt with prices stretching as high as $314.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 75¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $323.39/cwt. Select was 19¢ higher at $305.26/cwt.
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed to lower on Tuesday, as traders bided their time for further cash direction. Before settlement, Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 40¢ lower except for 2¢ higher in spot Aug. Live Cattle futures were narrowly mixed, from an average of 28¢ lower to an average of 32¢ higher.
Grain and Soybean futures were lower Tuesday with apparent fund selling and potential positioning ahead of Friday’s Acreage and Grain Stocks reports. Heading into the close, Corn futures were 9¢ to 10¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 5¢ to 10¢ lower. Soybean futures were 13¢ to 19¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 25, 2024
Cattle futures closed mixed on Monday, as traders sorted through Friday’s bearish Cattle on Feed report, in tandem with the surge in negotiated cash fed cattle prices.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.48 higher in the front two contracts and then narrowly mixed, from an average of 19¢ lower to an average of 13¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 22¢ higher, except for unchanged to an average of 15¢ lower in three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $3-$4 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $189-$190/cwt. and $2-$5 higher in Kansas at $188-$191 with some as high as $198. FOB live prices were steady to $2 higher in Nebraska at $197-$198 and $3-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $197-$198.
Dressed delivered prices were $5-$6 higher in Nebraska at $310-$312 and $4-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $310, but with prices stretching as high as $314.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price last week was $2.29 higher at $194.84/cwt., which was $12.27 higher year over year. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $5.08 higher week to week at $310.55; it was $20.74 higher year over year.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 25¢ higher Monday afternoon at $322.64/cwt. Select was $1.96 higher at $305.07/cwt.
Turning to row crops, grain futures edged lower Monday, while Soybean futures gained.
Heading into the close, through Jly contracts, Corn futures were mostly 1¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 2¢ lower to fractionally higher. Soybean futures closed were 8¢ to 13¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 24, 2024
Cattle futures closed lower Friday ahead of the monthly Cattle on Feed report, which proved to be bearish (see below).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 64¢ lower, except for an average of 56¢ higher in the front two contracts. They were an average of $1.27 lower week to week on Friday, except for $1.47 higher in spot Jun.
Feeder Cattle futures an average of $1.21 lower. They were an average of $2.81 lower week to week.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand in the Southern Plains to slow on moderate demand in the north through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Although too few transactions to establish a trend, there were some dressed delivered trades in Nebraska at $310-$312/cwt. and some FOB live trades in the western Corn Belt at $197.
Based on final established trade the previous week, FOB live prices were $186/cwt. in the Southern Plains $195-$198 in Nebraska and $193-$195 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $305-$306; prices as high as $310.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 48¢ lower Friday afternoon at $322.39/cwt. Select was $1.29 lower at $303.11/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 620,000 head was 5,000 head more than the previous week but 29,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 15 million head was 687,000 head fewer (-4.4%). Estimated year-to-date beef production of 12.6 billion pounds was 197.3 million pounds less (-1.5%).
Turning to row crops, Corn futures closed 3¢ to 4¢ lower. Week to week on Friday, there were an average of 16’3¢ lower through the front six contracts. KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 11¢ to 12¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 7¢ higher through May ’25 and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 21, 2024
Cattle futures drifted lower Thursday, lacking the week’s cash fed cattle direction and perhaps with some wariness about Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report. Depending on the estimates you consider, analysts peg May placements about 2% less year over year, May marketings about even and the June 1 cattle on feed inventory about 1% less.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 38¢ lower, except for an average of 49¢ higher in the front two contracts. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 37¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Based on final established trade last week, FOB live prices were $186/cwt. in the Southern Plains $195-$198 in Nebraska and $193-$195 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $305-$306; prices as high as $310.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.17 higher Thursday afternoon at $322.87/cwt. Select was $1.14 higher at $304.40/cwt.
Turning to grain and Soybean futures, heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 8¢ to 10¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 7¢ to 10¢ lower. Soybean futures closed were 10¢ to 18¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 19, 2024
Cattle futures softened Tuesday, awaiting the week’s cash direction and perhaps with some profit taking. Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 49¢ lower. Feeder Cattle were an average of $1.52 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Based on final established trade last week, FOB live prices were $186/cwt. in the Southern Plains $195-$198 in Nebraska and $193-$195 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $305-$306; prices as high as $310.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 5¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $320.52/cwt. Select was 61¢ lower at $304.21/cwt.
Grain and soybean futures were mixed Tuesday. Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 2¢ to 4¢ higher with likely technical correction. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 5¢ to 6¢ lower. Soybean futures closed were 10¢ to 16¢ higher in the front two contracts and then marginally higher through new-crop.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 18, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Based on final established trade last week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $186/cwt., $5-$8 higher in Nebraska at $195-$198 and mainly $2-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at mostly $193-$195. Dressed delivered prices were $4-$5 higher in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt at $305-$306; prices as high as $310.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price last week was $3.63 higher at $192.55. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $4.76 higher at $305.47.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 58¢ higher Monday afternoon at $320.47/cwt. Select was $1.01 higher at $304.82/cwt.
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed Monday with likely profit taking following the previous session’s surge.
Turning to row crops, Grain and soybean futures dropped Monday with an improved weather outlook. Heading into the close and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were mostly 6¢ to 7¢ lower, while Kansas City Wheat futures and Soybean futures were mostly 15¢ to 21¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 17, 2024
Cattle futures charged higher Friday, supported by the hefty rise in cash fed cattle prices. Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.41 higher ($1.92 to $3.67 higher). Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $4.13 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on moderate demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $186/cwt., $5-$6 higher in Nebraska at $195-$196 and $2-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $193-$195. Some trades were as high at $197 in the latter two regions. Dressed delivered prices were $4-$5 higher in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt at $305-$306. Dressed delivered prices were as high as $308 in Nebraska and $309 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.58 higher Friday afternoon at $319.89/cwt. Select was $4.56 higher at $303.81/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 615,000 head was 1,000 head more than the previous week but 21,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date total estimated cattle slaughter of 14.4 million head was 654,000 head fewer (-4.4%). Estimated year-to-date beef production of 12.1 billion pounds was 191 million pounds less (-1.6%).
Turning to row crops, Grain and Soybean future softened Friday on likely profit taking. Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ lower. KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 12¢ lower. Soybean futures closed mostly 5¢ to 11¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 14, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade and demand were moderate in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Prices were $1 higher at $186/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was limited on good demand. Although too few transactions to trend, there were some early live FOB trades in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt at $192-$195. Last week, prices were $190 in Nebraska and $190-$193 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $301 last week.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 71¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $318.31/cwt. Select was 32¢ higher at $299.25/cwt.
Cattle futures mostly edged higher with firmer wholesale beef prices and the outlook for higher cash prices this week. Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 44¢ higher. Feeder Cattle were an average of 22¢ lower, except for an average of 30¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Grain and soybean futures firmed Thursday.
Heading toward the close, and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 4¢ to 7¢ higher, supported by a hot forecast and stronger weekly export sales. Kansas City Wheat futures were 1¢ to 6¢ lower. Soybean futures were 5¢ to 13¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 13, 2024
Cattle futures drifted lower, pressured in part by the lack of firm cash direction for the week.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 52¢ lower. Feeder Cattle were an average of 42¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $185/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $190 in Nebraska and $190-$193 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $301 in Nebraska and $300-$301 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 61¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $317.60/cwt. Select was $1.69 lower at $298.93/cwt.
Grain and soybean futures were mixed again Wednesday, with little apparent direction taken from the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Heading into the close, and through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 1¢ to 3¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were 12¢ to 21¢ lower with likely harvest pressure. Soybean futures mostly 4¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 12, 2024
Cattle futures softened Tuesday as traders awaited weekly cash direction.
Before settlement, Live Cattle futures closed an average of 46¢ lower. Feeder Cattle were an average of 99¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $185/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $190 in Nebraska and $190-$193 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $301 in Nebraska and $300-$301 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 79¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $318.21/cwt. Select was 42¢ lower at $300.62/cwt.
Grain and soybean futures were mixed Tuesday, with likely positioning ahead of Wednesday’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates. Heading toward the close, through away Jly contracts, Corn futures were mostly 3¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 4¢ to 9¢ higher. Soybean futures were 5¢ to 11¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 11, 2024
Cattle futures extended support from the previous session, buoyed by recently stronger wholesale beef prices and prospects of higher cash prices this week. Before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $2.06 higher. Feeder Cattle were an average of $3.16 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $185/cwt., steady in Nebraska at $190 and $1-$2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $190-$193. Dressed delivered prices were steady in Nebraska at $301 and steady to $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $300-$301.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 67¢ higher Monday afternoon at $317.42/cwt. Select was 10¢ lower at $301.04/cwt.
Grain and soybean futures were mixed Monday, perhaps with some positioning ahead of this week’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Heading into the close, Corn futures were fractionally higher to 2¢ higher through Jly ’25 and Soybean futures fractionally higher to 8¢ higher through near Nov. However, nearby Kansas City Wheat futures were 19¢ to 24¢ lower with likely harvest pressure.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 10, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to slow on light demand in the Southern Plains through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Trade was slow on light to moderate demand in the North.
For the week, FOB live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $185/cwt. and unevenly steady in the western Corn Belt at $190. Prices in Nebraska the previous week were $190.
Dressed delivered prices the previous week were $301 in Nebraska and $300-$301 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 54¢ higher Friday afternoon at $316.75/cwt. Select was 31¢ higher at $301.14/cwt. Week to week on Friday, Choice was up $3.55 but Select was 57¢ lower.
Total cattle slaughter last week of 614,000 head was 74,000 head more than the previous holiday-shortened week. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 13.7 million head was 631,000 head fewer (-4.4%) than the same time last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 11.6 billion pounds was 198.4 million pounds less (-1.7%).
Cattle futures found some footing Friday, helped along by firm wholesale beef prices.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 20¢ higher, except for an average of 20¢ lower in two contracts. They were an average of $1.33 lower week to week on Friday, except for 62¢ higher in spot June.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.37 higher. However, they were an average of $1.75 lower week to week on Friday.
Grain and Soybean futures weakened Friday on likely fund selling.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower. KC HRW Wheat futures closed 12¢ to 14¢ lower. Soybean futures 12¢ to 20¢ lower through near Sep and then 2¢ to 9¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 7, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate on moderate demand in Kansas through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were $1 lower at $185/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill.
Last week, FOB live prices were $186 in the Texas Panhandle, $190 in Nebraska and $188-$192 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $301 in Nebraska and $300-$301 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.42 higher Thursday afternoon at $316.21/cwt. Select was 7¢ lower at $300.83/cwt.
Cattle futures were lower again Thursday heading into the close, pressured by the weaker outlook for cash prices this week and surge in Corn futures. Live Cattle futures were 90¢ lower. Feeder Cattle were an average of $2.00 lower, except for 17¢ higher in spot Jun.
Corn and Soybean futures bounced higher Thursday on likely short covering.
Heading into the close, through Jly ‘25, Corn futures were 9¢ to 14¢ higher. Soybean futures were mostly 13¢ to 22¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly fractionally higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 6, 2024
Cattle futures were lower heading into the close Wednesday with pressure including lower wholesale beef values and a lack of cash direction for the week. Live Cattle futures were an average of 43¢ lower. Feeder Cattle were an average of $1.04 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $186/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $190 in Nebraska and $188-$192 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $301 in Nebraska and $300-$301 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.09 lower Wednesday afternoon at $314.79/cwt. Select was $3.57 lower at $300.90/cwt.
Grain futures continued to unwind Wednesday. Heading into the close, through Jly ’25 contracts, Corn futures were 2¢ to 3¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 8¢ to 12¢ lower. Soybean futures were 3¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 5, 2024
Cattle futures tried for gains early in Tuesday’s trading session but were mainly marginally lower toward the close.
Live Cattle futures were narrowly mixed, from an average of 15¢ lower in three contracts to an average of 16¢ higher. Feeder Cattle were an average of 28¢ lower, except for 12¢ higher in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $186/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $190 in Nebraska and $188-$192 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $301 in Nebraska and $300-$301 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.28 higher Tuesday afternoon at $316.88/cwt. Select was 77¢ higher at $304.47/cwt.
Grain futures continued lower again Tuesday on crop progress. Toward the close, Corn futures were 1¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures 11¢ to 12¢ lower. Soybean futures 5¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 4, 2024
Cattle futures firmed Monday with stronger wholesale beef prices after early pressure from last week’s wobbly cash fed cattle prices.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 19¢ higher, except for 62¢ lower in away Aug. Feeder Cattle futures were narrowly mixed from an average of 13¢ lower in the front four contracts to an average of 39¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $186/cwt., $2 lower in Nebraska at $190 and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $188-$192. Dressed delivered prices in Nebraska were $3 lower at $301 and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $300-$301.
The five-area weighted average direct FOB live steer price last week was $1.18 lower at $188.91. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $2.68 lower at $300.81.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.40 higher Monday afternoon at $315.60/cwt. Select was $1.99 higher at $303.70/cwt.
Grain futures continued lower Monday as crop progress brightens.
Heading into the close, through Jly ‘25, Corn futures were mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures 6¢ to 9¢ lower. Soybean futures were 15¢ to 20¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 3, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from moderate on moderate demand up north to a standstill through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $186/cwt., $2 lower in Nebraska at $190 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $190-$192. Dressed delivered prices in Nebraska were $3 lower at $301. Prices in the western Corn Belt the previous week were $302-$304.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 84¢ lower Friday afternoon at $313.20/cwt. Select was 81¢ lower at $301.71/cwt. Choice was $2.75 higher week to week on Friday. Select was 1¢ lower.
Estimated total cattle slaughter for the holiday-shortened week of 540,000 head was 67,000 head fewer than the previous week and 28,000 head fewer than the same week a year earlier. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 13.1 million head was 624,000 fewer (-4.5%) than the same time last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 11.1 billion pounds was 218.4 million pounds less (-1.9%).
Cattle futures continued lower Friday with pressure including steady to lower cash fed cattle prices.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.16 lower. They were an average of $2.70 lower week to week on Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.04 lower, from 87¢ lower at the back to $2.67 lower at the front. Week to week, they were an average of $2.57 lower, from $1.15 lower toward the back to $3.82 lower at the front.
Grain futures continued to erode on Friday.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 4¢ lower. Through the front six contracts, they were an average of 20¢ lower week to week.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly fractionally mixed.
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 31, 2024
Cattle futures continued lower Thursday with follow-through pressure including negative outside markets, oversold conditions and perhaps some month-end profit taking.
Heading into the close and before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 75¢ lower. Feeder Cattle were an average of 78¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from light on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there some early FOB live trades in the Southern Plains at $186/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $187 in the Southern Plains, $192 in Nebraska and $190-$192 in the western Corn Belt.
Dressed delivered prices were $304 in Nebraska and $302-$304 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 42¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $314.04/cwt. Select was 4¢ lower at $302.52/cwt.
Grain futures closed lower again Thursday as traders pondered the improved planting and weather outlook.
Heading into the close Tuesday, through Jly ‘25, Kansas City Wheat futures were 6¢ to 10¢ lower. Corn futures were 6¢ to 8¢ lower. Soybean futures mostly 5¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 30, 2024
Cattle futures closed lower Wednesday with pressure including negative outside markets, oversold conditions and perhaps some month-end profit taking.
Heading into the close and before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.65 lower. Feeder Cattle were an average of $3.15 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there some early FOB live trades in Nebraska at $190/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $187 in the Southern Plains, $192 in Nebraska and $190-$192 in the western Corn Belt.
Dressed delivered prices were $304 in Nebraska and $302-$304 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.50 higher Wednesday afternoon at $313.62/cwt. Select was 95¢ lower at $302.48/cwt.
Grain futures closed lower Wednesday as it appeared traders took back some weather premium.
Heading into the close Tuesday, through Jly ‘25, Kansas City Wheat futures were 6¢ to 10¢ lower. Corn futures were 5¢ to 7¢ lower. Soybean futures were 5¢ to 18¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 29, 2024
Cattle futures started and ended the session higher Tuesday, supported by last week’s stronger cash prices and the neutral monthly Cattle on Feed report, Live Cattle futures were an average of 83¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $3.52 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $187/cwt., $2 higher in Nebraska at $192 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $190-$192.
Dressed delivered prices in Nebraska were $4-$6 higher at $304 and $2-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $302-$304 in a light test.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price last week was $1.55 higher at $190.09. The average dressed delivered steer price was $4.10 higher at $303.49.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.67 higher Tuesday afternoon at $312.12/cwt. Select was $1.71 higher at $303.43/cwt.
Heading into the close Tuesday, through Jly ‘25, Kansas City Wheat futures were 5¢ to 12¢ higher. Corn futures were mostly 2¢ lower and Soybean futures were 2¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 27 and 28, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $187/cwt., mainly $2 higher in Nebraska at $192 (some up to $193.50) and mostly $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $192 (some up to $193).
Dressed delivered prices in Nebraska were $4-$6 higher at mostly $304 (some up to $305). Dressed delivered prices in the western Corn Belt the previous week were mainly $300 (some up to $306).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 61¢ higher Friday afternoon at $310.45/cwt. Select was $1.64 higher at $301.72/cwt.
Estimated cattle slaughter last week of 607,000 head was 9,000 more than the previous week but 18,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimate total cattle slaughter of 12.6 million head was 594,00 head fewer than (-4.5%) than the same period a year earlier. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 10.6 billion pounds was 213.9 million pounds less (-2.0%).
Cattle futures edged mostly lower Friday ahead of the long holiday weekend and the monthly Cattle on Feed report (see below).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 13¢ lower, except for an average of 11¢ higher in the front two contracts. Week to week on Friday, they were an average of $1.76 higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 72¢ lower, except for 40¢ higher in newly minted away-May. They were an average of $1.46 higher week to week on Friday.
Turning to row crops, Grain futures closed higher Friday with traders maintaining a weather premium.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 8¢ to 10¢ higher through May ’25 and then mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher. Corn futures closed 1¢ to 2¢ higher. Soybean futures closed 2¢ to 8¢ higher through Jly ’25 and then mostly 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 24, 2024
Cattle futures started stronger Thursday, buoyed by higher cash fed cattle prices in the South, but faded to a lower close on likely positioning ahead of Friday’s Cattle on Feed report and the holiday weekend.
Heading into the close and before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 56¢ lower. Feeder Cattle were an average of $1.07 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was active on good demand in Kansas through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were $1 higher at $187/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was slow on light to moderate demand. Although too few to trend so far this week, there are some early FOB live sales in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt at $192.
Last week, FOB live prices were $186/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $190 in Nebraska and $190 in the western Corn Belt with a few up to $191. Dressed delivered prices were $298 in Nebraska and mostly $300 in the western Corn Belt with a few up to $306.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.33 lower Thursday afternoon at $309.84/cwt. Select was 47¢ higher at $300.08/cwt.
U.S. beef export sales continue to show promise. The week ending May 16, net U.S. beef export sales for 2024 of 21,500 metric tons were 42% more than the previous week and 32% more than the prior four-week average, according to USDA’s Export Sales report. Increases were primarily for China, South Korea, Mexico, Japan and Taiwan.
As for row crops, grain futures added back some weather premium. Heading into the close, Kansas City Wheat futures were 10¢ to 15¢ higher through May ’25 and Corn futures were 1¢ to 3¢ higher through Jly ‘25. However, Soybean futures were 3¢ to 7¢ lower through Jly ’25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 23, 2024
Cattle futures continued higher Wednesday, supported by recently stronger cash fed cattle and wholesale beef prices. The next two trading sessions appear to be wild cards as traders position ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report and the three-day weekend.
Heading into the close and before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.07 higher. Feeder Cattle were an average of $2.29 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill in Nebraska to slow on light demand in Kansas through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some early FOB live trades in the Kansas at $187/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $186/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $190 in Nebraska and $190 in the western Corn Belt with a few up to $191. Dressed delivered prices were $298 in Nebraska and mostly $300 in the western Corn Belt with a few up to $306.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 85¢ lower Wednesday after noon at $312.17/cwt. Select was $1.26 lower at $299.61/cwt.
Turning to row crops, Corn futures were 1¢ to 3¢ higher through May ‘25. Kansas City Wheat futures 1¢ to 5¢ lower through May ’25. Soybean futures were 4¢ to 11¢ higher through May ’25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 22, 2024
Cattle futures closed higher Tuesday, supported by steady to stronger wholesale beef values.
Heading into the close and before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.01 higher. Feeder Cattle were an average of $1.62 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill in the Southern Plains to slow on light demand in the western Corn Belt through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some early FOB live trades in the western Corn Belt at $192/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $186/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $190 in Nebraska and $190 in the western Corn Belt with a few up to $191. Dressed delivered prices were $298 in Nebraska and mostly $300 in the western Corn Belt with a few up to $306.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 32¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $313.02/cwt. Select was $1.52 higher at $300.87/cwt.
Heading into the close, Corn futures were 1¢ to 2¢ lower through Jly ’25 on planting pressure. Soybean futures were 10¢ to 12¢ lower through Jly ’25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 21, 2024
Cattle futures were narrowly mixed Monday, as traders appeared to take stock after last week’s strong gains.
Heading into the close and before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 17¢ higher, except for 30¢ lower in near Aug.
Feeder Cattle were an average of 57¢ lower, except for 10¢ higher in the back contract. Pressure included stronger Corn futures prices.
Negotiated cash fed trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $2-$3 higher in the Southern Plains at $186/cwt., $3-$4 higher in Nebraska at $190 and $3-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $190 with a few up to $191. Dressed delivered prices were $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $298-$300 and mostly $5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $300 with some up to $306.
The weighted weekly average five-area direct FOB live steer price was $2.60 higher at $188.54. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $4.11 higher at $299.39.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 75¢ lower Monday afternoon at $312.70/cwt. Select was $1.95 higher at $299.35/cwt.
Kansas City Wheat futures rallied Monday, up 24¢ to 34¢ through Dec ’25 heading into the close on concerns about crop damage in the Ukraine and Russia, and leading Corn. Corn futures were 6¢ to 8¢ higher through Jly ‘25. Soybean futures were 9¢ to 18¢ higher through Aug ’25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 20, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand in the Texas Panhandle to active on good demand elsewhere, through Friday afternoon according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices were $2-$3 higher in Kansas at $186/cwt., $3-$4 higher in Nebraska at $190 and $3-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt $190 with a few up to $191. Dressed delivered prices were $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $298-$300. Last week, dressed delivered prices in the western Corn Belt were mostly $295.
Although too few to trend, there were some FOB live sales in the Texas Panhandle at $186, where prices the previous week were $184.
Fed cattle prices were supported by slower packer production helping to boost wholesale beef prices. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.30 higher Friday afternoon at $313.45/cwt., the highest level since March. Select was 89¢ higher at $297.40/cwt. Week to week on Friday, Choice was $18.88 higher and Select was $13.23 higher.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 598,000 head was 24,000 head fewer than the previous week and 42,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 11.9 million head was 570,000 head fewer than the (-4.5%) than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 10.1 billion pounds was 220.6 million pounds less (-2.1%).
Cattle futures continued higher Friday, amid stronger boxed beef values and higher cash fed cattle prices.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.21 higher, from 67¢ higher at the back to $2.02 higher at the front. Week to week on Friday, they were an average of $3.92 higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.03 higher. They were an average of $7.87 higher week to week on Friday.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 17, 2024
Cattle futures extended further Thursday, buoyed by another day of higher wholesale beef prices, bullish outside markets and a positive reading of export demand.
Net U.S. beef export sales for 2024 the week ending May 9 of 15,100 metric tons were 23% more than the previous week, but 11% less than the prior four-week average. Increases were primarily for Japan, China, Taiwan, Mexico and South Korea.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.38 higher Thursday afternoon at $310.15/cwt. Select was $2.20 higher at $296.51/cwt.
Heading into the close and before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 64¢ higher. Feeder Cattle were an average of $1.40 higher, receiving added support from softer Corn futures.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some early FOB live trades in the western Corn Belt at $186-$190/cwt. and a few dressed delivered sales at $298-$300.
Last week, FOB live prices were $184/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $183-$185 in Kansas, $186-$187 in Nebraska and mostly $187 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $295-$296 in Nebraska and mostly $295 in the western Corn Belt.
Grain futures softened again Thursday.
Heading into the close, Corn futures were 4¢ to 5¢ lower through Sep ’25. Kansas City Wheat futures mostly 1¢ lower through Sep ’25. Soybean were mostly 1¢ to 5¢ lower through Sep ‘25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 16, 2024
Cattle futures extended gains, supported by recently resurgent wholesale beef prices.
Heading into the close and before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 26¢ higher. Feeder Cattle were an average of 47¢ higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.38 higher Wednesday afternoon at $306.77/cwt. Select was 49¢ higher at $294.31/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $184/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $183-$185 in Kansas, $186-$187 in Nebraska and mostly $187 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $295-$296 in Nebraska and mostly $295 in the western Corn Belt.
Turning to row crops, Grain futures were lower again on likely profit taking and producer selling.
Corn futures were 3¢ to 4¢ lower through Sep ’25. Kansas City Wheat futures mostly 7¢ lower through May ‘25. Soybean were mostly 1¢ to 4¢ lower through May ‘25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 15, 2024
Cattle futures rallied Tuesday, supported by slower packer production which is helping lift wholesale beef prices.
Heading into the close and before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $2.29 higher and Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $4.20 higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $5.44 higher Tuesday afternoon at $304.39/cwt. Select was $6.64 higher at $293.82/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $184/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $183-$185 in Kansas, $186-$187 in Nebraska at $186-187 and mostly $187 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $295-$296 in Nebraska and mostly $295 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $5.44 higher Tuesday afternoon at $304.39/cwt. Select was $6.64 higher at $293.82/cwt.
Turning to row crops, heading into the close, front-month Grain futures were softer on likely profit taking and producer selling.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 14, 2024
Cattle futures were narrowly mixed Monday as traders appeared to wait for further cash direction.
Heading into the close and before settlement, Live Cattle futures were narrowly mixed, from an average of 46¢ lower to an average of 22¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle closed were an average of 37¢ higher, except for 67¢ lower in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were steady in the Texas Panhandle at $184/cwt., unevenly steady to $1 higher in Kansas at $183-$185, steady in Nebraska at $186-187 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at mostly $187. Dressed delivered prices were $1 higher in Nebraska at $295-$296 and mainly steady in the western Corn Belt at mostly $295.
The five-area weighted average direct FOB live steer price last week was 20¢ higher at$185.94. The weighted average dressed delivered steer prices was 63¢ higher at $295.28.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.38 higher Monday afternoon at $298.95/cwt. Select was $3.01 higher at $287.18/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures closed higher Monday, with follow-through support from Friday’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates and planting delays.
Corn futures were mostly fractionally higher to 5¢ higher through Jly ’25.
Kansas City Wheat futures 16¢ to 25¢ higher through Jly ‘25.
Soybean were mostly 4¢ to 8¢ higher through 2025.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 13, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand in the Texas Panhandle to moderate on moderate demand elsewhere through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were steady in the Texas Panhandle at $184/cwt., unevenly steady to $1 higher in Kansas at $183-$185, steady in Nebraska at $186-187 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $187. Dressed delivered prices were $1 higher in Nebraska at $295-$296 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $295.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 622,000 head was the same as a week earlier but 22,000 head less than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated cattle slaughter of 11.4 million head was 527,000 head less (-4.4%) than the same time last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 9.6 billion pounds was 208.8 million pounds less (-2.1%) less than a year earlier.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 82¢ lower Friday afternoon at $294.57/cwt. Select was $1.59 lower at $284.17/cwt. Week to week on Friday, Choice was 37¢ higher but Select was $3.48 lower.
Cattle futures were mixed Friday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 44¢ higher. Week to week on Friday, they were an average of 83¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 11¢ lower to an average of 21¢ higher with the front months pressured by Corn futures. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $3.19 lower week to week on Friday.
Grain and Soybean futures closed higher Friday, supported by the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below), which were less bearish than expected.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 12¢ to 21¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 9¢ to 13¢ higher through May ’25, and then mostly 4¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 10¢ higher through Sep ’24, and then mostly 3¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 10, 2024
Cattle futures were lower again Thursday, on weaker boxed beef cutout values and the lack of cash direction.
Live Cattle futures were an average of 63¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.19 lower.
Front month Cattle futures were trending mixed early in today’s session.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from at a standstill in the Texas Panhandle to mostly inactive on light demand elsewhere through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $184/cwt. in the Southern Plains $186-$187 in Nebraska and $185-$187 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $294-$295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.28 lower Thursday afternoon at $295.39/cwt. Select was $2.49 lower at $285.76/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales the week ending May 2 of 12,300 metric tons for 2024 were down 45% from the previous week and 29% from the prior four-week average. Increases were primarily for Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Taiwan, and Canada.
Grain futures were lower Wednesday with likely producer selling and perhaps positioning ahead of Friday’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower through Jly ‘25. Kansas City Wheat futures mostly 3¢ higher. Soybean were 9¢ to 20¢ lower through Aug ‘25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 9, 2024
Cattle futures were lower Wednesday on wobbly boxed beef values and the lack of weekly cash fed cattle direction.
Heading into the close and before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.18 lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.60 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $184/cwt. in the Southern Plains $186-$187 in Nebraska and $185-$187 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $294-$295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value were $1.82 lower Wednesday afternoon at $296.67/cwt. Select was $4.09 lower at $288.25/cwt.
Grain futures were lower Wednesday with likely producer selling and perhaps positioning ahead of Friday’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Heading into the close, Corn futures were 5¢ to 8¢ lower through May ‘25. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 10¢ to 15¢ lower through Jly ’25. Soybean were mostly 12¢ to 21¢ lower through Mar ‘25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 8, 2024
Cattle futures bounced back Tuesday, supported by resurgent wholesale beef values.
Toward the close and ahead of settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.06 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.60 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $184/cwt. in the Southern Plains $186-$187 in Nebraska and $185-$187 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $294-$295.
Wholesale beef prices continued to firm, offering hopes that the seasonal rally has begun.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 27¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $298.49/cwt. Select was $2.59 higher at $292.34/cwt.
Grain futures softened Tuesday amid likely producer selling. Heading into the close, Corn futures were narrowly mixed from fractionally lower to 3¢ lower in the front three contracts and then fractionally higher to 1¢ higher through Dec ‘25. Kansas City Wheat futures were 7¢ to 15¢ lower through May ‘25. However, Soybean were mostly 3¢ to 7¢ higher through Jly ‘25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 7, 2024
Heading into the close and before settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of 27¢ higher through the front five contracts, buoyed by last week’s stronger cash trade and then unchanged to an average of 61¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.28 lower with pressure from nearby Corn contracts.
Heading into the close Monday Grain and Soybean futures continued higher as traders appeared to bet on planting progress delays in the weekly Crop Progress report (see below).
Corn futures were mostly 7¢ to 10¢ higher through near Sep.
Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 18¢ to 20¢ higher through Jly ’25.
Soybean were 21¢ to 32¢ higher through near Sep.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $184/cwt., $2 higher in Nebraska at $186-$187 and $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $185-$187. Dressed delivered prices were steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $294-$295 and mostly $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at mainly $295.
The weekly weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price was $1.59 higher at $185.74. The average dressed delivered steer price was 26¢ higher at $294.65.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.56 higher Monday afternoon at $298.76/cwt. Select was $2.10 higher at $289.75/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 6, 2024
Cattle futures mostly edged higher Friday, extending gains from the previous session and supported by higher cash fed cattle prices.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 43¢ higher., except for 12¢ lower in the spot month. They were an average of $2.39 lower week to week on Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 32¢ lower in the front three contracts to an average of 13¢ higher. They were an average of $5.38 lower week to week on Friday.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade in the Southern Plains ranged from slow on light demand in the Texas Panhandle to moderate on moderate demand in Kansas through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Elsewhere, trade was slow on light demand.
For the week, FOB live prices were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $184/cwt., $2 higher in Nebraska at $186-$187 and $1-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $187. Dressed delivered prices were steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $295 and $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.30 higher Friday afternoon at $294.20/cwt. Select was 33¢ lower at $287.65/cwt. However, week to week on Friday, Choice was $2.94 lower and Select was $1.07 lower.
Total estimated cattle slaughter of 619,000 head last week was 6,000 more than the previous week but 2,000 head less than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 10.8 million head was 509,700 head fewer (-4.5%). Year-to-date estimated beef production of 9.0 billion pounds was 214.1 million pounds less (-2.3%).
Turning to row crops, Grain and Soybean futures continued higher Friday as traders added weather premiums.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 11¢ to 13¢ higher through May ’25. and then mostly 6¢ to 7¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 9¢ to 14¢ higher through Aug ’25 and then mostly 7¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 3, 2024
Cattle futures rallied back Thursday, fueled by confirmation that no traces of Bovine Influenza A virus (BIAV) were found in ground beef samples by USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.37 higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.26 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand in the North to a standstill in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices are $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $187/cwt. and $1-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $187. Dressed delivered prices are steady to $1 higher at $294-$295.
FOB live prices in the Southern Plains last week were $182.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 64¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $292.90/cwt. Select was 9¢ lower at $287.98/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 2, 2024
Cattle futures tried to overcome the Bovine Influenza A virus headlines but couldn’t, taking another step lower Wednesday.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.64 lower (67¢ to $2.30 lower).
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $3.55 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $182/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $184-$185 in Nebraska and $184-$186 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $294-$295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 83¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $293.54/cwt. Select was $1.88 lower at $288.07/cwt.
Heading into the close, Corn futures were 1¢ to 3¢ higher through Jly ‘25. Soybean were mostly 5¢ higher through Jly ‘25. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 6¢ to 10¢ lower through Jly ‘25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 5, 2024
Cattle futures tumbled Tuesday on new that Bovine Influenza A virus (BIAV) was confirmed in Colorado dairy cows and chatter that USDA was testing ground beef for particles of the virus in states where BIAV had been confirmed.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.21 lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $4.12 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade in the Southern Plains and Nebraska was at a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. In the Western Corn belt, trade was slow on light demand. The most recent market in that region was Monday with live FOB purchases at $185/cwt. Last week dressed delivered purchases traded at $294 on a light test.
Last week, FOB live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $182/cwt., mostly $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $184-$185 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $184-$186. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher at $294-$295 in Nebraska and $294 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.16 lower Tuesday afternoon at $294.37/cwt. Select was 26¢ lower at $289.95/cwt.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 6¢ to 21¢ lower.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 15¢ to 22¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 30, 2024
Cattle futures softened Monday, taking a break from last week’s gains and amid likely profit taking and month-end positioning.
Heading into the close, Live Cattle futures were an average of 67¢ lower (32¢ to $1.35 lower), except for 77¢ higher in spot Apr. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 42¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $182/cwt., mostly $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $184-$185 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $184-$186. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher at $294-$295 in Nebraska and $294 in the western Corn Belt.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price last week was $1.48 higher at $182.67. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $2.04 higher at $294.39.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 39¢ higher Monday afternoon at $297.53/cwt. Select was $1.49 higher at $290.21/cwt.
Heading into the close, Corn futures were fractionally lower through Mar ‘25. Soybean were 1¢ to 4¢ higher through Nov. ‘24.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 29, 2024
Cattle futures closed higher Friday, helped along by stronger cash fed cattle prices to end the week, as well as weekly gains in Choice wholesale beef values.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 56¢ higher. They were an average of $3.82 higher week to week on Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.07 higher. They were an average of $6.60 higher week to week.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $182/cwt., mostly $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $184-$185 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $184-$186. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher at $294-$295 in Nebraska and $294 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 22¢ higher Friday afternoon at $297.14/cwt. Select was 94¢ lower at $288.72/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 613,000 head was 7,000 head fewer than the previous week and 14,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 10.2 million head was 505,000 head fewer (-4.7%) than the same time last year. Year-to-date beef production of 8.5 billion pounds was 229.6 million pounds less (-2.6%).
Turning to row crops, KC HRW Wheat futures closed 11¢ to 14¢ higher. Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower. Soybean futures closed mixed, fractionally lower to 3¢ lower through Jan ’25 and then fractionally higher to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 26, 2024
Heading into Wednesday’s close, Cattle futures were recovering from the previous day’s losses, helped along by higher cash fed cattle trade in the north.
Live Cattle futures mixed, from an average of $1.86 higher.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.80 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade and demand were moderate in Nebraska and slow on light demand in the western Corn Belt, through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $184-$185/cwt. and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt a $184-$186.
Dressed delivered prices were $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $294. Dressed delivered prices in the western Corn Belt last week were $292.
So far this week, FOB live prices are steady in the Southern Plains at $282.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.18 higher Thursday afternoon at $296.92/cwt. Select was 76¢ lower at $289.66/cwt.
Turning to row crops, heading into the close, Kansas City Wheat futures were 1¢ to 2¢ lower through Mar ’25 on likely profit taking and producer selling. Corn futures were fractionally higher to 1¢ lower through Jly ‘25. Soybean futures were mostly fractionally lower through May ‘25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 25, 2024
Heading into Wednesday’s close, Cattle futures were sharply lower, pressured by news that viral fragments of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) were found in pasteurized milk during the ongoing investigation into Bovine Influenza A virus found in dairy cattle. Although there is no reason to doubt the safety of pasteurized milk, the headlines made traders skittish.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.32 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade and demand were moderate in the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were steady at $182/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill.
Last week, FOB live prices were mainly $183 in Nebraska and $184 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $292-$293.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.66 lower Wednesday afternoon at $295.74/cwt. Select was $2.34 lower at $290.42/cwt.
Heading into the close, wheat was higher again based on weather concerns.
Kansas City Wheat futures were 14¢ to 17¢ higher through Jly ‘25.
Corn futures were mostly 1¢ to 5¢ lower through Mar ‘25.
Soybean futures were mostly fractionally mixed through Jly ‘25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 24, 2024
Cattle futures were mixed with Live Cattle taking a breather and awaiting weekly cash direction while last Friday’s Cattle on Feed report continued helping lift Feeder Cattle.
Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 69¢ higher. Live Cattle futures mixed, from an average of 63¢ lower in the front five contracts to an average of an average of 84¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $182/cwt., in the Southern Plains, mostly $183 in Nebraska and $184 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $292-$293.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.47 higher Tuesday afternoon at $297.40/cwt. Select was 89¢ higher at $292.76/cwt.
Heading into the close Tuesday, Wheat futures were the grain the complex higher again, based on weather concerns and apparent short covering.
Kansas City Wheat futures were 11¢ to 13¢ higher through Jly ‘25.
Corn futures were mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher through Jly ‘25.
Soybean futures were 1¢ to 5¢ higher through Nov ‘24.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 23, 2024
Cattle futures surged higher Monday, supported by Friday’s friendly Cattle on Feed report, which indicated fewer March placements than expected.
At the close and before final settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $2.56 higher and Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $3.71 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $182/cwt., mostly $1 lower in Nebraska at mainly $183 and $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $184. Dressed delivered prices were steady to $1 lower in Nebraska at $292-$293 and $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $292 in a light test.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price last week was $1.17 lower at $182.67/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was 74¢ lower at $292.35.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 26¢ higher Monday afternoon at $295.93/cwt. Select was $1.04 higher at $291.87/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr., 22, 2024
Cattle futures were narrowly mixed Friday with uncertainty about the Cattle on Feed report, which ultimately proved to be likely supportive.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 12¢ higher, except for unchanged to an average of 5¢ lower in three contracts. They were an average of $4.20 higher week to week on Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 57¢ lower. They were an average of $6.82 higher week to week on Friday.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate on moderate demand in the Southern Plains and Nebraska through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Trade in the western Corn Belt was slow on light to moderate demand.
FOB live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $182/cwt., mostly $1 lower in Nebraska at $183 and $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $184. Dressed delivered prices were $1 lower at $292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 13¢ lower Friday afternoon at $295.67/cwt. Select was $1.56 higher at $290.83/cwt.
Last week, estimated total cattle slaughter of 620,000 head was 17,000 head more than the previous week but 5,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 9.5 million head was 486,000 head fewer (-4.7%). Estimated year-to-date beef production of 8 billion pounds was 233.9 million pounds less (-2.8%). For broader context, estimated total year-to-date red meat production is 1.3% less.
Turning to row crops, Grain and Soybean futures rallied Friday with likely short covering.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher, with added support from the Environmental Protection Agency’s emergency fuel waiver to allow E15 gasoline — gasoline blended with 15% ethanol — to be sold during the summer driving season.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 6¢ to 7¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 16¢ higher through Jan ’25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 19, 2024
Cattle futures gained Thursday with likely positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report. Export sales also provided support.
Net U.S. beef export sales for the week ending April 11 were 17,700 metric tons for 2024, according to the weekly U.S. Export Sales report. That was 30% more than the previous week and 27% more than the prior four-week average. Increases were primarily for South Korea, China, Japan, Taiwan and Mexico.
At the close and before final settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.46 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $1.65 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $182/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $184 in Nebraska and $185 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $293.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.01 lower Thursday afternoon at $295.80/cwt. Select was $1.61 lower at $289.27/cwt.
Turning to row crops before the close, Corn futures mostly 4¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures were 4¢ to 5¢ higher through Jly ’25. Soybean futures were 10¢ to 16¢ lower through Jly ’25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 18, 2024
Cattle futures drifted Wednesday as traders awaited cash direction. Likely, there was added hesitancy ahead of Friday monthly Cattle on Feed report. Estimates see placements being 8% less year over year and marketings down 12% for an April 1 inventory about 2% higher.
At the close and before final settlement, Live Cattle futures mixed, from an average of 28¢ lower in the front four contracts to an average of 27¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 24¢ lower, except for 15¢ higher in spot Apr.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $182/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $184 in Nebraska and $185 in the western Corn Belt.
Dressed delivered prices were $3-$4 lower in Nebraska at $293 and $4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $293.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.24 lower Wednesday afternoon at $296.78/cwt. Select was $1.76 lower at $290.88/cwt.
Turning to row crops toward the close, Corn futures were mostly 2¢ lower through Dec ‘25. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 8¢ to 13¢ lower through Jly ’25. Soybean futures were 1¢ to 4¢ higher through Jan ’25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 17, 2024
Cattle futures continued higher Tuesday for the second consecutive session, perhaps establishing a bottom.
At the close and before final settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.59 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.38 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $182/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $184 in Nebraska and $185 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $293.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.86 lower Tuesday afternoon at $298.02/cwt. Select was $1.30 higher at $292.64/cwt.
Turning to row crops, heading into the close, Corn and Soybean futures were lower again with likely pressure from positive weather and the early planting pace. According to USDA’s weekly Crop Progress report, 6% of corn was in the ground, which was 1% more than the five-year average; and 3% of soybeans were planted, which was 2% more than average.
Corn futures were mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower through Dec ‘25. Soybean futures were 8¢ to 13¢ lower through Jly ’25. However, Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher through Jly ’25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 16, 2024
Cattle futures bounced back some Monday with likely short covering.
At the close and before final settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.86 higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $3.51 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $182/cwt., $1-$2 lower in Kansas at $182, $3 lower in Nebraska at $184 and $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $185.
Dressed delivered prices were $3-$4 lower in Nebraska at $293 and $4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $293.
The five-area direct weighted average FOB live steer price last week was $1.89 lower at $183.84. The average dressed delivered steer price was $3.78 lower at $293.09.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 31¢ higher Monday afternoon at $300.88/cwt. Select was $4.20 lower at $291.34/cwt.
Turning to row crops, heading into the close, Grain and Soybean futures gave back gains from the previous session with likely producer selling.
Corn futures were 3¢ to 4¢ lower through May ‘25. Kansas City Wheat futures were 4¢ to 5¢ lower through May ’25. Soybean futures were 8¢ to 15¢ lower through Jan ’25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 15, 2024
Cattle futures sank lower Friday with pressure including the bounce higher in grain futures, more cases of Bovine Influenza A Virus in dairy cattle and struggling outside markets.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.39 lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.27 lower.
Week to week on Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.39 and Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.25 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to moderate on moderate demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $182/cwt., $1-$2 lower in Kansas at $182, $3 lower in Nebraska at $184 and $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $185.
Dressed delivered prices were $3-$4 lower in Nebraska at $293 and $4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $293.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.20 higher Friday afternoon at $300.57/cwt. Select was 39¢ higher at $295.54/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 603,000 head was 10,000 head fewer than the previous week and 8,000 head fewer than the same week a year earlier. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 8.9 million head was 482,000 head fewer (-5.1%) year over year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 7.5 billion pounds was 251.6 million pounds less (-3.3%).
Grain and Soybean futures rallied Friday as funds appeared to exit positions amid risk-off sentiment in equity markets.
Corn futures closed 5¢ to 6¢ higher through Jly ’25 and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 5¢ to 8¢ higher through May ’25 and then mostly 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 14¢ higher through Jan ’25 and then 6¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 12. 2024
Cattle futures were higher into the close and before settlement on Thursday, despite steady to lower early cash fed cattle prices and recently weaker wholesale beef values.
Live Cattle futures were an average of 56¢ higher. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of 95¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to moderate on moderate demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Compared to last week, FOB live prices were $1-$2 lower in Kansas at $182/cwt. and $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $185 where dressed delivered prices were $4 lower at mostly $293.
Last week, FOB live prices were $184 in the Texas Panhandle and $187 in Nebraska where dressed delivered prices were $296-$297.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 14¢ higher at $298.37/cwt. Select was 87¢ lower at $295.15.
Turning to row crops, Grain and Soybean futures were trending lower at the close Thursday with pressure from the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below).
Corn futures 3¢ to 5¢ lower through Mar ‘25. Kansas City Wheat futures were 8¢ to 11¢ lower through May ‘25. Soybean futures were 4¢ to 5¢ lower through next March.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 11, 2024
Cattle futures lost more ground Wednesday with pressures including heavy carcass weights and announced import restrictions by some states on cattle from states with confirmed cases of Bovine Influenza A Virus (BIAV).
At the close and before final settlement, Live Cattle futures were an average of $1.57 lower. Feeder Cattle futures were an average of $2.72 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $184/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $183-$184 in Kansas and $187 in the north. Dressed delivered prices were $296-$297 in Nebraska and $297 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.86 lower at $298.23/cwt. Select was $3.88 lower at $296.02.
Turning to row crops, heading toward Wednesday’s close, Kansas City Wheat futures were 8¢ to 17¢ higher through Dec ’25 which helped drag Corn futures mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher through near Dec.
However, Soybean futures were 5¢ to 9¢ lower ahead of Thursday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 10, 2024
Cattle futures gained some Tuesday with a likely technical bounce.
At the close and before final settlement, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.26 higher, while Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.94 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $184/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $183-$184 in Kansas and $187 in the north. Dressed delivered prices were $296-$297 in Nebraska and $297 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 2¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $302.09/cwt. Select was 37¢ lower at $299.90.
Turning to row crops, positive weather outlooks in the U.S. and South America helped pressure grains Tuesday. Heading toward the close,
Corn futures were down 4¢ to 6¢ through Dec. ’25, Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 6¢ to 13¢ lower through Dec ’25 and Soybean futures were mostly 6¢ lower through the front of the Board.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 9, 2024
Higher wholesale beef values helped Live Cattle futures firm on Monday.
Live Cattle closed an average of 67¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 50¢ lower, except for $1.45 higher in spot Apr.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $184/cwt., $1-$2 lower in Kansas at $183-$184, $2-$3 lower in Nebraska at $187 and $1-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $187. Dressed delivered prices were $3-$5 lower in Nebraska at $296-$297 and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $297.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price last week was $2.50 lower at $185.73. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $2.62 lower at $296.87.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.90 higher Monday afternoon at $302.07/cwt. Select was $5.57 higher at $300.27/cwt.
Turning to row crops, Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher. KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 8, 2024
Cattle futures plumbed lower Friday with continued concerns about Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in dairy cattle.
Live Cattle closed an average of $3.08 lower ($2.70 to $3.80 lower).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $4.96 lower ($3.92 to $5.85 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from moderate on moderate demand in the Southern Plains to slow on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $184/cwt., $1-$2 lower in Kansas at $183-$184, $2-$3 lower in Nebraska at $187 and $1-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $187. Dressed delivered prices were $3-$5 lower in Nebraska at $296-$297 and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $297.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 2¢ higher Friday afternoon at $297.17/cwt. Select was $1.35 lower at $294.70/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 609,000 head was 23,000 more than the previous week and 4,000 head more than the same week a year earlier. Total estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 8.3 million head was 473,000 fewer (-5.4%) year over year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 7.0 billion pounds was 264.6 million pounds less (-3.7%).
Corn futures closed mostly unchanged to fractionally mixed.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 3¢ to 6¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 5¢ higher through Nov ’24 and then mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 5, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the North through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. For the week, FOB live prices are $2-$3 lower at $187/cwt. Dressed delivered prices are $3-$5 lower in Nebraska at $296-$297 and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $297.
Trade was at a standstill in the Southern Plains. FOB live prices last week were $186 in the Texas Panhandle and $185-$186 in Kansas.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.15 lower at $297.15/cwt. Select was 87¢ lower at $296.05/cwt.
Cattle futures edged higher Thursday, but were down sharply lower at mid-session on Friday as concerns about Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza continue to weigh.
Live Cattle closed an average of 89¢ higher (25¢ to $1.25 higher).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.46 higher (75¢ to $2.02 higher).
Grain futures closed higher with apparent short covering.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ higher through Jly ’25 .and then fractionally higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed fractionally higher to 1¢ higher, except for 3¢ lower in spot May.
Soybean futures closed fractionally lower to 3¢ lower through Jan ’25 and then fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 4, 2024
Cattle futures closed lower Wednesday with pressure including softer early cash fed cattle prices, weakening wholesale beef values and continued uncertainty tied to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in dairy cows linked to a rare case in humans.
Live Cattle closed an average of 74¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.05.
Through Wednesday afternoon, negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the North, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
There were some early live delivered trades in Nebraska at $189/cwt. FOB live sales there last week were $189-$190). There were also some early FOB live sales the western Corn Belt at $187, which was $1-$3 lower. Dressed delivered prices in Nebraska were $4-$6 lower at $296. Dressed delivered prices in the western Corn Belt last week were $299-$300 in a very light test.
Elsewhere, trade was mostly inactive on light demand. Last week, FOB live prices were $186/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle and $185-$186 in Kansas.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.86 lower Wednesday afternoon at $301.30/cwt. Select was $2.07 lower at $296.92/cwt.
Grains and Soybean futures closed higher Wednesday with apparent short covering.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 5¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 10¢ to 17¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 3, 2024
Cattle futures firmed and clawed back a little ground without much conviction on Tuesday after being hammered by panic selling in the previous session, tied to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in dairy cows linked to a rare case in humans.
Live Cattle closed an average of $1.02 higher (50¢ to $1.70 higher).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.43 higher ($1.35 to $3.07 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $186/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $185-$186 in Kansas, $189-$190 in Nebraska and $188-$190 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $299-$302 in Nebraska and $299-$300 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.58 lower Tuesday afternoon at $304.16/cwt. Select was $2.80 lower at $298.99/cwt.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 9¢ lower through Sep ’25 and then fractionally lower to 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 9¢ to 13¢ lower through May ’25. and then 6¢ to 7¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 11¢ lower through Jan ’25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 2, 2024
Cattle futures, already weakened by last week’s lower cash fed cattle trade and Choice wholesale beef values, crumbled Monday with another round of panic selling tied to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in dairy cows linked to a rare case in humans (see below).
Live Cattle closed an average of $4.91 lower (45¢ lower at the back to $6.10 lower).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $6.91 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Services.
Last week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $186/cwt., $2-$3 lower in Kansas at $185-$186, steady to $1lower in Nebraska at $189-$190 and $1-$2 lower in the western Corn belt at $188-190. Dressed delivered prices were steady to $3 lower in Nebraska at 299-$302 and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $299-300.
The five-area weighted average FOB live steer price last week was $1.33 lower at $188.23/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $2.64 lower at $299.49.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 98¢ lower Monday afternoon at $305.74/cwt. Select was $1.64 lower at $301.79/cwt.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 6¢ lower through Sep ’25 and then mostly fractionally lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 5¢ to 9¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 2¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Apr. 1, 2024
Futures and equity markets were closed on Friday, in observance of Good Friday.
Although Cattle futures firmed at the end of weekly trade, they ended sharply lower week to week, due in part to the previous Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report. As mentioned in Cattle Current, feedlot placements in February were 9.7% more year over year and 3.4% more than expected.
Futures also suffered from panic selling earlier in the week that stemmed from confirmation of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in dairy cows (see below).
Week to week on Thursday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $4.22 lower ($3.37 to $5.07 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices softened, too. For the week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $186/cwt., steady to $1 lower in Nebraska at $189-$190 and $1-$2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $188-$190. Dressed delivered prices were steady to $3 lower in Nebraska at $299-$302. Dressed delivered prices in the western Corn Belt the previous week were $302.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.00 lower week to week on Friday at $306.72/cwt. Select was $1.96 higher at $303.43. Friday’s Choice-Select spread of $3.29 was the lowest in about two years.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 586,000 head was 12,000 head fewer than the previous week and 59,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 7.7 million head was 473,000 head fewer (-5.8%). Estimated year-to-date beef production of 6.5 billion pounds was 284.5 million pounds less (-4.2%).
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 29, 2024
Cattle futures gained Thursday, recovering more of the early-week losses as traders positioned for the end of the week and quarter, and ahead of a long weekend.
Live Cattle closed an average of $1.49 higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 89¢ higher, except for 30¢ lower in expiring Mar.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate on moderate demand in the Texas Panhandle through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were $2 lower at $186/cwt.
A day earlier FOB live prices were $3 lower in Kansas at $185.
Elsewhere, trade was slow on light demand with too few transactions to trend.
Last week, FOB live prices were $190 in Nebraska and $190-$191 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $302.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 22¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $308.36/cwt. Select was $2.74 higher at $301.17/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales of 12,700 metric tons (mt) for 2024 were 15% more than the previous week and 4% more than the prior four-week average, according to USDA’s weekly U.S. Export Sales report for the week ending Mar. 21. Increases were primarily for South Korea, Japan, China, Mexico and Taiwan.
Turning to row crops, Corn futures climbed higher, up mostly 10¢ to 15¢, fueled by USDA’s Prospective Plantings report (see below).
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mixed: 1¢ lower to 3¢ higher through Jan ’25 and then mostly 8¢ to 10¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 28, 2024
Cattle futures firmed Wednesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 91¢ higher (32¢ to $1.42 higher).
Live Cattle closed an average of 27¢ higher, except for 15¢ lower in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade on Wednesday ranged from a standstill to slow on light demand in Kansas where FOB live prices were $3 lower at $185/cwt. in a light test, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $188/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $190 in Nebraska and $190-$191 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $302.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.51 lower Wednesday afternoon at $308.58/cwt. Select was $1.83 lower at $298.43/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures mostly meandered lower as traders geared up for Thursday’s Prospective Plantings and Grain Stocks report from USDA.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 1¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 27, 2024
Cattle futures sank Tuesday amid uncertainty spun by negative and potentially negative news.
Closest to home, Monday’s announced confirmation of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in dairy cattle from herds in Kansas and Texas likely drew the attention of funds and algorithms. The infections appear to be tied to wild birds. There is no threat to the milk or food supply, according to USDA.
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) issued a statement also emphasizing HPAI has not been detected in beef cattle. However, NCBA encourages producers to implement enhanced biosecurity measures on their farms and ranches to help protect their herds.”
For broader context, according to NCBA, “Detections of avian influenza in birds are common in the United States. While it is uncommon for HPAI to affect mammals, USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has been tracking some limited detections of HPAI in mammalian wildlife for many years in the United States.”
So, the fundamental consequences of the HPAI finding depend on consumers.
Live Cattle closed an average of $3.22 lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $4.48 lower ($1.72 to $5.37 lower).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 20¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $311.09/cwt. Select was $1.70 lower at $300.26/cwt.
There was no AMS cash fed cattle report available at press time.
Last week, FOB live prices were $188/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $190 in Nebraska and $190-$191 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $302.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 26, 2024
Cattle futures closed lower Monday, with pressure including Friday’s bearish monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Live Cattle closed an average of $1.09 lower (67¢ to $1.52 lower).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.60 lower (50¢ to $2.37 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $188/cwt., $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $190 (a few up to $191) and $2-$3 higher in the western Corn belt at $190-$191 (a few up to $191.50). Dressed delivered prices were $2-$7 higher in Nebraska at $302 and $4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $302.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price last week was $2.09 higher at $189.56/cwt. The dressed delivered steer price was $4.07 higher at $302.13.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 17¢ higher Monday afternoon at $310.89/cwt. Select was 49¢ higher at $301.96/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly unchanged to fractionally lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 16¢ higher through Jly ’25, and then mostly 8¢ to 9¢ higher, supported by edible oils.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 25, 2024
Cattle futures closed lower Friday, with likely positioning ahead of what turned out to be a bearish monthly Cattle on Feed report (see below).
Live Cattle closed an average of $1.63 lower (87¢ to $2.00 lower).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.24 lower (92¢ to $4.30 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $188/cwt., $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $190 (a few up to $191) and $2-$3 higher in the western Corn belt at $190-$191 (a few up to $191.50). Dressed delivered prices were $2-$7 higher in Nebraska at $302 and $4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $302.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.01 lower Friday afternoon at $310.72/cwt. Select was $2.26 lower at $301.47/cwt. Week to week, Choice was $1.18 lower and Select was 93¢ lower.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 598,000 head was 3,000 head less than the previous week but 30,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 7.1 million head was 410,000 head fewer (-5.4%) than the same time a year earlier. Estimated beef production of 6.0 billion pounds was 250.7 million pounds less (-4.0%).
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 8¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 16¢ to 20¢ lower, with likely profit taking.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 22, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate on moderate to good demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $188/cwt., $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $190 (a few up to $191) and $2-$3 higher in the western Corn belt at $190-$191. Dressed delivered prices were $2-$7 higher in Nebraska at $302 and $4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $302.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 29¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $313.73/cwt. Select was $1.02 higher at $303.73/cwt.
Despite the higher cash trade, Cattle futures edged lower Thursday, with some likely positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Live Cattle closed an average of 43¢ lower., except for 57¢ higher in spot Apr.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 88¢ lower (30¢ to $1.07 lower), except for 62¢ higher in spot Mar.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher, helped along by weekly export numbers.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher, also helped by weekly exports.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 21, 2024
Cattle futures closed slightly lower Wednesday, basically in a holding pattern ahead of weekly cash fed cattle trade and Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Live Cattle closed an average of 37¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 36¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although, too few to trend, there were some early FOB live sales in Kansas at $186/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $186/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $187-$188 in Nebraska and $187-$189 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $295-$300 in Nebraska and $298 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 22¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $313.44/cwt. Select was 47¢ lower at $302.71/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 14¢ higher, tied in part of new-crop export announcements.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 20, 2024
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed as traders appeared to wait for the week’s cash direction and looking toward Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Live Cattle narrowly mixed, from an average of 38¢ lower in the front four contracts to an average of 21¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 25¢ lower in the front three contracts to an average of 70¢ higher (10¢ to $1.07 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon.
Last week, FOB live prices were $186/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $187-$188 in Nebraska and $187-$189 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $295-$300 in Nebraska and $298 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 11¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $313.22/cwt. Select was 13¢ higher at $303.18/cwt.
Grain futures firmed Tuesday.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 7¢ to 9¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ higher., except for fractionally higher to 2¢ lower in the front five contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 19, 2024
Strong cash fed cattle prices and higher wholesale beef values helped Cattle futures extend gains Monday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.38 higher (70¢ higher at the back to $1.80 higher toward the front).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.40 higher ($1.92 to $3.12 higher).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.43 higher Monday afternoon at $313.33/cwt. Select was 65¢ higher at $303.05/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive on light demand through Monday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $186/cwt., $2.00 higher in Nebraska at $187-$188 and $2-$3 higher in the western Corn belt at $187-$189. Dressed delivered prices were steady to $3 higher in Nebraska at $295-$300 and $6 higher in the western Corn Belt at $298.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price last week was $2.35 higher at $187.47/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered price was $4.67 higher at $298.06.
Corn futures closed unchanged to fractionally mixed.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 7¢ to 8¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 10¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 15, 2024
Cattle futures closed sharply lower Thursday in an outside day with apparent technical pressure.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.18 lower ($1.85 to $2.97 lower).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.89 lower ($2.80 to $4.67 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light to moderate demand in the western Corn Belt through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were $2-$3 higher at $188.00. Dressed delivered prices were steady at $292.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill with too few transactions to trend. Last week, FOB live prices were $185 in the Southern Plains and $185-$186 in Nebraska where dressed delivered prices were $292-$300.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 96¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $310.78/cwt. Select was 65¢ higher at $301.69/cwt.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 7¢ lower through Jly ’25 and then mostly 2¢ lower, with pressure from wheat.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 9¢ to 12¢ lower, pressured by more bullish domestic weather, poor exports and China’s recent cancellation of purchases from the U.S. and other countries.
Soybean futures closed mixed, from 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 14, 2024
Cattle futures closed higher Wednesday with prospects of higher cash trade again this week.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.42 higher ($1.17 to $2.10 higher) amid heavy volume.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.84 higher ($1.30 higher at the front to $2.17 higher at the back).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $185-$186/cwt. Dressed delivered prices were $292-$300 in Nebraska and $292 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 77¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $309.82/cwt. Select was $1.44 higher at $301.04/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 4¢ to 9¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 13, 2024
Cattle futures gained Tuesday with support from higher-trending wholesale beef prices and last week’s stronger cash trade.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 64¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 92¢ higher (57¢ to $1.32 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $185-$186/cwt. Dressed delivered prices were $292-$300 in Nebraska and $292 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.71 higher Tuesday afternoon at $310.79/cwt. Select was 72¢ higher at $299.60/cwt.
Corn futures closed unchanged to fractionally mixed.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly fractionally lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 13¢ to 17¢ higher, supported by lower estimated production in Brazil and a hotter forecast in South America.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 12, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $185/cwt., $1.50-$2.00 higher in Nebraska at $185-$186 and $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $185-$186. Dressed delivered prices were $2-$8 higher in Nebraska at $292-$300 and $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.84 higher Monday afternoon at $308.88/cwt. Select was $1.45 higher at $298.88/cwt.
Cattle futures drifted mainly lower Monday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 27¢ lower, except for an average of 16¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 85¢ lower (12¢ to $1.37 lower), except for an average of 36¢ higher in the last two contracts.
Corn futures closed fractionally higher to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 9¢ to 13¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 11, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $185/cwt., $1.50-$2.00 higher in Nebraska at $185-$186 and $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $185-$186. Dressed delivered prices were $2-$8 higher in Nebraska at $292-$300 and $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $292.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 583,000 head was 16,000 head fewer than the previous week and 48,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated cattle slaughter of 5.9 million head was 349,000 head fewer (-5.5%) than the same time last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 4.9 billion pounds was 231.3 million pounds less (-4.5%).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 43¢ higher Friday afternoon at $307.04/cwt. Select was $1.17 higher at $297.43/cwt.
Cattle futures closed lower Friday despite the week’s higher cash trade and the supportive outlook in the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 83¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.33 lower (62¢ to $2.20 lower).
Grain and Soybean futures closed higher with likely short covering despite neutral to bearish World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 10¢ to 14¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 16¢ to 19¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 8, 2024
Cattle futures closed higher Thursday, buoyed by stronger cash fed cattle prices.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.11 higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 84¢ higher (42¢ to $1.12 higher), except for unchanged in spot Mar.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon ranged from a standstill in the Texas Panhandle to slow on light to moderate demand in Kansas, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some early FOB live sales in Kansas at $186/cwt. Prices in the Southern Plains last week were $183.
Trade in the North ranged from slow on light to moderate demand in Nebraska to moderate on moderate demand in the western Corn Belt. FOB live prices were $1.50 to $2.00 higher in Nebraska at $185-$186 and $2 higher in the western Corn belt at $185-$186. Dressed delivered prices in both regions were $290 last week.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.70 higher through Thursday afternoon at $306.61/cwt. Select was $1.17 higher at $296.26/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures closed higher Thursday with apparent technical support and perhaps positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed 7¢ to 9¢ higher through May ’25 and then mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 10¢ to 18¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 18¢ higher through Jan ’25 and then 6¢ to 7¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 7, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $183/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $183-$184.50 in Nebraska and $183-$184 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $290.
Cattle futures weakened Wednesday, as traders appeared to be waiting for cash direction.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 46¢ lower (22¢ to $1.07 lower).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 91¢ lower (70¢ to $1.30 lower).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 12¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $304.91/cwt. Select was 22¢ higher at $295.09/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures were mixed Wednesday. Keep in mind the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates are scheduled for release this Friday.
Corn futures closed fractionally higher to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 10¢ to 15¢ lower though Dec ’24 and then 6¢ to 7¢ lower, struggling for demand.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 6, 2024
Cattle futures moved ahead Tuesday, mostly erasing losses from the previous session.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 81¢ higher (52¢ to $1.32 higher).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.12 higher (75¢ to $1.50 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $183/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $183-$184.50 in Nebraska and $183-$184 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.51 lower Tuesday afternoon at $304.79/cwt. Select was 30¢ lower at $294.87/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures softened Tuesday with likely pressure from profit taking and producer selling.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 6¢ to 11¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 5, 2024
Cattle futures took a breather Monday as traders appeared to await further cash direction.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 80¢ lower (32¢ to $1.77 lower).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.47 lower (80¢ to $2.40 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $183/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $183-$184.50 in Nebraska and $183-$184 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $290.
The five-area direct weighted average FOB live steer price last week was 35¢ higher at $183.30/cwt. The average dressed delivered price was $1.25 lower at $290.36.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.02 higher Monday afternoon at $306.30/cwt. Select was 57¢ lower at $295.17/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 7¢ to 10¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Mar. 4, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were steady to $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $183/cwt., steady to $1.50 higher in Nebraska at $183-$184.50 and steady to $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $183-$184. Dressed delivered prices were $2 lower in Nebraska at $290 and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.08 higher Friday afternoon at $305.28/cwt., the highest level since October. Choice was $4.67 higher week to week on Friday. Select was $1.56 higher at $295.74/cwt., up $9.43 week to week.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 599,000 head was 6,000 head more than the previous week but 27,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 5.4 million head was 298,000 head less (-5.3%) than the same period last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 4.5 billion pounds was 194.2 million pounds less (-4.2%).
Cattle futures rebounded Friday, supported by higher wholesale beef prices and strong fundamentals.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.90 higher ($1.30 to $3,10 higher), except for 30¢ higher in newly minted away-Aug. They were narrowly mixed week to week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.35 higher ($2.77 to $4.27 higher). They were an average of $1.40 lower week to week. Besides higher Corn futures and technical correction, some of the mid-week pressure may have stemmed from concerns about the massive Texas wildfires pushing more cattle to market.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 5¢ lower through Dec ’14 and then 1¢ to 2¢ lower. Week to week on Friday, Corn futures closed an average of 10’5¢ higher through the front six contracts.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 14¢ to 22¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 14¢ higher through Aug ’24 and then mostly 6¢ to 7¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 1, 2024
Cattle futures continued a downward correction Thursday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 60¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 93¢ lower (37¢ to $1.85 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to moderate on moderate demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are steady to $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $183/cwt., steady in Nebraska at $183 and steady to $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $183-$184. Dressed delivered prices are $2 lower in Nebraska at $290 and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.17 higher Thursday afternoon at $304.20/cwt. Select was $1.24 higher at $294.18/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 2¢ to 7¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 29, 2024
Cattle futures softened Wednesday with pressure including likely profit taking and month-end positioning.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.13 lower (80¢ to $1.60 lower).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.80 lower ($2.12 to $3.85 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the Southern Plains, through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were steady in the Texas Panhandle at $183/cwt. and steady to $1 higher in Kansas at $183.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill with too few transactions to trend.
Last week, FOB live prices were $183 in Nebraska and $182-$183 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $292 in Nebraska and $290-$292 in the western Corn Belt.
Slower beef packer production continued to support wholesale beef values. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.29 higher Wednesday afternoon at $303.03/cwt. Select was $2.54 higher at $292.94/cwt.
Turning to row crops, Corn and Soybean futures received some support from chatter about bearish weather in South America.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 5¢ higher, with most of the support in the front contracts.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 4¢ to 6¢ lower, except for 2¢ higher in spot Mar.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 28, 2024
Cattle futures basically paddled in place Tuesday, awaiting the week’s cash direction.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 33¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 14¢ lower in three contracts to an average of 16¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill, with too few transactions to trend, through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $183 in the Texas Panhandle, $182-$183 in Kansas, $183 in Nebraska and $182-$184 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $292 in Nebraska and $290-$292 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 5¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $301.74/cwt. Select was $2.41 higher at $290.40/cwt.
Corn futures closed fractionally higher to 3¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 8¢ to 9¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 2¢ to 4¢ higher through near Aug and then mostly unchanged to fractionally lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 27, 2024
Overall, futures traders seemed to look past the bearish placement number in Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report, seeming instead to focus on strong fundamentals, including last week’s higher cash fed cattle trade. However, the bounce higher in Corn futures helped dampen Feeder Cattle futures.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 26¢ higher, except for unchanged in the back contract.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.07 lower, (50¢ to $1.52 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $3 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $183/cwt., $2-$3 higher in Kansas at $182-$183, $2 higher in Nebraska at $183 and $2-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $182-$184. Dressed delivered prices in Nebraska were $5 higher at $292 and $5-$7 higher in the western Corn Belt at $290-$292.
The five-area direct weighted average FOB live steer price last week was $2.60 higher at $182.95/cwt. The average dressed delivered steer price was $5 higher at $291.61.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.18 higher Monday afternoon at $301.79/cwt. Select was $1.68 higher at $287.99/cwt.
Grain futures bounced back Monday, still trying to carve a bottom.
Corn futures closed 6¢ to 8¢ higher through Jly ’25 and then 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 7¢ to 15¢ higher through Mar ’25 and then mostly 4¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ higher through near Aug and then mostly fractionally lower to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 26, 2024
Cattle futures renewed gains Friday, supported by stronger cash fed cattle prices and perhaps positioning ahead of the Cattle on Feed report (see below).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.31 higher ($1.00 higher at the back to $2.10 higher in spot Feb). They were an average of $1.19 higher week to week on Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.16 higher, ($1.07 higher at the back to $3.07 higher toward the front. They were an average of $3.74 higher week to week.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from light to moderate on light to moderate demand to moderate on moderate demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $3 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $183/cwt., $2-$3 higher in Kansas at $182-$183, $2 higher in Nebraska at $183 and $4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $184. Dressed delivered prices in Nebraska were $5 higher at $292. Dressed prices in the western Corn Belt the previous week were $285.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 82¢ higher Friday afternoon at $300.61/cwt. Select was 50¢ higher at $286.31/cwt. Week to week on Friday, Choice was $4.41 higher, while Select was 35¢ lower.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 593,000 head was 15,000 head fewer than the previous week and 21,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 4.8 million head was 272,000 head fewer (-5.4%) than the same week the previous year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 4 billion pounds was 177.4 million pounds less (-4.3%).
Grain and Soybean futures eroded further Friday with pressure including producer selling and anemic international demand.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ lower. They were an average of 12’4¢ lower through the front six contracts week to week.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 6¢ to 8¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 9¢ to 14¢ lower in the front three contracts and then mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 23, 2024
Cattle futures softened Thursday with likely positioning ahead of Fridays monthly Cattle on Feed report. Many expect the report to indicate a sharp decline in feedlot placement, about 12% less year over year in January, based on average analyst estimates. January marketing are estimated to be about even, while the Feb. 1 on-feed inventory is projected to be up slightly.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 84¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.44 lower, except for an average of 56¢ higher in the front three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill in the South to mostly inactive on light demand in the North, with too few transactions to trend, through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $180/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $181 in Nebraska and $180 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were mostly $287 in Nebraska and $285 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.99 higher Thursday afternoon at $299.79/cwt. Select was $1.35 higher at $285.81/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures continued searching for a bottom Thursday with apparent added pressure from recent producer selling.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 5¢ lower through Dec. ’24 and then mostly 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 13¢ lower through Jly ’25. and then mostly 7¢ to 8¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 22, 2024
Cattle futures continued to crawl mostly higher Wednesday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 44¢ higher, except for 42¢ lower in spot Feb.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 45¢ higher, except for an average of 20¢ lower in two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill in the South to mostly inactive on light demand in the North, with too few transactions to trend, through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $180/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $181 in Nebraska and $180 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were mostly $287 in Nebraska and $285 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 43¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $297.80/cwt. Select was $3.36 lower at $284.46/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 7¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 18¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb., 21, 2024
Cattle futures closed mostly higher Tuesday, supported by positive fundamentals.
Live Cattle futures closed average of 58¢ higher, except for an average of 30¢ lower in the front two contracts.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.22 higher, except for 35¢ higher in spot Mar.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill in the South to mostly inactive on light demand in the North, with too few transactions to trend, through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $180/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $181 in Nebraska and $180 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were mostly $287 in Nebraska and $285 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 28¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $297.37/cwt. Select was 42¢ higher at $287.82/cwt.
Apparent short covering helped lift grain futures Tuesday.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 4¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 14¢ to 19¢ higher through Dec ’25.
Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 10¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 20, 2024
Futures and equity markets were closed Monday in observance of President’s Day.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $180/cwt., unevenly steady in Nebraska at $181 and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $180. Dressed delivered prices were unevenly steady in Nebraska at mostly $287 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $285.
The five-area direct weighted average FOB live fed steer price last week was 80¢ lower at $180.35. The weighted average dressed delivered fed steer price was 76¢ lower at $286.61.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 89¢ higher Monday afternoon at $297.09/cwt. Select was 74¢ higher at $287.40/cwt
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 19, 2024
Cattle futures rallied higher Friday helped along by recently stronger wholesale beef values.
Live Cattle futures closed average of $1.11 higher (65¢ to $1.95 higher).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.67 higher (50¢ higher at the back to $3.32 higher at the front).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to slow on light demand through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $180/cwt., steady to $2.50 lower in Nebraska at $180 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $180-$182. Dressed delivered prices were unevenly steady in Nebraska at mostly $287 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $285.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 90¢ higher Friday afternoon at $296.20/cwt. Select was $1.33 lower at $286.66/cwt.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 608,000 head was 14,000 head fewer than the previous week and 17,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Total year-to-date estimated cattle slaughter of 4.2. million head was 246,000 head fewer (-5.6%). Year-to-date estimated beef production of 3.5 billion pounds was 153.5 million pounds less (-4.2%).
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 8¢ to 11¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 5¢ to 10¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 16, 2024
Live Cattle futures closed higher Thursday, supported by firmer wholesale beef values and more reprieve in Corn futures.
Live Cattle futures closed average of 64¢ higher (17¢ higher at the back to $1.60 higher toward the front).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 57¢ lower, except for an average of 75¢ higher in the front two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from moderate on moderate demand in the North to mostly inactive on light demand in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $180/cwt., steady to $2.50 lower in Nebraska at $180 and mainly steady in the western Corn Belt at $180-$181. Dressed delivered prices are unevenly steady in Nebraska at mostly $287 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $285 on a light test.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.30 higher Thursday afternoon at $295.30/cwt. Select was $3.97 higher at $287.99/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures continued to plumb for new lows Thursday as the lack of demand faces abundant supplies.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 7¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 11¢ to 14¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 14¢ lower through Sep ’25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 15, 2024
Overbought conditions, seasonally lower wholesale beef values, early cash fed cattle sales at lower money and the previous day’s surprisingly strong Consumer Price Index all weighed on Cattle futures Wednesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.43 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.57 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from moderate on moderate demand to active on good demand in the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were $2 lower at $180/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was slow on light to moderate demand with too few transactions to trend. Last week, FOB live prices were $180-$182.50 in Nebraska and $180-$182 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $285-$289 in Nebraska and $285 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.73 higher Wednesday afternoon at $294.00/cwt. Select was $1.28 lower at $284.02/cwt.
Queasiness over the release of the latest USDA projections helped take grain and Soybean futures lower.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 6¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 7¢ to 9¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 9¢ to 15¢ lower through Jly ’25 and then mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 14, 2024
Cattle futures softened Tuesday with pressure from outside markets and likely profit taking.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.07 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 73¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $182/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $180-$182.50 in Nebraska and $180-$182 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $285-$289 in Nebraska and $285 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.81 lower Tuesday afternoon at $292.27/cwt. Select was $1.72 lower at $285.30/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 12, 2024
Cattle futures eased Friday as traders appeared to take a break from the week’s strong gains and awaiting cash fed cattle direction which ultimately proved positive.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.23 lower (15¢ to $2.45 lower) except for 30¢ higher in spot Mar.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 25¢ higher (5¢ to 85¢ higher) except for an average of 12¢ lower in three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand in the Texas Panhandle to slow on light to moderate demand in the North through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices were $1.25 to $4.00 higher in Nebraska at $180/cwt. in a light test. Dressed delivered prices were $5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $285, where there were a few live trades at $180, but too few to trend.
The previous week, FOB live prices were $178 in the Texas Panhandle, $178-$179 in Kansas and $177-$179 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices in Nebraska were $280.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 97¢ lower Friday afternoon at $294.04/cwt. Select was 96¢ higher at $285.08/cwt. Week to week on Friday, Choice was 96¢ higher and Select was $1.61 higher.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 622,000 head was 15,000 head fewer than the previous week and 6,000 head fewer than the same week a year earlier. Beef packers continue to slow production in efforts to boost wholesale beef values. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 3.6 million head was 225,000 head fewer (-5.9%) than the same period last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 3 billion pounds was 133.8 million pounds less (-4.3%) than a year earlier.
Grain and soybean futures continued to be pressured by the latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 9¢ to 11¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 9, 2024
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 84¢ higher Thursday (5¢ higher at the back to $1.77 higher toward the front), supported by friendly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below) and prospects of higher cash prices this week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 53¢ higher through the front five contracts (2¢ to $1.30 higher) to an average of 27¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the western Corn Belt through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were a few early FOB live trades at $179/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was at a standstill.
Last week, FOB live prices were $178 in the Texas Panhandle, $178-$179 in Kansas, $176-$178.75 in Nebraska and $177-$179 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $280.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 3¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $295.01/cwt. Select was $1.30 lower at $284.13/cwt.
Corn futures closed 1¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 13¢ to 17¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 2¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 8, 2024
Cattle futures took a breather Wednesday with traders apparently waiting for the week’s cash direction.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 47¢ lower (17¢ lower toward the back to $1.12 lower in the spot month).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 76¢ lower (27¢ lower at the back to $1.27 lower toward the front).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand in the western Corn Belt to a standstill elsewhere through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $178/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $178-$179 in Kansas, $176-$178.75 in Nebraska and $177-$179 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices $280.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 91¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $294.98/cwt. Select was 82¢ higher at $285.42/cwt.
Apparent fund selling helped pressure Corn and Soybean futures. Positioning ahead of Thursday’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates could have played a role, too.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 10¢ lower through Sep ’25 and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 7, 2024
Cattle futures roared back Tuesday with apparent fund buying.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.78 higher (from $1.95 higher at the back to $3.92 higher at the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.04 higher (from $1.05 higher near the back to $3.72 higher toward the front).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $178/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $178-$179 in Kansas, $176-$178.75 in Nebraska and $177-$179 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices $280.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 59¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $294.07/cwt. Select was 83¢ higher at $284.60/cwt.
Soybean futures closed fractionally higher to 3¢ higher through Sep ’25 and then mostly 1¢ lower.
Corn futures closed fractionally mixed after the first three contracts.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly fractionally lower after the first few contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 6, 2024
Cattle futures closed lower Monday on oversold conditions and likely profit taking as traders await this week’s cash direction.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.89 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.19 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $3 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $178/cwt., $4 higher in Kansas at $178-$179, $1 to $1.75 higher in Nebraska at $176-$178.75 and steady to $5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $177-$179. Dressed delivered prices were $3 higher at $280.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 40¢ higher Monday afternoon at $293.48/cwt. Select was 30¢ higher at $283.77/cwt.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 7¢ higher through Nov ’25.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 8¢ to 11¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 5, 2024
Cattle futures were narrowly mixed Friday as traders paused at the end of a significantly positive week, fueled by gains in cash fed cattle prices and supported by the friendly Cattle report.
For the week, FOB live prices were $3 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $178/cwt., $4 higher in Kansas at $178-$179, steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $176-$177 and steady to $5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $177-$179. Dressed delivered prices were $3 higher at $280.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 44¢ lower. Week to week, there were an average of $3.99 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 39¢ higher, except for unchanged in away Feb. Week to week, they were an average of $2.36 higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.86 lower Friday afternoon at $293.08/cwt. Select was 22¢ higher at $283.47/cwt. Week to week, Choice was $7.45 lower and Select was down $5.66.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 637,000 head was 19,000 more than the previous week and the same as a year earlier. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 2.9 million head was 215,000 head fewer (-6.8%) than the same period a year ago. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 2.5 billion pounds was 125.7 million pounds less (-4.8%).
Soybean futures closed 14¢ to 15¢ lower through Sep ’25.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 4¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast-Feb, 2, 2024
Cattle futures charged ahead Thursday, fueled by strong gains in cash fed cattle prices and the bullish Cattle inventory report (see below) released after trading the previous day.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.90 higher ($3.21 higher at the back to $4.72 higher at the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.08 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate on moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were mostly $3 higher at mostly $178/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from moderate on moderate demand to moderate on light demand.
So far this week, dressed delivered prices are $3 higher at $280.
Last week, FOB live prices were $175-$177 in Nebraska and $174-$177 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value were 40¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $294.94/cwt. Select was 92¢ lower at $287.05/cwt.
Corn futures closed unchanged to 1¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 1¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 12¢ to 19¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 31, 2024
Cattle futures bounced back Tuesday, perhaps with positioning ahead of Wednesday’s Cattle inventory report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.98 higher, except for 27¢ higher in the back contract.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 80¢ higher, 52¢ to $1.27 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $175/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $174-$175 in Kansas (mostly $175), $175-$177 in Nebraska and $174-$177 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were at $277
Choice boxed beef cutout value (p.m.): $3.35 lower at $296.07/cwt. Select was $1.77 lower at $287.05/cwt.
Grain and soybean futures rallied Tuesday with apparent short covering.
Corn futures closed 6¢ to 8¢ higher through May ’25.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 8¢ to 12¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 24¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 30, 2024
Cattle futures started Monday’s session with follow-through support that faded as the day wore on amid likely profit taking and positioning ahead of Wednesday’s USDA Cattle inventory report. Although another year of beef cow contraction is widely anticipated, the degree will also depend on whether USDA makes any adjustments to prior-year figures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 94¢ lower (55¢ to $1.32 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 56¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $175/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $174-$175 in Kansas (mostly $175), $175-$177 in Nebraska and $174-$177 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were at $277.
The five-area direct weighted average FOB live steer price last week was $1.68 higher at $175.44/cwt. The five-area direct dressed delivered price was $2.98 higher at $276.87.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.11 lower Monday afternoon at $299.42/cwt. Select was 31¢ lower at $288.82/cwt.
Turning to row crops, grain and soybean futures closed lower Monday with apparent concerns about China’s economy.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 15¢ lower through May ’25 and then mainly fractionally higher.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 6¢ lower through Jly ’25 and then 1¢ to 4¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 7¢ to 8¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 29, 2024
Cattle futures continued higher Friday, buoyed by lighter carcass weights due to the weather, higher cash fed cattle prices and strong wholesale beef values.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.62 higher. Week to week, they were up an average of $7.64.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 94¢ higher. They were an average of $3.70 higher week to week.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $1.50 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $175/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Kansas at $174-$175 (mostly $175), $2-$4 higher in Nebraska at $175-$177 and from $1 lower to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $174-$177. Dressed delivered prices were $3-$4 higher at $277.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.85 higher Friday afternoon at $300.53/cwt. Select was $1.28 higher at $289.13/cwt. Week to week, Choice was $5.03 higher and Select was $6.08 higher.
Grain and soybean futures continued to chop in search of a low Friday.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 14¢ lower.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 5¢ lower through Jly ’25.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 6¢ to 9¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 26, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices bounced higher Thursday.
FOB live prices were $1.50 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $175/cwt., $2 higher in Kansas at $175, $2-$4 higher in Nebraska at $175-$177 and unevenly steady in the western Corn Belt at $174-$176. Dressed delivered prices $3-$4 higher in Nebraska at $277. Prices in the western Corn Belt last week were $273-$274.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 82¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $298.68/cwt. Select was 61¢ higher at $287.85/cwt.
Stronger cash fed cattle prices and strong country demand for calves and feeder cattle helped push Cattle futures higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.54 higher ($2.72 higher at the back to $4.40 higher in spot Mar), not counting Jan going off the board 20¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.53 higher (60¢ higher at the back to $2.37 higher in the front contract).
Turning to row crops, traders took some of the South American weather premium back out of Soybean futures, which closed mostly 10¢ to 17¢ lower.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 1¢ to 11¢ higher through May ’25 and then 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 25. 2024
Cattle futures extended gains Wednesday with help from higher cash fed cattle prices, albeit in limited trade.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 53¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 61¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate on moderate demand in Kansas through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were $1 higher at $174/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was mostly inactive on light demand. FOB live prices last week were $173.50/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $173 in Nebraska and $175 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $273-$274.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.16 lower Wednesday afternoon at $299.50/cwt. Select was $1.14 lower at $287.24/cwt.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 8¢ to 9¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ higher after Sep ’24.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 24, 2024
Cattle futures bounced higher Tuesday with support from stronger wholesale beef values. Feeder Cattle were also buoyed by hefty cash trade.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.87 higher ($1.47 to $2.37 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 63¢ higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.99 higher Tuesday afternoon at 301.66/cwt., the highest level since the first part of November. Select was $1.80 higher at $288.38/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices last week were $173.50/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $173 in Kansas $173 in Nebraska and $175 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $273-$274.
Soybean futures closed mostly 8¢ to 15¢ higher through Sep ’25 and then 6¢ higher with chatter about softer South American production.
Corn futures closed fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 23, 2023
Cattle futures faded early pressure to close narrowly mixed Monday. Despite the neutral Cattle on Feed report, reasons for skittishness included anemic cash fed cattle trade at static prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed from an average of 44¢ lower in the front three contracts to an average of 24¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed from an average of 27¢ lower in the front five contracts to an average of 31¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices last week were $1.50 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $173.50/cwt., $1 higher in Kansas at $173, and steady in the North at $173 in Nebraska and $175 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were unevenly steady in the Nebraska at $273-$274 and $1-$2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $273-$274.
Last week’s weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price was 29¢ higher at $173.76/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steers price was 19¢ higher at $273.89.
Choice boxed beef cutout value (p.m.): $3.17 higher at 298.67/cwt. Select was $3.53 higher at $286.58/cwt.
Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ to 7¢ higher.
Corn futures closed fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly fractionally higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 22, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade on Friday ranged from a standstill in the Southern Plains to slow on light demand in the North, but with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. The previous week, FOB live prices were $172/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $173 in Nebraska and $175 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $272-$275 in Nebraska and $275 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 79¢ lower Friday afternoon at 295.50/cwt. Select was 71¢ lower at $283.05/cwt. Week to week, Choice was up $6.24 and Select was $11.20 higher.
Cattle futures mainly paddled in place Friday ahead of the monthly Cattle on Feed report (see below) and awaiting the week’s cash fed cattle direction.
Feeder Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 35¢ lower in the front five contracts to an average of 24¢ higher. They were an average of $4.06 higher week to week.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 24¢ lower to an average of 14¢ higher. Week to week, they were up an average of $2.48.
Corn futures closed narrowly mixed, from 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed fractionally lower to 1¢ lower through Mar ’25 and then mostly fractionally higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 19, 2024
Cattle futures stretched higher Thursday, led by Feeder Cattle. Recently higher wholesale beef prices and growing prospects of steady to higher cash fed cattle prices this week added support. There was also likely some positioning ahead of the monthly Cattle on Feed report scheduled for release Friday. Analyst estimates ahead of the report peg December placements about 4% lower year over year, December marketings about 0.5% less and the Jan. 1 feedlot inventory about 2% higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.21 higher ($1.65 to $2.77 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.41 higher (1.00 to $2.02 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Last week, FOB live prices were $172/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $173 in Nebraska and $175 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $272-$275 in Nebraska and $275 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.16 lower Thursday afternoon at 296.29/cwt. Select was 74¢ higher at $283.76/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures firmed on apparently oversold conditions and positive outside markets.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 7¢ higher through Mar ’25 and then 1¢ to 5¢ lower.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ higher through Jly ’25 and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 7¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 18, 2024
Cattle futures faded early pressure to close mostly higher Wednesday with help from resurgent wholesale beef values.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 83¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 45¢ higher, except for 2¢ lower in spot Feb.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Last week, FOB live prices were $172/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $173 in Nebraska and $175 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $272-$275 in Nebraska and $275 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.46 higher through Wednesday afternoon at 298.45/cwt. Select was $3.04 higher at $283.02/cwt.
Soybean futures closed mostly 11¢ to 21¢ lower on weak economic news in China.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 5¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 17, 2024
Cattle futures strengthened Tuesday, helped along by recently higher wholesale beef values and likely lower fed cattle carcass weights in the near term due to the severe winter weather.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.16 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 74¢ higher (22¢ higher at the back to $1.75 higher in spot Feb).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Last week, FOB live prices were $172/cwt. in the Southern, Plains $173 in Nebraska and $175 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $272-$275 in Nebraska and $275 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.57 higher Tuesday afternoon at 294.99/cwt. Select was $7.42 higher at $279.98/cwt.
The higher dollar helped pressure Wheat futures, leading Corn futures along.
The higher U.S. dollar helped pressure Wheat futures, pulling Corn along.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 10¢ to 14¢ lower.
Lower South American production estimates helped support Soybean futures. They closed 1¢ to 3¢ higher through near Aug and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 16, 2024
Futures and equity markets were closed Monday in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr.
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices were at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Last week, they wobbled on either side of steady. FOB live prices were steady to $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $172/cwt., steady to $2 lower in Nebraska at $173. and steady in the western Corn Belt at $175. Dressed delivered prices were 50¢ to $2 lower in Nebraska at $272-$275 and steady to $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $275 on a light test.
Last week’s weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price was 54¢ lower at $173.47. The weighted average dressed delivered fed steer price was $1.08 lower at $273.70.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.16 higher Monday afternoon at 291.42/cwt. Select was 71¢ higher at $272.56/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 15, 2024
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 49¢ higher Friday, helped by falling Corn futures, which were pressured by the latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below). Week to week on Friday, Feeder Cattle closed an average of $3.25 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 26¢ lower, except for unchanged and 22¢ higher in the back two contracts. Week to week on Friday, they were an average of 61¢ higher (2¢ to $1.07 higher), except for unchanged and 37¢ lower in two away contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to slow on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were a few FOB live trades in the Southern Plains at $172/cwt. Established prices the previous week were $172-$173.
Established FOB live prices last week were steady to $2 lower in Nebraska at $173 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $174. Dressed delivered prices were 50¢ to $2 lower in Nebraska at $272-$275 and steady to $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $275 on a light test.
Through Thursday, the weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price was 33¢ lower at $174.32. The weighted average dressed delivered fed steer price was $1.11 lower at $273.63.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.37 higher Friday afternoon at 289.26/cwt. Select was $1.91 higher at $271.85/cwt. Week to week, Choice was $12.10 higher and Select was $12.32 higher.
Corn and Soybean futures fell Friday in response to higher than expected yield and production estimates in the monthly WASDE. Kansas City Wheat futures followed along, despite a reduction in expected planted area.
Corn futures closed mostly 7¢ to 10¢ lower through Jly ’25 and then mostly 4¢ to 5¢ lower. Week to week on Friday, Corn futures an average of 13’3¢ lower through the front six contracts.
Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 25¢ lower through Aug ’24 and then mostly 2¢ to 5¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower through May ’25 and then unchanged.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 12, 2024
Cattle futures faded early pressure Thursday to close higher with support including the bounce higher in Choice wholesale beef prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.24 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 62¢ higher (32¢ to $1.05 higher).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.82 higher Thursday afternoon at 285.89/cwt. Select was $3.00 higher at $269.94/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to slow on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live trades in the western Corn Belt are steady at $175/cwt. and dressed delivered sales are steady to $1 higher at $274-$275.
Action in grain futures Thursday appeared to be tied mainly to positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimate and quarterly Grain Stocks report.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 7¢ to 8¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 11, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to mostly a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were a few early FOB live trades in the western Corn Belt at $175/cwt. and a few dressed delivered sales at $274-$275.
Last week, FOB live prices were $172-$173/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $173-$175 in Nebraska and $175 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were generally $274-$275.50.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.91 higher Wednesday afternoon at 283.07/cwt. Select was $4.11 higher at $266.94/cwt.
Cattle futures consolidated to the upside Wednesday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 24¢ higher, except for 2¢ lower in spot Feb.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.01 higher.
Soybean were down on South American production forecasts Wednesday. They closed 8¢ to 12¢ lower through Aug ’24 and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Grain futures mainly held ground ahead of Friday’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower. KC HRW Wheat futures closed 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 10, 2024
Howdy to all, this is Wes Ishmael with your Cattle Current Market Update for Tuesday night and Wednesday morning the 10th of January.
Live Cattle futures closed mostly higher Tuesday with late-session support tied to widespread severe weather dampening packer production and feedlot cattle performance. Feeder Cattle mostly followed along.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 41¢ higher, except for an average of 18¢ lower in the back two contracts.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 47¢ higher, except for an average of 23¢ lower in three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $172-$173/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $173-$175 in Nebraska and $175 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were generally $274-$275.50.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.33 higher Tuesday afternoon at 280.16/cwt. Select was $3.47 higher at $262.83/cwt.
Soybean and grain futures closed higher Tuesday with likely positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 4¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 9¢ to 11¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 9, 2024
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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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 8, 2024
Cattle futures softened Friday with continued pressure by the week’s decline in Choice wholesale beef prices. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.26 higher Friday afternoon at 277.16/cwt. and Select was 71¢ higher at $259.53/cwt. Week to week, however, Choice was down $12.55, while Select was 80¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.26 lower. Week to week, they were an average of 88¢ higher (22¢ to $1.40 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 73¢ lower (47¢ to $1.30 lower). They were an average of 77¢ higher week to week (2¢ to $2.07 higher).
Pressure may also have stemmed from disappointment that stronger cash fed cattle prices faded at the end of the week.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in all regions through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were steady to $3 higher in Nebraska at $173-$175/cwt. and $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $175. Dressed delivered prices were $1-$2 higher at $274-$275. The previous week, FOB live prices were $172-$173 in Kansas and $172 in the Texas Panhandle.
Weekly U.S. beef export sales were positive. Net U.S. beef export sales for 2023 the week ending Dec. 28 (9,500 metric tons) were up noticeably from the previous week and up 69% from the prior four-week average. Increases primarily were for China, Japan, Mexico, and South Korea.
Net U.S. beef export sales of 7,100 metric tons for 2024 were primarily for Taiwan, Mexico, South Korea and Hong Kong.
Total cattle slaughter last week of 556,000 head was 48,000 more than the previous week but 9,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Beef production for the first week of 2024 of 470.3 million pounds was 40.9 million pounds more than the previous week and 3.6 million pounds more than the same week last year.
Turning to row crops, rains in South America continued to pressure Soybean futures Friday. Export sales also applied pressure to grains. Sales were a marketing year low for corn and soybeans, while wheat export sales were 52% less than the previous week and 79% less than the prior four-week average.
Soybean futures closed mostly 11¢ to 14¢ lower.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 7¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 5, 2024
Cattle futures softened Thursday with pressure including the recent free-fall in Choice wholesale beef values and relatively light volume.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.08 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 44¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $175/cwt. and $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $175. Dressed delivered prices in Nebraska are $2 higher at $275.
Last week, FOB live prices were $172 in the Southern Plains. Dressed delivered prices in the western Corn Belt were $273.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.13 lower Thursday afternoon at 275.90/cwt. Select was 3¢ lower at $258.82/cwt.
Wheat futures closed higher on thoughts the bottom might be in, helping Corn futures edge higher.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally mixed to 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 9¢ lower through Jan ’26.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 4, 2024
Cattle futures struggled to a narrowly mixed close Wednesday, pressured by lower outside markets and falling wholesale beef values through much of the session. Stronger cash fed cattle prices added support later.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 19¢ lower to an average of 43¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 12¢ lower in three contracts to an average of 25¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the North through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices were $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $175/cwt., where dressed delivered prices were $2 higher at $275.
FOB live prices in the western Corn Belt were $3 higher at $175. Dressed delivered prices there last week were $273.
Trade was at a standstill in the Southern Plains where FOB live prices last week were $172.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $6.31 lower Wednesday afternoon at 278.03/cwt. Select was 1¢ lower at $258.85/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally mixed to 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 4¢ to 7¢ lower through May ’25 and then 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 3, 2023
Cattle futures rallied on Tuesday, supported by last week’s stronger cash fed cattle prices and more trade volume.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.10 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.79 higher, ($1.15 to $3.42 higher), except for 82¢ lower in newly minted away Jun.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some early FOB live sales in the western Corn Belt at $175/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $172 in the Southern Plains, $172-$173 in Nebraska and $172-$172.50 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $273.
The five-area weighted average FOB live fed steer price last week was $1.73 higher at $172.24/cwt. The average dressed delivered price was $2.49 higher at $272.87.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $5.37 lower Tuesday afternoon at 284.34/cwt. Select was $1.47 lower at $258.86/cwt.
The positive outlook for South America and likely technical selling helped shove Soybean futures lower, dragging Grain futures along.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 10¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 9¢ to 13¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 19¢ to 26¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 1 and 2, 2024
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in all regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $172/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Kansas at $172, $1 higher in Nebraska at $172-$173 and mostly $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $172-$172.50. Dressed delivered prices were $3 higher at $273.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.57 lower Friday afternoon at 289.71/cwt. Select was $1.09 higher at $260.33/cwt. Week to week on Friday, Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.22 lower and Select was 82¢ lower .
Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 32.2 million head was 1.4 million head fewer (-4.2%) than the same time last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 26.6 billion lbs. was 1.3 billion pounds less (-4.6%).
Cattle and grain futures closed mainly narrowly mixed as traders closed the books on 2023.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 7¢ lower in the front three contracts to an average of 78¢ higher (12¢ to $1.82 higher). Week to week, they closed mixed, from an average of 80¢ lower in the front three contracts to an average of $2.15 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 15¢ lower to an average of 37¢ higher, except for expiring Dec closing $2.47 higher. Week to week on Friday, after $3.62 higher in expiring Dec, Live Cattle futures closed an average of 80¢ higher (2¢ to $1.50 higher), except for an average of 5¢ lower in two contracts.
On Friday, Corn futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ lower through Jly ’25 and then unchanged to fractionally lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed fractionally lower to 1¢ lower through Dec ’24 and then fractionally higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 11¢ to 14¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 29, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from moderate on moderate demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $172/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Kansas at $172 and mostly $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $172-$172.50.
Last week, FOB live prices were $171-$172 in Nebraska. Dressed delivered prices were $270.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 20¢ lower Thursday afternoon at 291.28/cwt. Select was $1.08 lower at $259.24/cwt.
Cattle futures softened Thursday amid light trade once again and perhaps with some year-end position squaring.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.42 lower (72¢ to $2.27 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 44¢ lower, except for an average of 34¢ higher at either end of the board.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher, helped along by increased tensions in the Black Sea.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 8¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 28, 2023
Cattle futures closed mixed Wednesday in light holiday trade.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 57¢ higher (7¢ to 92¢ higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 34¢ lower (12¢ to $1.12 lower), except for 15¢ higher in waning spot Dec.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all regions through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $171/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $170-$171 in Kansas, $171-$172 in Nebraska and $170 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $270.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.83 lower Wednesday at 291.48/cwt. Select was 87¢ lower at $260.32/cwt.
Grain futures closed lower Wednesday on likely profit taking.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 11¢ lower
Soybean futures closed unchanged to 3¢ higher through Nov ’24 and then 1¢ to to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 27, 2023
Cattle futures faded early pressure Tuesday to close higher amid light holiday trade. Support included last week’s higher cash fed cattle prices and the weekend’s harsh weather in parts of cattle feeding country. Stronger outside markets helped, as did the fact that traders had apparently already factored in last week’s Cattle on Feed Report, which showed more placements than analyst expectations ahead of the report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.34 higher (17¢ to $2.20 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.11 higher (52¢ to $1.87 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $171/cwt., steady to $1 higher in Kansas at $171, $3-$4 higher in Nebraska at $171-$172 and $1-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $170. Dressed delivered prices were $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $270 and $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $270.
Last week’s five-area direct weighted average FOB live steer price was $1.80 higher at $170.51/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $2.85 higher at $270.38.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 38¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $293.31/cwt. Select was 4¢ higher at $261.19/cwt.
Grain futures closed higher Tuesday, helped along by competitive pricing in the global market, as well as the recently weaker U.S. dollar.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 6¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 18¢ to 21¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 13¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 25-26, 2023
Cattle futures were mixed on Friday, ahead of the monthly Cattle on Feed report and amid light holiday trade.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.39 higher (97¢ to $2.07 higher). Week to week on Friday, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.91 higher ($1.85 higher at the front to $5.45 higher at the back). That’s an average of $10.59 higher over the past two weeks.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 23¢ lower in the front three contracts to an average of 18¢ higher. Week to week on Friday, they closed an average of 56¢ higher (7¢ to $1.83 higher), except for an average of 78¢ lower in near Feb and Apr.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light to moderate demand in all regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $171/cwt., $3-$4 higher in Nebraska at $171-$172 and $1-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $170. Dressed delivered prices were $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $270 and $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $270.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.80 higher Friday afternoon at $292.93/cwt. Select was 12¢ lower at $261.15/cwt.
Turning to row crops, the U.S. reopened key rail bridges connecting the nation and Mexico, which should support grain futures next week.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly fractionally higher, except for 1¢ to 3¢ lower in the front three contracts.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher through Sep ’25 and then mostly 7¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 22, 2023
Cattle futures closed mostly lower amid light trade Thursday, perhaps also pressured by positioning ahead of Friday’s Cattle on Feed report that will come out after tomorrow’s close.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.83 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.36 lower (90¢ to $1.65 lower), except for 52¢ higher in spot Dec.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on moderate demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are $1-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $170/cwt. Dressed, delivered prices of $270 are $2-$3 higher in Nebraska and $3 higher in the western Corn Belt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $170/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $168 in Nebraska.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.00 higher Thursday afternoon at $291.13/cwt. Select was 33¢ lower at $261.27/cwt.
Net 2023 U.S. beef export sales of 9,700 metric tons (mt) for the week ending Dec. 14 were 8% less than the previous week, but 44% more than the prior four-week average, according to USDA’s weekly Export Sales report. Increases primarily were for South Korea, Japan, Mexico, Canada and China.
Net U.S. beef export sales of 6,400 mt for 2024 were primarily for Japan, Mexico, China, Hong Kong and Taiwan.
Turning to row crops, this week’s U.S. closure of key rail bridges connecting the nation and Mexico — hampering transport of goods and commodities — continued to cap and pressure to grain futures.
Corn futures closed 2¢ higher through Jly ’25 and then unchanged to fractionally higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 14¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 21, 2023
Cattle futures gained strength late in yesterday’s session, albeit amid light pre-holiday trade. Support included chatter that beef packers appear to be short-bought and may have to advance cash prices this week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.40 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 98¢ higher (45¢ to $1.57 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Although too few to trend, there were some FOB live sales at $170/cwt. in the western Corn Belt, and a few dressed delivered sales in Nebraska at $270.
Last week, FOB live prices were $170/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $168 in Nebraska and $167-$169 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $267-$268 in Nebraska and $267 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 30¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $289.13/cwt. Select was $1.56 lower at $261.60/cwt.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ lower through Jly ’25 and then mostly fractionally lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 9¢ to 16¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 20, 2023
Cattle futures eased lower Tuesday, awaiting cash direction and with some potential positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report. Depending on whose numbers you follow, estimates are for November placements to be about 4% less year over year with November marketings down about 7% and the Dec. 1 on-feed inventory about 2% higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 62¢ lower (20¢ to $1.27 lower), except for 65¢ higher in the back contract.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 33¢ lower (2¢ to 85¢ lower) except for unchanged in away Feb.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live sales were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $170/cwt., $1-$3 lower in Nebraska at $168 and $1-$2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $167-$169. Dressed delivered prices were steady to $4 lower in Nebraska at $267-$268 and $1-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $267.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 82¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $288.83/cwt. Select was 56¢ lower at $263.16/cwt.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 6¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 10¢ to 13¢ higher on short covering and chatter about more exports to China.
Soybean futures closed mostly 12¢ to 17¢ lower, as traders removed some South American weather premium.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 19, 2023
Cattle futures rallied higher Monday with follow-through support, including renewed buying interest, especially in Feeder Cattle, and firming cash fed cattle prices at the end of last week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.40 higher ($1.97 to $2.85 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 68¢ higher (27¢ to 97¢ higher).
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 sales were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $170/cwt., $1-$3 lower in Nebraska at $168 and $1-$2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $167-$169. Dressed delivered prices were steady to $4 lower in Nebraska at $267-$268 and $1-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $267.
Last week’s weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price was $1.23 lower at $168.71/cwt. The weighted average steer price in the beef was $2.10 lower at $267.53.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.71 lower Monday afternoon at $288.93/cwt. Select was $2.90 higher at $263.72/cwt.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 6¢ lower through Jly ’25 and then 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 13¢ to 15¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 5¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 18, 2023
Cattle futures continued higher Friday, supported by friendlier outside markets and oversold conditions.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.24 higher ($1.55 to $2.57 higher). They were an average of $6.68 higher week to week ($4.95 to $7.98 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.12 (72¢ to $1.42 higher). They were an average of $3.71 higher week to week on Friday ($2.77 to $4.27 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to slow on moderate demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Although too few to trend, there were some FOB live sales in the Southern Plains at $170/cwt. and in the western Corn Belt at $167-$168 where early dressed delivered prices were $267.
The only established trade for last week was in Nebraska with FOB live prices $1-$3 lower at $168/cwt. and dressed delivered prices steady to $4 lower at $267-$268.
The previous week, FOB live prices were $171 in the Southern Plains and $168-$171 in the western Corn Belt where dressed delivered prices were $268-$270.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 68¢ lower Friday afternoon at $291.64/cwt. Select was $2.56 higher at $260.82/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 649,000 head was 14,000 head more than the previous week and 27,000 head more than the same week last year. Estimated total year-to-date cattle slaughter of 31.1 million head was 1.5 million head fewer (-4.5%) than the same period last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 25.6 billion pounds was 1.3 billion pounds less (-5.0%).
Grain futures closed higher on likely short covering.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 6¢ to 8¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 2¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 15, 2023
Cattle futures, especially Feeder Cattle bounced back Thursday with positive weekly export sales and supported by a rally in Lean Hog futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.09 higher ($1.07 to $2.52 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 65¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
The only established trade so far this week is in Nebraska, albeit on a light test. FOB live prices are $1-$3 lower at $168/cwt. and dressed delivered prices are steady to $4 lower at $267-$268.
Last week, FOB live prices were $171 in the Southern Plains and $168-$171 in the western Corn Belt where dressed delivered prices were $268-$270.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 68¢ higher at $292.32/cwt. Select was 95¢ lower at $258.26/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales for 2023 were 10,600 metric tons (mt) the week ending Dec. 7. Sales were noticeably higher than the previous week and 67% more than the prior four-week average, according to USDA’s weekly Export Sales report.
Increases were primarily for South Korea, Japan, Mexico, China and Canada. Net sales for 2024 were primarily for Japan, South Korea, Canada, Mexico and Chile.
Grain and Soybean futures closed little changed to higher, bolstered by weekly export sales.
Corn futures closed unchanged to fractionally mixed.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 7¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 13, 2023
Cattle futures softened Wednesday, amid likely positioning and pressured by the commodity-wide weakness tied to Argentina’s currency devaluation.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.46 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 89¢ lower (47¢ to $1.45 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live were $171/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $169-$171 in Nebraska and $168-$171 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $267-$272 in Nebraska and $268-$270 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.14 lower Wednesday afternoon at $291.64/cwt. Select was 55¢ higher at $259.21/cwt.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 16¢ to 24¢ lower through Jly ’25.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 16¢ lower through Sep ’24, and then 4¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 13, 2023
Cattle futures closed higher for the third consecutive trading session, helped along by a couple of days of higher Choice boxed beef cutout value and chatter about steady cash fed cattle trade this week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.40 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.18 higher (70¢ to $1.50 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live were $171/cwt. in the Southern Plains at $171/cwt., $169-$171 in Nebraska and $168-$171 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $267-$272 in Nebraska and $268-$270 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.35 higher Tuesday afternoon at $292.78/cwt. Select was 88¢ lower at $258.66/cwt.
Kansas City Wheat futures closed 20¢ to 24¢ higher on likely short covering.
Corn futures closed fractionally higher to 3¢ higher through Jly ’25.
Soybean futures closed 6¢ to 12¢ lower, likely pressured by profit taking.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 12, 2023
Cattle futures closed higher for the second consecutive trading session with apparently more confidence the bottom might be established.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.74 higher ($1.30 to $2.20 higher).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.40 higher ($1.20 to $2.80 higher).Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $3-$4 lower in the Southern Plains at $171/cwt., $4-$5 lower in Nebraska at $169 to $171 and $4-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $168-$171. Dressed delivered prices were $3-$8 lower in Nebraska at $267-$272 and $5-$6 lower in the western Corn Belt at $268 to $270.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.42 higher Monday afternoon at $290.43/cwt. Select was $1.64 higher at $259.54/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 5¢ lower through Sep ’24 and then mostly 1¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 26¢ to 29¢ lower on likely profit taking.
Soybean futures closed 23¢ to 32¢ higher through Aug ’24 and then mostly 14¢ to 15¢ higher, supported by a drier forecast in South America.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 11, 2023
Cattle futures rallied Friday with the oversold conditions, apparently expected data in the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below) and chatter that the bottom might finally be etched.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $4.65 higher ($4.15 to $5.07 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.56 higher ($1.97 to $3.35 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $3-$4 lower in the Southern Plains at $171/cwt., mostly $3-$4 lower in Nebraska at mainly $171 and $4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $169-$171. Dressed delivered prices were $4-$8 lower in Nebraska at $267-$271 and $4-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt at mostly $270.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.83 lower Friday afternoon at $288.01/cwt. Select was 93¢ lower at $257.90/cwt. Week to week, Choice was down $9.45 and Select was down $7.59.
Grain and soybean futures closed lower on likely profit taking.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower, except for 3¢ to 6¢ lower in the front three contracts.
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 7¢ lower through Sep ’25 and then mostly 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 8, 2023
Cattle futures found support early in Thursday’s session but ended lower with pressure from cash fed cattle prices and wholesale beef values. Export news was also negative with net 2023 sales of 200 metric tons for the week ending Nov. 30. That was a marketing year low, down 98% from the previous week and down 98% from the prior four-week average.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.75 lower (57¢ to $2.50 lower), except for 12¢ higher in spot Jan.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 93¢ lower (62¢ to $1.35 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are $3-$4 lower in the Southern Plains at $171/cwt., mostly $3-$4 lower in Nebraska at mainly $171 and $4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $169-$171. Dressed delivered prices are $4-$8 lower in Nebraska at $267-$271 and $4-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt at mostly $270.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 72¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $289.84/cwt. Select was $1.07 lower at $258.83/cwt.
Grain and soybean futures closed higher with a mix of export news and likely some positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
Kansas City Wheat futures closed mostly 3¢ to 11¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 16¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 7, 2023
The previous session’s soft rally proved to be another false start as Cattle futures unraveled Wednesday with pressure from eroding Choice wholesale beef values and declining negotiated cash fed cattle prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $5.36 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $3.79 lower ($3.07 to $5.42 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from moderate on moderate demand in Kansas to slow on light demand in all other regions, through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are $3-$4 lower in the Southern Plains at $171/cwt. Dressed delivered prices are $4 lower in Nebraska at $271.
Last week, dressed delivered prices were $174-$175 in Nebraska and $173-$175 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices in the western Corn Belt were $274-$275.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.19 lower Wednesday afternoon at $290.56/cwt. Select was 77¢ higher at $259.90/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 6¢ lower.
Kansas City Wheat futures closed 6¢ to 9¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 14¢ lower through Aug ’25 and then 6¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec.6, 2023
Cattle future closed higher Tuesday with renewed buying interest on oversold conditions and the hopes of some that a bottom was carved with the recent aggressive selling.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.59 higher ($2.77 at the back to $4.17 higher in spot Jan).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.34 higher (90¢ to $1.90 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
A day earlier, FOB live prices in Kansas were $3-$4 lower at mostly $171/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $175 in the Texas Panhandle, $174-$175 in Nebraska and $173-$175 in the western Corn Belt.
Dressed delivered prices last week were mostly $275 in Nebraska and $274-$275 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.24 lower Tuesday afternoon at $293.75/cwt. Select was $3.70 lower at $259.13/cwt.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 8¢ higher through Jly ’24 and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 1¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly fractionally higher through Aug ’25 and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 5, 2023
Cattle futures continued lower Monday with follow-through pressure from lower cash fed cattle prices and eroding boxed beef cutout values.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.78 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.65 lower ($1.27 to $2.05 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 $2-$3 lower in the Southern Plains at $174-$175/cwt., $1-$2 lower in Nebraska at $174-$175 and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $173-$175.
Dressed delivered prices were mostly $5 lower in Nebraska at $275 and $4-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $274-$275.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price last week was $2.32 lower at $174.45/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $4.14 lower at $274.59.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.47 lower Monday afternoon at $294.99/cwt. Select was $2.66 lower at $262.83/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 7¢ to 11¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 11¢ to 19¢ lower through Sep ’24 and then 6¢ to 9¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 4, 2023
Lower cash fed cattle prices helped pressure Cattle futures on Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $5.21 lower ($4.75 to $5.60 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.10 lower ($1.55 to $2.80 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $174-$175/cwt. in all regions which was $2-$3 lower in the Southern Plains, $1-$2 lower in Nebraska and steady to $4 lower in the western Corn Belt.
Dressed delivered prices were $275, which was $5 lower in Nebraska and $3-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 635,000 head was 97,000 head more than the previous holiday-shortened week but 25,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 29.8 million head was 1.5 million head fewer (-4.7%) than the same time last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 24.5 billion pounds was 1.4 billion pounds less (-5.3%).
Grain futures edged higher Friday with likely short covering.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 17¢ lower through Aug ’24 , as traders took back some of the weather premium, given the wetter outlook in Brazil.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 1, 2023
Cattle futures closed lower Thursday, retracing some of the gains from the previous two sessions amid light trade, declining open interest, likely month-end position squaring, lower cash fed cattle prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.74 lower ($1.20 to $2.25 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.27 lower (95¢ to $1.65 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to moderate on moderate demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are $174-$175/cwt. in all regions which is $2-$3 lower in the Southern Plains, $1-$2 lower in Nebraska and steady to $4 lower in the western Corn Belt.
Dressed delivered prices are $275, which is $5 lower in Nebraska and $3-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.99 higher Thursday afternoon at $299.02/cwt. Select was 66¢ higher at $264.75/cwt.
Grain futures closed higher Thursday, supported by positive export sales. Net weekly U.S. 2023-24 Corn export sales were a marketing year high, 35% more than the previous week and up 54% from the prior four-week average.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 6¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 6¢ to 8¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 2¢ to 4¢ lower through Aug ’24 and then 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 30, 2023
Cattle futures extended gains Wednesday, supported by renewed buying interest in the previous session.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 63¢ higher (2¢ to $1.15 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 57¢ higher (25¢ to $1.05 higher), except for 5¢ lower in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live sales are $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $175/cwt. and $1 lower in Nebraska at $175.
Last week, FOB live prices were $175-$178 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were mostly $280 in Nebraska and $278-$280 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.14 lower Wednesday afternoon at $297.03/cwt. Select was $2.26 lower at $264.09/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 12¢ to 16¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly fractionally higher through Sep ’25. and then 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 29, 2023
Cattle futures have plenty of distance to cover before making up the ground lost in the previous two trading sessions, but they made a strong start with Tuesday’s rally as buyers were likely attracted by the extremely oversold conditions.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $7.29 higher, including limit-up $8.25 in spot Jan.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $3.44 higher ($2.87 to $4.20 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live sales are $2 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $175/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $177 in the Southern Plains, $176 in Nebraska on light trade and $175-$178 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were mostly $280 in Nebraska and $278-$280 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 92¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $298.17/cwt. Select was $1.45 lower at $266.35/cwt.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 16¢ higher.
Corn futures closed narrowly mixed, mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 17¢ to 19¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 28, 2023
The Cattle Futures exodus that began Friday continued on Monday with a similar degree of momentum, likely exacerbated by month-end positioning.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $6.02 lower ($4.72 to $6.52 lower). That’s an average of $12.28 lower in the past two trading sessions.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.52 lower, down an average of $6.27 in the last two sessions.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few transactions to trend, there were some early FOB live trades in the Southern Plains and the western Corn Belt at $175/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $177, $2 lower in Nebraska at $176 on light trade and steady to $3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $175-$178. Dressed delivered prices were mostly $2 lower in Nebraska at mainly $280 and $2-$4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $278-$280.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB live steer price last week was 87¢ lower at $176.99/cwt. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $1.76 lower at $280.09.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 78¢ lower Monday afternoon at 297.25/cwt. Select was 96¢ lower at $267.80.
Grain futures closed lower amid a commodity-wide sell-off.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 7¢ lower.
Kansas City Wheat Futures closed 10¢ to 15¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed narrowly mixed but mostly fractionally higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 27, 2023
Keeping in mind the holiday-shortened week and the abbreviated session to end the week, Cattle futures took a steep step lower Friday, pressured by lower cash fed cattle prices, light trade and apparent technical selling.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $6.66 lower ($5.62 to $6.80 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $3.75 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from light on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Based on the last established trade for the week, FOB live price were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $177/cwt. and steady to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $177-$178. Dressed delivered prices were $7 lower in Nebraska at $275.
The previous week, FOB live prices in Nebraska were $178 and dressed delivered prices in the western Corn Belt were $282.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.03 higher Friday afternoon at $298.03/cwt. Select was $1.14 higher at $268.76/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 538,000 head was 98,000 head fewer than the previous week and 51,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 29.2 million head was 1.5 million head fewer (-4.7%) than the same time last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 24.0 billion lbs. was 1.4 billion lbs. less (-5.4%).
Net U.S. 2023 beef export sales for the week ending Nov. 16 were 10,000 metric tons, which was 12% more than the previous week but 30% less than the prior four-week average. Increases primarily were for China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan and Mexico.
Traders doused the weather premium in Soybean futures on Friday with the wetter forecast in Brazil, taking the grain complex along for the wide.
Soybean futures closed 20¢ to 25¢ lower through Jan ’25 and then 14¢ to 18¢ lower.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 5¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 9¢ to 12¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 23 and 24, 2023
Cattle futures closed lower Wednesday, following early support, amid light pre-holiday trade and positioning.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.14 lower (67¢ to $1.22 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 48¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was light to moderate on light to moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were $1 lower at $177/cwt.
In Nebraska, trade was slow on light demand with dressed delivered prices $2 lower at $282. FOB live prices last week were $178.
Trade was also slow on light demand in the western Corn Belt with too few transactions to trend. Last week, FOB live prices were $178 and dressed prices were $282.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.19 higher Wednesday afternoon at $297.00/cwt. Select was $1.15 lower at $267.62/cwt.
Soybean futures closed 15¢ to 20¢ lower through Aug ’24 and then 8¢ to 12¢ lower on likely profit taking
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed narrowly mixed — unchanged to 1¢ lower through Sep ’24 and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 22, 2023
Cattle futures softened Tuesday with limited interest and light trade.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 33¢ lower, except for unchanged in away Dec.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 94¢ lower (45¢ to $1.52 lower)
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $178/cwt. in all regions and dressed prices were $282.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 6¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $295.81/cwt. Select was $2.18 lower at $268.77/cwt.
Soybean futures closed mostly 7¢ to 11¢ higher, leading grains higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 4¢ to 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 21, 2023
Cattle futures closed higher Monday with the neutral to positive monthly Cattle on Feed report. However, they closed off session highs with trade likely limited by this week’s Thanksgiving holiday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.34 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 67¢ higher (30¢ to $1.05 higher), except for an average of 21¢ lower in the front two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $178/cwt. in all regions, which was $3 lower in the Texas Panhandle, mostly $2 lower in Kansas, $3.50 lower in Nebraska and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $5 lower in Nebraska at $282 and $1-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $282.
Last week’s weighted average five-area direct FOB fed steer price was $2.09 lower at $188.82/cwt. The dressed delivered steer price was $4.72 lower at $281.41
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.88 higher Monday afternoon at $295.75/cwt. Select was 25¢ higher at $270.95/cwt.
Soybean futures closed 20¢ to 27¢ higher through Jan ‘25 and then 12¢ to 17¢ higher with apparently more weather premium based on the South American crop.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 5¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 20, 2023
Cattle futures closed higher Friday with likely positioning ahead of Friday’s neutral to positive monthly Cattle on Feed report (see below).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.02 higher. They were an average of $2.64 higher week to week.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.16 higher on Friday and an average of $1.55 higher week to week.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $178/cwt. in all regions, which was $3 lower in the Texas Panhandle, mostly $2 lower in Kansas, $3.50 lower in Nebraska and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $5 lower in Nebraska at $282 and $1-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $282.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 85¢ lower Friday afternoon at $293.87/cwt. Select was $3.05 higher at $270.70/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 636,000 head was 18,000 head more than the previous week but 36,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 28.7 million head was 1.4 million head fewer (-4.7%). Estimated year-to-date beef production of 23.5 billion lbs. was 1.3 billion lbs. less (-5.3%).
Turning to row crops, Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 7¢ lower. KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 8¢ to 10¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 15¢ to 20¢ lower through Aug ‘25 and then 7¢ to 12¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 17, 2023
Cattle futures closed sharply lower Thursday with lower cash fed cattle prices and likely positioning ahead of Friday’s Monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.59 lower, except for 5¢ lower in expiring Nov.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.85 lower ($2.25 to $3.45 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from light on light to moderate demand to light on moderate demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices were $178/cwt. in all regions, which was $3 lower in the Texas Panhandle, mostly $2 lower in Kansas, $3.50 lower in Nebraska and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt.
So far this week, dressed delivered prices are $5 lower in Nebraska at $282. Dressed prices in the western Corn Belt last week were $283-$287.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.61 lower Thursday afternoon at $294.72/cwt. Select was 20¢ lower at $267.65/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales for 2023 of 8,900 metric tons the week ending Nov. 9 were 35% less than the previous week and 27% less than the prior four-week average. Increases were primarily for South Korea, Mexico, China, Japan and Taiwan.
Turning to row crops, Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ higher. KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 10¢ to 12¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 19¢ to 24¢ lower through Jan ‘25 and then mostly 14¢ to 17¢ low.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 16, 2023
Cattle futures gained on Wednesday, led by Feeder Cattle, helped along by positive outside markets and weaker Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.15 higher, except for 62¢ lower in spot Nov.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.33 higher (90¢ to $1.92 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light to moderate demand in Nebraska through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Dressed delivered prices were mostly $5 lower at $282/cwt. FOB live prices last week were $181.50.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill with too few transactions to trend.
Last week, FOB live prices were $181/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $180 in Kansas and $178-$180 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $283-$287 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 66¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $296.33/cwt. Select was 3¢ lower at $267.85/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 7¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 4¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 15, 2023
Stronger outside markets and oversold conditions helped Cattle futures extend gains Tuesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.63 higher (70¢ to $2.32 higher), except for 67¢ lower in spot Nov.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.24 higher.
Depending on which estimates you look at, expectations are for October placements to be about 6% higher year over year, in Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report. October marketing are expected to be about 2% less, leaving the on-feed inventory Nov. 1 about 2% higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $181/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $180 in Kansas, $181.50 in Nebraska and $178-$180 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $287 in Nebraska and $283-$287 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.18 lower Tuesday afternoon at $295.67/cwt. Select was $1.36 lower at $267.88/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 7¢ higher through Nov ‘25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 14, 2023
Cattle futures crawled higher Monday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.33 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 66¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $4 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $181/cwt., $5 lower in Kansas at $180, $3.50 lower in Nebraska at $181.50 and $5-$7 lower in the western Corn Belt at $178-$180. Dressed delivered prices were $5 lower in Nebraska at $287 and $5-$9 lower in the western Corn Belt at $283-$287.
The weekly weighted average five-area direct fed steer price was $5.88 lower on a live basis at $179.91/cwt. The average price in the beef was $5.78 lower at $286.14.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.61 lower Monday afternoon at $297.85/cwt. Select was $1.82 higher at $269.24/cwt.
Turning to row crops, Soybean futures closed mostly 20¢ to 34¢ higher Monday — dragging the grain complex along — supported by the South American weather premium and export sales to China. Corn futures closed mostly 10¢ to 13¢ higher. KC HRW Wheat closed 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 13, 2023
Cattle futures stabilized Friday to end a week of massive declines.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.50 higher (72¢ to $1.97 higher). Week to week on Friday, they were an average of $13.13 lower ($10.87 to $13.90 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from 25¢ lower to 17¢ higher. Week to week on Friday, they were an average of $9.48 lower ($8.20 to $10.90 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $4 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $181/cwt., $5 lower in Kansas at $180, $3.50 lower in Nebraska at $181.50 and $5-$7 lower in the western Corn Belt at $178-$180. Dressed delivered prices were $5 lower in Nebraska at $287 and $5-$9 lower in the western Corn Belt at $283-$287.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.04 higher Friday afternoon at $300.46/cwt. Select was $2.00 lower at $267.42/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 618,000 head was 14,000 fewer than the previous week and 52,000 less than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 28 million head was 1.4 million head fewer (-4.7%) than the same time last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 23 billion pounds was 1.3 billion pounds less (-5.3%).
Turning to row crops, Corn futures closed 2¢ to 4¢ lower. KC HRW Wheat closed 7¢ to 9¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 2¢ to 5¢ higher through May ’24 and then mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 10, 2023
Cattle futures fell hard Thursday. The driving force appeared to be continuation of what began with the bearish Cattle on Feed report last month (lots more placements than anticipated) and the expectation of another negative report this month, tied to the realization supplies will be higher than thought in the shorter term. Likewise, the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below) published on Thursday confirmed expectations of more beef production than previously anticipated.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $7.28 lower ($5.50 to $7.87 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $4.11 lower ($3.25 to $5.05 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light to moderate demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
In light tests, FOB live prices were mostly $4 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $181/cwt. and mostly $5 lower in Kansas at $180.
Dressed delivered prices in Nebraska were mostly $5 lower at $287. Although too few to trend, there were a few FOB live trades at $181.50, compared to last week’s $185.
There were too few transactions to trend in the western Corn Belt, but there were some FOB live sales at $180 and some in the beef at $283-$287. Prices there last week were $185 and $292, respectively.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 67¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $299.42/cwt. Select was $1.61 lower at $269.42/cwt.
Soybean and grain futures closed lower, pressured by the World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 8¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 5¢ to 7¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 22¢ lower through Sep ’24 and then 8¢ to 10¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 9, 2023
Cattle futures stabilized Wednesday after early pressure and amid strong volume.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.52 higher (57¢ to $2.32 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 82¢ higher (27¢ to $1.05 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on very light demand through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $185/cwt. in all regions and dressed delivered prices were $292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.63 lower Wednesday afternoon at $298.75/cwt. Select was $1.55 higher at $271.03/cwt.
Soybean and grain futures closed mainly higher ahead of Thursday’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Soybean futures closed fractionally higher to 3¢ higher through Jly ’24 and then 1¢ lower.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 7¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 18¢ to 22¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 8, 2023
Cattle futures slid further Tuesday with technical pressure and the apparent continued exodus of fund positions. Spot contracts closed at their lowest levels since May (Feeder Cattle) and June (Live Cattle).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $5.48 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $3.52 lower ($2.55 to $4.00 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $185/cwt. in all regions and dressed delivered prices were $292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.34 lower Tuesday afternoon at $300.38/cwt. Select was 88¢ lower at $269.48/cwt.
Soybean and grain futures closed lower with likely profit taking and positioning ahead of Thursday’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Soybean futures closed mostly 7¢ to 10¢ lower.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 8¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 10¢ to 13¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 7, 2023
Cattle futures gapped lower Monday with apparent nervousness about the inability of boxed beef prices to catch a strong seasonal grip and chatter about declining long fund positions.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.39 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.64 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding 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 $185/cwt., Prices in the North were also $185, at the upwards end of the previous week’s trading range. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher at $292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 62¢ lower Monday afternoon at $301.72/cwt. Select was $1.65 lower at $270.36/cwt.
Turning to row crops, Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 13¢ higher through Aug ‘24 Monday with follow-through support from bearish weather forecasts in South America.
Corn futures closed mostly unchanged to fractionally higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 6, 2023
Cattle futures closed lower Friday on likely profit taking and week-end positioning.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.74 lower (80¢ to $2.42 lower). However, they were an average of $3.89 higher week to week ($3.45 to $5.02 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 59¢ lower on Friday (37¢ to $1.20 lower). They gained back a lion’s share of the previous week’s losses, closing an average of $3.19 higher week to week on Friday ($1.65 higher at the front to $3.92 higher at the back).
Soybean futures rallied Friday on bearish weather reports in South America, leading Corn and Wheat futures higher.
Soybean futures closed 19¢ to 24¢ higher through Nov ‘24 and then 10¢ to 17¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 7¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 2¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light to moderate demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Although too few to trend, there were some FOB live prices at $185/cwt. in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt, and a few dressed delivered at $292.
The previous week, FOB live prices were $185/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $183-$186 in Nebraska and mostly $183-$184 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.19 lower Friday afternoon at $302.34/cwt. Select was $2.33 lower at $272.01/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week was 4,000 head fewer than the previous week at 632,000 head, which was 32,000 head fewer year over year. Estimated total year-to-date cattle slaughter of 27.4 million was 1.3 million head fewer (-4.6%). Estimated year-to-date beef production of 22.5 billion pounds was 1.2 billion pounds less (-5.2%) than the same time last year.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 3, 2023
Feeder Cattle led Live Cattle futures higher Thursday, supported by renewed trader interest, recently oversold conditions and stronger outside markets.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.93 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.43 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $185/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $183-$186 in Nebraska and $183-$185 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.35 higher Thursday afternoon at $304.53/cwt. Select was $4.21 lower at $274.34/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales of 17,100 metric tons for 2023, for the week ending Oct. 26, were 2% less than the previous week, but 71% more than the prior four-week average. Increases were primarily for China, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea and Canada.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 5¢ lower through Sep ‘24 and then mostly fractionally lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 13¢ higher through Sep ‘24 and then 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 2, 2023
Cattle futures closed higher Wednesday amid growing open interest and thoughts cash fed cattle prices will gain this week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 88¢ higher (57¢ to $1.27 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 71¢ higher (7¢ to $1.20 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Wednesday afternoon, with too few trades to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $185/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $183-$186 in Nebraska and $183-$185 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.00 lower Wednesday afternoon at $302.18/cwt. Select was 95¢ lower at $278.55/cwt.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ lower. KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 5¢ to 8¢ higher. Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 1, 2023
Cattle futures closed mainly higher Tuesday amid choppy trade and following early pressure.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 25¢ higher, except for unchanged and 5¢ lower in two away contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 75¢ higher, except for 37¢ lower in expiring Oct.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, with too few trades to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $185/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $183-$186 in Nebraska and $183-$185 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.10 lower Tuesday afternoon at $305.18/cwt. Select was $1.39 lower at $279.50/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 12¢ to 15¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 31, 2023
Cattle futures extended gains Monday, supported by stronger cash fed cattle prices late last week and more positive outside markets.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 68¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 88¢ higher (12¢ higher in spot Oct to $1.30 higher at the back).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding 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 $184-$185/cwt., steady to $4 lower in Nebraska at $183-$186 and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $183-$185. Dressed delivered prices were mainly $4 lower at $290.
The weighted average five-area direct FOB fed steer price was $2.12 lower at $184.02. The weighted average dressed delivered steer price was $3.51 lower at $290.06.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.71 higher Monday afternoon at $309.28/cwt. Select was 77¢ higher at $280.89/cwt.
Corn futures closed lower Monday on likely month-end profit taking. They were 2¢ lower through new crop contracts and then fractionally higher to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 14¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 30, 2023
Cattle futures closed higher Friday with likely positioning, helped along by stronger cash fed cattle prices as the week wore on.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 51¢ higher, except for 32¢ lower in newly minted away Oct. However, they were an average of $9.06 lower week to week.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.60 higher on Friday (35¢ to $2.92 higher). They were an average of $3.84 lower week to week.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade and demand were moderate in the Southern Plains on Friday, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were $185/cwt., which was steady in the Texas Panhandle and steady to $1 higher in Kansas.
Elsewhere, trade was slow on moderate demand. Although too few to trend, there were some FOB live trades in Nebraska at $186 and a few in the beef at $290-$292.
Established FOB live prices for the week in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt were $2-$3 lower at $183-$185. Dressed delivered prices were $4 lower at $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 72¢ higher Friday afternoon at $307.57/cwt. Select was 43¢ higher at $280.12/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 636,000 head was 2,000 head fewer than the previous week and 31,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 26.8 million head was 1.3 million head fewer (-4.6%) than the same time last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 21.9 billion pounds was 1.2 billion pounds less (-5.2%).
Net U.S. beef export sales of 17,400 metric tons (2023) for the week ending Oct. 19 were up noticeably from the previous week and up 72% from the prior four-week average, according to USDA’s weekly Export Sales report. Increases primarily were for South Korea, China, Japan, Hong Kong and Taiwan.
Turning to row crops, Corn futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ higher. KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 2¢ to 6¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 14¢ to 19¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 27, 2023
Cattle futures closed mostly lower Thursday, following stronger support early in the session.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.56 lower, except for 57¢ higher in expiring Oct.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 72¢ lower, (10¢ to $1.10 lower) except for 57¢ higher in waning spot Oct.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light to moderate demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend in any region, there were some FOB live trades in the Southern Plains at $183/cwt., in Nebraska at $183-$185 and in the western Corn Belt $183.
In established trade so far this week, FOB live prices are $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $183-$185. Dressed delivered prices are $4 lower in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt at $290.
Last week, FOB live prices were $184-$185/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $186-$187 in Nebraska.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 65¢ lower Thursday afternoon at 306.85/cwt. Select was $1.97 lower at $279.69/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 8¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 2¢ lower to fractionally higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 26, 2023
Cattle futures gained Wednesday, with apparent technical support, continued bullish long-term fundamentals and continued erosion in Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.47 higher (55¢ to $2.62 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 60¢ higher (32¢ higher at the back to $1.12 higher in spot Oct).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $183-$185/cwt., and dressed delivered prices are $4 lower in Nebraska at $290 in a light test.
Last week, FOB live prices were $184-$185/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $186-$187 in Nebraska. Dressed delivered prices were $294.
Choice wholesale beef prices continued the seasonal turn higher. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.52 higher Wednesday afternoon at 307.50/cwt. Select was $2.34 lower at $281.66/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 2¢ to 7¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 8¢ to 14¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 25, 2023
Cattle futures found some stability following the previous session’s massive selloff but still eased mostly lower as early support faded.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 52¢ lower, except for $1.80 higher in spot Oct and an average of 49¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 29¢ lower in four contracts to an average of 51¢ higher (12¢ to $1.75 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Established FOB live prices in the western Corn Belt are $183-$185/cwt., which is $2-$3 lower than last week.
Last week, FOB live prices were $184-$185/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $186-$187 in Nebraska. Dressed delivered prices were $294.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.44 higher Tuesday afternoon at 305.98/cwt. Select was $2.98 higher at $284.00/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 6¢ lower with harvest pressure.
Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 9¢ higher through Aug ‘24 and then 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 7¢ to 9¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 24, 2023
The bearish monthly Cattle on Feed report ravaged Cattle futures Monday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $6.51 lower ($4.20 to $7.35 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $5.44 lower ($3.92 to $6.75 lower).
Through mid-morning Tuesday, Cattle futures were recovering some of the losses.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to mostly inactive with very light demand through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices last week were $184-$185/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $186-$187 in the North. Dressed delivered prices were $294.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 84¢ lower Monday afternoon at 304.54/cwt. Select was $2.32 higher at $281.02/cwt.
Corn futures xlosed mostly 1¢ to 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 9¢ to 15¢ lower through Sep ‘24 and then 5¢ to 8¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed fractionally higher to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 23, 2023
Feeder Cattle futures continued lower Friday, under pressure from positioning ahead of the monthly Cattle on Feed report (see below) and eroding outside markets. They were trending sharply lower on Monday
On Friday, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.48 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.05 lower (12¢ lower at the front to $1.62 lower at the back).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Based on the latest established trade, the week’s FOB live prices were $2 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $185/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Kansas at $184-$185 and $1-$2 higher in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt at $186-$187. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher in Nebraska at $294 and $2-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $294.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.26 higher Friday afternoon at 305.38/cwt. Select was $1.22 higher at $278.70/cwt.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 638,000 head was 21,000 head more than the previous week but 37,000 head fewer (-5.5%) than last year. Total estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 26.1 million head was 1.3 million head fewer (-4.6%) than the same time last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 21.4 billion pounds was 1.2 billion pounds less (-5.3%).
Corn futures mostly 4¢ to 9¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 6¢ to 13¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly fractionally higher to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 20, 2023
Feeder Cattle futures plunged Thursday, carrying Live Cattle along. Primary pressure appeared to be the surge in Corn futures, skittishness about consumer beef demand with lower outside markets and Friday’s Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $4.83 lower ($3.55-$5.52 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed $1.77 lower ($1.45 to $2.12 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light to moderate demand to slow on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live prices were $1-$2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $186-$187, where dressed delivered prices were $2 higher at $292-$294 in a light test.
Although too few transactions to trend, there was some live trade in Kansas at $184 and at $186 in Nebraska, where there were a few in the beef at $294.
Last week, FOB live prices were $183/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $185 in Nebraska, where dressed prices were $292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value (p.m.): 26¢ higher at 304.12/cwt. Select was 87¢ lower at $277.48/cwt.
Grain and soybean futures closed higher Thursday, in part buoyed by thoughts that the harvest low has been established.
Corn futures closed 9¢ to 13¢ higher through the front four contracts and then mostly 4¢ to 7¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct.19, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $183/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $185 in the north. Dressed delivered prices were $290-$292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.28 lower Wednesday afternoon at $303.86/cwt. Select was 28¢ lower at $278.35/cwt.
Cattle futures wobbled Wednesday amid slack interest, the wait for the week’s cash fed cattle direction and Friday’s Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.38 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed from unchanged to an average of 21¢ higher in the front four contracts to an average of 31¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 14¢ higher through Aug ‘24. and then 4¢ to 6¢ higher, helped along by an export announcement for China.
Corn futures closed fractionally higher to 3¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 18, 2023
Cattle futures firmed Tuesday, helped along by recently higher cash fed cattle prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 98¢ higher
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 43¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $183/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $185 in the north. Dressed delivered prices were $290-$292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 47¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $305.14/cwt. Select was $1.43 higher at $278.63/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 10¢ higher through Sep ‘24 and then 3¢ to 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 17, 2023
Cattle futures closed lower Monday after early strength as traders appear cautious about Friday’s next Cattle on Feed report, as well as lingering future demand concerns.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.13 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average 39¢ lower, except for 7¢ higher in spot Oct.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $182/cwt. and $2 higher in in the North at $185. Dressed delivered prices were $2-$4 higher in Nebraska at $292 and steady to $4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $290-$292.
The five-area direct weighted average fed steer price last week was $184.30/cwt., which was $1.58 higher than last week. The average fed steer price in the beef was $2.57 higher at $291.83.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 6¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 16, 2023
Cattle futures closed lower Friday on the previous day’s softer USDA price outlook, likely profit taking, and no support from the previous day’s export news.
Net U.S. beef export sales for the week ending Oct. 5 were 9,000 metric tons, according to USDA’s weekly Export Sales report. The volume was 32% less than the previous week and 29% less than the prior four-week average. Increases were primarily for South Korea, Japan, Mexico, Taiwan and Canada.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.80 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.11 lower (27¢ lower in spot Oct to $1.57 lower at the back).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on moderate demand to limited on moderate demand through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, based on the most recent established trade, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $182/cwt., $3 higher in Nebraska at $186 and $1-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $184-$186. Dressed delivered prices were $2-$4 higher in Nebraska at $292 and steady to $4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $290-$292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 39¢ lower Friday afternoon at $300.80/cwt. Select was 47¢ higher at $275.49/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures eased lower Friday with likely profit taking.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 7¢ to 11¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 4¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 13, 2023
Cattle futures extended gains Thursday, supported by the weeks higher cash fed cattle prices and despite some bearishness in the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.35 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 94¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from moderate on moderate demand to slow on moderate demand, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $183/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $185 and $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $185.
Dressed delivered prices were $2-$4 higher in Nebraska at $292. Prices in the western Corn Belt last week were $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 91¢ higher at $301.19/cwt. Select was 28¢ lower at $275.02/cwt.
Corn futures gained on the World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below).
Corn futures closed 5¢ to 8¢ higher through May ’25 and then 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 8¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 29¢ to 37¢ higher through Aug ‘24 and then 18¢ to 22¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 12, 2023
Cattle futures finally found some traction Wednesday on oversold conditions and a promising start to the week’s cash fed cattle trade.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.37 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.39 higher (85¢ to $1.97 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade and demand were moderate in the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon, with FOB live prices mostly $1 higher at mainly $183/cwt., according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Elsewhere, trade was limited on light demand, with too few transactions to trend.
Last week, FOB live prices were $183-$184 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $288-$290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 78¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $300.28/cwt. Select was 85¢ lower at $275.30/cwt.
Grain futures had a wait-and-see feel ahead of Thursday’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 19¢ lower through Aug ‘24 and then 8¢ to 10¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 4¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 11, 2023
Cattle futures closed mostly lower Tuesday, unable to muster much interest.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 65¢ lower, except for unchanged to an average of 87¢ higher in the front three contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 53¢ lower, except for 20¢ higher spot Oct.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $182/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $183-$184 in the north. Dressed delivered prices were $288-$290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.36 lower Tuesday afternoon at $301.06/cwt. Select was $1.35 lower at $276.15/cwt.
Grain futures softened a touch Tuesday with likely positioning ahead of this week’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 13¢ to 14¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 10, 2023
Cattle futures closed lower Monday, hamstrung by more negative outside markets, this time tied to war between Israel and Hamas.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.68 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.07 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $182/cwt. and $1 lower in the north at $183. Dressed delivered prices were steady to $2 lower at $288-$290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.41 higher Monday afternoon at $303.42/cwt. Select was $1.72 higher at $277.50/cwt.
Corn and Soybean futures closed lower on harvest pressure.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 6¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 12¢ higher on geopolitical risk.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 9, 2023
Cattle futures closed higher Friday, helped along by lower Corn futures and the notion that boxed beef cutout values might be on the cusp of carving out a seasonal low.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 79¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.01 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light to demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $182/cwt. $1 lower in Nebraska at $183 and steady to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $183-$184. Dressed delivered prices were steady to $2 lower at $288-$290 in Nebraska and steady in the western Corn belt at $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.25 higher Friday afternoon at $302.01/cwt. Select was $1.01 higher at $275.78/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 628,000 head was 16,000 head more than the previous week but 41,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 24.9 million head was 1.2 million head less (-4.5%) than the same period last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 20.4 billion pounds was 1.1 billion pounds less (5.2%).
As for row crop futures, they closed lower Friday on likely week-end profit taking.
Corn futures closed 5¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then fractionally lower to 3¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 12¢ to 16¢ lower through May ‘25 and then 9¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 14¢ lower through May ‘24 and then mostly 5¢ to 9¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 6, 2023
Cattle futures closed mixed to lower Thursday with follow-through pressure from declining open interest and lingering concerns about the nation’s economy.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 65¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 48¢ lower to an average of 27¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light to moderate demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are $1 lower at $182/cwt. in the Southern Plains and at $183 up north. Dressed delivered prices in Nebraska are steady to $2 lower at $288-$290. Dressed delivered prices were $290 in the western Corn Belt last week.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.00 higher Thursday afternoon at $297.76/cwt. Select was 10¢ lower at $274.77/cwt.
Wheat futures climbed Thursday on new shipping concerns related to Russia’s war on Ukraine, dragging Corn futures higher.
Corn futures closed 11¢ higher through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 5¢ to 8¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 18¢ to 24¢ higher through May ‘25 and then mostly 12¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 7¢ higher through Aug ‘24 and then mostly 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 5, 2023
Cattle futures stabilized following steep losses in the previous session.
Feeder Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 39¢ lower to an average of 33¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 13¢ higher, except for 37¢ lower in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from light on light demand to inactive on light demand in the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. So far this week, FOB live prices are mostly $1 lower at mainly $182/cwt.
Trade in the western Corn Belt was light on light to moderate demand with FOB live prices mainly $1 lower at mostly $183/cwt. Dressed delivered prices last week were $290.
In Nebraska, trade was slow on light demand. Although too few to trend, there were some early dressed delivered sales at $291. Last week, FOB live prices were $184 and dressed delivered prices were $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.31 lower Wednesday afternoon at $296.76/cwt. Select was 72¢ lower at $274.87/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 11¢ to 16¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mixed, from 3¢ lower to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 4, 2023
Cattle futures surged lower Tuesday beneath the weight of pessimistic outside markets tied to more indicators of persistent inflation.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $5.12 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.42 lower ($1.60 to $2.87 lower).
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 3¢ to 6¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 3, 2023
Cattle futures and other commodities gained on Monday with the weight of a potential government shutdown averted, if only temporarily. However, Cattle futures closed a ways from session highs.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.05 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 55¢ higher.
Grain and Soybean futures also closed higher Monday, buoyed by the averted government shutdown and new-month positioning.
Corn futures closed mostly 10¢ to 12¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 11¢ to 12¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 9¢ higher, except for 2¢ to 4¢ higher in the front four contracts.
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 in the Southern Plains at $183/cwt., steady to $1 lower in Nebraska at $184 and $1-$2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $184. Dressed delivered prices were $2 lower at $290.
The five-area direct weighted average steer price last week was $183.64/cwt. on a live basis, which was $1.09 less than the previous week. The weighted average fed steer price in the beef was $1.72 lower at $290.27.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.30 higher Monday afternoon at $303.08/cwt. Select was 94¢ higher at $276.98/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 2, 2023
Cattle futures closed lower Friday with traders wary of the looming government shutdown, which was subsequently averted with a temporary spending bill approved on Saturday. Traders were also closing the book on the week, month and quarter.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.38 lower. They were an average of $6.21 lower week to week on Friday ($5.97 lower at the back to $8.62 lower toward the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.97 lower ($1.57 to $2.50 lower). They were an average of $3.07 lower week to week on Friday.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light to moderate demand to inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $183/cwt., steady to $1 lower in Nebraska at $184 and $1-$2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $184. Dressed delivered prices were $2 lower at $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 73¢ lower Friday afternoon at $300.78/cwt. Select was $1.40 lower at $276.04/cwt.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 612,000 head was 13,000 head fewer than the previous week and 55,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 24.2 million head was 1.1 million head fewer (-4.4%) than the same time last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 19.8 billion pounds was 1.1 billion pounds less (-5.2%).
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 29, 2023
Cattle futures rebounded Thursday, helped along by more positive outside markets, including a lower U.S. dollar and weaker crude oil prices, as well as recently higher Choice boxed beef cutout values and positive weekly exports.
Net U.S. export sales for 2023 sales of 17,700 metric tons were up 29% from the previous week and up 42% from the prior four-week average, according to the Weekly U.S. Export Sales report for the week ending Sept. 21. Increases were primarily for, South Korea, China, Canada, and Mexico.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.31 higher (80¢ to $2.87 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.75 higher ($1.10 to $2.50 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live sales are steady in the Southern Plains at $183/cwt. and steady to $1 lower in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt at $184. Dressed delivered prices are $2 lower at $290
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 56¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $301.51/cwt. Select was $1.07 lower at $277.44/cwt.
Turning to grains, ahead of Friday’s stocks report, Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher through new-crop contracts and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher. KC HRW Wheat closed 6¢ to 9¢ lower through May ‘25 and then 1¢ lower. Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 28, 2023
Cattle futures continued lower Wednesday, with follow-through pressure from outside markets and concerns that beef demand may falter. Stronger Corn futures added weight.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.01 lower ($1.07 to $2.70 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 85¢ lower (30¢ to $1.07 lower), except for 10¢ higher in spot Oct.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to inactive on light demand through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live sales are steady in the Southern Plains at $183/cwt. and steady to $1 lower in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt at $184 in a light test. Dressed delivered prices in Nebraska are $2 lower at $290 (a few up to $291) and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $290-$292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.41 higher Wednesday afternoon at $300.95/cwt. Select was 59¢ lower at $278.51/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 10¢ to 15¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 7¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 27, 2023
Cattle futures closed sharply lower Tuesday, pressured by pessimistic outside markets, demand worries, and likely some month-end and quarter-end position squaring.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $4.56 lower ($1.27 to $5.82 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.88 lower (85¢ lower at the back to $2.85 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $183/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $184-$185 in Nebraska and $185-$186 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.94 lower Tuesday afternoon at $299.54/cwt. Select was $1.35 lower at $279.10/cwt. That’s the first time since May that Choice cutout dropped below $300.
Grain and soybean futures appeared to jockey for some position ahead of Friday’s Grain Stocks report.
Corn futures closed 1¢ lower through Sep ‘24 and then mostly fractionally mixed.
KC HRW Wheat closed 1¢ to 4¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly fractionally higher.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 26, 2023
Cattle futures basically paddled in place Monday, looking for further direction and amid firmer Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 33¢ lower, except for 25¢ higher in the back contract.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 15¢ lower to an average of 19¢ higher.
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 $183/cwt., steady in Nebraska at $184-$185 and steady to $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $185-$186. Dressed delivered prices were steady at $292.
The weighted average five-area direct fed steer price was 69¢ higher on a live basis at $184.73/cwt. and 15¢ higher in the beef at $291.99.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.85 lower Monday afternoon at $301.48/cwt. Select was 2¢ higher at $280.45/cwt.
Grain and soybean futures strengthened on Monday.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 25, 2023
Cattle futures bounced back from the previous day’s widespread commodity and equity sell-off, supported by stronger-late-week cash fed cattle prices and ongoing bullish fundamentals.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.34 higher (82¢ to $1.62 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.48 higher ($1.22 to $2.10 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light to moderate demand to inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were steady to $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $183/cwt., steady in Nebraska at $184-$185 and steady to $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $185-$186. Dressed delivered prices were steady at $292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.40 higher Friday afternoon at $303.33/cwt. Select was $1.43 higher at $280.43/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 625,000 head was 7,000 head fewer than the previous week and 46,000 head fewer (-6.9%) than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 23.6 million head was 1.1 million head fewer (-4.3%) than the same time last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 19.3 billion pounds was 1 billion pounds less (-5.1%) than a year earlier.
Grain and soybean futures firmed on Friday.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 22, 2023
Cattle futures and other commodity futures closed lower Thursday with the higher dollar and apparent fund selling tied to yesterday’s comments from the Fed suggesting interest rates will stay higher for longer. Wariness over Friday’s Cattle on Feed report could have added pressure.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.31 lower (90¢ lower in spot Sep to $2.87 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.80 lower ($1.57 to $2.02 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light to moderate demand to a standstill through Thursdayafternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Dressed delivered prices were steady in Nebraska at $292/cwt. FOB live prices last week were $184-$185.
Elsewhere last week, FOB live prices were $182-$183/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $185 in the western Corn Belt, where dressed delivered prices were $292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 67¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $301.93/cwt. Select was 32¢ higher at $279.00/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales (2023) of 13,700 metric tons were up noticeably from the previous week and up 15% from the prior four-week average, according to the U.S. Export Sales report for the week ending Sept. 14. Increases primarily for Japan, South Korea, China, Mexico and Canada.
Turning to row crops, grain and Soybean futures closed lower with the pressure from outside markets.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 7¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 12¢ to 18¢ lower through May ‘25 and then mostly fractionally lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 16¢ to 26¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 21, 2023
Cattle futures rebounded Wednesday with thoughts of steady to higher cash fed cattle prices this week and perhaps some early positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.48 higher (55¢ to $2.20 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.08 higher (76¢ to $1.37 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were a few live trades in Nebraska at $186/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $182-$183/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $184-$185 in Nebraska and $185 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 86¢ lower Wednesday at $301.26/cwt. Select was $3.10 lower at $278.68/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher Wednesday, bolstered by trade worries over a commercial cargo vessel in the Black Sea running into a mine.
KC HRW Wheat closed fractionally lower to 2¢ lower through May ‘24 and then fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 20, 2023
Cattle futures closed lower again Tuesday, at a more modest pace, with follow-through pressure from oversold status and awaiting the week’s cash fed cattle trade direction.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 72¢ lower (35¢ to $1.60 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 56¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $182-$183/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $184-$185 in Nebraska and $185 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.20 lower Tuesday afternoon at $302.12/cwt. Select was $1.63 lower at $281.78/cwt.
Corn futures firmed in the front months, buoyed by recent crop ratings. They closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher through Jly ‘25.
KC HRW Wheat closed 1¢ to 4¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ lower through Aug ‘24 and then unchanged to fractionally higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 19, 2023
Cattle futures took a breather from the steamy rally and closed lower Monday on likely profit taking.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.34 lower ($1.70 lower at the back to $3.52 lower toward the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 84¢ lower (25¢ to $1.40 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $182-$183/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $184-$185 in Nebraska and $185 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 39¢ lower Monday afternoon at $305.32/cwt. Select was 29¢ higher at $283.41/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 8¢ to 12¢ lower through Sep ‘25 and then 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 15¢ to 23¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 18, 2023
Cattle futures extended gains Friday, supported by higher cash fed cattle prices.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.29 higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.92 higher ($2.20 higher in spot Sep to $3.35 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to slow on light to moderate demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $2-$3 higher in the Southern Plains at $182-$183/cwt., steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $184-$185 and $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $185. Dressed delivered prices were $2 higher in Nebraska at $292 and $2-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $292.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 66¢ lower Friday afternoon at $305.71/cwt. Select was $3.74 lower at $283.12/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 632,000 head was 73,000 head more than the previous week, but 41,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 23.0 million head was 1.03 million head fewer (-4.3%) than the same period last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 18.8 billion pounds was 999.1 million pounds less (-5.0%).
Turning to grains, Corn futures closed fractionally lower to 4¢ lower with likely early harvest pressure. KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 5¢ to 10¢ higher through Jly ‘25 and then mostly fractionally higher. Soybean futures closed 16¢ to 20¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 15, 2023
Cattle futures rallied sharply higher Thursday, despite the lack of weekly cash fed cattle direction as traders seemed to focus on looming tighter fourth-quarter supplies.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.24 higher ($1.67 higher in spot Sep to $4.02 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.54 higher, in active trade.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light to moderate demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were a few live delivered trades in Nebraska at $186.50/cwt.
The only established trade for the week is $184/cwt. for FOB live prices in the western Corn Belt, the upper end of last week’s range.
Last week, FOB live prices were $180/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $183-$184 in Nebraska. Dressed delivered prices were $290 in Nebraska and $288-$290 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.18 lower at $306.37/cwt. Select was 33¢ lower at $286.86/cwt.
Corn futures softened mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower on likely profit taking.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 3¢ to 6¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 7¢ to 11¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 14, 2023
Cattle futures sauntered lower Wednesday with traders awaiting weekly cash fed cattle direction.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.03 lower (20¢ to $2.20 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 32¢ lower, (2¢ to $1.00 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were a few live trades in the western Corn Belt at $184/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $180/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $183-$184 in the North.
Dressed delivered prices were $290 in Nebraska and $288-$290 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 48¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $307.55/cwt. Select was $3.41 higher at $287.19/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher Wednesday with apparent technical buying and support from wheat.
KC HRW Wheat closed 10¢ to 14¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 13, 2023
Cattle futures crept mostly higher Tuesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 54¢ higher, except for an average of 55¢ lower in the front two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 18¢ higher, except for an average of 8¢ lower in two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon with too few transactions to trend according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $180/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $183-$184 in the North.
Dressed delivered prices were $290 in Nebraska and $288-$290 in the western. Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.08 lower Tuesday afternoon at $308.03/cwt. Select was $1.66 lower at $283.78/cwt.
Corn futures faltered Tuesday, closing mostly 6¢ to 9¢ lower on the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates, which pegged harvested acres and production higher than the trade expected.
KC HRW Wheat closed 4¢ to 7¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 22¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 12, 2023
Cattle futures rallied higher Monday, bolstered by higher cash fed cattle prices at the end of last week, as well as the bullish extended outlook.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.16 higher (87¢ higher in spot Sep to $2.65 higher toward the back).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 95¢ higher amid active trade.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand through Monday afternoon with too few transactions to trend according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $180/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $183-$184 and steady to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $183-$184.
Dressed delivered prices were steady to $2 lower in Nebraska at $290 and steady to $2 lower in the western. Corn belt at $288-$290.
The weighted average five-area direct fed steer price last week was 22¢ lower at $182.28/cwt. The average dressed steer price was 91¢ lower at $289.48.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.79 lower Monday afternoon at $310.11/cwt. Select was 61¢ lower at $285.54/cwt.
Corn futures firmed Monday, closing 2¢ to 3¢ higher with positioning ahead of Tuesday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Soybean futures closed mostly 5¢ to 7¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 7¢ to 9¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 11, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light to moderate demand to limited on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, FOB live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $180/cwt. and steady to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $183-$184. Prices in Nebraska the previous week were $182.
Dressed delivered prices were steady to $2 lower in Nebraska at $290 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.24 higher Friday afternoon at $312.90/cwt. Select was 12¢ lower at $286.05/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter for the holiday-shortened week of 559,000 head was 70,000 head fewer than the previous week and 47,000 head fewer year over year. Year-to-date estimated cattle slaughter of 22.4 million head was 986,000 head fewer (-4.2%) than the same period a year earlier. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 18.3 billion pounds was 964.2 million pounds less (-5.0%).
Cattle futures crept higher Friday, supported by the uptick in cash fed cattle prices and softer Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 36¢ higher, except for 22¢ lower in spot Sep.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 42¢ higher, except for an average of 25¢ lower in the front two contracts.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 7¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 8, 2023
Cattle futures extended gains Thursday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.81 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 77¢ higher
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 8¢ to 12¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 16¢ lower through Aug ‘24 and then 7¢ to 9¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few dressed delivered prices in Nebraska at $290/cwt.
Last week, FOB live prices were $179/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $178-$179 in Kansas, $182 in Nebraska and $183-$185 in the western Corn Bel
Dressed delivered prices were $290-$292 in Nebraska and $290 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.91 lower Thursday afternoon at $311.56/cwt. Select was $1.44 lower at $286.17/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 6, 2023
Cattle futures basically tread water on Tuesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 33¢ lower in the front three contracts to an average of 19¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 19¢ higher, except for an average of 11¢ lower in the front two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $179/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $178-$179 in Kansas, $182 in Nebraska and $183-$185 in the western Corn Belt.
Dressed delivered prices were $290-$292 in Nebraska and $290 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 99¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $315.48/cwt. Select was 75¢ lower at $289.54/cwt.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 6¢ higher through new-crop contracts and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher, supported by expected reduction in crop ratings.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly fractionally lower to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed fractionally lower to 7¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 4 and 5, 2023
Cattle futures drifted lower Friday on pre-weekend positioning, sluggish trade and steady to softer cash fed cattle prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.26 lower, except for $3.30 higher in newly minted away Aug
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 41¢ lower, except for $1.00 higher in new away Feb.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light to moderate demand in all regions through Friday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Based on the latest established trade for the week, FOB live prices were steady to $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $179/cwt., steady to $1 lower in Kansas at $178-$179, $3 lower in Nebraska at $182 and $1-$2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $183-$185.
The five-area direct weighted average fed steer price through Thursday of last week was $182.69/cwt. on a live basis, which was $2.64 less than the previous week. The weighted average steer price in the beef was $2.03 lower at $290.62.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 70¢ higher Friday afternoon at $314.49/cwt. Select was $1.04 higher at $290.29/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week was 629,000 head, which was 3,000 head more than the previous week but 13,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 21.8 million head was 940,000 head fewer (-4.1%) than the same time last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 17.8 billion pounds was 925.6 million pounds less (-4.9%) year over year.
Turning to row crops, Grain and Soybean futures closed narrowly mixed Friday with some defensive positioning ahead of the long weekend.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mixed but mostly unchanged to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 1, 2023
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 76¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 88¢ higher, except for lower in expiring Aug.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 76¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices on Thursday were mainly steady to lower than last week.
Trade was slow on light to moderate demand in the Texas Panhandle with FOB live prices steady to $1 higher at $179/cwt., according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
In Kansas, trade was slow to moderate on moderate demand with FOB live prices steady to $1 lower at $178-$179.
FOB live prices in Nebraska were $2-$3 lower at $182 on moderate trade and demand. There were a few live delivered trades at $186.50. Dressed delivered prices were $2-$3 lower at $290-$292.
In the western Corn Belt, FOB live prices were $1 lower at $184-$185 on slow to moderate trade and moderate demand. There were a few dressed delivered trades at mostly $290 but too few to trend. Prices in the beef last week were $292 in a light test.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.32 lower Thursday afternoon at $313.79/cwt. Select was 28¢ lower at $289.25/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales (2023) of 18,200 metric tons (MT) for the week ending Aug. 24 were 59% more than the previous week and 35% more than the prior four-week average. Increases were primarily for China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Mexico.
Grain and Soybean futures closed lower Thursday on likely continued month-end position squaring.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 3¢ to 8¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 16¢ to 18¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 31, 2023
Cattle futures closed lower Wednesday with traders awaiting the week’s cash trade.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.25 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.41 lower, from $2.20 lower in waning spot Aug to 80¢ lower at the back of the board.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices last week were $178-$179/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $179 in Kansas, $185 in Nebraska and $182-$187 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $292 in Nebraska and $292-$295 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 75¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $315.11/cwt. Select was 15¢ lower at $289.53/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures closed lower Wednesday with likely month-end position squaring.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 7¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 30, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
FOB live prices last week were $178-$179/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $179 in Kansas, $185 in Nebraska and $182-$187 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $292 in Nebraska and $292-$295 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.68 lower Tuesday afternoon at $314.36/cwt. Select was $2.41 lower at $289.68/cwt.
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed Tuesday with an apparent consolidation breather.
Feeder Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed. from unchanged to an average of 26¢ lower in two contracts to an average of 17¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 11¢ lower in three contracts to an average of 15¢ higher.
Nearby Corn and Soybean futures gave up the ghost late in the session, presumably fueled in part by more positive weekly crop ratings than expected.
Corn futures closed 9¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 5¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 14¢ to 23¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 7¢ to 10¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 13¢ lower through May ‘24 and then mostly fractionally higher to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 29, 2023
Cattle futures rallied higher Monday, apparently buoyed by increasing open interest and trader focus on fundamentals.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.60 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 76¢ higher (2¢ to $1.12 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on very light demand in the western Corn Belt through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Elsewhere, trade was at a standstill.
Last week, FOB live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $178-$179/cwt., $1-$3 lower in Nebraska at $184-$185 and steady to $3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $185-$186. Dressed delivered prices were steady to $2 lower in Nebraska at $292-$295 and from $3 lower to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $292 on a light test.
The five-area direct weighted average steer price last week was $2.29 lower on a live basis at $182.75/cwt. The five-area average steer price in the beef was $1.01 lower at $292.75.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 86¢ lower Monday afternoon at $317.04/cwt. Select was 58¢ lower at $292.09/cwt
Turning to the grain complex, Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 8¢ higher. KC HRW Wheat closed 10¢ to 16¢ lower through May ‘24 and then 3¢ to 6¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 18¢ higher through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 1¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 28, 2023
Steady Corn futures prices, firmer cash fed cattle prices and the recent uptick in wholesale beef prices helped Cattle futures rise on Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 95¢ higher (45¢ to $1.17 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 69¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate on moderate demand in the Texas Panhandle through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. FOB live trades were steady at $178-$179/cwt.
Trade in Kansas was slow on light to moderate demand with FOB live prices steady at $179.
Trade in Nebraska was limited on light demand with too few transactions to trend. For the week, live FOB prices were steady to $3 lower at $185. Dressed delivered prices were steady to $2 lower at $292-$295.
In the western Corn Belt, trade was slow on light demand with too few transactions to trend. For the week, FOB live prices were $1-$3 lower at $185. Dressed delivered prices the previous week were $290-$295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 27¢ higher Friday afternoon at $317.90/cwt. Select was 76¢ higher at $292.67/cwt. Week to week on Friday, Choice was $1.79 higher and Select was $4.31 higher.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 626,000 head was 10,000 head more than the previous week but 52,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 21.2 million head was 928,000 head fewer (-4.2%) than the same period last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 17.3 billion pounds was 917.8 million pounds less (-5.0%) than the same time last year.
Turning to the grain complex, Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower. KC HRW Wheat closed 1¢ to 2¢ higher. Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 16¢ higher through Aug ‘24 and then mostly 5¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 25, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow to moderate on light to moderate demand in Nebraska through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Dressed delivered prices were $2.00 to $2.50 lower at $292-$292.50/cwt. There were a few FOB live trades at $184-$186 and a few delivered live trades at $189.50, but too few to trend. FOB live prices there last week were $185-$188.
Trade was limited on light to moderate demand in the western Corn Belt where FOB live prices were $1-$3 lower $185. There were a few dressed delivered trades at $292, but too few to trend; $290-$295 last week.
In the Southern Plains, trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill. FOB live prices last week were $178-$179 in the Texas Panhandle and $179 in Kansas.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 58¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $317.63/cwt. Select was 32¢ higher at $291.91/cwt.
Cattle futures closed higher Thursday, helped along by increasing open interest.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.97 higher ($1.47 to $2.37 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.47 higher ($1.22 to $2.05 higher).
Corn futures closed narrowly mixed, from mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly fractionally lower to 5¢ to lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 8¢ to 12¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 24, 2023
Although sideways, Cattle futures wobbled Wednesday as traders added risk premium back to Corn futures, which closed 9¢ to 11¢ higher through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 12¢ to 17¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 28¢ lower, except for 18¢ higher in May ’24.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 35¢ higher, except for an average of 16¢ lower in two contracts.
Through mid session today, Cattle futures are stronger.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $178-$179/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $179 in Kansas, $185-$188 in Nebraska and $186-$188 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $294-$295 in Nebraska and $290-$295 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was unchanged Wednesday afternoon at $317.05/cwt. Select was $2.08 higher at $291.59/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 23, 2023
Cattle futures gave back most of what they gained in the previous session, amid sluggish trade and a lack of weekly cash direction.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.16 lower (88¢ to $1.43)
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 93¢ lower, (53¢ to $1.25 lower).
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 5¢ lower, with follow-through pressure from last week’s positive crop progress and ratings.
KC HRW Wheat closed unchanged to 1¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 18¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all trading regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $178-$179/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $179 in Kansas. $185-$188 in Nebraska and $186-$188 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $294-$295 in Nebraska and $290-$295 in the western Corn Belt.
However, wholesale beef prices were up. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.49 higher Tuesday afternoon at $317.05/cwt. Select was $2.18 higher at $289.51/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 22, 2023
Cattle futures closed higher Monday, supported by the bullish Cattle on Feed report and lower Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.84 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 74¢ higher, (45¢ to $1.12 higher).
There was no afternoon report from AMS for negotiated cash fed cattle trade.
Based on the latest available report, FOB live prices last week were $1-$3 lower in the Southern Plains at $177-$179, 50¢ to $3 lower in Nebraska at $185-$187.50 and $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at mainly $186. Dressed delivered prices were $1 lower to $2 higher at $294-$297.
The five-area direct weighted average fed steer price last week was $185.04/cwt. on a live basis, which was 84¢ less than the previous week. The five-area direct steer price in the beef was $1.84 lower at $293.76.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 55¢ lower Monday afternoon at $315.56/cwt. Select was $1.03 lower at $287.33/cwt.
Positive crop progress and conditions weighed on Corn futures Monday.
Corn futures closed 9¢ to 10¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 3¢ lower.
Wheat futures were down 7¢ to 12¢ on harvest pressure.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 8¢ higher through Aug ‘24 and then mostly 1¢ higher, supported the hot, dry forecast and export news.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 21, 2023
Cattle futures finally found some traction on Friday, perhaps fueled by position squaring ahead of the monthly Cattle on Feed report, which turned out to be bullish.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.21 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 53¢ higher, except for unchanged in the back contract.
Packers succeeded in holding cash fed cattle prices steady to mainly lower last week, while also ratcheting wholesale beef prices higher as they restrict production.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light to demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were some FOB live trades in the Texas Panhandle at $178/cwt. but too few to trend.
For the week, based on the latest established trends, FOB live prices were $1-$3 lower in the Southern Plains at $177-$179, 50¢ to $3 lower in Nebraska at $185-$187.50 and $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at mainly $186. Last week, dressed delivered prices were $1 lower to $2 higher at $294-$297.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.97 higher Friday afternoon at $316.11/cwt. Select was $2.10 higher at $288.36/cwt.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 616,000 head was 13,000 head more than the previous week but 48,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date total estimated cattle slaughter of 20.6 million head was 876,000 head fewer (-4.1%) the the same time a year earlier. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 16.8 billion pounds was 876.8 million pounds less (-5.0%).
Hotter, drier weather helped lift grain futures again on Friday.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 6¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 14¢ to 20¢ higher through Sep ‘24 and then mostly 10¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 16¢ to 26¢ higher through Aug ‘24 and then mostly 7¢ to 12¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 18, 2023
Cattle futures continued lower Thursday with follow-through pressure from stronger Corn futures, steady to lower cash fed cattle prices, declining open interest and perhaps some defensiveness ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.51 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 72¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light to moderate demand to light on moderate demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $179/cwt., steady to mostly $2 lower in Nebraska at $185-$188 and steady to mostly $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at mainly $187.
Last week, dressed delivered prices were $295.
Wholesale beef prices continued to trend higher. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $5.15 higher Thursday afternoon at $314.14/cwt. Select was $1.49 higher at $286.26/cwt.
Hotter, drier weather helped Corn futures firm further Thursday; fractionally higher to 4¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 4¢ to 11¢ lower through May ‘25 and then fractionally higher.
Soybean futures closed 2¢ to 9¢ higher through May ‘24 and then 10¢ to 15¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 17, 2023
Cattle futures continued to edge lower Wednesday, pressured by an uptick in Corn futures and steady to lower cash fed cattle prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 32¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 35¢ lower, except for an average of 8¢ higher in two contracts.
Grain futures firmed overnight and through yesterday’s session as traders added some risk premium based on recent Russian attacks in Ukraine.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 6¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 11¢ to 18¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mainly limited on light to moderate demand through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, FOB live prices are $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $179/cwt. and steady in the western Corn Belt at $188.
Last week, FOB live prices in Nebraska were $188. Dressed prices were $295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.73 higher Wednesday afternoon at $308.99/cwt. Select was $1.74 higher at $284.77/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 16, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the Western Corn Belt through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live FOB prices were steady at $188/cwt. Dressed delivered prices last week were $295/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from inactive on light demand to a standstill with too few transactions to trend.
Last week live FOB prices were $180/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $188 in Nebraska, where dressed delivered prices were $295
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.76 higher Wednesday afternoon at $307.26/cwt. Select was $2.58 higher at $283.03/cwt.
However, Cattle futures edged lower Tuesday, pressured by lower outside markets as much as anything.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 27¢ lower, except for 5¢ higher in the back contract.
Live Cattle futures an average of 56¢ lower.
Weaker outside markets and improved crop conditions weighed on grain and Soybean futures Tuesday.
Corn futures closed 9¢ to 12¢ lower through Sep ‘24 and then mostly 5¢ to 6¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 13¢ to 16¢ lower through Mar ‘25.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 29¢ lower through Sep ‘24 and then 7¢ to 10¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 15, 2023
Cattle futures closed lower Monday on lackluster trade and static to declining open interest.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.08 lower.
Live Cattle futures an average of 61¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live FOB prices last week were steady at $180/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $188 in the north where dressed delivered prices were steady at $295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.89 higher Monday afternoon at $305.50/cwt. Select was $3.22 higher at $280.45/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 18¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 9¢ to 15¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 14, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light to moderate demand in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. For the week, FOB live prices were steady in both regions at $188/cwt. and dressed-delivered prices were also steady at $295.
Trade in the Southern Plains ranged from inactive on light demand in Kansas to a standstill in the Texas Panhandle. The previous week, FOB live prices were $180 in the Southern Plains.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 58¢ higher Friday afternoon at $302.61/cwt. Select was 57¢ lower at $277.23/cwt.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 603,000 head was 10,000 head fewer than the previous week and 42,000 head fewer (-6.5%) than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 19.3 million was 830,000 head fewer (-4.0%) than the same time last year. Estimate year-to-date beef production of 16.3 billion pounds was 836.9 million pounds less (-4.9%) than the same time last year.
Cattle futures closed lower Friday on likely profit taking ahead of the weekend.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 32¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures an average of 84¢ lower.
Grain and Soybean closed lower Friday, pressured by the World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates coming in with expected yield cuts (see below).
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 8¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 11¢ to 13¢ lower through May ‘24 and then mostly 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 14¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 11, 2023
Live Cattle futures an average of 81¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade and demand ranged from slow on light to moderate demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Although there were too few transactions to trend in any region, there were some early FOB live trades in the western Corn Belt at $188-$189/cwt and a few in Kansas at $186.
Last week, FOB live prices were $180/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $188 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $295 in a light test.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.49 lower Thursday afternoon at $302.03/cwt. Select was 97¢ lower at $277.80/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales (2023) for the week ending Aug. 3 of 14,800 metric tons were 19% more than the previous week, but 8% less than the prior four-week average. Increases were primarily for South Korea, Japan, China, Mexico and Hong Kong, according to the weekly U.S. Export Sales report.
As for the other side of the ledger, Grain and Soybean futures firmed Thursday with likely positioning ahead of Friday’s widely anticipated World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates, with forecast yields top of mind for many.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 10¢ higher, except for old-crop contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 10, 2023
Weaker corn futures and an uptick in wholesale beef prices helped lift Cattle futures Wednesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 77¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures an average of 39¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade and demand ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $180/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $188 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $295 in a light test.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.13 higher Wednesday afternoon at $303.52/cwt. Select was $1.98 higher at $278.14/cwt.
Favorable weather, and perhaps skittishness ahead of Friday’s WASDE, pressured grain futures on Wednesday.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 4¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 3¢ to 6¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 4¢ higher through Aug ‘24 and then mostly fractionally higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 9, 2023
Firmer Corn futures helped pressure Feeder Cattle futures an average of $1.10 lower Tuesday (55¢ lower at the back to $1.67 lower).
Live Cattle futures narrowly mixed, unchanged to an average of 36¢ lower in the front five contracts and then an average of 49¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade and demand were at a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $180/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $188 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $295 in a light test.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 90¢ higher at $302.39/cwt. Select was $1.15 higher at $276.16/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 1¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 5¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 8, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade and demand ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, FOB live prices were $1-$2 higher in the Southern Plains at $180/cwt. Live-delivered prices in Kansas were $184.00-$185.50. Live FOB prices were $2 higher in Nebraska at $188 and $1-$3 high in the western Corn Belt at $188. Dressed-delivered prices were $1-$3 higher at $295 in a light test.
The five-area direct weighted average steer price was $1.89 higher last week on a live basis at $186.70/cwt. The weighted average fed steer price in the beef was $1.51 higher at $295.14.
Even so, Cattle futures closed lower Monday on potential profit taking and retrenching.
Live Cattle futures an average of 96¢ lower (55¢ lower at the back to $1.20 lower in spot Aug).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.27 lower.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 30¢ lower Monday afternoon at $301.49/cwt. Select was $1.47 lower at $275.01/cwt.
Turning to the grain complex, Corn and Soybean futures closed lower Monday on positive weekend rains.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 2¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 24¢ to 38¢ lower through Aug ‘24 and then mostly 8¢ to 15¢ lower.
However, KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 10¢ to 11¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 7, 2023
Cattle futures closed higher Friday, helped along by the weekly decline in Corn futures and the hint of higher cash prices.
Live Cattle futures an average of $1.40 higher (92¢ higher at the back to $2.40 higher in spot Aug).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.91 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle demand and trade were moderate in the western Corn Belt through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. For the week, live FOB prices were $2-$3 higher at $188/cwt. Dressed delivered prices the previous week were $294-$295.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to limited on light demand.
Although too few to trend, there were a few live delivered sales in Kansas at $184.00-$185.50 and a few live FOB sales in Nebraska at $188.
The previous week, live FOB prices were $178-$179/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $186 in Nebraska, where dressed delivered prices were $292-$295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 22¢ lower Friday afternoon at $301.79/cwt. Select was $1.83 lower at $276.48/cwt.
Corn and Soybean futures firmed on Friday but continued to be capped by the favorable weather outlook.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 5¢ to 10¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 9¢ to 12¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 4, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few live FOB sales in the western Corn Belt at $188/cwt., but too few to trend.
Last week, live FOB prices were $178-$179/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $186 in Nebraska, and $185-$186 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $292-$295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.17 lower Thursday afternoon at $302.01/cwt. Select was 84¢ higher at $278.31/cwt.
Cattle futures on Thursday mainly regained what was lost in the previous session as traders returned the focus to fundamentals rather than the selloff triggered by the downgrading of U.S. credit.
Live Cattle futures an average of 76¢ higher (12¢ to $1.17 higher).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.35 higher.
Corn futures continued lower Thursday with the more favorable production outlook coupled with continued anemic international demand.
Corn futures closed 6¢ to 7¢ lower through May ‘24 and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 9¢ to 19¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 3, 2023
Commodity and equity markets saw widespread selling Wednesday on the news that Fitch Ratings downgraded the long-term credit rating for United States.
The lack of weekly cash fed cattle price direction and profit taking may also have pressured Cattle futures.
Live Cattle futures an average of 86¢ lower (50¢ lower at the back to $1.47 lower in spot Aug).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.15 lower (57¢ lower toward the back to $1.80 lower toward the front).
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 8¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 10¢ to 17¢ lower through Dec ‘24 and then 9¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 14¢ to 20¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 8¢ to 9¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live FOB prices were $178-$179/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $186 in Nebraska, and $185-$186 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $292-$295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.92 lower Wednesday afternoon at $303.18/cwt. Select was $2.13 lower at $277.47/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 2, 2023
A surge in wholesale beef prices helped lift Live Cattle futures on Tuesday. They closed an average of $1.27 higher on strong volume (50¢ higher at the back to $2.30 higher near the front).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.22 higher ($1.65 higher at the back to $2.87 higher in spot Aug).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.32 higher Tuesday afternoon at $306.10/cwt. Select was $1.87 higher at $279.60/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live FOB prices were $178-$179/cwt. in the Southern Plains $186, in Nebraska, and $185-$186 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed delivered prices were $292-$295.
Corn futures eroded further Tuesday, closing 4¢ to 7¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly fractionally lower to 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 5¢ to 11¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 5¢ to 10¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 1, 2023
Despite another day of lower Corn futures, Feeder Cattle futures paddle in place on Monday, closing an average of 33¢ lower, except for unchanged to an average of 12¢ higher in the front three contracts.
Softer cash fed cattle prices last week and continued erosion in open interest helped cap Live Cattle, which closed an average of 46¢ lower, from 7¢ to 70¢ lower.
Live-delivered prices in Kansas were $182.50 to $184. In Nebraska, FOB live trades were mostly $2 lower at mainly $186 on a light test, but a few up to $188.50. Live prices in the western Corn Belt were $1-$3 lower at 185-$187. Dressed delivered prices were steady to $3 lower in Nebraska at $292-$295 and steady to $1 lower in the western Corn belt at $294-$295.
Trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
The weighted average five-area direct fed steer price last week was $1.38 lower on a live basis at $184.81/cwt. The weighted average steer price in the beef was $1.09 lower at $293.63.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 22¢ lower Monday afternoon at $301.78/cwt. Select was 19¢ higher at $277.73/cwt.
Significantly cooler and wetter weather forecasted for the Corn Belt pushed grain and Soybean futures sharply lower Monday.
Corn futures closed 15¢ to 17¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 8¢ to 10¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 23¢ to 43¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 31¢ to 50¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 31, 2023
Feedlots and packers continued their standoff on negotiated cash fed cattle trade, which remained largely undeveloped through Friday afternoon. Trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few FOB live sales in the western Corn Belt at $185-$186/cwt., but too few to trend.
Last week, live prices (FOB) were $180/cwt in the Southern Plains and $188 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt, where dressed prices (FOB) were $295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 86¢ lower Friday afternoon at $302.00/cwt. Select was $2.22 lower at $277.54/cwt.
Further erosion in Corn futures helped Feeder Cattle futures close an average of 77¢ higher Friday.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 10¢ lower in the back three contracts to an average of 15¢ higher.
Corn futures continued to decline Friday, pressured by more favorable weather in the Corn Belt and less risk premium tied to Ukrainian grain shipments. They closed 11¢ to 12¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 6¢ to 9¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 4¢ to 10¢ lower through Sep ‘24 and then mostly 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 8¢ to 15¢ lower through Jan ‘25 and then mostly 2¢ lower
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 28, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade remained undeveloped through Thursday afternoon. There were a few FOB live sales in the western Corn Belt at $186/cwt., but too few to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices (FOB) were $180/cwt in the Southern Plains and $188 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt, where dressed prices (FOB) were $295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 48¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $302.86/cwt. Select was 5¢ lower at $279.76/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales of 21,400 metric tons (2023) for the week ending July 20 were 2% more than the previous week and 43% more than the prior four-week average. Increases were primarily for South Korea, Japan, China, and Canada.
Eroding front-month Corn futures supported Feeder Cattle futures again on Thursday. They closed an average of 54¢ higher, except for an average of 7¢ lower in two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 31¢ lower, except for an average of 13¢ higher in two contracts.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 7¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed fractionally mixed to 1¢ higher through Sep ’24 and then 3¢ to 6¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 22¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 27, 2023
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 88¢ higher Wednesday, supported by lower Corn futures.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 16¢ lower to an average of 33¢ higher.
Sharp volatility continued in grain futures, Wednesday, with traders apparently retrieving a chunk of recent risk premiums.
Corn futures closed 13¢ to 17¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then 4¢ to 9¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 18¢ to 47¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 2¢ lower, except for 30¢ and 18¢ higher in the front two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices (FOB) live prices were $180/cwt in the Southern Plains and $188 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt, where dressed prices (FOB) were $295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 88¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $303.34/cwt. Select was $2.26 higher at $279.81/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 26, 2023
Lower Corn futures helped Feeder Cattle futures firm Tuesday and close narrowly mixed, from an average of 15¢ lower to an average of 34¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 75¢ lower, except for 37¢ higher in in the back contract, with pressure tied, in part, to eroding open interest.
Corn futures softened Tuesday with likely profit taking, closing mostly 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher through Mar ‘25.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices (FOB) live prices were $180/cwt in the Southern Plains and $188 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt, where dressed prices (FOB) were $295.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 6¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $304.22/cwt. Select was 56¢ higher at $277.55/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 25, 2023
Feeder Cattle futures took stepped lower Monday, pressured by sharply higher Corn futures and Friday’s bearish Cattle on Feed report which indicated June feedlot placements were 2.7% more than the previous year and 4.6% more that the average of analyst expectations ahead of the report.
Headlines of Russia bombing Ukrainian ports fueled grain and Soybean futures Monday.
Corn futures closed 27¢ to 33¢ higher through the front five contracts and then 9¢ to 19¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 46¢ to 58¢ higher through Jly ‘24 and then 32¢ to 40¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 19¢ to 22¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures faded most of the heat, supported by last week’s stronger cash trade.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.08 higher (32¢ to $1.82 higher), except for an average of $1.24 lower in the front three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was inactive on very light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices (FOB) were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $180/cwt., $2 higher in Nebraska at $188 and $3-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $188. Dressed prices (FOB) were $3-$5 higher in Nebraska at $295 and steady to $5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $295.
The weighted average five-area fed steer price last week was $1.92 higher at $186.19/cwt. on alive basis. The weighted average dressed fed steer price was $3.38 higher at $294.72.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.42 higher Monday afternoon at $304.16/cwt. Select was 26¢ higher at $276.99/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 24, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow to moderate with moderate demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices in the Texas Panhandle were $2 higher (compared to two weeks earlier) at $180/cwt. Live prices in Kansas were unevenly steady at $180 (a few up to $187) with live delivered prices at $184-$185. Prices in Nebraska were mostly $2 higher at $188 with a few up to $190. In the western Corn Belt, live prices were mostly $3-$4 higher at $188.
Dressed prices (FOB) in Nebraska were $8-$10 higher at $300.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 18¢ higher Friday afternoon at $302.74/cwt. Select was $2.02 higher at $276.73/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 628,000 head was 5,000 head fewer than the previous week and 35,000 head fewer (-5.3%) than the previous year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 18.1 million head was 700,000 head fewer (-3.7%) than the same time last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 14.8 billion pounds was 735.5 million pounds less (-4.7%).
As for futures, Live Cattle futures closed an average of 40¢ lower Friday, except for an average of 6¢ higher in two contracts.
Conversely, stronger cash prices and softer Corn futures helped Feeder Cattle futures gain an average of $1.11. They could be challenged Monday, however, with what will likely be considered a bearish Cattle on Feed report (see below).
Corn futures softened again with likely profit taking. They closed 7¢ to 10¢ lower through Dec ‘24 and then 5¢ to 6¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 14¢ to 15¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower, except for 6¢ and 2¢ higher in old-crop contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 21, 2023
Cattle futures strengthened during much of Thursday’s session but closed lower, perhaps with some defensiveness ahead of Friday’s Cattle on Feed report, as well as the Semiannual Cattle report. So far, these reversals have represented a breather rather than a top.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 74¢ lower (35¢ to $1.05 lower).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 71¢ lower (15¢ to $1.70 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow to moderate in the western Corn Belt through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live prices were $3-$4 higher than last week at $188/cwt.
There were a few live sales in Nebraska at $188 on limited trade and light demand, but too few to trend.
Last week, live prices were $186/cwt. in Nebraska and $175-$184 in Kansas on a light test. Dressed prices were $290-$292 in Nebraska and $290-$295 in the western Corn Belt. Live prices in the Texas Panhandle the previous week were $178.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.03 lower Thursday afternoon at $302.56/cwt. Select was $1.25 lower at $274.71/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ lower on likely profit taking.
KC HRW Wheat closed mixed, from 8¢ lower to 8¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mixed, mostly 5¢ to 6¢ lower through Mar ’24 and then mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 20, 2023
Traders continued to add risk premium to grain and Soybean futures Wednesday.
Corn futures closed mostly 9¢ to 18¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 31¢ to 41¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 12¢ to 14¢ higher.
Higher Corn futures weighed on Feeder Cattle, which closed an average of 61¢ lower (27¢ to $1.20 lower), except for an average of 10¢ higher in the back two contracts.
However, recent cash strength and cattle feeders’ continued resolve to hold cattle helped push Live Cattle future an average of 43¢ higher (5¢ to 75¢ higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $186/cwt. in Nebraska, $184-$185 in the western Corn Belt and $175-$184 in Kansas on a light test. Dressed prices were $290-$292 in Nebraska and $290-$295 in the western Corn Belt. Live prices in the Texas Panhandle the previous week were $178.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.09 lower Wednesday afternoon at $303.59/cwt. Select was 65¢ lower at $275.96/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 19, 2023
Stronger fed cattle prices last week and increasing fundamental strength helped lift Live Cattle futures an average of 83¢ higher on Tuesday (30¢ higher near the back to $1.30 higher toward the front).
However, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.13 lower, pressured by a bounce in Corn futures.
Grain and Soybean futures strengthened as the Black Sea Grain Initiative expired amid Russia’s increased aggression in its ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Increasing weather premiums could have also been in play.
Corn futures closed mostly 19¢ to 29¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 12¢ to 17¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 9¢ to 14¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $186/cwt. in Nebraska, $184-$185 in the western Corn Belt and $175-$184 in Kansas on a light test. Dressed prices were $290-$292 in Nebraska and $290-$295 in the western Corn Belt. Live prices in the Texas Panhandle the previous week were $178.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.10 lower Tuesday afternoon at $304.68/cwt. Select was 87¢ lower at $276.61/cwt.
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Cattle Current Daily—July 18, 2023
Stronger fed cattle prices last week and increasing fundamental strength helped lift Live Cattle futures an average of 83¢ higher on Tuesday (30¢ higher near the back to $1.30 higher toward the front).
However, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.13 lower, pressured by a bounce in Corn futures.
Grain and Soybean futures strengthened as the Black Sea Grain Initiative expired amid Russia’s increased aggression in its ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Increasing weather premiums could have also been in play.
Corn futures closed mostly 19¢ to 29¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 12¢ to 17¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 9¢ to 14¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $186/cwt. in Nebraska, $184-$185 in the western Corn Belt and $175-$184 in Kansas on a light test. Dressed prices were $290-$292 in Nebraska and $290-$295 in the western Corn Belt. Live prices in the Texas Panhandle the previous week were $178.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.10 lower Tuesday afternoon at $304.68/cwt. Select was 87¢ lower at $276.61/cwt.
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Major U.S. financial indices closed higher again Tuesday, driven by more positive quarterly corporate earnings than expected from such notables as Bank of America.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed 76 points higher. The S&P 500 closed 17 points higher. The NASDAQ was up 131 points.
West Texas Intermediate Crude Oil futures (CME) closed $1.38 to $1.60 higher through the front six contracts.
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Based on recent price strength and tightening cattle supplies, USDA’s Economic Research Service (ERS) increased expected feeder steer prices (750-800 pounds, Oklahoma City) in the July Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Outlook.
“In the first half of 2023, feedlot placements, as well as feeder and stocker sales receipt data, point to a faster pace than what was expected at the beginning of this year,” ERS analysts explain. “Further, improving pasture conditions, relatively cheaper corn prices, and the prospect for higher fed cattle prices have fueled feeder cattle sales. In turn, this likely lowers the expected supply for feeder cattle available in the second half of 2023, which will likely further elevate feeder cattle prices.”
Compared to the previous month, projected prices increased $17 in the third quarter to $241/cwt. and $20 in the fourth quarter to $246. The 2023 annual price increased $9.87 to $220.49. Prices were projected $23 higher for the first quarter of 2024 at $245. The forecast 2024 feeder steer price increased $23.75 to $245.
As mentioned recently in Cattle Current, the ERS also increased expected fed steer prices (five-area direct) for the remainder of this year to $178/cwt. in the third quarter and $183 in the fourth quarter for an annual average price of $175.24. Next year’s annual average fed steer price was forecast to be $183.50.
“Fed steer prices in the 5-area marketing region established a new record for the week ending June 11 of $188.75/cwt.,” ERS analysts say. “This was likely buoyed by a boost in packer margins supported by weekly comprehensive wholesale boxed beef values in June that climbed as high as 24% above year-ago levels at $325.29/cwt. for the week of June 23.”
Cattle Current Podcast-July 18, 2023
Cash strength and weaker Corn futures helped lift Feeder Cattle futures Monday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.80 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 18¢ lower in three contracts to an average of 34¢ higher (7¢ to 75¢ higher).
Apparently, the trade wasn’t buying reports of Russia pulling out of the Black Sea Grain initiative, set to expire on Tuesday without renewal. Grain futures were stronger right after the reports but lost ground throughout the session.
Corn futures closed mostly 6¢ to 8¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 7¢ to 13¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 2¢ to 7¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was inactive on very light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were generally $3 higher in Nebraska at $186/cwt., $1-$2 higher in the western Corn belt at $184-$185 and from $3 lower to $6 higher in Kansas at $175-$184. Dressed prices were steady to $2 higher in Nebraska at $290-$292 and steady to $5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $290-$295.
Live prices in the Texas Panhandle the previous week were $178.
The five-area direct weighted average fed steer price last week was $2.21 higher on a live basis at $184.27/cwt. The average fed steer price in the beef was $1.35 higher at $291.34.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 84¢ higher Monday afternoon at $306.78/cwt. Select was 87¢ lower at $275.74/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 17, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light to moderate demand in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices in the western Corn Belt were $183-$186/cwt., which was $1-$2 higher than the previous week when dressed prices were $290.
Although too few to trend, there were a few live sales in Nebraska at $186 and a few in the beef at $291. Prices the previous week were $183.00-$186.50 and $290, respectively.
Trade in the Southern Plains remained inactive on very light demand. Prices the previous week were $178.
Live Cattle futures closed higher Friday, buoyed by stronger cash prices in the North, dragging Feeder Cattle along.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.02 higher ($1.15 at the back to $3.27 higher in spot Aug).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.97 higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 97¢ lower Friday afternoon at 305.94/cwt. Select was $3.57 lower at $276.61.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week was 633,000, which was 94,000 head more than the previous holiday-shortened week. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter was 17.5 million head, which was 662,000 head fewer (-3.6%). Estimated year-to-date beef production of 15 billion pounds was 709.6 million pounds less (-4.7%).
Turning to the grain complex, Grain and Soybean futures closed higher Friday, supported by the lower U.S. dollar and the looming deadline to extend the Black Sea Grain initiative.
Corn futures closed mostly 7¢ to 13¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 9¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 22¢ to 23¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 14, 2023
Traders seemed to reconsider their initial reaction to Wednesday’s WASDE, fueling gains in Corn and Soybeans. The looming deadline to extend the Black Sea Grain initiative may have added support.
Corn futures closed mostly 12¢ to 16¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 29¢ to 43¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 2¢ to 5¢ higher.
The bounce higher in Corn futures weighed on Cattle futures Thursday, especially Feeder Cattle.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.36 lower (57¢ to $1.42 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 32¢ lower, except for unchanged and 2¢ higher in two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all regions through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.07 lower Thursday afternoon at 306.91/cwt. Select was 92¢ lower at $280.18/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 13, 2023
Although USDA’s Economic Research Service (ERS) surprised some by making yield adjustments in the latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates — those usually come later in the growing season — Corn futures fell with higher estimated ending stocks.
Corn futures closed 12¢ to 22¢ lower through Sep ‘24 and then mostly 7¢ to 9¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 25¢ to 32¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 7¢ to 16¢ lower.
Even so, Cattle futures closed lower on the day following strong action earlier; perhaps driven by profit taking.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.20 lower (57¢ to $1.42 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.48 lower (62¢ to $1.95 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was inactive with very light demand in all regions through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $178/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $183.00-$186.50 in Nebraska and $182-$184 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.14 lower Wednesday afternoon at $310.98/cwt. Select was 86¢ lower at $281.10/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 12, 2023
Cattle futures continued to churn higher Tuesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 97¢ higher. Live Cattle futures closed an average of 94¢ higher (40¢ to $1.77 higher).
Corn and Soybean futures closed higher on likely positioning ahead of Wednesday’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 12¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 6¢ 8¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was inactive with very light demand in all regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $178/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $183.00-$186.50 in Nebraska and $182-$184 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.67 lower Tuesday afternoon at $312.12/cwt. Select was $2.09 lower at $280.24/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 11, 2023
Stellar cash demand for calves and feeder cattle, along with steady to stronger cash fed cattle prices last week helped Cattle futures extend gains Monday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 65¢ higher (10¢ higher at the back to $1.00 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 40¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive with very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were steady to $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $178/cwt., $1.00 to $1.50 higher in Nebraska at $183.00-$186.50 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $182-$184. Dressed prices were steady at $290.
The five-area direct weighted average fed steer price last week was $182.06 on a live basis, up 73¢ from the previous week. The average fed steer price in the beef was 65¢ higher at 289.99.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.11 lower Monday afternoon at $313.79/cwt. Select was $3.30 lower at $282.33/cwt.
Corn and Soybean futures closed higher on likely profit taking and positioning ahead of Wednesday’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 17¢ to 27¢ higher through Aug ’24 and then mostly 12¢ to 15¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 3¢ to 7¢ lower
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 10, 2023
Lower Corn futures and producer leverage demonstrated by the week’s cash fed cattle trade helped push Cattle futures higher on Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.58 higher ($1.80 at the back to $3.27 higher toward the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.13 higher (42¢ higher near the back to $2.42 higher at the front).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow with light to moderate demand in the North, to limited on light demand in the South through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were steady to $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $178/cwt., steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $183-$185 and steady to $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $183-$184. Dressed prices were steady at $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value Friday afternoon was $2.97 lower at $316.90/cwt. Select was $4.34 lower at $285.63/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter for the holiday-shortened week of 539,000 head was 108,000 head fewer than the previous week and 49,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 16.8 million head was 3.6% less year over year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 13.8 billion pounds was 676.9. million pounds less (-4.7%).
Corn and Soybean futures closed lower on a wetter weekend outlook and perhaps some positioning ahead of next week’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates, which will be USDA’s first opportunity to make adjustments to forecast yields.
Corn futures closed mostly 6¢ to 12¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 16¢ to 21¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 21¢ to 25¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 7, 2023
Feeder Cattle futures continued to adjust lower, down an average of $2.32 amid a bounce in Corn futures.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 39¢ lower with apparent pressure from sliding seasonal wholesale beef values.
Corn futures bounced back Thursday with a gloomier weather outlook. They closed 12¢ to 18¢ higher through Jly ‘24, and then 6¢ to 7¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed lower on oversold conditions. They were down 15¢ to 24¢ lower through Jan ‘24, and then 7¢ to 12¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mixed, fractionally lower to 6¢ lower through May ’24 and then 3¢ to 6¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to mostly inactive on very light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
On light trade, live prices were steady to $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $178/cwt. and unevenly steady in the western Corn Belt at $179-$184, where dressed prices last week were $290.
Last week, live prices in Nebraska were $180-$183 on a live basis and $290 in the beef.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.91 lower Thursday afternoon at $319.87/cwt. Select was $2.72 lower at $289.97/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 6, 2023
Cattle futures showed signs of modest correction Wednesday as traders await direction from the week’s cash market.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.79 lower ($2.17 to $3.25 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.14 lower (72¢ to $1.87 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive with very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $179/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $178 in Kansas, $182-$185 in Nebraska and $180-$183 in the western Corn Belt at $180-$183. Dressed prices were $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $5.56 lower Wednesday afternoon at $322.78/cwt. Select was $1.61 lower at $292.69/cwt.
Wheat futures bounced higher Wednesday amid selling fatigue and concerns about Russia’s sword rattling.
KC HRW Wheat closed 25¢ to 50¢ higher.
Corn and Soybean futures held their own with static week over week crop conditions.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher, except for the front two contracts.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 8¢ higher through Aug ‘24, and then 11¢ to 13¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 4 and 5, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $1 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $179/cwt., $2 lower in Kansas at $178, steady in Nebraska at $182-$185 and $2-$4 lower in the western Corn belt at $180-$183. Dressed prices were steady at $290.
The weighted average five-area direct fed steer price last week was $181.33/cwt. on a live basis, which was $1.24 lower than the previous week. The average fed steer price in the beef was 47¢ lower at $289.34.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 62¢ higher Monday afternoon at $328.34/cwt. Select was 67¢ higher at $294.30/cwt.
Cattle futures mostly held their ground Monday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 63¢ higher (32¢ to $1.17 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 17¢ lower in the front four contracts to an average of 34¢ higher.
Corn futures firmed some Monday with likely support from rallying Soybeans.
Corn futures closed mixed, mostly 2¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 22¢ to 31¢ higher, building on Fridays Acreage report.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 1¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 3, 2023
Cattle futures climbed Friday as Corn futures slid on the bearish Acreage report (see below).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $4.03 higher ($3.15 to $5.20 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.51 higher (65¢ higher at the back to $2.67 higher in new spot Aug).
Week to week on Friday, Feeder Cattle futures were up an average of $11.10 and Live Cattle futures were up an average of $3.68.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly slow with light to moderate demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Although too few to trend, there were a few live trades in the Texas Panhandle at $179/cwt. and at $182-$183 in the western Corn Belt. There were a few dressed trades in Nebraska at $290.
The only established trade for the week was in Kansas where live prices were $2 lower at $178.
Last week, live prices were $180/cwt. in the Southern Plains $182-$185 in Nebraska and $184-$185 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 33¢ lower Friday afternoon at $327.72/cwt. Select was $3.55 lower at $293.63/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 644,000 head was 5,000 head fewer than the previous week but 3,000 more than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 16.3 million head was 580,000 head (-3.4%) less. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 13.34 billion pounds was 635.6 million pounds less (-4.5%).
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 30, 2023
Cattle futures continued to gain Thursday on Corn weakness.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.41 higher (90¢ to $2.12 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 43¢ higher.
Corn futures closed 6¢ to 9¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 4¢ lower, except for gains in the front four contracts.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 7¢ to 10¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly limited on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
There were a few live trades in Nebraska at $182/cwt., but too few to trend.
So far this week, live sales in Kansas are $2 lower at $178.
Last week, live prices were $180/cwt. in the Southern Plains $182-$185 in Nebraska and $184-$185 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value 15¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $328.05/cwt. Select was 50¢ higher at $297.18/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 29, 2023
Feeder Cattle futures maintained upward momentum as Corn futures continued to decline.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.32 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 75¢ higher through Feb ‘24 (32¢ to $1.37 higher) and then unchanged to an average of 48¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live sales in Kansas are $2 lower at $178/cwt.
Last week, live prices were $180/cwt. in the Southern Plains $182-$185 in Nebraska and $184-$185 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.33 lower Wednesday afternoon at $327.90/cwt. Select was $1.75 lower at $296.68/cwt.
More rain forecast for the Corn Belt took grain and Soybean futures lower for the second consecutive session.
Corn futures closed 20¢ to 33¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then 3¢ to 10¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 28¢ to 44¢ lower through Jan ‘24 and then mostly 22¢ to 24¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 18¢ to 33¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 28, 2023
Cattle futures rallied Tuesday, buoyed by declining Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $4.02 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.55 higher ($1.22 to $2.05 higher).
Corn futures took a sharp step lower, pressured by more rain forecast in the Corn Belt and despite deteriorating crop conditions displayed in the previous day’s weekly Crop Progress report. Keep in mind Acreage and Grain Stocks reports out Friday.
Corn futures closed mostly 15¢ to 27¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 20¢ to 29¢ lower through Sep ‘24 and then mostly 17¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 20¢ to 28¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from light on light demand in the Southern Plains to mostly inactive on very light demand through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Although too few to trend, there were a few live sales in Kansas at $178/cwt.
Last week, live prices were $180 in the Southern Plains $182-$185 in Nebraska and $184-$185 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.81 lower Tuesday afternoon at $329.23/cwt. Select was $1.24 lower at $298.43/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 27, 2023
Although Friday’s Cattle on Feed report seemed to bring pressure early in the session, the reaction faded quickly as the day progressed in Cattle futures amid light trade.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 61¢ higher, except for an average of 17¢ lower in the front three contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 29¢ lower to an average of 13¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $180/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $182-$185 in Nebraska and $184-$185 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $290.
The weighted average five-area direct fed steer price last week was $2.35 lower on a live basis at $182.57/cwt. The average fed steer price in the beef was $6.26 lower at $289.81.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 97¢ lower Monday afternoon at $333.04/cwt. Select was 29¢ lower at $299.67/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures closed mostly higher Monday, balancing weekend rains across much of the Corn Belt with geopolitical tensions in Russia.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 5¢ higher, except for mostly fractionally mixed from near Sep through near May.
Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 26¢ higher through Aug ‘24 and then mostly 9¢ to 12¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 26, 2023
Weather forecasts continued to whipsaw grain markets on Friday with Corn and Soybean futures closing sharply lower on the wet weekend outlook for the Corn Belt, as well as overbought conditions.
Corn futures closed mostly 22¢ to 32¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 18¢ to 29¢ lower through Jly ‘24 (except for 6¢ and 14¢ lower in the front two contracts) and then mostly 6¢ to 8¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 10¢ to 18¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures surged an average of $2.80 higher Friday ($2.20 to $3.27 higher) as Corn futures slid lower.
Live Cattle futures tread water with pressure from the week’s softer cash trade and lower wholesale beef prices. They closed an average of 17¢ higher, except for an average of 23¢ lower in the front three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was inactive on light demand in all regions through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend in any region, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $180/cwt., $3-$4 lower in Nebraska at $182-$185 and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $184-$185. Dressed prices were $6 lower in Nebraska at $290 and $6-$10 lower in the western Corn Belt at $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 46¢ lower Friday afternoon at $334.01/cwt. Select was $3.84 lower at $299.96/cwt. The Choice Select spread was the highest since last October at $34.05.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 649,000 head was 15,000 head more than the previous week, but 16,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 15.6. million head was 587,000 head less (-3.6%) that the same time last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 12.8 billion pounds was 638 million pounds less (-4.7%).
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 23, 2023
Cattle futures found some traction Thursday with a let up in Corn futures and perhaps some short covering.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.24 higher (40¢ to $1.72 higher).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.07 higher ($2.55 to $3.45 higher).
Corn and Soybean futures took a breather Thursday from the recent steep run-up.
Corn futures closed mostly 7¢ to 8¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 14¢ to 40¢ lower through Sep ‘24 and then mostly 6¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 5¢ to 6¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on very light demand through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend in any region, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $180/cwt., $3-$4 lower in Nebraska at $182-$185 and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $184-$185.
Last week, dressed prices were $296 in Nebraska and $294-$300 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 22¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $334.47/cwt. Select was 45¢ lower at $303.80/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 22, 2023
Corn and Soybean futures bounced sharply higher Wednesday, fueled by the eroding crop conditions revealed in the weekly Crop Progress report and spawned by intensifying drought in the Corn Belt.
Corn futures closed mostly 20¢ to 31¢ higher through Sep ‘24 and then mostly 10¢ to 18¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 23¢ to 37¢ higher through Aug ‘24 and then mostly 15¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 27¢ to 37¢ higher.
Those gains cast a bearish shadow across Feeder Cattle futures, which closed an average of $3.67 lower ($2.92 to $4.42 lower).
Live Cattle faded most of the heat, supported by current cash premiums and despite lower cash fed cattle prices so far this week and recent sharp declines in wholesale beef values. Live Cattle closed an average of 34¢ lower, except for 12¢ and 5¢ higher in the front two contracts.
Keep in mind the monthly Cattle on Feed report comes out Friday.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to slow on light demand through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $180/cwt. and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $184-$185, where dressed prices last week were $294-$300.
Although too few to trend, there were some live sales in Nebraska at $182-$185. Last week, live prices there were $185-$189 on a live basis and $296 in the beef.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.66 lower Wednesday afternoon at $334.25/cwt. Select was $3.68 lower at $304.25/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 21, 2023
Cattle futures started the trading week lower with pressure from last week’s weaker fed cattle prices, increasing feed costs, lower wholesale beef values and bearish outside markets.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.49 lower ($1.02 to $2.02 lower).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.25 lower ($1.47 to $2.77 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $182/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $185-$189 in Nebraska and $186-$188 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $296 in Nebraska and $294-$300 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.23 lower Tuesday afternoon at $336.91/cwt. Select was $2.83 lower at $307.93/cwt.
Corn and Soybean futures retained last week’s sharp gains on Tuesday as new-crop conditions erode (see below).
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 6¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 7¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly narrowly mixed from 4¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 20, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $3-$4 lower in the Southern Plains at $182/cwt., $2-$5 lower in Nebraska at $185-$189 and $2-$4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $186-$188. Dressed prices were $4 lower in Nebraska at $296 and steady to $4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $294-$300.
The five-area direct weighted average fed steer price for the week was $3.83 lower at $184.92 on a live basis. The weighted average in the beef was $3.14 lower at $296.07.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.95 lower Monday afternoon at $340.14/cwt. Select was 9¢ lower at $310.76/cwt.
Futures markets and equity markets were closed Monday in observance of Juneteenth.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 19, 2023
Cattle futures continued to bounce back Friday with another day of higher wholesale beef values and perhaps some positioning ahead of the long weekend.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.26 higher. They were an average of 92¢ higher week to week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 71¢ higher (42¢ to $1.02 higher). Week to week on Friday, they closed an average of $3.56 lower ($3.20 to $4.07 lower).
That was with Corn and Soybean futures continuing to chug higher, riding the rails of drought worries.
Corn futures closed mostly 13¢ to 24¢ higher through Sep ‘24 and then mostly 9¢ to 11¢ higher. Week to week, they were an average of 58’9¢ higher through the front six contracts.
Soybean futures closed 31¢ to 50¢ higher through Aug ‘24 and then mostly 20¢ higher. Week to week on Friday, there were about $1.20 higher through the front six contracts.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 21¢ to 31¢ higher on Friday.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 16, 2023
Live Cattle futures edged higher Thursday, supported by higher wholesale beef values. Live Cattle closed an average of 25¢ higher, except for 10¢ lower in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow with light to moderate demand in the North to mostly inactive with very light demand in the South through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Although too few to trend, there were some early live sales in Nebraska at $185/cwt. and $188 in the western Corn Belt. There were a few dressed sales in Nebraska at $294.00-$296.50.
Last week, live prices were $185/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $186 in Kansas, $189-$192 in Nebraska and $190 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $300 in Nebraska and $298-$300 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.01 higher Thursday afternoon at $342.07/cwt. Select was 32¢ higher at $309.58/cwt.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.53 lower, pressured by significantly higher Corn futures prices and the related stall to improving conditions.
According to the latest weekly U.S. Drought Monitor (beginning June 13), drought conditions existed in 25% of the continental U.S. versus 22% a week earlier. For the same time period, 42% of cattle inventory was affected by the drought, which was 2% more than the previous week and 6% more than two weeks earlier.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 15, 2023
Cattle futures closed sharply lower Wednesday, apparently driven by fund selling and likely pressure from outside markets.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.53 lower ($1.97 to $2.95 lower).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $4.35 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $185/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $186 in Kansas, $189-$192 in Nebraska and $190 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $300 in Nebraska and $298-$300 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.07 higher Wednesday afternoon at $339.06/cwt. Select was 22¢ lower at $309.26/cwt.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 4¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly fractionally mixed.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 10¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 14, 2023
Cattle futures faded pressure early in Tuesday’s session to closer higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 70¢ higher (35¢ to $1.02 higher), except for 10¢ lower in the back contract.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.12 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $185/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $186 in Kansas, $189-$192 in Nebraska and $190 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $300 in Nebraska and $298-$300 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 56¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $337.99/cwt. Select was 76¢ lower at $309.38/cwt.
Deteriorating crop conditions helped boosted Corn and Soybean futures Tuesday.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 18¢ to 30¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 2¢ to 4¢ lower through May ‘24, and then 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 13, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, Live prices were $5-$10 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $185/cwt., $6-$8 higher in Kansas at $186, steady to $9 higher in Nebraska at $189-$192 and $3-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $190. Dressed prices were $8-$15 higher in Nebraska at $300 and $8-$10 higher in the western Corn Belt at $298-$300.
The weighted average five-area direct fed steer price last week was $188.75/cwt. on a live basis, which was $6.72 more than the previous week. The average fed steer price in the beef was $9.16 higher at $299.21.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.50 higher Monday afternoon at $337.43/cwt. Select was $4.53 higher at $210.24/cwt.
Last week’s strong gains in cash fed cattle prices and wholesale beef values helped lift Live Cattle futures higher on Monday, dragging Feeder Cattle along.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.24 higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 50¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 10¢ to 18¢ higher, apparently driven once again by the latest weather outlook in the Corn Belt — drier this time.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 8¢ higher, except for lower in the front two contracts.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly fractionally mixed through May ‘24, and then 3¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 12, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate with good demand in Kansas through Friday afternoon with prices $6-$8 higher at $186/cwt., according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live trade in Nebraska was slow on light demand. Live prices were $1-$2 lower than Wednesday at $189, but steady to $8 higher for the week at $189-$191. Dressed prices for the week were $8-$15 higher at $300.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive with very light demand.
For the week, live prices were $5-$10 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $185 and $3-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $190, where dressed prices were $8-$10 higher at $298-$300.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.20 higher Friday afternoon at $332.93/cwt. Select was $1.61 higher at $305.71/cwt. Week to week on Friday, Choice was up $23 and Select was $14.78 higher.
Estimated weekly total cattle slaughter last week of 621,000 head was 48,000 head more than the previous holiday-shortened week but 50,000 fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 14.4 million head was 528,000 head fewer (-3.5%) than the same time a year earlier. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 11.8 billion pounds was 592.5 million pounds less (-4.8%) than a year earlier.
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed Friday, despite strong weekly gains in cash cattle and wholesale beef values.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 38¢ lower to an average of 14¢ higher. Week to week on Friday, they closed an average of $1.71 lower ($1.05 to $2.17 lower), except for $1.80 higher in spot Jun.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 44¢ lower (15¢ to $1.00 lower) to an average of 21¢ higher. Week to week on Friday, they closed an average of $2.86 lower ($2.02 to $3.50 lower).
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ lower Friday, pressured by the bearish demand outlook proffered in the latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Soybean futures closed mostly 12¢ to 16¢ higher, boosted by soybean oil.
KC HRW Wheat closed 7¢ to 10¢ lower through May ‘24, and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 9, 2023
There was no afternoon negotiated cash fed cattle trade summary from AMS at press time but it sounded like feedlots in the Southern Plains were holding out for more money.
In the North, through Wednesday, dressed sales in Nebraska were $8-$15 higher at $300/cwt. and live sales in the western Corn Belt were $3-$5 higher at $190. Trade in the Southern Plains last week was at $175-$180.
Wholesale beef prices continued higher. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.54 higher Thursday afternoon at $328.73/cwt. Select was $2.54 higher at $304.10/cwt.
Both Live Cattle and Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 90¢ lower, though bullish fundamentals remain.
Corn and Soybean futures closed higher with support from expanded drought coverage in the Corn Belt. Perhaps there was also positioning ahead of Friday’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 12¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 14¢ to 18¢ higher, buoyed in part by Russia’s saber rattling over the Black Sea Initiative.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 8, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices continued higher Wednesday.
Dressed sales in Nebraska were $8-$15 higher at $300/cwt. on light trade and good demand. There were some early live sales at $188-$194, but too few to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live prices there last week were $183-$189.
Live sales in the western Corn Belt continued $3-$5 higher at $190 on light trade and good demand. Although too few to trend, there were some dressed sales at $300. Dressed prices there last week were $288-$292.
Trade in the Southern Plains was very limited on moderate to good demand with too few transactions to establish the market. Last week, live prices were $175-$180 in the Texas Panhandle and $178-$180 in Kansas.
Wholesale beef prices continued higher. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.79 higher Wednesday afternoon at $325.19/cwt. Select was $2.12higher at $301.56/cwt.
Even so, Cattle futures closed sharply lower amid likely technical selling and profit taking.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.34 lower (82¢ lower in spot Jun to $2.82 lower).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.76 lower ($2.72 lower at the back to $4.27 lower).
Another day and another forecast — wetter this time — pressured Corn and Soybean futures Wednesday.
Corn futures closed mostly 7¢ to 10¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 8¢ to 10¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 21¢ to 32¢ lower through Jly 24 and then 13¢ to 16¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 7, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices stepped $3-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt Tuesday at $190/cwt. according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Trade was slow on light to moderate demand. Dressed prices there last week were $288-$292.
There were a few early sales in Nebraska through Tuesday afternoon at $190 on a live basis and $300 in the beef, but too few to trend. Last week, live prices were $183-$189 and dressed prices were $285-$292.
Trade in the Southern Plains was mostly inactive with very light demand. Last week, live prices were $175-$180 in the Texas Panhandle and $178-$180 in Kansas.
Stronger cash fed cattle prices helped lift Cattle futures.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.60 higher (97¢ higher toward the back to $2.67 higher in spot Jun).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.27 higher (65¢ higher in spot Aug to $1.57 higher at the back).
Resurgent wholesale beef values added support. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $7.21 higher Tuesday afternoon at $321.40/cwt. Select was $2.71 higher at $299.44/cwt.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 10¢ higher through Jly ‘24 Tuesday on a more bearish weather outlook.
KC HRW Wheat closed 2¢ to 3¢ lower through May’24 and then 9¢ to 13¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 6, 2023
Cattle futures continued higher Monday, helped along by surging wholesale beef prices and softer Corn futures.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 47¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 68¢ higher.
Corn futures softened a touch Monday, following the previous session’s strong gains, perhaps pressured in part by rain forecast in the Corn Belt.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 4¢ to 10¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 2¢ to 5¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $175-$180/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $178-$180 in Kansas, $183-$189 in Nebraska and $185-$187 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $285-$292 in Nebraska and $288-$292 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.26 higher Monday afternoon at $314.19/cwt. Select was $5.80 higher at $296.73/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 5, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow with moderate demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $5-$9 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $175-$180/cwt., $7-$9 higher in Kansas at $178-$180, $3-$6 higher in Nebraska at $183-$188 and $3-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $185-$187. Dressed prices were $5-$6 higher in Nebraska at $285-$292 and $3-$7 higher in the western Corn Belt at $288-$292.
Through Thursday, the five-area direct weighted average fed steer price was $3.64 higher week to week at $181.35. The weighted average dressed steer price was $5.30 higher at $289.66.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.49 higher Friday afternoon at $309.93/cwt. Select was $4.61 higher at $290.93/cwt.
Week to week on Friday, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $8.32 higher and Live Cattle futures closed an average of $6.12 higher. On Friday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of 31¢ higher and Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 25¢ higher.
Grain and soybean futures caught a gear higher Friday, with the latest U.S. drought monitor showing expanding dryness in the Corn Belt. It indicates 34% of U.S. corn and 28% of soybean production was affected by drought June 1.
Corn futures closed mostly 10¢ to 16¢ higher through Jly ‘24 and then 2¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 12¢ to 18¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 7¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 2, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices roared higher Thursday.
Trade in the Southern Plains was active with very good demand. Live prices were $5-$9 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $175-$180/cwt. and $7-$9 higher in Kansas at $178-$180.
Elsewhere, trade was moderate with very good demand. Live prices were $3-$6 higher in Nebraska at $183-$188 and $3-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt $185-$187. Dressed prices in Nebraska were $5-$6 higher at $285-$292. Last week, dressed prices in the western Corn Belt were $285.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 60¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $306.44/cwt. Select was 83¢ lower at $286.32/cwt.
The extraordinary ascent of cash fed cattle prices fueled another bounce in Cattle futures.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $3.65 higher ($2.25 higher at the back to $5.77 higher in spot Jun).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.38 higher ($2.47 to $4.20 higher).
Traders appeared to add weather premium to markets Thursday.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 8¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 12¢ to 19¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 18¢ to 29¢ higher though May ‘24 and then mostly 11¢ to 18¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 1, 2023
Another day of weaker Corn futures and the outlook for steady to stronger cash fed cattle prices this week helped Cattle futures extend gains Wednesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.46 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 63¢ higher (25¢ higher in the spot month to $1.10 higher).
Expectations of record production in Brazil helped pressure Corn futures Wednesday.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 2¢ to 6¢ higher in the front three contracts and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ to 16¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service
Last week, live prices were $170-$171/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $171 in Kansas, $180-$182 in Nebraska and $182 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $280-$286 in Nebraska and $285 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 88¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $305.84/cwt. Select was 62¢ lower at $287.77/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 31, 2023
Last week’s strong cash fed cattle prices, recent higher wholesale beef prices and Tuesday’s break in Corn futures helped propel Cattle futures higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.24 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.53 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $170-$171/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $171 in Kansas, $180-$182 in Nebraska and $182 the western Corn Belt Dressed. prices were $280-$286 in Nebraska and $285 in the western Corn Belt.
The weighted average five-area direct fed steer price last week was $2.79 higher at $177.94/cwt. The average fed steer price in the beef was $4.02 higher at $284.36.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.03 higher Tuesday afternoon at $304.96/cwt. Select was $2.85 higher at $287.77/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures closed sharply lower Tuesday as traders appeared to take back weather premium, as well as profits from last week’s rally.
Corn futures closed mostly 6¢ to 10¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 22¢ to 35¢ lower in the front five contracts and then 8¢ to 12¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 30¢ to 41¢ lower through Aug ’24 and then 21¢ to 26¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 30, 2023
Live Cattle futures continued to grind higher, closing an average of 49¢ higher (5¢ higher at the front to 92¢ higher at the back), supported by stronger cash prices and wholesale beef values.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 75¢ lower in light trade, pressured by the bounce higher in Corn futures.
Grain and Soybean futures closed higher Friday as traders appeared to add weather premium with the dry, hot outlook in the Corn Belt for the next couple of weeks.
Corn futures closed mostly 10¢ to 18¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 1¢ to 5¢ higher in the front five contracts and then 13¢ to 15¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 17¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 26, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on light demand to limited on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $171/cwt., $2-$4 higher in Nebraska at $180-$182 and $4-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $182. Dressed prices are $4-$5 higher in Nebraska at $285-$286 and $3-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $285.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.64 higher Thursday afternoon at $299.94/cwt. Select was 75¢ higher at $284.54/cwt.
Cattle futures continued to edge higher Thursday, supported by the week’s stronger cash prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 25¢ higher, except for unchanged at either end of the board.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 51¢ higher (25¢ to $1.20 higher in spot Jun).
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower Thursday with likely profit taking and positioning ahead of the long weekend.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly unchanged to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 9¢ to 12¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 25, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow to moderate on moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Prices were $1 higher at $171/cwt.
In Nebraska, trade was slow to moderate with moderate to good demand. Live prices were $2-$4 higher at $180-$182 and dressed prices were $4-$5 higher at $285-$286.
Although too few to trend, there were some live sales in the western Corn Belt at $180-$182 on slow trade with light to moderate demand. Live prices there last week were $177-$178 on a live basis; $280-$282 in the beef.
Cattle futures blossomed with the higher cash fed cattle prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.33 higher, (87¢ to $2.17 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.04 higher (60¢ to $1.82 higher).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.44 lower Wednesday afternoon at $298.30/cwt. Select was $2.51 higher at $283.79/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 3¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 15¢ to 29¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 23, 2023
Cattle futures traded mixed Monday, holding their own in the face of higher grain futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 36¢ higher, except for an average of 15¢ lower in two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 38¢ lower (10¢ to 70¢ lower) through Feb and then unchanged to an average of 10¢ higher.
Grain and Soybean futures bounced back some Monday with apparent technical resistance to the downside and perhaps some weather premium with the drier, hotter near-term outlook in parts of the Corn Belt.
Corn futures closed mostly 7¢ to 8¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed fractionally higher to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 15¢ to 21¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $170/cwt., $2 higher in Nebraska at $178 and steady to $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $177-$178. Dressed prices were steady to $2 higher at $280-$282.
The five-area direct weighted average fed steer price was $1.02 higher last week at $175.15/cwt. The weighted average fed steer price in the beef was $1.36 higher at $280.84.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.80 higher Monday afternoon at $303.90/cwt. Select was 51¢ lower at $283.43/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 22, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly slow on light to moderate demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $170/cwt., $2 higher in Nebraska at $178 and $1-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $178. Dressed prices in Nebraska were steady to $2 higher at $280-$282.
Stronger cash fed cattle prices in the North, coupled with erosion in Corn futures helped lift Cattle futures again on Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 64¢ higher (17¢ to 77¢ higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 49¢ higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.79 higher Friday afternoon at $301.10/cwt. Select was 33¢ higher at $283.94/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 642,000 head was 4,000 head fewer than the previous week and 15,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 12.6 million head was 423,000 head fewer (-3.3%) than a year earlier. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 10.3 billion pounds was 513.6 million pounds less (-4.7%).
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 19, 2023
Cattle futures stepped higher Thursday, supported by recently lower Corn futures, bullish cash strength for feeder cattle, cattle feeders’ resolve to hold the line on fed cattle prices and perhaps some positioning ahead of Friday’s Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.83 higher ($1.55 to $3.35 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 78¢ higher.
Bearish sentiment continued in the grain complex.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 18¢ to 28¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the Texas Panhandle through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Prices were steady at $177/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was limited on light demand. Although too few to trend, there were some live trades in the western Corn Belt at $178.
Last week, live prices were $170/cwt. in Kansas, mostly $176 in Nebraska and $175-$177 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $280.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 16¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $298.31/cwt. Select was 16¢ higher at $283.61/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 18, 2023
Cattle futures closed mostly lower Wednesday, apparently with spillover pressure from apparent long liquidation in grain futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 88¢ lower (32¢ to $1.15 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 27¢ lower, except for an average of 58¢ higher in the front three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light to moderate demand in all regions through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $170/cwt. in the Southern Plains, mostly $176 in Nebraska and $175-$177 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $280.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.32 lower Wednesday afternoon at $298.15/cwt. Select was $1.46 lower at $282.89/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures tumbled Wednesday. At least from a psychologic perspective, widespread selling appeared to be tied to the U.N. Secretary General’s announcement that Russia agreed to extend the Black Sea Grain initiative for another 60 days (see below). As well, private exporters reported the cancellation of sales of 272,000 metric tons of corn for delivery to China during the 2022/2023 marketing year.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 9¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 12¢ to 20¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 15¢ to 19¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 17, 2023
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 35¢ higher, except for 80¢ and 72¢ lower at either end of the board, supported by continued erosion in Corn futures.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 25¢ lower, awaiting cash direction.
Wheat futures closed mostly 1¢ to 4¢ lower Tuesday with likely profit taking.
Corn futures closed 9¢ to 11¢ lower through Jly ‘24, and then mostly 7¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 19¢ to 36¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $170/cwt. in the Southern Plains, mostly $176 in Nebraska and $175-$177 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $280.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.51 lower Tuesday afternoon at $299.47/cwt. Select was 36¢ lower at $284.35/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 16, 2023
Cattle futures, especially Feeder Cattle, extended gains Monday, closing an average of $1.34 higher (67¢ to $2.07 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 66¢ higher, except 7¢ lower in spot Jun.
That was with Corn futures closing 5¢ to 7¢ higher through Jly ‘24, on the coattails of Wheat futures (KC HRW), which closed 21¢ to 27¢ higher through May ‘24, fueled by follow-through support from the World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates, along with concerns about the Black Sea Initiative.
Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 10¢ higher through Jly ‘24.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was inactive on light demand in all regions through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $170/cwt., mostly steady to $2 lower in Nebraska at mainly $176 and $1 lower to $3 higher in the western Corn belt at $175-$177. Dressed prices were $1 lower in Nebraska at $280 and steady to $5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $280.
The weighted average five-area direct fed steer price was 20¢ higher on a live basis last week at $174.13/cwt. but $1.46 lower in the beef at $279.48.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.63 lower Monday afternoon at $301.98/cwt. Select was 3¢ higher at $284.71/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 15, 2023
Cattle futures closed higher Friday, supported by lower corn prices suggested by the monthly World Agricultural Supply Demand Estimates.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.20 higher on Friday and an average of $6.53 higher week to week ($2.95 to $8.20 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.02 higher ($1.65 higher toward the front to 12¢ higher at the back). They were an average of $2.27 higher week to week on Friday ($1.82 higher at the back to $2.95 higher toward the front).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light to moderate demand in all regions through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $170/cwt., mostly steady to $2 lower in Nebraska at mainly $176 and $1 lower to $3 higher in the western Corn belt at $175-$177. Dressed prices were $1 lower in Nebraska at $280 and steady to $5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $280.
Estimated cattle slaughter last week of 646,000 head was 23,000 head more than the previous week but 15,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated cattle slaughter of 11.9 million head was 386,000 head fewer (-3.1%). Estimated year-to-date beef production of 9.8 billion pounds was 483.8 million pounds less (-4.7%).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.11 lower Friday afternoon at $304.61/cwt. Select was 10¢ higher at $284.68/cwt.
USDA’s Economic Research Service increased forecast fed steer prices (five-area direct) higher for the remainder of this year, in the latest monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE). Prices were projected $3 higher in the second quarter at $172/cwt., and $2 higher in the third and fourth quarters at $164 and $169, respectively. The annual average price estimate increased $2 to $166.50.
“The 2023 cattle price forecast is raised on recent data and tighter supplies expected later in the year,” ERS analysts say. “For 2024, cattle prices are forecast above 2023 on tighter supplies.”
Estimated beef production this year would be 1.4 million pounds less than last year (-4.8%).
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 12, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged inactive on light demand in the Southern Plains to moderate on moderate demand in the North through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some early sales in Nebraska at $175-$176/cwt. on a live basis and $280 in the beef, and at $176-$177 and $280 in the western Corn Belt.
On Wednesday, live trade in the Southern Plains was $2 lower at $170.
Last week, live prices were $176-$178 in Nebraska and $172-$178 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $281 in Nebraska and $280-$285 in the western Corn Belt.
The five-area direct monthly weighted average price for fed steers in April was $177.09/cwt., on a live basis, which was $35.43 (+25.0%) than a year earlier. The weighted average fed steer price in the beef was $285.28, which was $56.42 more (+24.6%) year over year.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.15 lower Thursday afternoon at $305.72/cwt. Select was 4¢ higher at $284.58/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales (2023) for the week ending May 4 were 16,600 metric tons. That was 18% less than the previous week, but 16% more than the prior four-week average, according to the weekly U.S. Export Sales report. Increases were primarily for South Korea, Japan, Canada, Mexico and Taiwan.
Cattle futures were Mixed Thursday with Feeder Cattle benefitting from lower Corn futures and Live Cattle stalling with the weaker cash outlook for the week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 86¢ higher except for $1.25 lower in spot May.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 31¢ lower (5¢ to 82¢ lower) except for 12¢ higher in Away Aug.
Grain and soybean futures continued under pressure Thursday from the fast pace of domestic planting to positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 7¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 12¢ to 13¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mixed, mostly fractionally higher to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 11, 2023
Cattle futures gave back some of the previous sessions gains on Wednesday amid likely profit taking and uncertainty about this week’s cash fed cattle direction.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 91¢ lower except for 25¢ higher in the back contract.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 42¢ lower except for 27¢ higher in the back contract.
Corn futures firmed Wednesday with likely short covering, while Wheat and Soybean futures eroded as traders position ahead of Friday’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 3¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 1¢ to 10¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 15¢ lower through Sep ‘23 and then mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in all regions through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some early live sales in the Southern Plains at $170/cwt.
Last week, live prices were $172/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $176-$178 in Nebraska and $172-$178 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $281 in Nebraska and $280-$285 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 51¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $306.87/cwt. Select was 35¢ lower at $284.54/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 10, 2023
Sharply lower Corn futures helped Cattle futures regain more lost ground on Tuesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.94 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.20 higher.
Corn and Soybean futures weakened Tuesday, with pressure from the fast domestic planting pace and renewed hopes for renewal of the Black Sea Initiative. Corn received added pressure from China’s cancellation of sales of 272,000 metric tons.
Corn futures closed 9¢ to 14¢ lower through Jly ‘24, and then mostly 3¢ to 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 13¢ to 18¢ lower through May ‘24 and then 9¢ to 11¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 1¢ to 15¢ higher through May ‘24 and then 1¢ to 5¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $172/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $176-$178 in Nebraska and $172-$178 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $281 in Nebraska and $280-$285 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.18 lower Tuesday afternoon at $307.38/cwt. Select was 23¢ lower at $284.89/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—05-09-23
Cattle futures rebounded some Monday, especially Feeder Cattle, supported by lower new-crop Corn futures and overall positive fundamentals.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.55 higher (90¢ higher in spot May to $2.02 higher at the back).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 67¢ higher.
There was no Monday negotiated cash fed trade summary from USDA available at press time.
The weighted average five-area direct fed steer price last week was $3.22 lower on a live basis at $173.93/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was $3.11 lower at $280.94.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 63¢ lower Monday afternoon at $308.56/cwt. Select was $3.04 lower at $285.12/cwt.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 6¢ lower after old-crop contracts, perhaps pressured in part by rapid planting progress.
KC HRW Wheat closed 9¢ to 11¢ higher through Dec ‘23 and then 2¢ to 6¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 8¢ lower through Mar ‘25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 8, 2023
Cattle futures mostly softened Friday, unable to shake off the week’s lower cash fed cattle prices and growing concerns about domestic and global economic growth.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 84¢ lower (15¢ to $1.72 lower). They were an average of $7.34 lower week to week on Friday. The CME Feeder Cattle Index was $3.74 lower week to week on Thursday at $199.46.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 17¢ lower, except for an average of 21¢ higher in the front two contracts. They were an average of $3.38 lower week to week on Friday.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all regions through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $172/cwt., $2 lower in Nebraska at $176 and $2-$8 lower in the western Corn Belt at $172-$178. Dressed prices were $2-$5 lower in Nebraska at $281. The previous week, dressed prices were $285 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 33¢ lower Friday afternoon at $309.19/cwt. Select was 67¢ higher at $288.16/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter for the week was 623,000 head, which was 1,000 head less than the previous week and 38,000 head less than a year earlier. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 11.3 million head was 384,000 head fewer (-3.3%). Year-to-date estimate beef production of 9.3 billion pounds was 477.6 million pounds less (-4.9%) than the same time last year.
Grain and Soybean futures continued higher Friday, led by wheat, with more support from worries about renewal of the Black Sea Initiative.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 26¢ to 34¢ higher through May ‘24 and then 16¢ to 21¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 7¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 18¢ higher through Jan ‘24 and then 5¢ to 8¢ higher through Mar ’25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 5, 2023
Cattle futures firmed Thursday, albeit narrowly mixed, amid negative outside markets, tied to banking and the week’s lower cash fed cattle prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 30¢ higher, except for an average of 22¢ lower in two nearby contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 12¢ lower in the front three contracts to an average of 22¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in all regions through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $172/cwt., $2 lower in Nebraska at $176 and $2-$8 lower in the western Corn Belt at $172-$178. Dressed prices are $2-$5 lower in Nebraska at $281.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 43¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $309.52/cwt. Select was 37¢ higher at $287.49/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales were 20,100 metric tons the week ending April 27, according to the weekly U.S. Export Sales report. That was up noticeably from the previous week and 59% more than the prior four-week average. Increases primarily were for, Japan South Korea, China Taiwan and Mexico.
Wheat futures (KCH) continued higher Thursday — up mostly 12¢ to 14¢ — with follow-through support from worries about renewal of the Black Sea Initiative.
Corn and Soybean futures eased lower on likely profit taking from the previous session’s strong gains and perhaps some positioning ahead of the weekly U.S. Export Sales report.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 4, 2023
Declining open interest, negative outside markets, technical selling and weaker cash fed cattle prices pressured Cattle futures sharply lower for a second consecutive session Wednesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.21 lower ($3.75 to $4.08 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.04 lower (60¢ to $1.40 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand in Nebraska to limited on light demand on other regions through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $172/cwt., $2 lower in Nebraska at $176 and $2-$8 lower in the western Corn Belt at $172-$178. Dressed prices are $2-$5 lower in Nebraska at $281.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 15¢ lower at $309.09/cwt. Select was $1.54 lower at $287.12/cwt.
On the other side of the coin, grain and Soybean futures plowed higher Wednesday, led by Wheat and fueled by news of an attempted assassination of Russia’s Putin and what that could mean to the Black Sea Initiative.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 10¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 25¢ to 56¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 8¢ higher through Jan’24. And then mostly 7¢ to 12¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 3, 2023
Cattle futures crumbled Tuesday with early cash trade taking another step lower, the packers seeming ability to pull dollars off the market by restricting kills and question marks about a seasonal peak for wholesale beef prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.90 lower ($3.75 to $4.08 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.76 lower ($1.75 to $1.97 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate on moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Tuesday afternoon, according to the agricultural Marketing Service. Prices were $1 lower at $172/cwt.
Although too few transactions to trend, there were some early live sales in Nebraska at $281 and a few live sales in the western Corn Belt at $172-$178.
Live prices last week were $178-$180 in Nebraska and $180 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $283-$286 in Nebraska and $285 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 78¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $309.24/cwt. Select was $2.34 lower at $288.66/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 5¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 16¢ to 20¢ lower through Sep ‘24, and then mostly 8 to 9¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 16¢ lower through Jan’24.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 2, 2023
Cattle futures extended losses on Monday, pressured by last week’s lower cash fed cattle prices and skittishness ahead of this week’s trade.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 92¢ lower (55¢ to $1.27 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 59¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive with very light demand in all regions through Monday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $173/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $178-$180 in Nebraska and $180 in the western Corn belt. Dressed prices were $283-$286 in Nebraska and $285 in the western Corn Belt.
The five-area direct weighted average fed steer price last week was $177.15/cwt. on a live basis, which was $1.42 lower. The average fed steer price in the beef was $3.37 lower at 284.05.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.42 lower Monday afternoon at $310.02/cwt. Select was $2.66 higher at $291.00/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ lower on Monday.
KC HRW Wheat closed 11¢ to 19¢ lower through Jly ‘24, and then mostly 8 to 9¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 15¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 1, 2023
Cattle futures closed lower on Friday amid weaker cash fed cattle prices but ended mostly higher week to week.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light to moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live prices were $173/cwt., which was $2 lower in the Texas Panhandle and steady to $2 lower in Kansas.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to limited on light demand.
For the week, live prices were $2-$7 lower in Nebraska at $178 and steady to $3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $180. Dressed prices were $1-$4 lower in Nebraska at $283-$286 and $3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $285.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 37¢ higher Friday afternoon at $311.44/cwt. Select was 75¢ lower at $288.34/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 620,000 head was 2,000 head less than the prior week and 25,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated cattle slaughter of 10.6 million head was 352,000 head fewer (-3.2%) than the same time last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 8.75 billion pounds was 444.8 million pounds (-4.8%) less than a year earlier.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 11¢ lower, except for 27¢ higher in near Jun and unchanged in Dec. Week to week on Friday, they closed an average of 61¢ higher, except for unchanged to 37¢ lower in three contracts. Funds extended already weighty long positions, according to the weekly CFTC Commitments of Traders report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 60¢ lower on Friday, except for 20¢ higher in the back contract. Week to week they closed an average of $1.13 higher, except for $1.42 lower in spot May.
Perhaps the main market story last week was price erosion in the grain complex as China cancelled U.S. corn purchases and managed money fled positions as the nation’s price competitiveness declines.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ lower in new-crop contracts on Friday. Week to week, they were an average of 22’0¢ lower through the front six contracts, except for 2’8¢ higher in spot May.
KC HRW Wheat closed 8¢ to 11¢ higher, except for 28’4¢ higher in the front month.
Soybean futures closed mostly 7¢ to 8¢ higher, except for 11¢ to 17¢ higher in the front three contracts. Week to week on Friday, they closed from an average of 24’8¢ lower through the front six contracts, except for 5’8¢ lower in spot May.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 28, 2023
Cattle futures gained more ground Thursday, helped along by further erosion in the grain complex, as well as stronger wholesale beef values.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.38 higher (62¢ to $1.92 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 33¢ higher (5¢ to 92¢ higher).
Favorable domestic weather and bullish expectations for Brazilian production continued to pressure grain and Soybean futures on Thursday. Another corn sales cancellation by China (233,000 metric tons) added more weight to Corn futures, which closed 11¢ to 19¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 6¢ to 8¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 12¢ to 18¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 12¢ lower through Aug ‘24 and then mostly 3¢ lower.
There was no afternoon negotiated cash fed cattle summary from USDA at press time.
Based on the morning report, live and dressed sales Wednesday were steady to $3 lower in the western Corn belt at $180/cwt. and $275, respectively.
Last week, live prices were $175/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $173-$175 in Kansas and $180-$185 in Nebraska. Dressed prices in Nebraska were $284-$290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.49 higher Thursday morning at $310.73/cwt. Select was $2.17 higher at $290.11/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 27, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand in the western Corn Belt to inactive on very light demand through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few transactions to trend, there were some early sales in the western Corn Belt at $180/cwt. on a live basis and $285 in the beef.
Last week, live prices were $175/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $173-$175 in Kansas $180-$185 in Nebraska and $180-$183 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $284-$290 in Nebraska and $288 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.61 higher Wednesday afternoon at $309.24/cwt. Select was 32¢ higher at $287.94/cwt.
Weaker Corn futures, and apparently renewed focus on fundamentals, helped Cattle futures gain on Wednesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.53 higher, (60¢ to $2.15 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 60¢ higher, (22¢ higher at the front to $1.05 higher at the back).
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 6¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 12¢ to 24¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mixed — fractionally mixed through Sep ’24 and then 3¢ to 4¢ higher. The exception was 9¢ and 2¢ lower in the front two contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 26, 2023
Negative outside markets and the lack of cash fed cattle direction helped pressure Cattle futures on Tuesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 96¢ lower (47¢ lower at the back to $1.62 lower), except for 17¢ higher in Aug.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 38¢ lower, except no change in spot Apr.
Grain and Soybean futures were under pressure Tuesday from a variety of geo-political and geo-economic forces including cancellation of recent U.S. corn purchases by China to chatter that the Black Sea Initiative would be extended once again.
Corn futures closed narrowly mixed, mostly 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 9¢ to 14¢ lower through May ‘24 and then mostly 1¢ to 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ to 10¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $175/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $173-$175 in Kansas, $180-$185 in Nebraska and $180-$183 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $284-$290 in Nebraska and $288 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 51¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $307.63/cwt. Select was $1.08 lower at $287.62/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 25, 2023
As expected, markets viewed Friday’s Cattle on Feed report as bearish, despite the fact that cattle numbers continue to decline overall and will continue to decline.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 69¢ lower (17¢ lower at the back to $1.65 lower toward the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 31¢ lower, except for 32¢ and 2¢ higher in the front two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were steady in the Texas Panhandle at $175/cwt., steady to $2 lower in Kansas at $173-$175, $1-$2 lower in Nebraska at $180-$185 and steady to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $180-$183.
Dressed prices were steady to $6 lower in Nebraska at $284-$290 and $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $288.
The weighted average five-area direct fed steer price was $178.57/cwt. on a live basis last week, which was 1.87 lower. The average fed steer price in the beef was $2.35 lower at $287.42.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 52¢ higher Monday afternoon at $307.12/cwt. Select was 90¢ higher at $288.70/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher on Monday, except for fractionally lower to 12¢ lower in the front four contracts.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 7¢ to 8¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 18¢ lower through May ‘24 and then 6¢ to 8¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 24, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to limited on light demand through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $175/cwt., $1-$2 lower in Nebraska at $180-$185 and unevenly steady in the western Corn Belt at $182. Dressed prices were $2 lower at $288.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 39¢ lower Friday afternoon at $306.60/cwt. Select was 94¢ lower at $287.80/cwt.
However, weaker Corn futures helped Feeder Cattle futures ease an average of 44¢ higher Friday, (5¢ to $1.00 higher), except for $1.25 lower in spot Apr. They closed an average of $3.69 higher week to week on Friday (37¢ higher in spot Apr to $5.92 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 18¢ lower to an average of 11¢ higher. They were an average of 78¢ higher week to week on Friday, except for 77¢ lower in spot Apr.
Corn futures closed mostly 7¢ to 9¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mixed, mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower through May ’24 and then mostly 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 12¢ to 21¢ lower.
Cattle futures could face some pressure heading into the new week, based on Friday monthly Cattle on Feed report.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 21, 2023
Cattle futures gained ground Thursday, helped along by eroding Corn futures, likely positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report and despite the steady to softer tone of weekly fed cattle prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.74 higher (35¢ to $2.75 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 62¢ higher, except for $1.32 lower in spot Apr and 10¢ lower in the back contract.
Traders appeared to pull some weather premium from grain and soybean contracts Thursday, with a more favorable forecast.
Weekly export sales also pressured Corn or Soybeans.
Net 2022-2023 U.S. corn export sales (April 13) were 41% less than the previous week and 79% less than the prior four-week average. Net 2022-2023 U.S. soybean export sales were down 73% from the previous week and 58% from the prior four-week average.
On the other hand, Net U.S. 2023 beef export sales of 19,100 metric tons were up noticeably from the previous week and up 47% from the prior four-week average, according to the latest U.S. Export Sales report. Increases were primarily for South Korea, Japan, Mexico, Taiwan and China.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light to moderate demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady in the Southern Plains at $175/cwt., steady to $2 lower in Nebraska at $182 and unevenly steady in the western Corn Belt at $181-$183. Dressed prices are $2 lower at $288.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.07 higher Thursday afternoon at $306.99/cwt. Select was $2.72 lower at $288.74/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 20, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle was slow on light demand in the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon, where a light test brought steady money with last week at $175/cwt. on a live basis.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service
Live prices last week were $182-$184 in Nebraska and $180-$184 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.14 lower Wednesday afternoon at $305.92/cwt. Select was 15¢ lower at $291.46/cwt.
Cattle futures mostly softened Wednesday, with consolidation and awaiting weekly cash fed cattle trade.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 41¢ lower (2¢ lower at the back to $1.25 lower at the front), except for 70¢ and 25¢ higher in Aug and Sep, respectively.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 87¢ lower (25¢ lower at the back to $1.60 lower toward the front).
Grain futures were pressured Wednesday by Poland’s announcement to allow grain to flow through its country from Ukraine, while maintaining its closure to grain purchases from that nation.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 8¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 14¢ to 19¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 12¢ lower through Sep ‘24 and then 4¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 19, 2023
Cattle futures eased higher Tuesday, with follow-through support.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 65¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 25¢ higher (10¢ higher at the back to 72¢ higher at the front).
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 4¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 6¢ to 8¢ lower through May ‘24 and then mostly 1¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 5¢ to 8¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $175/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $182-$184 in Nebraska and $180-$184 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.08 higher Tuesday afternoon at $307.06/cwt. Select was $2.29 higher at $291.61/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 18, 2023
Cattle futures rose Monday, buoyed by strong cash prices across the board.
Last week, the weekly weighted average five-area direct fed steer price was $7.34 higher on a live basis at $180.44/cwt. The average fed steer price in the beef was $11.12 higher at $289.77.
Regionally, negotiated cash fed cattle prices last week were $5 higher in the Southern Plains at $175/cwt. on a live basis, $7-$8 higher in Nebraska at $182-$184 and $6-$7 higher in the western Corn Belt at $180-$184. Dressed prices were $5-$10 higher at $290.
On Monday, cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Those prices were helped along by the recent seasonal bump higher in wholesale beef values.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.36 higher Monday afternoon at $305.98/cwt. Select was $5.45 higher at $289.32/cwt. Week to week on Monday, Choice was up $13.07 and Select was up $10.92.
Cash calf and feeder cattle prices followed a similar trajectory last week, with steers and heifers selling $5-$9/cwt. higher nationwide, except for $9-$15 higher in the North Central region, according to AMS.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.31 higher on Monday (55¢ higher at the back to $2.85 higher toward the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 93¢ higher.
That was with Grain and soybean futures closing higher Monday, with Support including cool-to-cold, wet weather on the cusp of planting season, as well as Poland’s decision to prohibit grain exports from Ukraine, which slows global grain flow.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 9¢ to 13¢ higher
Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 18¢ higher in the front six contracts, and then 7¢ to 9¢ higher
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 17, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $5 higher in the Southern Plains at $175/cwt., $8-$9 higher in Nebraska at $182-$186 and $6-$7 higher in the western Corn Belt at $180-$184. Dressed prices were $5-$10 higher at $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.20 higher Friday afternoon at $302.62/cwt. Select was 49¢ higher at $283.87/cwt. Week to week on Friday, Choice was $11.64 higher and Select was $8.09 higher.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 613,000 head was 10,000 head more than the previous week but 25,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 9.4 million head was 284,000 head fewer (-2.9%) than the same period a year earlier. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 7.7 billion pounds was 373.2 million pounds less (-4.6%).
Cattle futures finished mostly lower on Friday, weighed down by surging Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 88¢ lower (42¢ to $1.12 lower), except for 72¢ and 10¢ higher in the front two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 43¢ lower, except for 12¢ higher in away Jun.
Week to week on Thursday, though, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.52 higher and Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.41 higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 6¢ higher as traders appeared to apply some weather risk premium.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 29¢ to 33¢ higher powered by lingering drought, as well as resurgent rhetoric from Russia that it will withdraw from the Black Sea Initiative if the West fails to meet specific conditions.
Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 12¢ lower, pressured by bullish Brazilian production expectations.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 14, 2023
Tighter fed cattle supplies, compounded by weather-reduced tonnage kept the hammer down on negotiated cash fed cattle prices Thursday. Trade ranged from moderate with good demand in Nebraska to mostly inactive on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $5 higher in the Southern Plains at $175/cwt., $7-$8 higher in Nebraska at $182-$184 and $7 higher in the western Corn Belt at $181-$184. Dressed prices are $5-$10 higher at $290.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.94 higher Thursday afternoon at $300.42/cwt. Select was $1.57 higher at $283.38/cwt.
Cattle futures mostly edged lower Thursday with likely repositioning amid the strong rally.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 50¢ lower, except for 5¢ and 45¢ higher in two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 58¢ lower, except for $1.22 higher in spot Apr.
Corn futures closed fractionally lower to 3¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 12¢ to 18¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 13, 2023
Cattle futures continued to gain Wednesday with prospects for record-high cash fed cattle prices increasing again this week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.26 higher (12¢ to $1.80 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 78¢ higher (37¢ to $1.97 higher).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.38 higher Wednesday afternoon at $298.48/cwt. Select was 23¢ lower at $281.81/cwt
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly a standstill through Wednesday afternoon. Although too few to trend, there were some early live sales in the western Corn Belt at $181/cwt.
Last week, live prices were $170/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $174-$177 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $275-$280.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 9¢ lower, except for nearby contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 12, 2023
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.86 higher ($1.17 to $2.62 higher), helped along by weaker Corn futures and cash strength.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 57¢ higher, supported by cash strength and rising wholesale beef values.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.19 higher Tuesday afternoon at $295.10/cwt. Select was $3.64 higher at $282.04/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $170/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $174-$177 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $275-$280.
Grain and Soybean futures seemed to bow to weather and outside markets more than the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below).
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 8¢ to 10¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 11, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $3-$5 higher in the Southern Plains at $170/cwt., $5-$6 higher in Nebraska at $174-$177 and $4-$7 higher in the western Corn Belt at $174-$177. Dressed prices were $5-$8 higher at $275-$280.
The five-area weighted average direct fed steer price (FOB) last week was record high at $173.10/cwt. on a live basis, which was $4.36 higher than the previous week. The average fed steer price in the beef was $8.29 higher at $278.65.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.93 higher Monday afternoon at $292.91/cwt. Select was $2.62 higher at $278.40/cwt.
Cattle futures continued to rise Monday, on the back of the last two-week’s surge in cash prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 61¢ higher (22¢ to $1.27 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed 44¢ higher.
Corn futures gained Monday with some likely positioning ahead of Tuesday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed 5¢ to 10¢ higher through Jly ‘24, and then mostly 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 11¢ to 33¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly fractionally mixed to 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 10, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light to moderate demand in all regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $3-$5 higher in the Southern Plains at $170/cwt., $4-$5 higher in Nebraska at $172-$177 and $5-$7 higher in the western Corn Belt at $175-$177. Dressed prices were $5-$8 higher at $275-$280.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.33 higher Friday afternoon at $290.98/cwt. Select was 85¢ lower at $275.78/cwt. Week to week on Friday, Choice was $8.91 higher and Select was $5.06 higher.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week was 603,000 head, which was 48,000 head fewer than the previous week and 62,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Total estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 8.8 million head was 253,000 head less (-2.8%) than the same period last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 7.24 billion pounds was 342 million pounds less (-4.5%).
Futures markets were closed on observance of Good Friday. Week to week on Thursday, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.67 higher (85¢ higher at the back to $3.52 higher at the front). That was an average of $6.14 higher over the past two weeks.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.15 higher week to week on Thursday (72¢ higher at the front to $3.55 higher at the back). That was an average of $8.94 higher over the past two weeks.
Equity markets were closed for Good Friday.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 7, 2023
Cattle futures took another strong step higher Thursday, buoyed by another week of significant cash gains.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.96 higher, also helped along by a break in Corn futures.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.76 higher (85¢ to $2.80 higher) with added support from recently higher wholesale beef prices.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow to moderate on moderate demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $3-$5 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $170/cwt., $4-$5 higher in Nebraska at $172-$177 and $2-$7 higher in the western Corn Belt at $172-$177. Dressed prices are $5-$8 higher at $275-$280.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 6, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all regions through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $165-$167/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle; $167 in Kansas, $168-$172 in Nebraska and $170 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $270-$272.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 68¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $288.62/cwt. Select was 21¢ higher at $278.16/cwt.
Cattle future closed narrowly mixed Wednesday, awaiting weekly cash direction.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 34¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 11¢ higher, except for 80¢ higher in spot Apr and unchanged in the back contract.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher, except for unchanged to 1¢ lower in old-crop contracts
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 11¢ to 14¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 6¢ lower through Sep ‘24 and then fractionally higher to 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 5, 2023
Cattle future closed lower Tuesday, amid retrenching and a risk-off atmosphere in commodities and equites tied to growing concerns about recession.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 59¢ lower (10¢ to $1.00 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 73¢ lower (17¢ lower to $1.00 lower toward the front).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $2-$4 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $165-$167/cwt., $4 higher in Kansas at $167, $4-$7 higher in Nebraska at $168-$172 and $4-$6 higher in the western Corn Belt at $170. Dressed prices were $5-$7 higher at $270-$272.
Wholesale beef prices extended gains Tuesday. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.85 higher Tuesday afternoon at $287.94/cwt. Select was $3.77 higher at $277.95/cwt.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 9¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 8¢ to 12¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 4, 2023
Cattle future closed lower Monday, especially Feeder Cattle, as traders retrenched following the previous session’s new contract highs.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 91¢ lower (5¢ lower at the back to $2.10 lower toward the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 35¢ lower, except for an average of 10¢ higher in two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $2-$4 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $165-$167/cwt., $4 higher in Kansas at $167, $4-$7 higher in Nebraska at $168-$172 and $4-$6 higher in the western Corn Belt at $170. Dressed prices were $5-$7 higher at $270-$272.
The weekly weighted average five-area direct fed steer price was $4.33 higher on a live basis last week at $168.74/cwt. The weekly average steer price in the beef was $5.30 higher at $270.36.
Wholesale beef prices continued to gain Monday. Choice boxed beef cutout value was 3.02 higher in the afternoon at 285.09/cwt. Select was $3.46 higher at $274.18/cwt.
As for grains and soybeans, Corn futures closed narrowly mixed, mostly 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower through Mar ‘24, and then 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 13¢ to 19¢ higher through Aug ‘24, and then mostly 8¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 3, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $2-$4 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $165-$167/cwt., $4 higher in Kansas at $167, $4-$7 higher in Nebraska at $168-$172 and $4-$6 higher in the western Corn Belt at $170. Dressed prices were $5-$7 higher at $270-$272.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 651,000 head was 25,000 head more than the previous week and 12,000 more than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 8.19 million head was 193,000 head fewer (-2.3%) than the same period last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 6.75 billion pounds was 282 million pounds less (-4.0%).
The week’s significantly higher cash fed cattle prices continued to push Cattle futures higher Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.03 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 66¢ higher (10¢ higher at the back to $1.12 higher toward the front).
Cattle futures received added support from wholesale beef prices. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.87 higher Friday afternoon at $282.07/cwt. Select was $2.26 higher at $270.72/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 4¢ lower, except for 11¢ and 8¢ higher in the front two contracts. The Perspective Plantings report applied pressure
KC HRW Wheat closed 2¢ to 6¢ higher through May ‘24, and then 4¢ to 6¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 31¢ higher through Aug ‘24, and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher, helped along by the Grain Stocks report.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 31, 2023
Cash fed cattle prices jumped Thursday with moderate trade and good demand in all regions, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices were $2-$4 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $165-$167/cwt., mostly $4 higher in Kansas at $167, $5-$6 higher in Nebraska at $169-$171 and mostly $4-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $170. Dressed prices were mostly $5 higher at $270, with a few up to $275 in Nebraska and a few up to $276 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.09 lower Thursday afternoon at $279.20/cwt. Select was 44¢ lower at $268.46/cwt.
Stronger cash prices pulled Cattle futures higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.58 higher, (from 95¢ higher in expiring Mar to $1.92 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.03 higher (80¢ to $1.72 higher).
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower through Jly ‘24, and then mostly 1¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 3¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 30, 2023
Cattle futures took another step higher Wednesday, helped along by more positive outside markets.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.48 higher, except for 27¢ lower in expiring spot Mar.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 68¢ higher (27¢ to 95¢ higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill in all regions through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $163/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $164-$165 in Nebraska and $164-$166 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $265.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 34¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $280.29/cwt. Select was $1.46 lower at $268.90/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ lower, except for 3¢ higher and 1¢ higher in the front two contracts.
KC HRW Wheat closed 2¢ to 15¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 9¢ higher in the front three contracts, and then mostly 2¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 29, 2023
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed Tuesday following the previous session’s strong showing.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 26¢ lower, except for an average of 10¢ higher in two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 26¢ higher, except for unchanged in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $163/cwt., steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $164-$165 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $164-$166. Dressed prices were $1 higher at $265.
Wholesale beef prices seem to be finding some seasonal footing. Choice boxed beef cutout value was 27¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $280.63/cwt. Select was 64¢ higher at $270.36/cwt.
Short covering, stronger export inspections and a reduced outlook for harvested acres in Brazil helped Soybean close mostly 9¢ to 25¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 10¢ to 12¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 2¢ lower, except for mostly 2¢ higher in new-crop contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 28, 2023
Whether it was oversold conditions or grass fever, Cattle futures found firm traction amid active trade to start the week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.80 higher ($2.42 to $3.82 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.89 higher ($1.45 to $2.27 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $163/cwt., steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $164-$165 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $164-$166. Dressed prices were $1 higher at $265.
The five-area direct weighted average fed steer price last week was 17¢ higher on a live basis at $164.41/cwt. The average fed steer price in the beef was $1.24 higher at $265.06.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 48¢ higher Monday afternoon at $280.36/cwt. Select was 97¢ higher at $269.72/cwt.
Grain and Soybeans futures continued higher Monday with less skittish outside markets and perhaps some early positioning ahead of Friday’s stocks and planting intentions reports.
Corn futures closed 5¢ to 9¢ higher through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 11¢ to 13¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 12¢ to 15¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 27. 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend in any region, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $163/cwt., steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $164-$165 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $164-$166. Dressed prices are $1 higher at $265.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.90 lower Friday afternoon at $279.88/cwt. Select was 14¢ lower at $268.75/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week was 626,000 head, which was 5,000 head fewer than the previous week and 31,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Total estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 7.5 million head was 202,000 head fewer (-2.6%) than the same period a year earlier. Total estimated year-to-date beef production of 6.2 billion pounds was 282.9 million pounds less (-4.3%).
Cattle futures were mixed as declining open interest continued.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 53¢ higher (30¢ to 85¢ higher), except for 20¢ lower in away Jun.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 76¢ lower (20¢ to $1.05 lower), except for 62¢ higher in spot Mar. Pressure included a surge in Corn Futures — 11¢ to 12¢ higher in old-crop contracts and then mostly 4¢ to 8¢ higher — lifted by flash export corn sales to China.
Chatter about Russia limiting wheat exports buoyed Kansas City Wheat futures, which closed 20¢ to 28¢ higher.
Soybean futures firmed but the overall outlook remains bearish with reports from South America that Brazil’s crop is expected to override any deficits in Argentina.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 24, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend in any region, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $163/cwt., steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $164-$165 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $164-$166. Dressed prices are $1 higher at $265.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.48 higher Thursday afternoon at $282.78/cwt. Select was 93¢ lower at $268.89/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales gained ground for the week ending Mar. 16, according to the U.S. Export Sales report. Net sales of 18,600 metric tons (mt) were 5% more than the previous week and 59% more than the prior four-week average. Increases primarily were for South Korea, Japan, China, Taiwan and Hong Kong.
Cattle futures wavered in their range-bound path Thursday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 21¢ lower in three contracts to an average of 33¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 26¢ lower, except for an average of 7¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 4¢ to 8¢ higher through May ’24 and then mostly 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 9¢ to 29¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 23, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate to active on good demand in the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Market Service, with live prices $1 lower at $163/cwt.
Trade was moderate on good demand in Nebraska where live prices were steady at $164 and dressed prices were $1 higher at $265.
In the western Corn Belt, trade was slow on moderate demand. Although too few to trend, early live sales were $165.00-$165.50 and early dressed sales were $265. Prices there last week were $164-$165 and mostly $264, respectively.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.38 higher Wednesday afternoon at $281.30/cwt. Select was $1.73 lower at $269.82/cwt.
Futures traders continued their commodities selling mode Wednesday with bearish outside markets.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 51¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 39¢ lower.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly fractionally higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 7¢ to 12¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 18¢ to 25¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 22, 2023
Cattle futures firmed in cautious trade Tuesday, helped along by more optimistic outside markets.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 38¢ higher, except for an average of 9¢ lower in the back two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 44¢ higher in the front three contracts to an average of 25¢ lower.
Lower grain and Soybean futures helped.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 5¢ to 8¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 13¢ to 19¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were mainly $1 lower in the Southern Plains and Nebraska at $164/cwt., and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $164-$165. Dressed prices were $1 lower at $264.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.10 lower Tuesday afternoon at $279.92/cwt. Select was $2.39 lower at $271.55/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 21. 2023
Cattle futures leaked lower Monday amid recently declining open interest and uncertainty about the health of the banking structure, and despite Friday’s friendly Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 46¢ lower, except for an average of 20¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 41¢ lower, except for an average of 22¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly limited on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were mainly $1 lower in the Southern Plains and Nebraska at $164/cwt., and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $164-$165. Dressed prices were $1 lower at $264.
The five-area direct weighted average steer price last week was $1.23 lower on a live basis at $164.17. The average steer price in the beef was $1.50 lower at $263.82.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.33 lower Monday afternoon at $281.02/cwt. Select was $1.50 higher at $273.94/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 6¢ to 8¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 20, 2023
Cattle futures closed mixed Friday amid some likely positioning ahead of the ultimately friendly Cattle on Feed report, lower cash fed cattle prices and uncertain outside markets.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 49¢ lower in the front three contracts to an average of 16¢ higher. They closed an average of $1.84 lower week to week on Friday, giving back about half of the previous week’s gains.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 22¢ lower in the front three contracts to an average of 6¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 10¢ to 16¢ higher through May ‘24 and then 6¢ to 7¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 15¢ lower, pressured by declining Oil futures.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly limited on light demand in all regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were mainly $1 lower in the Southern Plain and Nebraska at $164/cwt., and steady to $2.50 lower in the western Corn Belt at $164.00-$164.50. Dressed prices were $1 lower in Nebraska at $264 and $1-$2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $263-$264.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 60¢ lower Friday afternoon at $283.35/cwt. Select was 68¢ lower at $272.44/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 631,000 head was 3,000 head fewer than the previous week and 5,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 6.1 million head was 169,000 head fewer (-2.4%). Estimated year-to date beef production of 5.7 billion lbs. was 250.6 million pounds less (-4.2%) less than the same time last year.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 17, 2023
Stronger outside markets helped Cattle futures recover some recent losses Thursday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.63 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 39¢ higher, except for 2¢ lower in the back contract.
Weekly U.S. beef export sales also provided some support. Net U.S. beef export sales for the week ending March 9 were 17,700 metric tons (mt), according to USDA’s Export Sales report. That was noticeably higher than the previous week and 24% more than the previous four-week average.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in all regions through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are mainly $1 lower in the Southern Plains and Nebraska at $164/cwt., and $1-$2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $163-$165. Dressed prices are $1 lower at $264.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 32¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $283.95/cwt. Select was 87¢ lower at $271.76/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 16, 2023
Too many black swans in too little time tends to make folks cautious. That seems to be as apt an explanation as any for eroding Cattle futures and then cash fed cattle prices in the face of such positive market fundamentals.
In this case, the next feared black swan appears to be a potential contagion of bank failures. Silcon Valley Bank failed last week. Signal bank followed suit quickly after — the third largest bank failure in U.S. history, according to various sources. Then came speculation/news yesterday that Credit Suisse, across the pond, was on the ropes with its largest investor unwilling to provide more funding.
Major U.S. financial indices fell sharply before regaining some lost ground later yesterday when the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) and Swiss National Bank (SNB) — the nation’s central bank — issued a joint statement, saying in part: “The Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) and the Swiss National Bank assert that the problems of certain banks in the USA do not pose a direct risk of contagion for the Swiss financial markets … In addition, the SNB will provide liquidity to the globally active bank if necessary.”
By the time the statement was issued, the die was cast for Cattle futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.04 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.15 lower.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed fractionally higher to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 12¢ to 13¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on moderate demand in the Southern Plains to moderate on moderate demand in Nebraska to light on moderate demand through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are mainly $1 lower at $164/cwt. in the Southern Plain and Nebraska, where dressed sales were $1 lower at $264.
Although too few to trend, there have been some sales in the western Corn Belt at $164.00-$164.50 on a live basis and $263-$264 in the beef. Prices there last week were $164-$167 and $265, respectively.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.64 lower Wednesday afternoon at $284.27/cwt. Select was $1.93 lower at $272.63/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 15, 2023
Cattle futures closed mainly lower Tuesday, pressured in part by the lack of cash direction for fed cattle and firmer nearby Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 71¢ lower (32¢ to $1.32 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 40¢ lower, except for an average of 24¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Corn futures gained Tuesday, with support from further erosion in Argentina’s crop.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 9¢ to 17¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $164-$167/cwt. but mostly $165. Dressed prices were $265.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.05 higher Tuesday afternoon at $285.91/cwt. Select was 94¢ higher at $274.56/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 14. 2023
Cattle futures softened further Monday. Aside from taking a pause and potentially profits from last week’s up-move in Feeder Cattle, and steady money for fed cattle, perhaps traders also were wondering about the floor for recently lower wholesale beef prices. As much as anything, though, bearish outside markets, tied to the failure of Silcon Valley Bank and worries about wider repercussions cast a pall over equity and commodity markets.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 53¢ lower (32¢ to $1.17 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 41¢ lower.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 3¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then 3¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 13¢ to 18¢ lower through Aug ‘24 and then mostly 7¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were steady at $165/cwt., except for $1 lower to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $164-$167. Dressed prices were steady to $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $265 and steady in Nebraska at $265.
The five-area direct weighted average steer price last week was 38¢ higher at $165.40/cwt. The weighted average steer price in the beef was 89¢ higher at $265.32.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 5¢ lower Monday afternoon at $284.86/cwt. Select was $2.08 higher at $273.62/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 13, 2023
Cattle futures closed lower for the second consecutive day on Friday as Corn futures gained and cash fed cattle prices remained steady to cloudy.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 1.72¢ lower. However, they were $3.66 higher week to week.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 76¢ lower.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 6¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 18¢ to 20¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 4¢ lower through Sep ‘24 and then mostly 3¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on moderate demand in Kansas, Nebraska and the western Corn Belt through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Elsewhere, trade was very limited on light demand.
For the week, live prices were mostly steady at $165/cwt., except for steady to $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $165-$166. Dressed prices were steady to $3.50 higher in Nebraska at $265.00-$268.50 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $265.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 31¢ higher Friday afternoon at $284.91/cwt. Select was $4.51 lower at $271.54/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 10, 2023
Cattle futures closed lower Thursday with likely profit taking, the lack of weekly cash fed cattle direction and outside market bearishness.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 90¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 66¢ lower, except for 60¢ higher in the back contract.
Weekly beef export sales offered no support. According to USDA’s weekly U.S. Export Sales report, net U.S. beef export sales for the week ending March 2 were 5,600 metric tons, a marketing-year low. The total was 31% less than the prior week and 67% less than the previous four-week average (see below).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade got underway in the Texas Panhandle Thursday at steady money of $165/cwt. on slow trade and light demand.
Elsewhere, trade was mostly inactive on light demand with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $165/cwt. Dressed prices were $265 in Nebraska and $262-$265 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 18¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $284.60/cwt. Select was $2.07 lower at $276.05/cwt.
Corn futures closed 12¢ to 16¢ lower through old-crop contracts. and then mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 18¢ to 22¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 8¢ to 11¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 9, 2023
Cattle futures gained Wednesday, buoyed by the friendly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE), which weighed on Corn and underscored the higher price outlook for cattle (see below).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.84 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 30¢ higher, except for 52¢ lower in spot Apr.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $165/cwt. Dressed prices were $265 in Nebraska and $262-$265 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.15 lower Wednesday afternoon at $284.78/cwt. Select was 63¢ higher at $278.12/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 8¢ to 9¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 2¢ to 9¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 8, 2023
Cattle futures closed mixed Tuesday as bullish fundamentals battled with some likely positioning ahead of Wednesday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 62¢ higher (5¢ to 95¢ higher).
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 30¢ lower to an average of 12¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $165/cwt. Dressed prices were $265 in Nebraska and $262-$265 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.27 lower Tuesday afternoon at 287.93/cwt. Select was $1.02 higher at $277.49/cwt.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 5¢ lower through Jly ‘24, and then fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed narrowly mixed, mostly 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 15¢ lower in the front three contracts, and then mostly 2¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 7, 2023
Feeder Cattle futures rallied an average of $2.11 higher Monday, helping Live Cattle futures close an average of 65¢ higher, underpinned by bullish fundamentals and last week’s stronger cash.
Last week, negotiated cash fed cattle prices were $1-$2 higher on a live basis at $165/cwt. Dressed prices were $3 higher in Nebraska at $265 and steady to $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $262-$265.
On Monday, trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through the afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 88¢ higher Monday afternoon at 290.20/cwt. However, Select was 39¢ lower at $276.47/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 10¢ to 18¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 7¢ higher., except for 10¢ to 11¢ higher in the front four contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 6, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, with too few to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS).
For the week, the only established trade reported by AMS was live prices of $164.50-$165.00/cwt. in the western Corn Belt, which was 50¢ to $1 higher. Dressed prices there the previous week were $260-$262.
Elsewhere the previous week, live prices were mostly at $164/cwt. and dressed prices were $262.
However, various private sources suggested more trade developing in other regions on Friday at $1-$2 higher. For instance, the Texas Cattle Feeders Association reported its members trading steers and heifers about $1 higher at $165.40) and $165.25, respectively.
Through Thursday, the weighted average five-area direct fed steer price was $1.19 higher at $164.84/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was $2.61 higher at $262.54.
Cattle futures gained Friday, supported by stronger cash fed cattle prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.76 higher ($1.22 to $2.17 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.12 higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 82¢ higher Friday afternoon at 289.32/cwt. Select was 72¢ lower at $276.86/cwt.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 7¢ higher in old-crop contracts, mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 5¢ to 9¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 3, 2023
Stable Corn futures and strong cash trends helped Feeder Cattle futures lean mostly higher Thursday. They were up an average of 22¢, except for 17¢ lower and unchanged in two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 74¢ lower (40¢ to $1.15 lower) with traders awaiting cash direction.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Although too few to trend, there were a few live sales in the western Corn Belt at $165/cwt. — $164.50 to $165.00 on Wednesday. Dressed prices there last week were $260-$262.
Elsewhere, last week, live prices were mostly at $164/cwt. and dressed prices were $262.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 67¢ higher Thursday afternoon at 288.50/cwt. Select was $1.15 higher at $277.58/cwt.
Weekly beef export sales offered no support to Cattle futures. For the week ending Feb. 23, net U.S. beef export sales were 8,100 metric tons (mt.), according to the latest USDA U.S. Export Sales report. That was 48% less than the previous week and 62% less than the prior four-week average. Increases were primarily for Japan, Taiwan, China and Mexico.
Corn futures closed narrowly mixed, mostly 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 6¢ to 7¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 15¢ higher through Jan ’24 and then mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 2, 2023
Cattle futures took a breather Wednesday on likely profit taking and awaiting weekly cash direction.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 61¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 42¢ lower to unchanged to an average of 2¢ higher.
Wholesale beef prices declined on Wednesday for the first time in a while. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.12 lower in the afternoon at 287.83/cwt. Select was $2.82 lower at $276.43/cwt.
By all accounts, negotiated cash fed cattle trade remained stuck in the gate Wednesday. There was no afternoon USDA summary available at press time.
Last week, live prices were mostly at $164/cwt. in all regions. Dressed prices were $260-$262.
Grain and Soybean futures found some footing Wednesday.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower, except for 3¢ to 11¢ higher in old-crop contracts.
KC HRW Wheat closed 1¢ to 5¢ higher through Sep ’24 and then fractionally lower to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 15¢ higher through May ’24 and then mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 1, 2023
Cattle futures continued higher Tuesday, supported by further downward correction in Corn futures and another day of higher wholesale beef values.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 70¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 47¢ higher, except for $2.50 higher in expiring Feb.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 61¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at 288.95/cwt. Select was even at $279.25/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few early live trades in the western Corn Belt at $165/cwt., but too few to trend.
Last week, live prices were mostly at $164/cwt. in all regions, which was $2 higher in the Southern Plains, $3-$4 higher in Nebraska and $2-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $3 higher in Nebraska at $260 and $3-$5 higher in the western Corn belt at $260-$262.
Erosion in grain and Soybean futures continued Tuesday as it appears export demand concerns and the promising domestic production outlook have funds on the defensive.
Corn futures closed 11¢ to 13¢ lower through old crop contracts, and then mostly 6¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 2¢ to 7¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 6¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 22¢ to 32¢ lower through Aug ’24 and then 17¢ to 19¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 28, 2023
Wholesale beef prices and consumer resilience maintain their strong trends. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.06 higher Monday afternoon at 288.34/cwt. Select was $2.17 higher at $279.25/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were mostly $164/cwt. in all regions, which was $2 higher in the Southern Plains, $3-$4 higher in Nebraska and $2-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $3 higher in Nebraska at $260 and $3-$5 higher in the western Corn belt at $260-$262.
The weighted average five-area direct fed steer price last week was $2.55 higher on a live basis at $163.72/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was $4.19 higher at $260.97.
Softer Corn futures helped lift Feeder Cattle futures an average of 76¢ higher on Monday (10¢ higher in spot Mar to $1.35 higher in the back contract).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 18¢ lower, except for an average of 9¢ higher in three away contracts.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower, except for 5¢ to 7¢ lower in old-crop contracts.
KC HRW Wheat closed 12¢ to 18¢ lower through May ‘24 and then 4¢ to 6¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed fractionally lower to 10¢ lower through May ’24 and then fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 27, 2023
Through Friday afternoon’s report, weekly negotiated cash fed cattle trade had yet to be established in the Southern Plains. Prices were higher in other regions, though. Live prices were $3-$4 higher in Nebraska at $163-$164/cwt. and $2-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $164, where dressed prices were $3 higher at $260. Dressed trade in Nebraska the previous week was at $257. The prior week, live prices were $162 in the Southern Plains.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 63¢ lower Friday afternoon at 287.28/cwt. Select was $1.21 higher at $277.08/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 618,000 head was 9,000 head fewer than the previous week and 33,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter was 121,000 head fewer (-2.3%) than last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 4.1 billion lbs. was 181.1 million pounds less (-4.2%).
Cattle futures took a breather Friday amid likely profit taking and positioning ahead of what turned out to be a neutral-to-positive Cattle on Feed report. More about that report momentarily.
Feeder Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 20¢ lower to an average of 16¢ higher. They were an average of $3 higher week to week.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 25¢ lower, except for an average of 5¢ higher in the front two contracts. Week to week, there were an average of 70¢ higher.
Wheat futures dragged the grain complex lower Friday on chatter about a potential ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine.
KC HRW Wheat closed 19¢ to 22¢ lower.
Corn futures closed 8¢ to 10¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then 3¢ to 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 7¢ to 14¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 24, 2023
Cattle futures — especially Feeder Cattle — gained Thursday with sharply lower nearby Corn futures, as well as likely positioning ahead of Friday’s Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.55 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 25¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon. Although too few to trend, there were some early live sales in Nebraska at $164/cwt.
Last week, prices on a live basis were $162 in the southern Plains, $159-$161 in Nebraska and $160-$162 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $257 in Nebraska and $254-$257 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was unchanged Thursday afternoon at 287.91/cwt. Select was $2.23 higher at $275.87/cwt.
Corn futures closed lower Thursday with much of the pressure likely stemming from the Grains and Oilseeds Outlook shared at USDA’s Agricultural Outlook Forum, which projected 2023/24 production to be the second largest in history (see below).
Corn futures closed 13¢ to 15¢ lower through old-crop contracts and then 4¢ to 7¢ lower through new-crop.
KC HRW Wheat closed 10¢ to 14¢ lower through near Jly and then 3¢ to 7¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 7¢ to 8¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 23, 2023
Feeder Cattle futures gained on lower Corn futures, closing an average of 83¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 17¢ higher, except for unchanged to 17¢ lower in three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon.
Last week, prices on a live basis were $162 in the southern Plains, $159-$161 in Nebraska and $160-$162 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $257.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 71¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at 287.91/cwt. Select was $2.80 higher at $273.64/cwt.
Wheat led the grain complex lower Wednesday with favorable domestic moisture, as well as chatter than the Baltic Sea export opening will be extended.
KC HRW Wheat closed 14¢ to 28¢ lower. Corn futures closed 3¢ to 6¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 9¢ lower through Sep ’23 and then mostly fractionally lower to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 21, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Prices on a live basis last week were $1-$2 higher in the Southern Plains at $162/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $159-$161 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $160-$162. Dressed prices were $3 higher at $257.
The weighted average five-area direct fed steer price last week was $1.55 higher on a live basis at $161.17/cwt. The weighted average steer price in the beef was $2.87 higher at $256.78.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.85 higher Monday afternoon at $282.89/cwt. Select was $2.16 higher at $268.05/cwt.
CME Agriculture futures and equity markets were closed Monday in observance of President’s Day
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Cattle Current Podcast — Feb. 20, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow to moderate on light to moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live sales were mostly $2 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $162/cwt. and $1-$2 higher in Kansas at $162.
Elsewhere, trade was slow on light to moderate demand with too few transactions to trend.
For the week, live sales were steady to $3 higher in Nebraska at $160 and $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $162. Dressed prices in both regions were $3 higher at $257.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.49 higher Friday afternoon at $281.04/cwt. Select was $3.25 higher at $265.89/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 627,000 head was 3,000 head fewer than the previous week and 43,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 4.4. million head was 86,000 head less (-1.9%). Estimated year to date beef production of 3.6 billion lbs. was 141 million pounds less (-3.7%).
Stronger cash fed cattle prices helped Live Cattle futures gain Friday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 38¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 19¢ lower to an average of 15¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ higher through Jly ‘24 and then mainly unchanged to 1¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 5¢ to 8¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 17, 2023
Profit taking appeared to the order of the day in Cattle futures on Thursday, despite positive weekly beef exports.
Net 2023 U.S. beef export sales of 28,100 metric tons (MT) the week ending Feb. 9 were 72% more than the previous week and 34% more than the prior four-week average, according to USDA’s weekly U.S. Export Sales report. Increases were primarily for Japan, South Korea, China, Mexico, and Hong Kong.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 40¢ lower, except for 22¢ higher in spot Feb.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 60¢ lower (40¢ to $1.10 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to mostly inactive on very light demand through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few live trades reported in Nebraska at $160/cwt.
So far this week, live prices are steady to $2 higher at $159-$160 in Nebraska and $160-$162 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices in both regions last week were $254.
In the Southern Plains last week, live prices were $160 in the Texas Panhandle and $160-$161 in Kansas.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.88 higher Thursday afternoon at $279.55/cwt. Select was $1.45 higher at $262.64/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 16, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some early live sales in Nebraska at $159/cwt. and a few in the western Corn Belt at $162. Elsewhere, trade was at a standstill.
Live prices last week were $160/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $160-$161 in Kansas, $157-$160 in Nebraska and $160 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $254.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.61 higher Wednesday afternoon at $275.67/cwt. Select was $2.41 higher at $261.19/cwt.
Weaker Corn futures helped Feeder Cattle futures gain marginally, closing an average of 36¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures continued sideways, closing narrowly mixed, from an average of 6¢ lower to an average of 7¢ higher,
Grain and Soybean futures weakened Wednesday with pressure including positive harvest weather in South America.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 6¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly unchanged to fractionally lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 9¢ to 12¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 8¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 15, 2023
Cattle futures took a breath Tuesday and wobbled narrowly lower awaiting cash direction.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 27¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 47¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $160/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $160-$161 in Kansas, $157-$160 in Nebraska and $160 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $254.
Wholesale beef prices continued their recent upward trend. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.11 higher Tuesday afternoon at $272.06/cwt. Select was $2.57 higher at $258.78/cwt.
Profit taking seemed to be the main order of the day in the grain complex.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 2¢ lower through Dec ‘23 and then mostly unchanged.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 3¢ to 6¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 2¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 14, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $2 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $160/cwt., $2 higher in Kansas at $160-$161, $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $157-$160 and steady to $64 higher in the western Corn Belt at $160. Dressed prices were $4 higher at $254.
Last week’s stronger cash trade and recently higher wholesale beef values helped lift Cattle futures Monday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 77¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 77¢ higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 29¢ higher Monday afternoon at $269.95/cwt. Select was $1.92 higher at $256.21/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 4¢ higher through Jly ‘24 and then mostly unchanged to fractionally higher.
Soybean futures closed 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 13, 2023
Cattle feeders’ patience paid off once again last week as they pried generally $2-$4 more from packers.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand, through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $2 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $160/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Kansas at $160 and steady to $4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $160. The previous week, live sales in Nebraska were at $155-$159.
Last week, dressed prices were $4 higher at $254.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 37¢ higher Friday afternoon at $269.66/cwt. Select was 28¢ higher at $254.29/cwt.
Total cattle slaughter last week of 630,000 head was 11,000 head fewer than the previous week and 30,000 head less than the same time a year earlier. Year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 3.80 million head was 39,000 head fewer (-1.0%) than last year. Year-to-date beef production of 3.13 billion pounds was 93.2 million pounds less (-2.9%).
Stronger cash prices helped lift Live Cattle futures Friday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 21¢ higher, except for unchanged in away-Apr.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 25¢ lower, except for 35¢ higher in the back contract.
Grain and Soybean futures were up on geopolitical news Friday. Russia’s announcement that it would cut oil production fueled recently stronger Crude Oil prices, dragging Corn and Soybeans along. For Wheat, it was a shakeup in Moldova’s government — a neighbor to Ukraine — which added wonderment of Black Sea exports.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed 21¢ to 30¢ higher through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 16¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 18¢ to 23¢ higher through Aug ‘23 and then mostly 9¢ to 13¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 10, 2023
Feeder Cattle futures edged an average of 34¢ higher, except for unchanged in Apr., supported by lower Corn futures.
Live Cattle languished, waiting for cash direction. They closed an average of 21¢ lower, except for 2¢ higher spot Feb.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill, with too few transactions to trend through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $158/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $158-$159 in Kansas, $155-$159 in Nebraska and $154-$160 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $250.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.09 higher Thursday afternoon at $269.29/cwt. Select was 85¢ higher at $254.01/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures were down on South American weather and anemic weekly export data.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 7¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 1¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 11¢ to 17¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 9, 2023
Cattle futures drifted lower again Wednesday awaiting cash direction.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 62¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 14¢ lower, except for an average of 16¢ higher in the front two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in Nebraska through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some early live sales at $157/cwt. Elsewhere, trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill.
Last week, live prices were $158/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $158-$159 in Kansas, $155-$159 in Nebraska and $154-$160 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $250.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 48¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $267.20/cwt. Select was $4.17 lower at $253.16/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 6¢ to 9¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed fractionally higher to 4¢ higher through Nov ’23 and then mostly unchanged to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 8, 2023
Cattle futures took a breather Tuesday amid light trade as traders await weekly cash direction.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 69¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 67¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in Kansas through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some early live sales at $159/cwt. Elsewhere, trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill.
Last week, live prices were $158/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $158-$159 in Kansas, $155-$159 in Nebraska and $154-$160 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $250.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 15¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $266.72/cwt. Select was $3.61 higher at $257.33/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures Tuesday likely reflected some positioning ahead of Wednesday monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 5¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 3¢ to 9¢ higher through May ‘24, and then mostly fractionally higher.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 6¢ lower through Aug ‘23 and then mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 7, 2023
Cattle futures extended gains again Monday, supported by last week’s stronger cash prices and notions they can move higher again this week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.28 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 45¢ higher.
When all the counting was in last week, negotiated cash fed cattle prices were $2 higher on a live basis in the Texas Panhandle at $158/cwt. and then $2-$3 higher at $158-$159 in Kansas, $155-$159 in Nebraska and $154-$160 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $2 higher at $250.
The five-area direct weighted average fed steer price last week was $2.92 higher at $158.17/cwt. The weighted average steer price in the beef was $2.16 higher at $249.88.
On Monday, cash fed cattle trade ranged from a mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.83 higher Monday afternoon at $266.57/cwt. Select was $2.11 higher at $253.72/cwt.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ higher through Jly ‘24, buoyed by exports, and then fractionally lower to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 11¢ lower through the front four contracts and then unchanged to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 6, 2023
Cattle futures extended gains and edged higher Friday, buoyed by expectations of higher cash prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 46¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 26¢ higher, except for 15¢ lower in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were a few dressed sales in both regions at $250/cwt., and some live sales in the western Corn Belt at $160.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill.
The previous week, live prices were $156/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $153-$156 in Nebraska and $152-$157 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 36¢ lower Friday afternoon at $264.74/cwt. Select was $2.05 lower at $251.61/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher through Jly ‘24 and then fractionally lower to 2¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat closed 6¢ to 8¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 3, 2023
Cattle futures rebounded Thursday after the previous day’s breather, buoyed by the bullish Cattle report, positive weekly exports and notions this week’s cash fed cattle prices will be higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.03 higher ($1.80 to $2.68 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.12 higher (80¢ to $1.325 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in the Western Corn Belt through Thursday afternoon, with a few live sales at $154/cwt., according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Elsewhere, trade ranged from standstill to mostly inactive.
Last week, live prices were $156/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $153-$156 in Nebraska and $152-$157 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 3¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $265.10/cwt. Select was 88¢ higher at $253.66/cwt.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 5¢ lower through Jly ’24.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly fractionally lower to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 17¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 2, 2023
Cattle futures paused and retraced Tuesday following the previous day’s gains and awaiting cash direction.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.72 lower ($1.35 to $2.90 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 45¢ lower (35¢ to 80¢ lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Wednesday afternoon in the Southern Plains and Nebraska, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. In the Western Corn Belt, trading was inactive on very light demand with too few trades for a trend.
Last week, live prices were $156/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $153-$156 in Nebraska and $152-$157 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.02 lower Wednesday afternoon at $265.07/cwt. Select was 14¢ lower at $252.78/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 5¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher through May ’24 and then mostly 2¢ lower
Soybean futures closed fractionally lower to 17¢ lower through Jan’24, then mixed.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 1, 2023
Feeder Cattle futures closed higher Monday in anticipation of the USDA Cattle report (see below).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.36 higher (93¢ to $2.23 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from 33¢ down to 45¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $156/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $153-$156 in Nebraska and $152-$157 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.01 lower Tuesday afternoon at $266.09/cwt. Select was $1.40 higher at $252.92/cwt.
Corn futures closed mixed, unchanged to down 4¢ through Sept. 23, then up 1¢ to 3¢.
KC HRW Wheat closed mostly down 2¢.
Soybean futures closed mixed, up fractionally to 2¢ higher in spot March and May respectively, then mostly down 1¢ to 4¢.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 31, 2023
Cattle futures gained Monday, supported by higher cash trade in the South at the end of last week, as well as likely positioning ahead of Tuesday’s Cattle inventory report (see below).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.26 higher (80¢ to $2.52 higher).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 80¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $156/cwt., from $2 lower to $1 higher in Nebraska at $153-$156 and $1-$4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $152-$157.
Dressed prices were steady in Nebraska at $248 and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $248.
The weighted average five-area direct fed steer price last week was near steady with the previous week on a live basis at $155.25/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was 50¢ lower at $247.72.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 34¢ higher Monday afternoon at $268.10/cwt. Select was 98¢ higher at $251.52/cwt.
Soybean futures led grains higher Monday, supported by recently more positive U.S. exports.
Soybean futures closed 21¢ to 25¢ higher through Aug ‘23, and then 10¢ to 17¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 5¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher through Mar ‘24 and then mostly 2¢ lower to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 30, 2023
Cattle futures mostly edged higher Friday with support from weaker Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 40¢ higher, except for an average of 15¢ lower in the back two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 15¢ higher, except for unchanged in spot Feb.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 1¢ to 5¢ higher through May ‘24 and then mostly 2¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 2¢ to 14¢ lower through Sep ‘23, and then mostly 3¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand with too few transactions to trend through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week dressed prices were steady in Nebraska at $248/cwt. and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $248, where live prices were $1-$4 lower at $152-$157.
The previous week, live prices were $155 in the Southern Plains and Nebraska.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 99¢ lower Friday afternoon at $267.76/cwt. Select was 94¢ lower at $250.54/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 27, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light to moderate demand in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Dressed prices were steady in Nebraska at $248/cwt. and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $248.
Last week, live prices were $155/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska, and $156-$158 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 47¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $268.75/cwt. Select was 32¢ lower at $251.48/cwt.
Cattle futures faltered Thursday with weaker early cash fed cattle trade and firmer Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.09 lower, except for 17¢ higher in expiring Jan.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 68¢ lower.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 7¢ higher through the front three contracts, and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 12¢ to 16¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 13¢ to 21¢ higher through the front six contracts, and then mostly 5¢ to 7¢ higher.
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Cattle Curent Podcast—Jan. 26, 2023
Cattle futures edged higher Wednesday with fundamental support and simmering ahead of cash direction.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 40¢ higher, except for 5¢ lower in the back contract.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 23¢ higher, except for 25¢ lower in spot Feb.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed 5¢ to 9¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 5¢ to 9¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $155/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska, and $156-$158 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248-$250.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.36 lower Wednesday afternoon at $268.28/cwt. Select was 59¢ lower at $251.80/cwt.
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Cattle Current—Jan. 25, 2023
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed Tuesday in the face of higher grain futures and the lack of cash direction.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 18¢ lower, except for unchanged and 32¢ higher toward the front.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 35¢ higher.
Corn and Wheat futures rebounded Tuesday with likely short covering.
Corn futures closed 5¢ to 10¢ higher through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 2¢ higher.
KC HRW Wheat futures closed mostly 14¢ higher.
Soybean futures firmed, too, closing fractionally lower to 2¢ lower through Sep ‘24 and then 1¢ to 5¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $155/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska, and $156-$158 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248-$250.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.80 lower Tuesday afternoon at $269.64/cwt. Select was $2.10 lower at $252.39/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 24, 2023
Cattle futures extended gains Monday, buoyed by sharply lower Corn futures, and an apparently neutral view of Friday’s Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.47 higher (85¢ to $2.30 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 63¢ higher.
Corn and Soybean futures eroded Monday, apparently mostly due to moisture in South America over the weekend.
Corn futures closed 8¢ to 10¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 13¢ lower.
KC Wheat on the CME closed 22¢ to 29¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $155/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska, and $156-$158 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248-$250.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 28¢ lower Monday afternoon at $271.44/cwt. Select was $1.94 lower at $254.49/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 23, 2023
Cattle futures mainly gained Friday helped along by higher outside markets.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 74¢ higher (30¢ to $1.42 higher), except for 17¢ lower in spot Jan.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 48¢ higher (12¢ higher at the back to 80¢ higher near the front).
Corn futures firmed and closed fractionally mixed with stronger weekly U.S. export sales.
Soybean futures were down again — mostly 12¢ to 13¢ lower — with more favorable moisture in Argentina.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $155/cwt. and $1-$2 lower in Nebraska at $155. Dressed sales in Nebraska were $2-$4 lower at $248. Live and dressed sales in the Western Corn Belt the previous week were $158 and $250-$252, respectively.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 21¢ higher Friday afternoon at $271.72/cwt. Select was 74¢ higher at $256.43/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 20, 2023
Cattle futures softened Thursday with the lack of direction in weekly cash fed cattle prices and perhaps with some positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 82¢ lower (2¢ lower toward the back to $1.40 lower near the front), except for 35¢ higher in the back contract.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 75¢ lower.
Corn futures continued to soften — mostly 4¢ to 5¢ lower — with the wetter outlook for Argentina.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 10¢ lower through Jan ‘24. And then mostly 2¢ to 5¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were some early live trades in Kansas at $155/cwt., as well as some early dressed sales at $248-$249 in Nebraska and $248 in the western Corn Belt.
Last week were $156/cwt. on a live basis in the Southern Plains, $156-$157 in Nebraska and $158 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $250-$252.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.57 lower Thursday afternoon at $271.51/cwt. Select was $1.83 higher at $255.69/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast — Jan. 19, 2023
Weaker Corn futures — mostly 1¢ to 4¢ lower — helped lift Feeder Cattle futures an average of 95¢ higher Wednesday (42¢ to $1.55 higher), except for 15¢ lower in spot Jan.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 17¢ higher, except for an average of 10¢ lower in three contracts.
Soybean futures closed 13¢ to 19¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on very light demand in the North through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend. Trade was at a standstill in the Southern Plains, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, prices were $156/cwt. on a live basis in the Southern Plains, $156-$157 in Nebraska and $158 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $250-$252
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.58 lower Wednesday afternoon at $274.08/cwt. Select was 67¢ lower at $253.86/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 18, 2023
Cattle futures closed lower to start the trading week, pressured by last week’s softer cash fed cattle prices, the lack of direction so far this week and stronger Corn futures.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 35¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.08 lower (70¢ to $1.60 lower).
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 6¢ to 12¢ higher through Aug ‘23 and then mostly unchanged to 3¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive on very light demand with too few transactions to trend through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week prices were $156/cwt. on a live basis in the Southern Plains, $156-$157 in Nebraska and $158 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $250-$252.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 77¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $276.66/cwt. Select was $2.02 lower at $254.53/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 17, 2023
Note: Futures and equity markets were closed yesterday. As well, some AMS reports were unavailable due to the holiday.
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices last week were $156/cwt. on a live basis in the Southern Plains and Nebraska, where dressed prices were $252. Live prices in the western Corn Belt were $157-$159.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 81¢ higher Monday afternoon at $277.43/cwt. Select was 34¢ lower at $256.55/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 16, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow to moderate on moderate demand in the Southern Plains and Nebraska through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Elsewhere, it was limited on light demand.
For the week, in a light test, live prices were $1 lower at $156/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska, and at $157-$159 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices in Nebraska were generally steady at $252; they were $252 in the western Corn Belt a week earlier.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 87¢ lower Friday afternoon at $276.62/cwt. Select was 12¢ lower at $256.89/cwt.
Live cattle futures firmed Friday despite lower cash fed cattle prices and the seasonal turn lower in wholesale beef prices.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 31¢ higher, except for 7¢ lower in near Apr.
However, higher Corn futures pressured Feeder Cattle futures an average of 86¢ lower (2¢ to $1.40 lower).
Corn and Soybean futures continued to gain Friday on the bullish WASDE.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 4¢ higher
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 8¢ higher through Aug ‘23 and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 13, 2023
Cattle futures closed lower Thursday, with pressure from the continued lack of cash fed cattle direction and the Corn-friendly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below).
Corn futures closed to 13¢ to 15¢ higher through the front three contracts, then 5¢ to 7¢ higher through Jly ’24.
Soybean futures closed 14¢ to 25¢ higher through Aug ‘23 and then mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.06 lower through the front half of the board, and then unchanged to an average of 17¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 26¢ lower, except for unchanged and 7¢ higher in two away contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand in the Southern Plains to limited on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Although too few to trend, there were some early dressed sales in Nebraska at $252/cwt. and a few on a live basis in the western Corn Belt at $158-$159.
Live prices last week were $157/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska and $158-$160 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $252.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.24 lower Thursday afternoon at $277.49/cwt. Select was $1.09 lower at $257.01/cwt.
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Cattle Current Daily—Jan. 11, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly limited on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $157/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska and $158-$160 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $252.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.61 lower Tuesday afternoon at $284.53/cwt. Select was $1.27 lower at $258.33/cwt.
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed Tuesday, despite early Corn futures momentum.
Feeder Cattle futures closed from an average of 16¢ lower to an average of 26¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 17¢ higher, except for unchanged in spot Feb.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed widely mixed.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 10, 2023
Cattle futures strengthened Monday with firm to bullish fundamental support.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 84¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 96¢ higher.
Corn and Soybean futures wavered to start the week as traders await the WASDE this week.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 7¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $157/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska and $158-$160 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $252.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.15 higher Monday afternoon at $286.14/cwt. Select was 26¢ higher at $259.60/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 9, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in Nebraska through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live prices for the week were $1 lower at $157/cwt., and dressed prices were steady at $252.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on very light demand with too few transactions to trend.
For the week, live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $157 and steady to $1 higher in the western Corn belt at $158-$160, where dressed prices were steady to $2 higher at $252.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.36 higher Friday afternoon at $282.99/cwt. Select was $2.39 higher at $259.34/cwt.
Cattle futures eased lower Friday pressured in part by firming Corn futures and static cash trade.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 65¢ lower, from 22¢ lower at the back to $1.10 lower in spot Jan, except for 22¢ higher in the back contract.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 44¢ lower (20¢ to 72¢ lower).
Export announcements helped Corn and especially Soybean futures close higher Friday.
Corn futures closed 1¢ higher in the front three contracts and then mostly fractionally mixed to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 13¢ to 34¢ higher through Jan ‘24 and then mostly 3¢ to 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 6, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was light on light to moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Early live sales were steady with last week at $157/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was limited on light demand with too few transactions to trend.
Last week, live prices were $158 in Nebraska and $157-$160 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $250-$252.
Cattle futures traders took a breather Thursday, and likely some profits, following the strong session a day earlier and awaiting more cash direction.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 96¢ lower, from 65¢ lower at the back to $1.67 lower toward the front.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 36¢ lower, except for 7¢ higher in spot Feb.
Nearby grain and Soybean futures continued to drift lower.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 4¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 12¢ lower through Aug ‘23 and then 7¢ to 9¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 5, 2023
Feeder Cattle futures surged higher Wednesday, buoyed by early-week cash strength and sharply lower grain futures prices. Live Cattle followed along to a lesser degree.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.42 higher, from $1.22 higher at the back to $3.45 higher toward the front.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 50¢ higher.
Grain and soybean futures wilted beneath the weight of paltry U.S. export inspections, the high U.S. dollar and rains in South America.
Corn futures closed 11¢ to 16¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 6¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 6¢ to 9¢ lower through Nov ‘23 and then mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from light on light to moderate demand in the western Corn Belt to inactive on light demand, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $157/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $158 in Nebraska and $157-$160 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $250-$252.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.05 lower Wednesday afternoon at $282.89/cwt. Select was $1.77 higher at $256.40/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 4, 2023
Cattle futures closed lower Tuesday, in correction mode after the long holiday weekend, and with softer outside markets.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 66¢ lower (5¢ lower near the back to $1.05 lower in new spot Feb), not counting newly minted away Jun.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 55¢ lower, from 7¢ lower at the back to $1.45 lower toward the front.
That was despite last week’s stronger cash fed cattle prices and persistent increases in wholesale beef prices.
Last week, live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $157/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $158 and steady to $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $157-$160. Dressed prices were $3 higher in Nebraska at $252 and $2-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $250-$252. Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.97 higher Tuesday afternoon at $286.95/cwt. Select was $3.70 higher at $254.63/cwt.
Corn and grain futures closed sharply lower in nearby contracts amid the overall risk-off atmosphere of the day, as well as positive rains in South America.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 8¢ lower through Jly ‘24 and then mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 23¢ to 32¢ lower through Sep ‘23 and then mostly 4¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 2 and 3, 2023
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was light to moderate on moderate demand in the Southern Plains and Nebraska through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Trade was light on light to moderate demand in the western Corn Belt.
For the week, live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $157/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $158 and steady to $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $157-$160. Dressed prices were $3 higher in Nebraska at $252. Dressed prices in the western Corn Belt the previous week were $248-$249.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week was 547,000 head, which was 15,000 head fewer than the previous week but 23,000 head more than the same week a year earlier. Year-to-date total estimated cattle slaughter of 33.68 million head was 499,000 head more (+1.5%) than the same time last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 27.85 billion lbs. was 369.7 million lbs. more (+1.3%).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.12 higher Friday afternoon at $281.98/cwt. Select was 23¢ higher at $250.93/cwt. Week to week on Friday, Choice was up $10.03.
Cattle futures sagged lower Friday amid a general lack of trader interest and year-end position squaring.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 71¢ lower (2¢ lower near the back to $3.67 lower in expiring Dec on scant trade).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 36¢ lower, except for unchanged and 2¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 10¢ higher through Sep ‘23 on drier weather in Argentina and hopes of increased exports to China. The rest of the board was mostly 4¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 30, 2022
Cattle futures continued to gain Thursday with expectations of higher cash prices and softer nearby Corn futures.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 40¢ higher (5¢ higher near the back to $1.05 higher in the front two contracts).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 49¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was light on moderate demand in the Southern Plains and Northern Plains through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few transactions to trend, there were some early live sales in the Southern Plains at $157/cwt.
Last week, live prices were $156 in the Southern Plains, $156-$157 in Nebraska and $157 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248-$249.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 55¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $278.86/cwt. Select was $3.42 higher at $250.70/cwt.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 3¢ lower in the front three contracts and then 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ higher through Sep ‘24 and then fractionally lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 29, 2022
Cattle futures mostly gained Wednesday, supported by recently stronger wholesale beef prices and expectations from some that cash prices should strengthen this week.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $156/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $156-$157 in Nebraska and $157 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248-$249.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 63¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $279.41/cwt. Select was $1.64 higher at $247.28/cwt.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 57¢ higher (5¢ to 92¢ higher), except for an average of 6¢ lower in two contracts toward the front.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 57¢ higher (5¢ to 92¢ higher).
That was with stronger feed prices.
Corn and Soybean futures gained Wednesday with support from the drier forecast in Argentina and notions that exports could get a boost from China’s easing Covid restrictions.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 8¢ higher through Jly ‘24 and then mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 15¢ to 25¢ higher through Jan ‘24 and then mostly 7¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 28, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures faltered Tuesday, pressured by more feedlot placements than expected in the latest Cattle on Feed report and pricier Corn futures. Feeder Cattle closed an average of 72¢ lower (30¢ to $1.35 lower).
Live Cattle futures paddled on either side of steady, helped along by surging wholesale beef prices and notions that cash trade could be higher this week. They closed from unchanged to an average of 12¢ lower to an average of 11¢ higher.
Choice wholesale beef prices continue to churn higher as buyers scramble to fill orders amid decreased packer production. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $8.09 higher Tuesday afternoon at $280.04/cwt. Select was 17¢ higher at $245.64/cwt. The Choice-Select spread was a whopping $34.40.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $156/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $156-$157 in Nebraska and $157 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248-$249.
The five-area direct weighted average fed steer price last week was 57¢ higher on a live basis at $156.25/cwt. The weighted average steer price in the beef was 90¢ higher at $248.70.
Corn futures surged higher Tuesday, buoyed by the weaker U.S. dollar, weather concerns in South America and perhaps some year-end positioning. They closed 5¢ to 8¢ higher through Dec ‘23 and then mostly 3¢ to 4¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to of 6¢ higher through Aug ‘23 and then mostly fractionally lower to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 26-27, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade had a firmer feel through Friday afternoon.
Live prices in the Texas Panhandle were $1 higher at $156/cwt.
Although too few to trend, there were some live sales in Kansas at $156 and at $157 in the western Corn Belt. Prices the previous week were $155 in Kansas and $155-$157 in the western Corn Belt where dressed prices were $248.
For the week, dressed prices in Nebraska were $1 higher at $249. Live prices there the previous week were $155-$157.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $6.74 higher Friday afternoon at $271.95/cwt. Select was $3.66 higher at $245.47/cwt. Both were helped by packers throttling back production.
Total weekly estimated cattle slaughter was 562,000 head, which was 63,000 head fewer than the previous week. However, the estimated total was 75,000 head more than the same week last year. Year-to-date total estimated cattle slaughter of 33.13 million head was 479,000 head more (+1.5%) more than a year earlier. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 27.40 billion lbs. was 363 million lbs. more (+1.3%) than the same time last year.
Cattle futures closed mainly higher Friday, supported by the higher tone to cash prices and the bounce in wholesale beef prices.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 51¢ higher (20¢ to $1.00 higher), except for unchanged and 17¢ lower in the back two contracts.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 24¢ higher, except for an average of 18¢ lower in the back two contracts.
Grain and Soybean futures found some technical support Friday with positive export news and positioning ahead of the holiday.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to of 5¢ higher through the front three contracts and then mostly fractionally higher.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to of 14¢ higher through Jan ‘24 and then mostly 6¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 23, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Although too few to trend, there were some live sales in the Southern Plains at $155/cwt. and in the western Corn Belt at $157. There were a few dressed trades in Nebraska at $249.
Last week, live prices were $155/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $155-$157 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 35¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $265.21/cwt. Select was $5.52 higher at $241.81/cwt.
Cattle futures mostly maintained the previous session’s strong gains.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 18¢ higher, except for an average of 36¢ lower in the front two contracts.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 35¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 13¢ lower through Aug ‘23 and then mostly 5¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 22, 2022
Cattle futures surged higher Wednesday, led by Live Cattle, supported by recent wholesale boxed beef strength, performance-depressing winter weather forecast across the Northern Plains, as well as bullish expectations for Friday’s Cattle on Feed report. Evidence of tightening cattle numbers also continues to grow.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 98¢ higher (25¢ higher at the back to $2.12 higher toward the front).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 56¢ higher.
That was with Corn futures closing mostly 6¢ to 10¢ higher through Jly ‘24, supported by the drier outlook in South America. Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 4¢ higher through Nov ‘23 and then mostly 2¢ to 5¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $155/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $155-$157 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 19¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $264.86/cwt. Select was $2.39 higher at $236.29/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 21, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures retraced the previous session’s losses, perhaps with support from early positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report (see below). They closed an average of 96¢ higher (60¢ to $1.52 higher).
Live Cattle futures softened an average of 21¢ lower, except for an average of 17¢ higher in the back three contracts. Pressure included reduced packer production last week and likely again this week, diluting some opportunity for cash prices to advance.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 4¢ higher through May ‘24 and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 17¢ higher through Sep ‘23 and then mostly 7¢ to 8¢ higher.
Choice wholesale beef prices continued their recent surge higher, due in part to the aforementioned reduction in packer production. Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.22 higher Tuesday afternoon at $265.05/cwt. However, Select was $4.67 lower at $233.90/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $155/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $155-$157 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 20, 2022
Recently stronger wholesale beef prices and last week’s mostly steady-to-firmer cash fed cattle trade helped Live Cattle futures edge an average of 15¢ higher Monday.
Despite lower Corn futures, Feeder Cattle futures meandered to a mostly lower close Monday, presumably pressured in part by the lack of cash direction with many auction barns closed for the holidays. Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 84¢ lower (15¢ to $1.67 lower), except for an average of 35¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $155/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $155-$157 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.00 higher Monday afternoon at $263.83/cwt. Select was $3.12 higher at $238.57/cwt.
Corn futures weakened on positive South American moisture. They closed 2¢ to 5¢ lower through May ‘24 and then mostly fractionally mixed.
Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 20¢ lower through Sep ’23 and then mostly 2¢ to 8¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 19, 2022
Firmer late-week cash prices and the bounce higher in wholesale beef prices helped push Cattle futures mostly higher on Friday.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $8.53 higher Friday afternoon at $262.83/cwt. Select was $6.94 higher at $235.45/cwt.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 26¢ higher (2¢ to 72¢ higher), except for 12¢ lower in Apr. They closed an average of 24¢ lower week to week, except for an average of 30¢ higher in two away contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 48¢ higher (5¢ higher at the back to $1.00 higher in spot Dec, except for unchanged in away Feb. Week to week, they closed from unchanged to an average of 65¢ higher through the front four contracts week to week on Friday (22¢ to $1.37 higher), and then an average of 26¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from light on moderate demand to mostly inactive on light to moderate demand through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were steady to $2 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $155/cwt., steady to $1 lower in Kansas at $155 and $1 lower to $1 higher in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt at $155-$157. Dressed prices were $1-$2 higher at $248.
Estimated total weekly cattle slaughter last week was 629,000 head, which was 23,000 head fewer than the previous week and 29,000 head fewer than the same week a year earlier. Year-do-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 32.58 million head was 412,000 head more (+1.3%) than the same time last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 26.93 billion lbs. was 307.7 million lbs. more (+1.1%) than a year earlier.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower, but the front six contracts closed an average of 6’5¢ higher week to week on Friday.
On Friday, Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 7¢ higher through Sep ’23 and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 16, 2022
Cattle feeder patience paid off Thursday as packers paid mostly steady to higher money.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon at $155/cwt. That was steady to $2 higher in the Texas Panhandle but steady to $1 lower in Kansas.
Trade was slow to moderate on moderate demand in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248, which was $1 higher in Nebraska and $1-$2 higher in the western Corn Belt, where live prices were unevenly steady at $155-$157. Live prices in Nebraska last week were $156-$158.
In Colorado, trade was mostly inactive on very light demand, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live prices there last week were $157.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $4.23 higher Thursday afternoon at $254.30/cwt. Select was $1.82 higher at $228.51/cwt.
Bearish outside markets, firmer Corn futures and light trade helped pressure Cattle futures Thursday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 50¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 45¢ lower (7¢ to 85¢ lower).
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 8¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 15, 2022
Cattle futures ran out of steam Wednesday as traders were apparently waiting for more cash direction.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 24¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 34¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to mostly a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $153-$155/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $155-$156 in Kansas, $156-$158 in Nebraska and $156 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $246-$247.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $4.88 lower Wednesday afternoon at $250.07/cwt. Select was $1.23 higher at $226.69/cwt.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 4¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly fractionally mixed.
Soybean futures closed narrowly mixed, mostly 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 14, 2022
Higher outside markets and recently surging wholesale beef prices helped Cattle futures mostly extend gains Tuesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 36¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 24¢ higher in the front four contracts to an average of 17¢ lower through the back, except for unchanged in Aug.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.07 lower Tuesday afternoon at $254.95/cwt. Select was 22¢ lower at $225.46/cwt. But, Choice was $3.31 higher in the morning report and the previous day’s CME Boxed Beef Index was $1.52 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to mostly a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $153-$155/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $155-$156 in Kansas, $156-$158 in Nebraska, $157 in Colorado and $156 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $246-$247.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 15¢ to 19¢ higher through Aug ‘23, and then 4¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 13, 2022
Cattle futures mostly edged higher Monday with carryover support from last week’s strong close and the bounce higher in wholesale beef prices.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $8.09 higher Monday afternoon at $257.02/cwt. Select was $4.42 higher at $225.68/cwt.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 39¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 14¢ higher, except for unchanged to 27¢ lower in three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $153-$155/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $155-$156 in Kansas, $156-$158 in Nebraska and $156 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $246-$247.
The five-area direct weighted average fed steer price last week was 63¢ lower at $155.79/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was $1.73 lower at $246.82.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 10¢ higher. Reportedly, bargain hunting was a primary driver.
Soybean futures closed 18¢ to 23¢ lower through Sep ‘23, and then mostly 10¢ to 14¢ lower., pressured by positive rains in South America.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 12, 2022
Higher wholesale beef values and some stronger cash prices in the North helped lift Live Cattle futures Friday, which drug Feeder Cattle along.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.65 higher Friday afternoon at $248.93/cwt. Select was 71¢ higher at $221.26/cwt
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 84¢ higher (2¢ to $1.62 higher), except for 7¢ lower in the back contract.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 29¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was light to moderate on moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Prices were mixed with live sales in the Texas Panhandle steady to $2 lower at $153-$155/cwt. and steady to $1 higher in Kansas at $155-$156.
Trade was light on moderate demand in Colorado at steady money of $157.
Elsewhere, trade was light on light to moderate demand with too few transactions to trend. For the week, live prices were $1-$3 lower in Nebraska at $156 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $157-$158. Dressed prices were $1-$2 lower in Nebraska at $247 but steady in the western Corn Belt at $249.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week was 652,000 head, which was 11,000 head fewer than the previous week and 16,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Estimated total year-to-date cattle slaughter of 31.95 million head was 443,000 more (+1.4%) than the same time last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 26.41 billion lbs. was 334.5 million lbs. more (+1.3%).
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower, except for 1¢ to 2¢ higher in the front three contracts.
Soybean futures closed 2¢ lower through Aug ‘23, and then fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 9, 2022
Cattle futures firmed and gained Thursday with more trader interest and perhaps more confidence wholesale price volatility may be gentler.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.62 higher ($1.15 to $2.75 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 42¢ higher (10¢ to 57¢ higher), except for 10¢ lower in the back contract.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ lower, except for 1¢ to 4¢ higher in the front four contracts.
Soybean futures closed mixed, 2¢ to 14¢ higher through Sep ’23 and then mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from light on moderate demand in the Texas Panhandle to limited on moderate demand in the other regions through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices were $1 lower in Nebraska on Wednesday at $156/cwt. and dressed prices were $1-$2 lower at $247.
Last week, live prices were at $155 in the Southern Plains and $157-$158 in the western Corn Belt where dressed prices were $248-$249.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.68 lower Thursday afternoon at $247.28/cwt. Select was 78¢ higher at $220.55/cwt
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 8, 2022
Bearish sentiment from the sharp volatility in Choice boxed beef cutout values helped pressure negotiated cash fed cattle prices lower Wednesday. Live prices in Nebraska were $1 lower on a live basis at $156/cwt. and $1-$2 lower in the beef at $247, on slow trade and light to moderate demand.
Elsewhere, trade was limited on light demand with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Last week, live prices were $155 in the Southern Plains, $157 in Colorado and $157-$158 in the western Corn Belt, where dressed prices were $249.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $6.31 higher through Wednesday afternoon at $248.96/cwt. It was $6.62 lower on Monday. Select was 63¢ higher at $219.66/cwt.
Live Cattle futures found some footing Wednesday, while a bounce in Corn futures weighed on Feeder Cattle.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 56¢ lower (25¢ to 90¢ lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 35¢ higher, except for unchanged to 12¢ lower in four contracts.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 11¢ to 15¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 7, 2022
Cattle futures and some other ag commodities lost ground Tuesday with much of the pressure apparently tied to recessionary fears in outside markets. The recent sharp decline in wholesale beef prices didn’t help.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.08 lower ($1.75 to $2.25 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.69 lower ($1.32 to $2.20 lower).
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 14¢ to 17¢ higher through Aug ‘23 and then mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $155/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $157 in Nebraska, $157 in Colorado and $157-$158 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248-$249.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 66¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $242.65/cwt. Select was $1.97 lower at $219.14/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 6, 2022
Cattle futures gained again Monday, supported by further erosion in Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 79¢ higher (27¢ to $1.32 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 7¢ lower to an average of 11¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 6¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed fractionally mixed 1¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were at $155/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $157-$159 in Nebraska, $157 in Colorado and $157-$158 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $248-$249.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $6.62 lower Monday afternoon at $243.31/cwt. Select was $3.45 lower at $221.11/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 5, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive through Friday afternoon, with too few to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were steady to $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $155/cwt., steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $157-$159 and $1-$2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $157-$158. Dressed prices were $4 higher at $249.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $3.64 lower Friday afternoon at $249.93/cwt. Select was 44¢ lower at $224.56/cwt.
Cattle futures gained more ground Friday, led by Feeder Cattle and supported by lower Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 88¢ higher (65¢ to $1.37 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 30¢ higher.
Corn futures closed 9¢ to 15¢ lower through the front four contracts and then mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 8¢ to 11¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 1, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures bounced an average of $2.01 higher Wednesday, helped along by lower Corn futures and bullish outside markets. Live Cattle futures closed an average of 53¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher, supported by stronger Crude Oil prices.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some early live sales in the Texas Panhandle steady at $155/cwt. Prices in Kansas last week were $154-$155.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from inactive on light demand to a standstill. Live prices last week were $157-$158 in Nebraska and $155-$157 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $245.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 14¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $254.88/cwt. Select was 81¢ lower at $225.01/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 30, 2022
Cattle futures firmed and closed mostly higher Tuesday, supported by recently lower Corn futures and cash fed cattle demand strength.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 53¢ higher (7¢ to $1.12 higher), except for an average of 37¢ lower in the back three contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 18¢ higher.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ lower in the front four contracts, and then mostly fractionally higher.
Soybean futures closed fractionally higher to 5¢ higher through Sep ‘24 and then fractionally lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $154-$155/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $155 in Kansas, $157-$158 in Nebraska and $155-$157 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $245.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 21¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $254.74/cwt. Select was $2.71 lower at $225.82/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 29, 2022
Lackluster interest in Cattle futures carried over from last week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 92¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 39¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $154-$155/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $155 in Kansas, $157-$158 in Nebraska and $155-$157 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $245.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.70 higher Monday afternoon at $254.53/cwt. Select was $5.84 lower at $228.53/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher.
Soybean futures closed 19¢ to 21¢ higher through Aug ‘23 and then 12¢ to 16¢ higher, supported by chatter about OPEC cutting production.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 28, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in all regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service, with too few transactions to trend.
For the week, live prices were $4-$5 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $154-$155/cwt., $3-$5 higher in Kansas at $155, $3-$4 higher in Nebraska at $157-$158 and $2-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $157. Dressed prices were $3 higher at $245.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 73¢ lower Friday afternoon at $251.83/cwt. Select was $1.04 higher at $234.37/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter for the holiday-shortened week was 93,000 head fewer than the previous week at 581,000 head. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 30.6 million head was 472,000 head more (+1.6%) than the same time last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 25.3 billion lbs. was 356.3 million lbs. more (+1.4%).
Cattle slaughter in October of 2.9 million head was 2% more than a year earlier, according to USDA’s Livestock Slaughter report. Commercial beef production was also 2% more year over year at 2.4 billion lbs.
Cattle futures drifted lower on holiday-lightened trade again Friday, despite fundamental strength for the week. Higher Corn futures prices added pressure.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 76¢ lower (17¢ to 95¢ lower), except for 27¢ higher and unchanged in the back two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 19¢ lower, except for 10¢ higher in away Dec.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 5¢ higher through Jly ’23 and the mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed fractionally higher to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 24 to 25, 2022
Packers were aggressive buyers Wednesday, pushing negotiated cash fed cattle prices $3-$5/cwt. higher on a live basis with moderate trade and good demand in all regions, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices were mostly $4-$5 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $154-$155, $3-$5 higher in Kansas at $154 to mostly $155, $3 higher in Nebraska at $156-$158 and $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $155-$157. Dressed prices were $3 higher at $245.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $4.07 lower Wednesday afternoon at $252.56/cwt. Select was 85¢ lower at $233.33/cwt.
Higher Corn futures and light holiday trade pressured Cattle futures Wednesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.66 lower ($1.10 to $2.43 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 51¢ lower, except for 5¢ higher in the back contract.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 7¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 6¢ higher through Nov ‘23 and then 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 23, 2022
Cattle futures traded mostly narrowly lower Tuesday after early support, pressured by holiday-lightened trade.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 45¢ lower, except for 15¢ higher in May.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 15¢ lower, except for unchanged to 25¢ higher in three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service, with too few transactions to trend.
Last week, live prices were $150/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $150-$152 in Kansas, $153-$155 in Nebraska and $152-$155 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $242.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.06 higher Tuesday afternoon at $256.63/cwt. Select was 95¢ higher at $234.18/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 22, 2022
Cattle futures closed higher Monday, buoyed by the bullish Cattle on Feed report, stronger cash prices last week and weaker Corn futures on the day.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.65 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 85¢ higher (47¢ to $1.17 higher).
Corn futures closed 5¢ to 8¢ lower through Jly ‘23, and then mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower, pressured in part by worries about economic growth in China, due to rising COVID cases.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were mainly steady in the Texas Panhandle at mostly $150, steady to $2 higher in Kansas at $150-$152, steady to $2 higher in Nebraska at $153-$155 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $152-$155. Dressed prices were steady to $2 higher at $242.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 70¢ higher Monday afternoon at $255.57/cwt. Select was 40¢ higher at $233.23/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 21, 2022
Cattle futures edged higher Friday, helped along by firm to stronger cash fed cattle prices and likely anticipation of a bullish Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 54¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 44¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on very light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some live sales in the western Corn Belt at $155/cwt.
The last established live prices for the week were steady to $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $150-$151, $1-$2 higher in Kansas at $151-$152, steady to $2 higher in Nebraska at $153-$155 and $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $154-$155. Dressed prices were steady to $2 higher at $242.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week was 674,000 head, which was 3,000 head more than the previous week, but 6,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 30.1 million head was 459,000 head more (+1.5%) than the same period last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 24.8 billion lbs. was 346.8 million lbs. more (+1.4%).
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.23 lower Friday afternoon at $254.87/cwt. Select was $1.09 higher at $232.83/cwt.
Corn futures closed mixed, from 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 11¢ higher through Aug’23, and then mostly fractionally higher to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 18, 2022
Cattle futures closed higher Thursday, helped along by lower Corn futures through much of the session, firm to stronger cash fed cattle prices and likely anticipation of a bullish Cattle on Feed report. The trend continued through mid-day on Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.79 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 78¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mixed, from fractionally higher to 2¢ higher through Jul ’23 then 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 22¢ lower through Aug’24, then down 2¢ to 5¢.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow to moderate on moderate demand in Kansas through Thursday afternoon with prices mostly $1 higher at $151/cwt., but a few up to $152, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Elsewhere, trade was slow on light demand. So far this week, established live prices are steady to $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $150-$151, steady in Nebraska at $153 and steady to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $153. Dressed prices are steady at $240-$242.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 1¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $257.10/cwt. Select was 39¢ higher at $231.74/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 17, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade got off to a slow start for the week on Wednesday, but a start none the less. Established trade was steady at $150 in the Texas Panhandle on light demand and slow to limited trade.
Although too few to trend, there were some live sales in Kansas at $150 and some in Nebraska at $153/cwt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value (p.m.): $1.27 lower at $257.09/cwt. Select was 41¢ lower at $231.35/cwt.
Cattle futures firmed and edged higher Wednesday. Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 48¢ higher. Live Cattle futures closed an average of 56¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mixed, down fractionally to 1¢ through Sep ’23 then up fractionally to 1¢.
Soybean futures closed mostly 13¢ to 28¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 16, 2022
Grain futures gained late in Tuesday’s session, apparently on reports that Russian missiles landed in Poland, causing fatalities.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 9¢ higher and Soybean futures closed mostly 12¢ to 16¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.84 lower. Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 15¢ lower in six contracts to an average of 27¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to limited on light demand through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $150/cwt. in the Southern Plains $153 in Nebraska and $153-$154 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $240-$242.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 38¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $258.36/cwt. Select was $1.45 lower at $231.76/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 15, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed on Monday, from an average of 27¢ lower to unchanged to an average of 48¢ higher. They were supported by weaker Corn futures but challenged by softer Live Cattle futures which closed an average of 59¢ lower, except for 5¢ higher in spot Dec.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 5¢ to 9¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $150/cwt. in the Southern Plains $153 in Nebraska and $153-$154 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $240-$242.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 96¢ lower Monday afternoon at $257.98/cwt. Select was $2.06 lower at $233.21/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 14, 2022
Cattle futures sagged on Friday. Pressure included higher Corn and Soybean futures, sharply lower boxed beef prices and static cash prices. Still, it was hard to square the degree of decline with fundamentals.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.13 lower ($1.32 lower at the back to $3.12 lower toward the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.00 lower (52¢ lower at the back to $1.77 lower toward the front).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on very light demand through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $150, steady to $3 lower in Nebraska at $150-$153 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $153-$155. Dressed prices were steady to $2 higher at $242.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 671,000 head was 4,000 head more than the previous week and 12,000 head more than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 29.38 million head was 464,000 head more (+1.6%) than the same time last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 24.25 billon lbs. was 350 million lbs. more (+1.5%).
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $4.33 lower Friday afternoon at $258.94/cwt. Select was $1.56 lower at $235.27/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures rebounded Friday, helped along by the significant decline in the U.S. dollar in the latter part of the week, making U.S. exports more competitive.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher through Jly ‘24, and then mostly fractionally higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 18¢ to 25¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 11, 2022
Grain and Soybean futures closed lower Thursday, apparently due in part to more money flowing into equities for the day.
Corn futures closed 6¢ to 11¢ lower through Jly ‘24. Soybean futures closed mostly 20¢ to 29¢ lower.
Softer grain futures helped boost Cattle futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.52 higher (90¢ to $2.05 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 90¢ higher (70¢ to $1.50 higher).
Cattle futures were lower through mid-day today as grain futures trended higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade and demand were slow through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Although too few to trend, there were some live sales at $149/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $153.00-$153.50 in Nebraska and $153-$154 in the western Corn Belt.
So far this week, live prices are steady in the Southern Plains at $150, steady in Nebraska at $153 and steady to $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $153. Dressed prices are steady to $2 higher at $242.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value (p.m.): $1.40 lower at $263.27/cwt. Select was $1.61 higher at $236.83/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 10, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices were steady to $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $150.00/cwt. and steady in Kansas at $150.
Last week, live prices were $153 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $242 in Nebraska and $240-$242 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 27¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $264.67/cwt. Select was 83¢ lower at $235.22/cwt.
Lower outside markets helped pressure Cattle futures on Wednesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 24¢ lower, except for an average of 11¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 49¢ lower (20¢ to $1.47 lower).
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 9, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $149-$150/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $150 in Kansas and $153 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $242 in Nebraska and $240-$242 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 39¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $264.94/cwt. Select was 13¢ higher at $236.05/cwt.
Cattle futures softened Tuesday, perhaps on election defensiveness.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 38¢ lower to an average of 4¢ to higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 18¢ lower, except for unchanged and 22¢ higher in two contracts.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 8¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 8, 2022
Live Cattle futures closed higher Monday, supported by apparent front-end currentness. They were up an average of 59¢ higher, except for down 33¢ and unchanged in the back two contracts.
Strength in Live Cattle and softer Corn futures helped Feeder Cattle close an average of 53¢ higher (30¢ to 70¢ higher).
Corn futures closed mixed, down 2¢ to 5¢ through May ’24, then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 12¢ lower.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 80¢ higher Monday afternoon at $264.55/cwt. Select was $4.02 higher at $235.92/cwt.
There was no afternoon cash fed cattle report from AMS.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 7, 2022
Cattle futures closed mixed Friday with little added short-term support and plenty of uncertainty.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 20¢ lower to an average of 51¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed from an average of 24¢ lower to an average of 11¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Kansas City Wheat futures closed 10¢ to 17¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 22¢ to 25¢ higher through Aug ’23 and then mostly 9¢ to 12¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on very light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live sales were steady in the Southern Plains at $150/cwt., steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $152-$153 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $152-$153. Dressed prices were $2 higher in Nebraska at $242 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $240-$242.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.43 lower Friday afternoon at $263.75/cwt. Select was $1.16 lower at $231.90/cwt.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 667,000 head was 1,000 head fewer than the previous week but 15,000 head more than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 27.71 million head was 452,00 head more (+1.6%) than the same time last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 23.69 billion lbs. was 338.8 million lbs. more (+1.5%).
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 4, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live sales were steady in the Southern Plains at $150/cwt. and steady with the prior week in the western Corn Belt at $152-$153. Dressed prices in the western Corn Belt last week were $240.
Although too few to trend, there were some dressed trades $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $242-$243. Live prices there last week were $152-$153.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.71 higher Thursday afternoon at $265.18/cwt. Select was 10¢ lower at $233.06/cwt.
Cattle futures wobbled Thursday as traders appeared to take a wait-and-see breather after the previous session’s gains.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 59¢ lower, except for 12¢ higher in the back contract.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed from an average of 12¢ lower to an average of 22¢ higher.
Corn futures closed 7¢ to 8¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then narrowly mixed.
Soybean futures closed mostly 12¢ to 17¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 3, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures gained Wednesday on declining Corn futures. They closed an average of $1.18 higher (77¢ to $2.00 higher).
Corn and Wheat futures reversed direction as Russia reversed course and claimed it is rejoining the initiative that enabled Ukraine exports from the Black Sea.
Corn futures closed 8¢ to 10¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 3¢ to 5¢ lower. Kansas City Wheat futures closed 34¢ to 49¢ lower through May ‘24. Soybean futures closed mostly 8¢ to 9¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures tread water, awaiting weekly cash direction. They closed narrowly mixed from an average of 29¢ lower to an average of 21¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend in any region, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few early live sales in the Texas Panhandle at $149/cwt. and a few in the western Corn Belt at $154. There were early dressed trades in Nebraska at $243.
Last week, live prices were $150/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $152-$153 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $240.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 84¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $263.47/cwt. Select was 43¢ higher at $233.16/cwt.
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Cattle futures lost steam after early support Tuesday, as grain and soybean futures continued to gain and traders awaited weekly cash direction.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 6¢ higher. Kansas City Wheat futures closed mostly 9¢ to 11¢ higher. Soybean futures closed 22¢ to 28¢ higher through Aug ‘23.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.02 lower (70¢ lower to $1.32 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 22¢ lower, except for 5¢ higher in Aug and $2.37 higher in new away-Apr.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $150/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $152-$153 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $240.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.02 lower Tuesday afternoon at $262.63/cwt. Select was $1.73 lower at $232.73/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 1, 2022
Russia’s announcement over the weekend that it is suspending its participation in the Black Sea Grain Initiative (BSGI) propelled grain futures significantly higher Monday. The BSGI, brokered by the United Nations earlier this year, enabled resumption of Ukraine grain exports via the Black Sea as Russia’s war on Ukraine continued.
Corn futures closed 8¢ to 10¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
Kansas City Wheat futures closed mostly 39¢ to 53¢ higher.
As logic would suggest, Feeder Cattle futures wilted in the face of the spike up in grain futures, closing an average of 81¢ lower (25¢ lower to $1.00 lower), except for an average of 9¢ higher in the back three contracts.
Added uncertainty came with the fact that there were no reports from the Agricultural Marketing Service during trading hours Monday, presume Bly due to technical difficulties.
Last week’s stronger cash fed cattle prices and higher wholesale beef values muted losses in Live Cattle futures, which closed an average of 27¢ lower, except for $3.60 lower in expiring Oct.
Last week, negotiated cash fed cattle prices were $2 higher on a live basis in the Southern Plains at $150/cwt.; they were $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $152-$153 and $1-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $151-$153. Dressed prices were $4 higher in Nebraska at $240 and $4-$8 higher in the western Corn Belt at $240.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 31, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices continued to gain last week amid aggressive cattle slaughter, resilient beef demand, and narrowing supplies.
For the week, live prices were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $150/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $152-$153 and $1-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $151-$153. Dressed prices were $4 higher in Nebraska at $240 and $4-$8 higher in the western Corn Belt at $240.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 77¢ higher Friday afternoon at $263.26/cwt. Select was $2.58 higher at $234.49/cwt.
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed to marginally lower Friday with week-end positioning and traders apparently reluctant to advance prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed from an average of 12¢ lower to an average of 11¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 44¢ lower (22¢ lower at the back to $1.02 lower in nearly-spent spot Oct).
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 668,000 head was 5,000 head less than the previous week and on par with the same week last year. Year-to-date total estimated cattle slaughter of 28.04 million head was 436,000 head more (+1.6%) than the same period last year. Year-to-date beef production of 23.13 billion lbs. was 320.9 million lbs. more (+1.4%).
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 28, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $150/cwt.
Although too few to trend, there were some early live sales at $152 in Nebraska and $151-$152 in the western Corn Belt; early dressed sales at $240 in Nebraska and $236 in the western Corn Belt.
Last week, live sales were $150-$152 in Nebraska and $150 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $236 in Nebraska and $232-236 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.63 higher Thursday afternoon at $262.49/cwt. Select was $3.31 higher at $231.91/cwt.
Cattle futures softened Thursday despite higher wholesale beef values and early stronger cash fed cattle prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 50¢ lower (5¢ to 17¢ lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 23¢ lower.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower, except for fractionally higher in the front contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 27, 2022
After retrenching in the previous session, Cattle futures mostly gained Wednesday with expectations of higher cash prices again this week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 81¢ higher, except for 17¢ lower in waning spot Oct.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 28¢ higher, except for unchanged to an average of 16¢ lower in three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $148/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $150-$152 in Nebraska and $150 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $236 in Nebraska and $232-$236 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 57¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $260.86/cwt. Select was $1.25 higher at $228.60/cwt.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 26, 2022
Recent momentum in Cattle futures stalled Tuesday amid higher Corn futures, likely profit taking and apparently waiting to see if this week’s cash fed cattle trade supports another step higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.60 lower, except for 92¢ higher in waning spot Oct.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 45¢ lower, except for 7¢ higher in spot Oct.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $148/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $150-$152 in Nebraska and $150 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $236 in Nebraska and $232-$236 in the western Corn Belt.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 12¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 25, 2022
Cattle futures continued to climb Monday on higher cash fed cattle prices, stronger wholesale beef values and Friday’s friendly Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.23 higher (40¢ to $1.57 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.18 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $148/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $150-$152 in Nebraska and $150 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $236 in Nebraska and $232-$236 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $4.21 higher Monday afternoon at $257.92/cwt. Select was $1.25 higher at $225.61/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 14¢ to 23¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 24, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was inactive on very light demand through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $3 higher in the Southern Plains at $148/cwt., $3-$4 higher in Nebraska at $151-$152 and $2-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $150-$152. Dressed prices were $4 higher at $236.
Stronger cash prices and higher wholesale beef prices helped Cattle futures gain Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 79¢ higher, except for 30¢ lower in spot Oct.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 54¢ higher.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 9¢ higher Friday afternoon at $253.71/cwt. Select was $2.28 higher at $224.36/cwt.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 673,000 head was 13,000 head more than the previous week. Total year-to-date estimated cattle slaughter of 27.37 million head was 433,000 head more (+1.6%) than the same period last year. Total year-to-date beef production of 22.56 billion lbs. was 3.2 million lbs. more (+1.4%).
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally mixed.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 5¢ higher through Aug ’23 and then mostly 1¢ to 4¢ higher
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 21, 2022
Snug supplies and demand-based aggressive slaughter helped negotiated cash fed cattle prices pull ahead with more gusto this week.
Live prices were $3 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $148/cwt. on moderate trade and light to moderate demand, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Prices were $4 higher in Nebraska at mostly $152 on moderate demand and trade. Dressed prices in Nebraska were $4 higher at $236.
There were some live sales in the western Corn Belt at $150 and $236 in the beef, but too few to trend. Live prices there Wednesday were $2 higher at $150. Dressed prices last week were $230-$232.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 23¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $253.62/cwt. Select was 11¢ lower at $222.08/cwt.
Cattle futures closed mixed, though, between resurgent Corn futures but stronger cash fed cattle prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 79¢ lower (52¢ to $1.02 lower), except for 35¢ higher in spot Oct.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 22¢ lower in four contracts to an average 34¢ higher
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 14¢ to 19¢ higher through Jly ‘23.and then mostly 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 20, 2022
Cattle futures extended gains Wednesday, buoyed by stronger wholesale beef prices, upward cash momentum and weaker Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 89¢ higher (25¢ to $1.65 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.20 higher (88¢ to $1.83 higher).
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.61 higher Wednesday afternoon at $253.39/cwt. Select was 91¢ higher at $222.19/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from very limited on moderate demand to inactive on light to moderate demand through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were some early live sales at $147/cwt. in the Southern Plains and at $150 in the western Corn Belt
Last week, live prices were $145/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $148 in Nebraska and the Western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $232 in Nebraska and $230-$232 in the western Corn Belt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 19, 2022
Stronger cash fed cattle prices last week, the prospect for further gains this week and recently higher wholesale beef prices helped Cattle futures extend gains Tuesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.73 higher, except for 7¢ higher in spot Oct.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 50¢ higher (15¢ to 60¢ higher), except for unchanged in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in the Southern Plains and Nebraska through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. In the Western Corn Belt, trade was limited on light demand.
Last week, live prices were $145/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $148 in Nebraska and the Western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $232 in Nebraska and $230-$232 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.64 higher Tuesday afternoon at $250.78/cwt. Select was $1.67 higher at $221.28/cwt.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 3¢ lower. Soybean futures closed mostly 9¢ to 13¢ lower through Jly ’23 and then mostly 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 18, 2022
Cattle futures caught some wind Monday as traders seemed to focus more on the fundamentals, including recently stronger cash fed cattle prices and the likelihood that wholesale beef prices will begin their seasonal advance.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.00 higher (95¢ higher in spot to $2.60 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 78¢ higher (55¢ to $1.42 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $145/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $148 in Nebraska and the Western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $232 in Nebraska and $230-$232 in the western Corn Belt.
The five-area direct weighted average fed steer price last week was $146.99/cwt., which was 76¢ more than the previous week. The average fed steer price in the beef was $1.32 higher at $231.60.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.16 higher Monday afternoon at $248.14/cwt. Select was $2.67 higher at $219.61/cwt.
Cattle futures were also helped along by Corn futures closing mostly 4¢ to 6¢ lower. Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 17, 2022
Volatile and bearish outside markets weighed on most commodities Friday as shorter supplies battle with demand concerns stemming from steamy inflation, higher interest rates and slowing economic growth.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 79¢ lower (25¢ lower at the back to $1.32 lower toward the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 62¢ lower, except for 50¢ higher in spot Oct.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 8¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 8¢ to 12¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $145/cwt., steady to $2 higher in Nebraska at $148 and unevenly steady in the western Corn Belt at $148. Dressed prices were $2 higher at $232.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 45¢ higher Friday afternoon at $246.98/cwt. Select was $1.08 higher at $216.94/cwt.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 660,000 head was 4,000 head fewer than the previous week but 21,000 head more than the same week last year. Total estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 26.7 million head was 417,000 head more (+1.6%) than the same time last year. Total estimated year-to-date beef production of 22.0 billion lbs. was 306.9 million lbs. more (+1.4%).
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 14, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand in the Southern Plains to slow on light to moderate demand in the North through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $145/cwt., steady to $2 higher in Nebraska at $147-$148 and unevenly steady in the western Corn Belt at $148. Dressed prices are $2 higher at $232.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 13¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $246.53/cwt. Select was $1.60 higher at $215.86/cwt.
Cattle futures softened Thursday amid volatile outside markets and despite higher cash trade.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 65¢ lower, except for 5¢ higher in Aug.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 23¢ lower, except for 27¢ higher in spot Oct.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher, except for fractionally lower to 2¢ higher in the front four contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 13, 2022
Weekly negotiated cash fed cattle trade remained undeveloped through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $144/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $145-$148 in Nebraska and $145-$149 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $230.
Cattle futures edged higher, though, with the mainly friendly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 29¢ higher, except for unchanged and 12¢ lower in two away contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 31¢ higher, except for 12¢ lower in near Dec.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally mixed through May ‘24 then mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 19¢ higher through Jly ‘23, and then mostly fractionally lower to 2¢ lower.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 9¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $246.66/cwt. Select was $1.41 higher at $214.26/cwt.
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Cattle Currrent Podcast—Oct. 12, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures bounced an average of $2.34 higher Tuesday, regaining some of the recent losses. Support included Corn futures closing 3¢ to 5¢ lower through Sep ’23 and then mostly 1¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle also received support from Live Cattle futures closing an average of 91¢ higher (22¢ higher at the back to $1.57 higher toward the front), likely due in part to notions that cash fed cattle prices can build on last week’s advance.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to limited on light demand through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few early live sales in the western Corn Belt at $146/cwt., but too few to trend.
Last week, live prices were $144/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $145-$148 in Nebraska and $145-$149 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $230.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.12 higher Tuesday afternoon at $246.75/cwt. Select was 97¢ lower at $212.85/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 11, 2022
Surging Corn futures prices took Feeder Cattle futures down a peg Monday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.10 lower (80¢ lower toward the back to $2.75 lower toward the front).
Grain futures spiked higher with heightened concerns about Russia’s ongoing war on Ukraine.
Corn futures closed 10¢ to 15¢ higher through Sep ’23 then mostly 8¢ to 9¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 7¢ higher through Sep ’23 and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures were unable to fade the strong pressure, closing an average of 75¢ lower (52¢ to $1.05 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $144/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $145-$148 in Nebraska and $145-$149 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $230.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.44 lower Monday afternoon at $244.63/cwt. Select was $2.31 lower at $213.82/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 10, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $143/cwt. and $1-$3 higher in Nebraska and the western Corn belt at $146-$148. Dressed prices were $2 higher at $230.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value $1.29 lower Friday afternoon at $246.07/cwt. Select was 86¢ lower at $216.13.
Cattle futures limped to a narrowly mixed close on Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed from an average of 38¢ lower through May ’23, then up 13¢ to 38¢.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, down 15¢ to up 28¢.
The strong U.S. dollar capped Grain and Soybean futures Friday.
Corn futures closed mixed, 4¢ to 8¢ higher through Jul ’24 then down 1¢.
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 9¢ higher through Sep ’24 and then 3¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 7, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand in the western Corn Belt to light to moderate on moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $143/cwt. and $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $146-$147. Dressed prices are $2 higher at $230. Live prices in the western Corn Belt last week were $145.
Despite stronger cash prices, Cattle futures faded a bit.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 37¢ lower (17¢ to 82¢ lower) except for an average of 25¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 10¢ lower except for unchanged in one contract and 65¢ higher in spot Oct.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 30¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $247.36/cwt. Select was $2.23 lower at $216.99/cwt.
Grain futures weakened Thursday, pressured by slowing exports impeded by the strength of the U.S. Dollar.
Corn futures closed 6¢ to 8¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 1¢ lower to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 11¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 6, 2022
Cattle futures rose Wednesday as fundamental strength returned.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.52 higher (57¢ higher at the back to $2.12 higher toward the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 46¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $143/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $145 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $228.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 98¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $247.06/cwt. Select was $2.69 lower at $219.22.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 13¢ lower through Sep ‘23 and then mostly 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 5, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 64¢ lower Tuesday, pressured by higher Corn futures.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 24¢ lower to an average of 17¢ higher, supported by wholesale beef prices showing signs of reaching the seasonal bottom.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.10 higher Tuesday afternoon at $248.04/cwt. Select was 60¢ higher at $221.91/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $143/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $145 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were at $228.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 4¢ higher, helped along by the export-positive decline in the Dollar.
Soybean futures closed mostly 11¢ to 16¢ higher with support from the rally in Crude Oil futures.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 4, 2022
Cattle futures bounced back Monday, helped along by higher wholesale beef values.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.19 higher Monday afternoon at $245.94/cwt. Select was $1.18 higher at $221.31/cwt.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.23 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 89¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $143/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $145 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were at $228.
Corn futures closed 3¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 3, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures tanked Friday with pressure from Corn futures surging in response to USDA’s Grain Stocks report Friday (see below).
Corn futures closed 5¢ to 8¢ higher through Jly ’23 and then 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.68 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 53¢ lower (17¢ to 85¢ lower), except for unchanged in the back contract.
Soybean futures closed 32¢ to 46¢ lower through Aug. ’23 and then mostly 21¢ to 25¢ lower, reacting to softer oil prices and the Grain Stocks report.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive with light demand to limited on light demand through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were steady at $143/cwt. in the Southern Plains and at $144-$145 in Nebraska. Prices were steady to $3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $145. Dressed prices were steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $228-$233 and at the bottom of last week’s range in the western Corn Belt at $228.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.33 lower Friday afternoon at $243.75/cwt. Select was 35¢ higher at $220.13.
Estimated total cattle slaughter was 3,000 head less week over week at 664,000 head, but was 24,000 head more than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 25.36 million head was 385,000 head more (+1.5%) than the same time last year. Estimated total year-to-date beef production of 20.91 billion lbs. was 282 million lbs. more (+1.4%).
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 30, 2022
Cattle futures finally rallied back Thursday, supported by oversold conditions.
Feeder Cattle futures closed and average of $2.19 higher. Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.02 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Thursday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady at $143/cwt. in the Southern Plains and at $144-$145 in Nebraska. Prices are steady to $3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $145. Dressed prices are steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $228-$233 and at the bottom of last week’s range in the western Corn Belt at $228.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.47 lower Thursday afternoon at $246.08/cwt. Select was 57¢ higher at $219.78.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher toward the front and then 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 29, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was active on very good demand in Nebraska Wednesday with live prices steady at $144-$145/cwt. and dressed prices mainly steady to $4 lower at $228.
Trade was slow on moderate demand in the western Corn Belt, where there were a few live sales at $144-$145 and a few in the beef at $228, but too few to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Prices there last week were $145-$148 and $227-$234, respectively.
Trade in the Southern Plains ranged from limited to mostly inactive on light demand. Live prices there the previous day were steady at $143.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 88¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $247.55/cwt. Select was $2 lower at $219.21.
Cattle futures weakened again Wednesday with hangover pessimism from recent sessions.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 72¢ lower (32¢ to $1.12 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 50¢ lower except for 15¢ higher in the back contract.
Corn and Soybean futures crawled higher, perhaps on increasing Russian rhetoric and positioning ahead of Friday’s Grain Stocks report.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 28, 2022
Cattle futures continued lower with outside markets Tuesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.02 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 67¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was steady in the Southern Plains Tuesday at $143/cwt. on slow trade and moderate demand.
Elsewhere, trade was inactive on light demand.
Last week, live prices were $144-$145 in Nebraska and $145-$148 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $228-$232 in Nebraska and $227-$243 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.07 higher Tuesday afternoon at $248.91/cwt. Select was 1.27 lower at $222.08/cwt.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 2¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then mostly unchanged to fractionally lower.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ lower through Aug ‘23 and then mostly fractionally higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 27, 2022
Cattle futures weakened further Monday, along with other commodities and financial markets as fears about a contracting economy, high unabated inflation and increasing interest rates ruled the day.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.75 lower ($1.20 lower toward the front to $2.40 lower in the back contract.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.32 lower (77¢ to $1.70 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $143/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $144-$145 in Nebraska and $145-$148 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $228-$232 in Nebraska and $227-$243 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 79¢ lower Monday afternoon at $247.84/cwt. Select was $4.04 higher at $223.35.
Corn futures closed 8¢ to 11¢ lower through Sep ’23 and then mostly 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 11¢ to 15¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 26, 2022
Cattle futures softened again Friday amid sharply lower outside markets, rising interest rates and perhaps some prescient defensiveness ahead of the monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 61¢ lower, except for an average of 28¢ higher in two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 89¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to slow on light to moderate demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Based on the last established trends, live prices for the week were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $143/cwt., steady to $4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $148 and $1 higher in Nebraska at $144. Dressed prices were $2-$8 higher in the western Corn Belt at $228-$234 and $2-$5 higher in Nebraska at $228-$232.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 23¢ higher Friday afternoon at $248.63/cwt. Select was $2.80 lower at $219.31/cwt.
Corn and Soybean futures softened Friday with outside market concerns, including the impact the climbing U.S. dollar will have on exports.
Corn futures closed 10¢ to 13¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 28¢ to 31¢ lower through Aug ‘23 and then 20¢ to 25¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 23, 2022
Negotiated cash fed trade ranged from slow to moderate on moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Prices so far this week are $1 higher at $143/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was moderate on moderate to good demand.
Dressed trade in Nebraska was $2-$5 higher at $228-$232. Live prices there last week were $143.
In the western Corn Belt, live prices this week are steady to $1 higher at $144-$145 and $2 higher in the beef at $228
Even so, Cattle futures continued to weaken Thursday with pressure from struggling outside markets and likely positioning ahead of Friday’s Cattle on Feed report. Pre-report estimates expect placement to be down 1% or so compared to last year and on-feed numbers to be about even.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.41 lower, except for 2¢ higher in spot Sep.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 85¢ lower (30¢ to $1.40 lower).
Cattle futures are weaker again through noon today.
Corn and Soybean futures paddled in place Thursday with ongoing pressure from lower outside markets and the higher U.S. dollar, but also speculation about lower yields.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 2¢ to 4¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly fractionally mixed.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 22, 2022
Cattle futures weakened Wednesday with likely spillover pessimism from lower outside markets, the lack of cash direction and perhaps some defensiveness in the face of Friday’s Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 74¢ lower, except for 57¢ higher in the back contract.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 25¢ lower, except for 17¢ higher in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few trades at $145/cwt. in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt but too few to trend.
Live prices last week were $142/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $143 in Nebraska and $143-$145 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $226-$227 in Nebraska and $226 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.51 lower Wednesday afternoon at $249.13/cwt. Select was $1.09 lower at $226.14/cwt.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 6¢ lower Wednesday with pressure from lower outside markets and the export-adverse rise in the U.S. dollar.
Soybean futures closed 13¢ to 17¢ lower through Aug ‘23 and then mostly 8¢ to 9¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 21, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures gave back the previous session’s gains and then some Tuesday, pressured by higher Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.80 lower Tuesday (35¢ lower at the back to $2.27 lower toward the front), giving back the previous session’s gains and then some. Much of the pressure came from Corn futures bouncing 12¢ to 13¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 8¢ to 9¢ higher, supported by bleaker condition ratings than expected. Soybean futures closed 15¢ to 17¢ higher through Jly ‘23. and then mostly 7¢ to 9¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 12¢ lower, except for 27¢ higher in three contracts with firmness from growing optimism for higher cash fed cattle prices this week.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $142/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $143 in Nebraska and $143-$145 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $226-$227 in Nebraska and $226 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 81¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $251.64/cwt. Select was $1.34 higher at $227.23/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 20, 2022
Cattle futures rose Monday, helped along by last week’s slightly stronger cash fed cattle prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 87¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 37¢ higher., except for 7¢ lower in near Dec.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $142, steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $143 and steady to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $143-$145. Dressed prices were steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $226-$227 and unevenly steady in the western Corn Belt at $226.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 5¢ higher through Monday afternoon at $252.45/cwt. Select was 76¢ lower at $225.89/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 19, 2022
Howdy to all, this is Wes Ishmael with your Cattle Current Market Update for the late weekend and Monday morning the 19th of September.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week was 667,000 head, which was 63,000 more than the previous holiday-shortened week. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 24.0 million head was 328,000 (+1.4%) more than last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 19.8 billion lbs. was 226.9 million lbs. more (+1.2%).
Cattle futures meandered Friday amid the heavy beef production, high Corn price outlook and recently lower wholesale beef values.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 23¢ lower (5¢ to 35¢ lower).
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 60¢ lower to 33¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $142/cwt., steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $143 and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $143-$144. Dressed prices were steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $226-$227. Dressed prices in the western Corn Belt the previous week were $225-$230.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 6¢ higher through Friday afternoon at $252.40/cwt. Select was $3.30 lower at $226.65/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 16, 2022
Steady to higher cash prices helped lift Live Cattle futures an average of 64¢ higher (22¢ to $1.27 higher) on Thursday.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. So far this week, live prices are $1 higher at $142/cwt.
Trade was slow on moderate demand in Nebraska with live prices steady to $1 higher at $143. Dressed prices are steady to $1 higher at $226-$227.
In the western Corn Belt, trade was limited on light demand. So far this week, live prices are steady to $2 lower at $143-$144. Dressed prices last week were $225-$230.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.13 lower Thursday afternoon at $252.34/cwt. Select was 16¢ lower at $229.95/cwt.
Feeder Cattle futures wobbled Thursday with more strength through the back half of the board. They closed mixed, from an average of 34¢ lower to an average of 41¢ higher.
That was despite softer grain futures with Corn following wheat and closing 4¢ to 8¢ lower. Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 9¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 15, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 52¢ higher Wednesday as Corn Futures retreated 8¢ to 10¢ lower through Jly ’23 and then mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 18¢ to 23¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 26¢ lower except for unchanged to an average of 12¢ higher in three contracts.
The looming railroad strike continues to add uncertainty to the mix.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to limited on light demand through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few dressed trades in Nebraska at $226-$227/cwt. and a few live trades in the western Corn Belt at $143, but too few to trend.
Last week, live prices were $141/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $142-$143 in Nebraska and $143-$146 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $226 in Nebraska and $225-$230 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $3.19 lower through Wednesday afternoon at $253.47/cwt. Select was $3.47 lower at $230.11/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 14, 2022
Sharply lower outside markets pressured by higher inflation than expected compounded the previous day’s lower corn yield estimates, weighing on Cattle futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.88 lower ($1.10 to $2.60 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 77¢ lower.
That was with Corn futures retreating on the same macroeconomic news.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ lower through Sep ‘23, then mostly fractionally higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 9¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 1¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $141/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $142-$143 in Nebraska and $143-$146 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $226 in Nebraska and $225-$230 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.28 lower through Tuesday afternoon at $256.66/cwt. Select was $2.18 lower at $233.58/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 13, 2022
Corn futures climbed 9¢ to 13¢ through July ’23 Monday, in response to the latest monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates, which reduced expected production (see below).
Soybean futures closed 60¢ to 76¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 32¢ to 40¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.32 lower (30¢ lower at the back to $2.45 lower toward the front).
Live Cattle edged an average of 19¢ higher, maintaining the previous session’s gains with some optimism for cash trade this week.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were steady to $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $141/cwt., steady to $3 lower in Nebraska at $142-$143 and steady to $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $143-$146. Dressed prices were $2-$4 lower in Nebraska at $226 and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $225-$230.
The five-area direct fed steer price last week was $142.48 on a live basis, which was 40¢ less than the previous week. The average five-area direct steer price in the beef was $2.10 lower at $226.68.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.68 higher through Monday afternoon at $258.94/cwt. Select was $1.03 higher at $235.76/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 12, 2022
Corn futures closed 11¢ to 24¢ higher through Sep ’23, then 6¢ to 8¢ higher on expectations Monday’s USDA crop report will show a reduction in yields.
Soybean futures closed mostly 17¢ to 26¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 66¢ higher, helped along by strong cash demand.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.00 higher, apparently with some speculation that cash prices will move higher next week, given ho-hum interest from packers the last couple of weeks.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Regionally, negotiated cash fed cattle prices last week were mainly steady to lower. Live prices were steady to $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $141/cwt., steady to $2 lower in Nebraska at $143 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $143-$145. Dressed prices were $2-$4 lower in Nebraska at $226. The previous week, dressed prices were $228-$232 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 75¢ lower at $257.26/cwt. Select was $1.31 lower at $243.73/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 9, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures edged an average of 36¢ higher Thursday, supported by weaker Corn futures that were mostly 2¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 27¢ lower to an average of 8¢ higher with pressure from the steady to lower cash trade.
Live prices were steady in the Texas Panhandle and $1 higher in Kansas at $141/cwt. They were $1 lower in Nebraska at $142-$144 with dressed prices mostly $2-$4 lower at $226. Trade and demand were moderate in both regions, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Trade was slow on light to moderate demand in the western Corn Belt. There were a few live trades at $143, but too few to trend. Last week, live prices were $143-$145 and dressed prices were $228-$232.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $3.33 lower Thursday afternoon at $258.01/cwt. Select was $1.47 lower at $236.04/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 8, 2022
Cattle futures lost some steam Wednesday with the lack of cash direction and likely profit taking.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.34 lower (70¢ lower at the back to $2.15 lower at the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 59¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade continued at a standoff through Wednesday afternoon, but popular sentiment expected at least steady prices this week.
Last week, live prices were $140-$141/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $143-$145 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $228-$232.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 87¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $261.34/cwt. Select was $1.79 lower at $237.51/cwt.
Corn futures weakened Wednesday — 4¢ to 6¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 1¢ 3¢ lower — presumably due mostly to profit taking.
Soybean futures closed mostly 12¢ to 15¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 5¢ lower, pressured by Crude Oil once again
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 7, 2022
Stronger recent wholesale beef values helped lift Cattle futures Tuesday.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.05 higher through Tuesday afternoon at $260.47/cwt. Select was 72¢ higher at $239.30/cwt.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 79¢ higher (50¢ higher at the front to $1.37 higher at the back).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 56¢ higher (30¢ at the back to $1.15 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $140-$141/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $143-$145 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $228-$232.
The five-area direct weighted average steer price last week was $1.91 lower on a live basis at $142.88. The average steer price in the beef was $4.10 lower at $228.78.
Corn futures gained Tuesday, mostly 8¢ to 11¢, perhaps with some positioning ahead of next Monday’s Crop Production report which could include changes to expected yield.
Soybean futures faded with lower outside markets and weak Crude Oil futures. They closed mostly 19¢ to 21¢ lower through Aug ‘23 and then mostly 13¢ 14¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 5-6, 2022
Cattle futures extended gains Friday with support from higher wholesale beef prices and despite higher Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 61¢ higher (25¢ at the back to 75¢ higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 92¢ higher (25¢ higher at the back to $1.75 higher at the front).
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.35 higher Friday afternoon at $259.42/cwt. Select was $1.99 higher at $238.58/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $141/cwt., $2 lower in Nebraska at $143 and $4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $143-$144. Dressed prices were $4 lower in Nebraska at $228 and $2-$4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $228-$232.
Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter Sept. 2 was 22.7 million head, which was 282,000 head more (+1.3%) than the same time last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production was 18.74 billion lbs., which was 192.1 million lbs. more (+1.0%) than a year earlier.
Corn and Soybean futures bounced back Friday with support including positive export announcements.
Corn futures closed mostly 6¢ to 7¢ higher. Soybean futures closed mostly 21¢ to 25¢ higher through Aug. 23 and then mostly 14¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 2, 2022
Sharply lower Corn futures helped lift Feeder Cattle futures an average of $1.15 higher (70¢ to $1.37 higher).
Corn and Soybean futures continued lower Thursday as it appeared funds continued to liquidate positions on concerns about slowing demand. Corn futures closed mostly 11¢ to 12¢ lower. Soybean futures closed mostly 19¢ to 27¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 24¢ higher, except for unchanged to 17¢ lower in three contracts, despite the week’s softer cash market.
So far this week, live prices are $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $141, $2 lower in Nebraska at $143 and $4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $143-$144. Dressed prices are $4 lower in Nebraska at $228 and $2-$4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $228-$232.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 27¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $258.07/cwt. Select was $1.15 lower at $236.59/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 1, 2022
Sluggish cash trade with weaker undertones and recent significant declines in wholesale beef value pressured Cattle futures Wednesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 40¢ lower, except for an average of 24¢ higher in the front two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 77¢ lower (32¢ to $1.32 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live sales on Tuesday were steady in Nebraska at $145/cwt.
Last week, live prices were $142 in the Southern Plains and $147-$148 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $232 in Nebraska and $232-$234 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.45 lower Wednesday afternoon at $258.34/cwt. Select was $1.94 lower at $237.74/cwt.
Corn futures continued to weaken Wednesday, closing 2¢ to 6¢ lower with pressure including concerns about global economic growth. Soybean futures closed mostly 5¢ to 9¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 31, 2022
Corn futures eased mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower, providing some lift to Cattle futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.26 higher (75¢ at the back to $2.25 in spot Sep). Live Cattle futures closed an average of 67¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were a few early live sales in Nebraska at $145/cwt.
Last week, live prices were $142 in the Southern Plains, $145 in Nebraska and $147-$148 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $232 in Nebraska and $232-$234 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $3.25 lower Tuesday afternoon at $259.79/cwt. Select was $3.07 lower at $239.68/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 30, 2022
Corn futures continued higher Monday with carryover support from last week’s significantly lower yield estimates by the Pro Farmer Tour, compared to USDA’s most recent forecast.
Corn futures closed 11¢ to 18¢ higher through Sep ‘23 and then mostly 4¢ to 7¢ higher.
Another day of rising Corn futures took Feeder Cattle future down another peg, an average of $2.05 lower (70¢ lower at the back to $2.32 lower).
Steady to higher beef values helped Live Cattle futures trickle an average of 22¢ lower., except for 75¢ higher in waning spot Aug.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 28¢ higher Monday afternoon at $263.04/cwt. Select was $3.99 higher at $242.75/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were steady to $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $142/cwt., $1 to $3.50 lower in Nebraska at $145 and $1-$2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $147-$148. Dressed prices were $2 lower in Nebraska at $232 and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $232-$234.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 29, 2022
Corn futures surged mostly 9¢ to 13¢ higher Friday, fueled by significantly lower yield estimates by the Pro Farmer Tour, compared to USDA’s most recent forecast. Soybean futures closed mostly 20¢ to 30¢ higher.
Resurgent Corn futures pressured Feeder Cattle an average of $1.63 lower, except for 67¢ higher in the newly minted back contract.
Generally softer cash trade pressured Live Cattle futures an average of 55¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few live trades in the western Corn Belt at $147/cwt., but too few to trend.
For the week, live prices were steady to $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $142/cwt., generally steady to $1 lower in Nebraska at $145-$148 and $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $146-$148. Dressed prices in Nebraska were $1-$2 lower at $232-$233. Dressed prices in the western Corn Belt the previous week were $234.
Through Thursday, the five-area direct average fed steer price was $2.22 lower on a live basis at $144.54. The average steer price in the beef was $1.15 lower at $232.88.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 78¢ lower Friday afternoon at $262.76/cwt. Select was $1.22 higher at $238.76/cwt.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week was 17,000 head more than the previous week at 678,000 head. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 22.1 million head was 262,000 head more (+1.2%) than the same time last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 18.2 billion lbs. was 175.3 million lbs. more (+0.97%) than the prior year.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 26, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 95¢ higher Thursday, strengthened by lower Corn futures.
Grain futures softened with likely profit taking. Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 8¢ lower. Soybean futures closed mostly 16¢ to 25¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 19¢ higher, except for an average of 15¢ lower in the front three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady to $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $142/cwt., generally steady to $1 lower in Nebraska at $145-$148 and $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $146-$148. Dressed prices in Nebraska are $1-$2 lower at $232-$233. Dressed prices in the western Corn Belt last week were $234.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 71¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $263.54/cwt. Select was 8¢ lower at $237.54/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 25, 2022
Cattle futures edged lower Wednesday, with technical pressure and the week’s higher grain futures prices.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 38¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 51¢ lower, except for unchanged to an average of 45¢ higher up front.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to slow on moderate demand with too few transactions to trend in any region, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few live sales in Nebraska at $145/cwt. and a few in the western Corn Belt at $147. There were also some early dressed trades in Nebraska at $232-$233.
On Tuesday, live sales in the Southern Plains were steady to $1 higher at $142.
Last week, live prices were $146.00-$148.50 in Nebraska and $148-$150 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $234.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 3¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $262.83/cwt. Select was $1.18 lower at $237.62/cwt.
Grain futures softened Wednesday with likely profit taking from the recent price surge.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 7¢ to 11¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 24, 2022
The grain complex roared ahead Tuesday, fueled by mounting concerns about yields based on recent crop ratings and private-company assessments (see Crop Progress below).
Corn futures closed 22¢ to 26¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 13¢ to 16¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 17¢ to 25¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures sagged beneath the weight of sharply higher grain futures, closing an average of $1.71 lower (50¢ to $2.25 lower).
Live Cattle futures edged an average of 26¢ higher, except for unchanged in two contracts, supported by recently stronger cash prices and the aggressive packing pace.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.72 lower Tuesday afternoon at $262.80/cwt. Select was 44¢ higher at $238.80/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to slow on light demand through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
There were some live sales in the Southern Plains steady to $1 higher at $142/cwt. There were a few live trades in the western Corn Belt at $148 but too few to trend.
Last week, live prices were $146.00-$148.50 in Nebraska and $148-$150 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $234.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 23, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive on very light demand through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $141-$142/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $146.00-$148.50 in Nebraska and $148-$150 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $234.
The five-area direct weighted average fed steer price last week was $146.88/cwt. on a live basis, which was $2.49 more than the previous week. The weighted average price in the beef was $4.30 higher at $234.23.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 24¢ higher Monday afternoon at $264.52/cwt. Select was 42¢ higher at $238.36/cwt.
Apparently, bullish supply fundamentals were enough to help Cattle futures mainly fade the bearish Cattle on Feed report, especially given higher Corn futures prices.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 42¢ lower to an average of 22¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 16¢ lower, except for unchanged to an average of 20¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Grain and Soybean futures gained more traction with concerns about drought in China.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 7¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 28¢ to 31¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 22, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on very light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $142/cwt., 50¢ to $1 higher in Nebraska at $145.00-$148.50 and $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $148-$150. Dressed prices were $4-$5 higher at $234.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 11¢ lower Friday afternoon at $264.28/cwt. Select was 47¢ higher at $237.94/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 661,000 head was 14,000 head more than the previous week. Estimated total year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 21.4 million head was 239,000 head more (+1.1%) year over year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 17.65 billion lbs. was 156.1 million lbs. (+0.9%) more.
Stronger cash prices helped Live Cattle edge an average of 22¢ higher on Friday, except for an average of 6¢ lower in two contracts. Week to week they closed an average of 49¢ higher (17¢ to $1.37 higher), except for an average of 7¢ lower in two contracts.
Resurgent Corn futures prices and likely defensiveness ahead of the Cattle on Feed report pressured Feeder Cattle futures an average of 46¢ lower on Friday, except for 12¢ higher in the back contract. Week to week, they closed an average of $1.66 higher (77¢ to $2.32 higher).
Starting the week, traders will likely try to balance recent rains and improved fall grazing prospects in the Southern Plains with Friday’s bearish Cattle on Feed report (see below).
Grain and Soybean futures continued to gain Friday but remained lower week to week with concerns about economic growth in China, as well as the stronger U.S. Dollar.
Corn futures closed 6¢ to 8¢ higher through Sep ‘23 on Friday and then 1¢ to 4¢ higher. They closed an average of 16’6¢ lower through the front six contracts week to week on Friday.
Soybean futures closed mixed, mostly 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher on Friday. Week to week they closed an average of 45’7¢ lower through the front six contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 19, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices continued $2 higher Thursday at $142/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $148-$150 in the western Corn Belt. That was on slow trade and moderate demand, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few dressed trades in the western Corn Belt $5 higher than last week at $234, but too few to trend.
Trade was also slow on moderate demand in Nebraska. There were some early live sales at $146-$148 and a few in the beef at $234, but too few to trend. Last week, prices there were at $144-$148 and $229-$230.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 5¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $264.39/cwt. Select was 42¢ lower at $237.47/cwt.
Cattle futures softened Thursday amid over-bought conditions and likely positioning ahead of Friday’s Cattle on Feed report.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 58¢ lower with most pressure in front contracts.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.10 lower, from 10¢ lower at the back to $1.87 lower.
Grain and Soybean futures continued to gain Thursday, supported by international weather concerns for corn and higher oil prices for soybeans.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 8¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 12¢ to 16¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 18, 2022
Cattle futures extended gains Wednesday, buoyed by strong cash feeder cattle prices and the growing prospects of higher money for cash fed cattle this week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.60 higher. Live Cattle futures edged an average of 36¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some live trades in the Southern Plains at $141/cwt. and a few in the western Corn Belt at $147.
Last week, live prices were $140/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $144-$148 in Nebraska and $146-$148 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $229-$230.
On Wednesday, slaughter steers and heifers sold steady to $2 higher at Sioux Falls Regional in South Dakota. At Tama Livestock in Iowa, Choice slaughter steers and heifers sold $3.50-$4.50 higher amid a light offering.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.10 lower Wednesday afternoon at $264.34/cwt. Select was $1.23 lower at $237.89/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures firmed Wednesday.
Corn futures closed fractionally higher to 4¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ to 9¢ higher through Aug. ’23 and then mostly 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 17, 2022
Cattle futures rallied Tuesday, helped along by another day of lower Corn futures, recently stronger wholesale beef prices and improving supply fundamentals.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.13 higher (60¢ higher at the back to $1.87 higher toward the front).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.03 higher ($1.60 to $2.47 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $140/cwt. In the Southern Plains, $144-$148 in Nebraska and $146-$148 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $229-$230.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 98¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $265.44/cwt. Select was 60¢ lower at $239.12/cwt.
Grain and Soybean futures continued lower Tuesday with continued pressure from uncertain Chinese demand, given slower economic growth in that nation and heightened tension with the U.S.
Corn futures closed 14¢ to 18¢ lower through Sep ‘23 and then 6¢ to 12¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 22¢ to 39¢ lower through Aug ‘23 and then 10¢ to 17¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 16, 2022
Cattle futures weakened Monday, apparently under technical pressure.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 70¢ lower (25¢ to $1.07 lower). Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 58¢ lower (37¢ to 87¢ lower), except for 30¢ higher in spot Aug.
That was despite a down day in the grain complex, where prices were challenged by the stronger dollar, weaker oil prices, positive weather and slowing economic growth in China.
Corn futures closed 12¢ to 14¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly unchanged to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 34¢ to 42¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 20¢ to 23¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $140/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $144-$148 in Nebraska and $146-$148 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $229-$230.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.09 higher Monday afternoon at $264.46/cwt. Select was 13¢ higher at $239.72/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 15, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $4-$5 higher in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt., $4-$5 higher in Nebraska at $144-$148 and $1-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $145-$148. Dressed prices were $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $229-$230 and near the top of the previous week’s trade in the western Corn Belt at $229.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 27¢ higher Friday afternoon at $263.37/cwt. Select was $2.13 higher at $239.59/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 647,000 was 4,000 fewer than the previous week but 11,000 head more than the previous year. Total estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 20.77 million head was 246,000 head more (+1.2%) than a year earlier. Total estimated year-to-date beef production of 17.12 billion lbs. was 171.3 million lbs. more (+1.0%).
Although supported by the week’s stronger cash prices, Live Cattle futures wobbled Friday — an average of 37¢ lower in the front five contracts and then unchanged to an average of 4¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.02 lower, pressured by Corn futures, which were 10¢ to 14¢ higher through Jly ‘23, fueled by the latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below).
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 5¢ higher after 40¢ lower in spot Aug and 14¢ higher in near Sep.
Despite the latest pressure from feed prices, Feeder Cattle futures mainly maintained the previous two week’s strong gains, week to week on Friday. Week to week on Thursday, The CME Feeder Cattle Index closed $2.85 higher at $178.28/cwt. That’s almost $6 higher over the last two weeks.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 12, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate on moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live prices were $4-$5 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $140/cwt. and $4 higher in Kansas at $140.
Elsewhere, trade was limited on light demand with too few transactions to trend. On Wednesday, live prices were $4-$5 higher in Nebraska at $144-$148 and mostly $4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $145-$148. Dressed prices were $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $229-$230 and toward the top of last week’s trading range in the western Corn Belt at $229.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 13¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $263.10/cwt. Select was 38¢ higher at $237.46/cwt.
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed Thursday, up for Live Cattle with stronger cash prices and lower for Feeder Cattle amid higher Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 37¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 35¢ higher (7¢ higher toward the back to $1.40 higher in spot Aug).
Corn and soybean futures rose Thursday, with likely positioning ahead of Friday’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 8¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 19¢ to 20¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 11, 2022
Cattle futures closed higher Wednesday, buoyed by higher outside markets and the positive outlook for cash prices this week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.56 higher ($1.22 to $2.50 higher). Live Cattle futures closed an average of 99¢ higher (57¢ to $1.30 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to slow on light to moderate demand, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some early live sales at $146/cwt. in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt and some early dressed sales in Nebraska at $229.
Last week, live prices were $135-$136/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $136 in Kansas, $140-$143 in Nebraska and $141-$147 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $227 in Nebraska and $225-$232 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.50 lower Wednesday afternoon at $263.23/cwt. Select was 62¢ lower at $237.08/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ higher. Soybean futures closed mixed but mostly fractionally higher to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 10, 2022
Corn futures rallied Tuesday, apparently fueled by more negative crop conditions (see below). They closed 5¢ to 7¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then 2¢ to 3¢ higher. Soybean futures closed mostly 22¢ to 28¢ higher through Aug ‘23, except for sharply higher in the two front contracts, and then 15¢ to 19¢ higher.
Higher grain Futures and oversold conditions pressured Feeder Cattle futures an average of $1.73 lower (90¢ lower at the back to $3.15 lower toward the front). Live Cattle futures closed an average of 47¢ lower (25¢ to $1.05 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $135-$136/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $136 in Kansas, $140-$143 in Nebraska and $141-$147 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $227 in Nebraska and $225-$232 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.51 lower Tuesday afternoon at $264.73/cwt. Select was $1.16 lower at $237.70/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 9, 2022
Last week’s stronger cash prices for feeder and fed cattle, along with softer Corn futures helped Cattle futures extend gains Monday, especially Feeder Cattle, which closed an average of $1.49 higher. Live Cattle futures closed an average of 31¢ higher, except for unchanged in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $135-$136/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $136 in Kansas, $140-$143 in Nebraska and $141-$147 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $227 in Nebraska and $225-$232 in the western Corn Belt.
The five-area direct weighted average steer price last week was $140.84/cwt. on a live basis, which was $1.01 more than the previous week. The weighted average price in the beef was $2.20 higher at $227.83.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.62 higher Monday afternoon at $266.24/cwt. Select was 19¢ higher at $238.86/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 8¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast — Aug. 8, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were 50¢ to $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $136/cwt., $2 higher at $140 in Nebraska and at $143-$147 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $2 higher in Nebraska at $227 and $1-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $225-$232.
Cattle futures edged higher Friday, supported by stronger cash prices.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 24¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 37¢ higher, except for 12¢ lower in Mar.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.66 lower Friday afternoon at $264.62/cwt. Select was $1.68 lower at $238.67/cwt.
Corn and Soybean futures were mixed Friday amid weather speculation and biding time for next week’s USDA yield estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 8¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ to 9¢ lower through Aug ‘23 and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 651,000 head was 18,000 fewer than the previous week but 7,000 head more than the same week last year. Total year-to-date estimated cattle slaughter of 10.1 million head was 238,000 head more (+1.2%) than a year earlier. Total estimated year-to-date beef production of 16.6 billion lbs. was 168.9 million lbs. more (+1.0%) than a year earlier.
The five-area direct weighted average steer price in July was $142.16/cwt. on a live basis. That was 62¢ less than the prior month but $20.13 higher year over year. The average steer price in the beef was $228.25 for July, which was $1.51 less than the previous month but 30.63 higher than the previous year.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 5, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate with light to moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon. Prices were 50¢ to $1 higher at $135.50 to $136/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was limited on light demand with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $2 higher in Nebraska at $140 and generally steady in the western Corn Belt at $141-$145. Dressed prices are steady to $7 higher in Nebraska at $225-$232.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.66 lower Thursday afternoon at $266.28/cwt. Select was 95¢ lower at $240.35/cwt.
Firm to stronger cash fed cattle prices helped Live Cattle futures mostly edge higher and Feeder Cattle futures mostly fade higher Corn futures.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed from an average of 18¢ lower in the front three contracts to an average of 41¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 18¢ lower, except for an average of 17¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Corn futures closed mostly 6¢ to 10¢ higher and Soybean futures closed mostly 40¢ to 57¢ higher, apparently buoyed by technical buying and weather speculation.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 4, 2022
Steady to firmer cash prices helped Live Cattle futures close an average $1.17 higher on Wednesday (67¢ higher at the back to $1.82 higher in spot Aug).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on moderate demand in Nebraska through Wednesday afternoon with live prices at $140-$142/cwt. but mostly $2 higher at $140. Dressed trade there last week was at $225.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand with too few to trend.
On Tuesday, live prices were steady at $135 in the Southern Plains and unevenly steady in the western Corn Belt at $143. Dressed prices there last week were $224-$228.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 52¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $267.94/cwt. Select was 25¢ lower at $241.30/cwt.
Recently lower Corn futures and continued cash strength helped boost Feeder Cattle futures an average of $1.62 higher ($1.22 higher at the front to $2.15 higher at the back).
Corn futures firmed Wednesday and closed mostly fractionally higher to 2¢ higher, following the previous session’s steep decline.
Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 16¢ lower, pressured by lower oil prices.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 3, 2022
Cattle futures weakened Tuesday, pressured by lower wholesale beef prices, the weaker cash outlook and worries about House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan potentially straining the already frayed relationship between the U.S. and China.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.08 lower (57¢ to $1.65 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 17¢ lower, except for 2¢ higher in Jun.
Grain and Soybean futures closed lower again Tuesday with weather pressure and steady crop condition ratings week to week and year over year.
Corn futures closed 11¢ to 15¢ lower through Sep ‘23 and then mostly 5¢ to 8¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 12¢ to 19¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the western Corn Belt through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few live trades at $143/cwt. but too few to trend. Elsewhere, trade was at a standstill.
Last week, live prices were $135/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $138 in Nebraska and $141-$145 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $225 in Nebraska and $224-$228 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.14 lower Tuesday afternoon at $268.46/cwt. Select was $1.35 lower at $241.55/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 2, 2022
A reprieve in Corn futures helped Feeder Cattle climb an average of $1.64 on Monday, further bolstered by last week’s strong cash trade.
Corn futures closed 9¢ to 10¢ lower through new-crop contracts and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower. Pressure was likely due in part to reports that the first load of Ukraine grain exports in too many months left from the port at Odessa.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 66¢ higher, with another day of higher wholesale beef prices.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.36 higher Monday afternoon at $270.60/cwt. Select was 65¢ higher at $242.90/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $135/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $138 in Nebraska and $141-$145 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $225 in Nebraska and $224-$228 in the western Corn Belt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 1, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 98¢ higher on Friday with continued cash strength and stabilizing Corn futures. Week to week, though, they were an average of $3.37 lower, pressured by surging Corn futures, which were an average of 52’1¢ higher through the front six contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 32¢ higher on Friday, supported by firmer wholesale beef values.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.47 higher Friday afternoon at $269.24/cwt. Select was $1.44 higher at $242.25/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light to moderate demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few live sales in the western Corn Belt at $144-$145/cwt., but too few to trend.
For the week, live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $135/cwt., $1.00-$5.50 lower in Nebraska at $139.00-$143.50 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $141-$145. Dressed prices were $2 lower in Nebraska at $225 and $3-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $224-$225.
Estimated total cattle slaughter for the week of 669,000 head was 4,000 head more than the previous week and 23,000 head more than the same week last year. Total estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 19.48 million head was 234,000 head more (+1.2%) than the previous year. Estimated total year-to-date beef production of 16.07 billion lbs. was 169.5 million lbs. more (+1.1%) than a year earlier.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 29, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.55 lower Thursday beneath the weight of higher Corn futures, which were 14¢ to 16¢ higher through new-crop contracts and then mostly 9¢ to 11¢ higher. Soybean futures closed mostly 27¢ to 31¢ higher — both supported by the hotter, drier weather forecast in the Corn Belt.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 37¢ lower to an average of 15¢ higher, supported by positive weekly exports but pressured from lower cash prices and weaker wholesale beef values.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Thursday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far, this week, live prices are $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $135/cwt., $1.00-$5.50 lower in Nebraska at $138 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $141-$145. Dressed prices are $2 lower in Nebraska at $225 and $3-$7 lower in the western Corn Belt at $224-$225.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 22¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $267.77/cwt. Select was $1.00 lower at $240.81/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales of 25,300 metric tons were 6% more than the previous week and 66% more than the prior four-week average, according to the U.S. Export Sales report for the week ending July 21. Increases were primarily for South Korea, Japan, China, Taiwan and Mexico.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 28, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures rose an average of $1.08 Wednesday, bolstered by strong cash demand.
Live Cattle futures edged an average of 13¢ higher, except for an average of 6¢ lower in the front two contracts, despite the weaker cash outlook for the week and wobbly beef prices.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate on moderate demand in Nebraska through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live prices were $1.00-$5.50 lower at $138/cwt. Dressed prices were $2 lower at $225.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on very light demand.
Prices in the Southern Plains were $1 lower on Tuesday at $135.
In the western Corn Belt last week, prices were $141-$145 on a live basis and $227-$232 in the beef.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.12 lower Wednesday afternoon at $267.99/cwt. Select was $2.07 lower at $241.81/cwt.
Higher oil prices helped lift Soybean futures mostly 15¢ to 26¢ higher while Corn futures were up mostly 3¢.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 27, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.79 lower Tuesday, pressured by Corn futures that were 15¢ to 17¢ higher through new-crop contracts as traders added weather premium based on the latest crop conditions, along with further uncertainty regarding Ukrainian exports.
Soybean futures closed 31¢ to 59¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 20¢ to 22¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 61¢ lower, uninspired by early cash direction.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the Texas Panhandle through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few live trades $1 lower at $135/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill with too few transactions to trend.
Last week, live prices were $136 in Kansas, $139.00-$143.50 in Nebraska and $141-$145 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $227-$232.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.00 higher Tuesday afternoon at $269.11/cwt. Select was $1.12 lower at $243.88/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 26, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.76 lower Monday, pressured by higher Corn futures, bearish feedlot placements in Friday’s Cattle on Feed report and likely profit taking.
Corn futures reversed direction and closed 15¢ to 19¢ higher through new-crop contracts after Russia attacked one of Ukraine’s deep seaports before the ink dried on the agreement signed Friday which was supposed to enable resumption of Ukraine grain exports in the Black Sea region. Soybean futures closed mostly 28¢ to 30¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 22¢ lower in three contracts to an average of 25¢ higher, supported by stronger wholesale beef prices.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 99¢ higher Monday afternoon at $268.11/cwt. Select was $2.50 higher at $245.00/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $136 in the Southern Plains, $139.00-$143.50 in Nebraska and $142-$144 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $227 in Nebraska and $227-$230 in the western Corn Belt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 25, 2022
Cattle futures took a step higher Friday, apparently buoyed by bullish expectations for the USDA reports that came out later that day (see below).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.38 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.42 higher (85¢ higher at the back to $2.02 higher toward the front).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $136/cwt. and $1.00 to $1.50 lower at $139.00-$143.50 in Nebraska and $142-$144 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices in Nebraska were $3 lower at $227.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 64¢ lower Friday afternoon at $267.12/cwt. Select was $1.97 higher at $242.50/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 665,000 head was 9,000 head fewer than the previous week, but 10,000 head more than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 18.8 million head was 212,000 more (+1.1%). Estimated year-to-date beef production of 15.5 billion lbs. was 152.6 million lbs. more (+1.0%).
Corn futures closed 9¢ to 11¢ lower through new-crop contracts and then mostly 4¢ to 5¢ lower, apparently pressured by favorable weather and the agreement between Ukraine and Russia which is supposed to enable resumption of Ukraine grain exports in the Black Sea region.
Soybean futures closed mostly 12¢ to 16¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 22, 2022
Corn futures dredged 15¢ to 16¢ lower through new-crop contracts and then mostly 12¢ to 13¢ lower, pressured by favorable weather and reports suggesting Ukraine, Russia, Turkey and the UN would sign an agreement Friday that would enable resumption of Ukraine Black Sea grain exports.
Soybean futures closed mostly 24¢ to 30¢ lower, also pressured by lower Crude Oil.
Feeder Cattle futures gained an average of 49¢ with the lower Corn futures, although reluctantly.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 41¢ lower, except for 20¢ higher in the back contract, on the week’s lower cash tone and perhaps with some deference to Friday’s semiannual Cattle report and monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light trade through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were some live trades in Kansas at $136/cwt. and a few dressed sales in the western Corn Belt at $232.
In established trade for the week, live prices are $1 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $136 and $1.00-$1.50 lower in Nebraska at $139.00-$143.50, where dressed prices are $3 lower at $227.
Last week, live prices were $137 in Kansas and $143.50-$145.00 in the western Corn Belt, where dressed prices were $228-$230.
Wholesale beef values resumed the seasonal decline. Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.77 lower Thursday afternoon at $267.76/cwt. Select was $1.72 lower at $240.53/cwt.
U.S. net beef export sales of 23,800 metric tons for the week of July 14 were up noticeably from the previous week and were 97% more than the prior four-week average, according to the weekly U.S. Export Sales report. Increases were primarily for South Korea, Japan, China, Mexico and Hong Kong.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 21, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices were $1-$3 lower in Nebraska Wednesday at $139-$142/cwt. Dressed prices were $3 lower at $227. That was on slow trade and light demand, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Elsewhere, trade was limited on light demand with too few transactions to trend.
Live sales were $1 lower in the Texas Panhandle on Tuesday at $136.
Last week, live sales were $137 in Kansas and $143.50-$145.00 in the western Corn Belt, where dressed prices were $228-$230.
Despite the softer cash tone, recently firmer wholesale beef values helped Live Cattle close narrowly mixed, from 32¢ lower to 25¢ higher.
However, Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.04 lower Wednesday afternoon at $270.53/cwt. Select was $1.48 lower at $242.25/cwt.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 80¢ lower with likely profit taking and retrenching ahead of Friday’s semiannual Cattle report and the monthly Cattle on Feed report.
Favorable weather pressured Corn and Soybean futures Wednesday.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 5¢ lower through new-crop contracts and then mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 22¢ to 25¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 20, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures rallied an average of $2.13 higher Tuesday, propelled by lower Corn futures and ongoing cash demand strength.
Corn futures closed 13¢ to 15¢ lower through new-crop contracts on weather pressure and then mostly 7¢ to 8¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 17¢ to 22¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 9¢ to 12¢ lower.
Positive outside markets, Feeder Cattle and higher wholesale beef values helped pull Live Cattle futures an average of 48¢ higher.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.02 higher Tuesday afternoon at $272.57/cwt. Select was $1.07 higher at $243.73/cwt.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was $1 lower in the Texas Panhandle on Tuesday at $136/cwt. with moderate trade and light to moderate demand.
Elsewhere, trade was mostly inactive on light demand with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $137 in Kansas, $140-$145 in Nebraska and $143.50 to $145.00 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $230 in Nebraska and $228-$230 in the western Corn Belt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 19, 2022
Soybean futures closed sharply higher Monday, boosted by a bounce in oil prices, carrying Corn along for the ride. Extreme heat in the short-term forecast added support.
Soybean futures closed 31¢ to 38¢ higher through Sep ‘23 and then mostly 26¢ to 27¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 6¢ higher.
Even so, Cattle futures firmed Monday, supported by stronger wholesale beef values.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.64 higher Monday afternoon at $270.55/cwt. Select was 87¢ higher at $242.66/cwt.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 42¢ higher (42¢ to $1.05 higher).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 37¢ higher, except for an average of 18¢ lower in two nearby contracts.
There was no established negotiated cash fed cattle trade through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $137/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $140-$145 in Nebraska and $143.50-$145.00 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $228-$230.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 18, 2022
Cattle futures continued to soften Friday on the week’s lower cash fed cattle prices and ongoing recession fears.
Pressure could have also included uncertainty regarding the railroad strike set to begin Monday. Ultimately the strike was averted, at least for now, when President Biden signed an executive order Friday, creating a Presidential Emergency Board (PEB). The PEB has 30 days to recommend a resolution. The railroads and the unions then have another 30 days to negotiate a settlement.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.29 lower (57¢ to $2.55 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 64¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $137/cwt., steady to $4 lower in Nebraska at $144-$145 and $2-$5 in the western Corn Belt at $145. Dressed prices were $2 lower in Nebraska at $230 and $2-$4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $228-$230.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.16 higher Friday afternoon at $268.91/cwt. Select was 12¢ lower at $241.79/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 677,000 head was 84,000 head more than the previous holiday-shortened week. Total estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 18.2 million head was 211,000 head more (+1.2%) than last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 15.0 billion lbs. was 153.5 million lbs. more (+1.0%).
Corn and Soybean futures closed narrowly mixed Friday as traders positioned following the massive selloff earlier in the week.
Corn futures closed mixed from fractionally lower to 2¢ higher through Sep ‘23, and then 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly fractionally mixed to 1¢ higher through Sep ‘23 and then 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 15, 2022
Cattle futures ran out of steam Thursday amid higher Corn futures, softer cash fed cattle prices and continued volatility in outside markets. Perhaps the possibility of a U.S. railroad strike on Monday also played a role.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.29 lower (87¢ to $1.90 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.33 lower through the front four contracts, then an average of 79¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady in the Southern Plains at $137/cwt., steady to $4 lower in Nebraska at $144-$145 and $2-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $145. Dressed prices are $2 lower in Nebraska at $230 and $2-$4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $228-$230.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 30¢ lower through Thursday afternoon at $267.75/cwt. Select was 65¢ lower at $241.91/cwt.
A hotter, drier forecast helped lift Corn futures mostly 5¢ to 8¢ higher, except for 45¢ lower in spot Jly. However, declining oil prices weighed on Soybean futures, which were mostly 7¢ to 13¢ lower, except for 22¢ higher in spot Jly.
So far Friday, Cattle futures are trending lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 14, 2022
Strong cash demand continued to bolster Feeder Cattle futures, Wednesday, helping Live Cattle to continue edging higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.17 higher. Live Cattle futures closed an average of 30¢ higher, except for unchanged in one contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate in the Southern Plains and Nebraska through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $137/cwt. and steady to $4 lower in Nebraska at $144-$145, where dressed prices were $2 lower at $230.
Trade was limited on light demand in the western Corn Belt with too few transactions to trend. Last week, live prices were $145-$150 on a live basis and $232 in the beef.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 46¢ lower through Wednesday afternoon at $268.05/cwt. Select was 91¢ lower at $241.26/cwt.
Grain markets firmed Wednesday as traders retrenched following recent steep losses.
Corn futures closed mostly 7¢ to 8¢ higher. Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ to 12¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 13, 2022
Grain markets were the story once again on Tuesday, melting down beneath the weight of bearish outside markets, the climbing U.S. dollar, a more optimistic weather outlook and apparently little impact from the latest monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE-see below).
Corn futures closed 36¢ to 48¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 15¢ to 19¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 48¢ to 63¢ lower through Sep ’23, then mostly 38¢ to 43¢ lower.
Sharply lower Corn futures and strong cash demand boosted Feeder Cattle an average of $3.48 higher, (from $2.98 higher to $4.70 higher).
That and firm wholesale Choice beef value helped Live Cattle edge an average of 41¢ higher, except for unchanged and down 25¢ in two contracts.
Last week, live prices were $137/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $144-$149 in Nebraska and $147-$150 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $232.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 37¢ higher through Tuesday afternoon at $268.51/cwt. Select was 83¢ lower at $242.17/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 12, 2022
Strong cash demand for calves and feeder cattle, with snugger supplies looming, helped boost
Feeder Cattle futures an average of $2.09 higher Monday ($1.60 higher toward the back to $3.15 higher in spot Aug).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.26 higher (82¢ higher toward the back to $2.20 higher in spot Aug), helped along by firm wholesale beef values.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value 25¢ higher through Monday afternoon at $268.14/cwt. Select was $1.15 higher at $243.00.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged between mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were steady to $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $137/cwt., $1-$2 lower in Nebraska at $144-$149 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $147-$150. Dressed prices were $2 lower at $232.
The average five-area direct fed steer price last week was $144.35/cwt. on a live basis, which was $1.81 less than the previous week. The average price in the beef was $1.74 less at $232.22.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 5¢ higher through new-crop contracts on Monday and then mostly 6¢ to 8¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 7¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 11, 2022
Grain and Soybean futures rallied higher Friday, apparently mostly due to a wetter, drier forecast.
Corn futures closed mostly 25¢ to 31¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 10¢ to 22¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 24¢ to 39¢ higher through Aug ’24 and then mostly 10¢ to 21¢ higher.
Stronger grain futures pressured Feeder Cattle futures an average of $1.28 lower, (from 75¢ lower to $1.58 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 53¢ lower through the front four contracts to an average of 21¢ higher, except for unchanged in the back contract. The anemic weekly export sales report could have provided some pressure. Net U.S. beef export sales the week ending the week of June 30 were 3% less than the previous week and 23% less than the prior four-week average, according to USDA.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service, with too few transactions to trend.
For the week, live prices were steady to $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $137/cwt., $1-$2 lower in Nebraska at $144-$149 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $147-$150. Dressed prices in Nebraska were $2 lower at $232.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value 18¢ lower through Friday afternoon at $267.89/cwt. Select was 73¢ lower at $241.85
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 8, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate on moderate demand through Thursday afternoon in the Southern Plains and Nebraska. Live prices were steady to $1 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $137/cwt., mostly $1 lower in Kansas at $137 and $1-$2 lower in Nebraska at $144-$149, where dressed prices were $2 lower at $232.
Trade was limited on light to moderate demand in the western Corn Belt. Live prices the previous day were $150 — the top of last week’s range — and dressed prices were steady at $234.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 2¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $268.07/cwt. Select was 35¢ lower at $242.58.
Stronger grain futures pressured Feeder Cattle Thursday, while firmer beef values helped Live Cattle stay the course.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 82¢ lower (42¢ to $1.05 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 18¢ higher, except for 10¢ lower in near Oct.
Grain and Soybean futures rallied back Thursday on oversold conditions and supportive outside markets.
Corn futures closed mostly 9¢ to 11¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 2¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 38¢ to 43¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 12¢ to 20¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 7, 2022
Cattle futures gained Wednesday, helped along by a bounce higher in wholesale beef values.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $3.39 higher Wednesday afternoon at $268.05/cwt. Select was $3.06 higher at $242.93.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.17 higher (60¢ higher in spot Aug to $1.32 higher at the back).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 96¢ higher ($1.57 higher in spot Aug to 12¢ higher at the back).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $137-138/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $145 in Colorado, $145-$151 in Nebraska and $147-$150 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $234.
Grain and Soybean futures firmed Wednesday as traders re-trenched after recent steep losses.
Corn futures closed 5¢ to 7¢ higher through new-crop contracts and then 2¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 7¢ higher through Jan ‘23 and then mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 6, 2022
Another round of heavy fund selling — tied to recessionary fears — held sway in commodity markets Tuesday.
Corn futures closed mostly 24¢ to 29¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 70¢ to 79¢ lower through Aug ‘23 and then mostly 55¢ to 60¢ lower. Both were also pressured by favorable weather.
Cattle futures were caught in the commodity backwash with Feeder Cattle futures closing an average of $1.49 lower and Live Cattle futures closing an average of $1.65 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $137-138/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $145 in Colorado, $145-$151 in Nebraska and $147-$150 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $234.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 84¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $264.66/cwt. Select was 60¢ lower at $239.87.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 4 and 5—2022
Weaker grain futures and strong country trade helped Feeder Cattle futures take another step higher Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.57 higher, while Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.14 higher (55¢ to $2.62 higher).
Grain and Soybean futures were down again on extended fund liquidation and plummeting open interest.
Corn futures closed mostly 7¢ to 12¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 47¢ to 62¢ lower through Aug. ‘23 and then mostly 25¢ to 37¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade Friday ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week (last established) live prices were $1 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $137/cwt., steady to $1 higher in Kansas at $138, steady in Colorado at $145, steady to $3 higher in Nebraska at $145-$151 and unevenly steady ($2 lower to $3 higher) in the western Corn Belt at $148. Dressed prices were steady in Nebraska at $234 and steady to $6 lower in the western Corn Belt at $234.
The average five-area direct fed steer price was $1.60 higher on a live basis at $146.10/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was 97¢ lower at $233.94.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 18¢ lower Friday afternoon at $263.82/cwt. Select was 10¢ lower at $240.47.
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Cattle Current Podcast—July 1, 2022
Grain markets were the story on Thursday as Corn and Soybean futures tumbled, likely having more to do with quarter-end fund liquidation than the latest USDA Grain Stocks and Acreage reports, which were likely regarded as neutral overall.
On Thursday, Corn futures closed 24¢ to 35¢ lower through new-crop contracts and then mostly 11¢ to 20¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 19¢ to 29¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures climbed an average of $2.17 higher Thursday, from $1.50 higher at the back to $2.87 higher in spot August.
Expiring spot June Live Cattle futures closed $1.20 higher at $138 and then an average of 32¢ higher, except for unchanged to an average of 21¢ lower in three contracts.
Cattle futures are higher again so far today.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade in the Texas Panhandle Thursday was $1 lower than the previous day at $137/cwt.; steady to $1 lower for the week.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill with too few transactions to trend.
For the week, live prices are steady to $1 higher in Kansas at $138, steady in Colorado at $145, steady to $3 higher in Nebraska at $145-$151 and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $147-$150. Dressed prices are steady in Nebraska at $234 and steady to $6 lower in the western Corn Belt at $234.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 88¢ lower through Thursday afternoon at $264.00/cwt. Select was 24¢ lower at $240.57.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 30, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was light to moderate on moderate demand in Nebraska and the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices were steady in the Texas Panhandle at $138/cwt, steady to $1 higher in Kansas at $138 and steady to $3 higher in Nebraska at $145-$151. Dressed prices in Nebraska were steady at $234.
Elsewhere, trade was limited on moderate demand with too few transactions to trend. Last week live prices were $145 in Colorado and $145-$150 in the western Corn Belt, where dressed prices were $234-$240.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.26 lower through Wednesday afternoon at $264.88/cwt. Select was $2.50 lower at $240.81.
Cattle futures extended losses Wednesday, with a lack of cash direction early in the session.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 66¢ lower (7¢ lower toward the back to $1.17 lower toward the front).
Live Cattle futures an average of 53¢ lower, except for 50¢ higher in expiring spot Jun.
Corn and Soybean futures closed mixed ahead of Thursday’s much-anticipated USDA Grain Stocks and Acreage reports.
Corn futures closed 5¢ to 6¢ lower through new-crop contracts and then mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 15¢ higher through Aug ‘23. And then 8¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 29, 2022
Cattle futures closed lower Tuesday, basically giving back what was gained the previous session as Corn futures gained and cash fed cattle prices for the week remained unestablished.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.42 lower (77¢ lower at the back to $2.30 lower in spot Aug).
Live Cattle futures an average of 44¢ lower, except for 5¢ higher in waning spot Jun.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $137-$138/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $145-$148 in the Northern Plains and $145-$150 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $234-$240.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.54 lower Tuesday afternoon at $267.14/cwt. Select was $1.93 lower at $243.31.
Corn and Soybean futures closed higher on lower week-to-week crop ratings.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 8¢ higher through new-crop contracts and then mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 25¢ to 29¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 28, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures rallied back Monday, closing an average of $1.63 higher (65¢ higher at the back to $2.20 higher). They recovered the previous session’s losses, helped along by lower Corn futures and carried Live Cattle along.
Live Cattle futures an average of an average of 47¢ higher, also helped by higher wholesale values.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $3.70 higher Monday afternoon at $268.68/cwt. Select was 22¢ higher at $245.24.
Corn futures closed 18¢ to 20¢ lower through new-crop contracts on the positive weather outlook.
Higher crude oil and vegetable oil prices helped boost Soybean futures mostly 5¢ to 8¢ higher through Jly ‘23
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service
Last week, live prices were $137-$138/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $145-$148 in the Northern Plains and $145-$150 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $234-$240.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 27, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $3-$4 lower in the Southern Plains at $137/cwt., steady in Colorado at $145, steady to $5 higher in Nebraska at $145-$150 and $2-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $147-$150. Dressed prices were $4-$8 higher at $234-$238.
Through Thursday, the five-area direct average fed steer price was 77¢ higher on a live basis at $144.50/cwt. The average price in the beef was $5.18 higher at $234.91.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 666,000 head was 1,000 head fewer than the previous week but 6,000 head more than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 16.24 million head was 159,000 more than last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 13.45 billion lbs. was 127.10 million lbs. more than the same time last year.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 26¢ lower to an average of 16¢ higher.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 32¢ higher Friday afternoon at $264.98/cwt. Select was 8¢ higher at $245.02.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 24, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures gained Thursday, closing an average of $1.11 higher and supported by the selloff in Corn futures, which closed 26¢ to 38¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 55¢ to 61¢ lower through Aug ’23 and then mostly 41¢ to 45¢ lower. Grain futures were pressured by the crop-friendly weather forecast in the Corn Belt and an overall meltdown in commodities.
Despite higher cash prices in the North, lower wholesale beef values and looming larger supplies helped pressure Live Cattle an average of 96¢ lower.
Premiums for fed cattle up north continued to climb Thursday.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade and demand were moderate in Nebraska on Thursday with live prices steady to $3 higher at $145-$148/cwt. Dressed prices were $4 higher at $234.
Trade in the western Corn Belt was slow to moderate with moderate demand. Live prices were $2-$3 higher than the previous day at $150. Dressed prices the previous day were $8-$10 higher than last week at $238-$240.
In Colorado, trade was slow on light demand with live prices steady at $145.
Trade in Kansas was slow on light demand. Live prices were steady to $4 lower than previous day at $137. Prices in the region last week were $140.
Trade was mostly inactive on light demand in the Texas Panhandle. So far this week, prices are mainly $3 lower at $137.
The average dressed steer weight for the week ending June 11 was 879 lbs., which was 3 lbs. less than the prior week and year, according to the USDA Actual Slaughter Under Federal Inspection report. The average dressed heifer weight of 814 lbs. was the same as the previous week but 3 lbs. heavier than the prior year. Total fed cattle slaughter of 528,748 head was 5,089 head fewer than the same week last year. Beef production of 542.8 million lbs. was 4 million lbs. less year over year.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.91 lower through Thursday afternoon at $264.66/cwt. Select was $1.05 lower at $244.94.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 23, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices were mostly $2 lower on a live basis in Kansas through Wednesday afternoon at $138/cwt. That was on slow trade and moderate demand, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Prices were $2 lower to $2 higher at $138 in the Texas Panhandle on Tuesday.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on very light demand.
Last week, live prices were $145/cwt. in the Northern Plains and western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $230.
Softer cash prices, wavering outside markets and anemic technical support pressured Cattle futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.38 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.26 lower.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 99¢ lower through Wednesday afternoon at $266.57/cwt. Select was 71¢ lower at $245.99.
Corn and Soybean futures mainly extended losses, pressured by crop progress and lower Crude Oil.
Corn futures closed 7¢ lower through new crop contracts and then 1¢ to 4¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 30¢ to 34¢ lower through Jly ’23 and then mostly 20¢ to 27¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 22, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures extended gains Tuesday, closing an average of $2.37 higher on Corn futures that were 23¢ to 29¢ lower through Jly ’23, pressured by a favorable short-term weather outlook and positive crop progress and conditions. Soybean futures closed 20¢ to 28¢ lower through Mar ’23.
Live Cattle hovered ahead of the week’s cash direction closing an average of 19¢ lower, except for an average of 35¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $145/cwt. in the Northern Plains and western Corn Belt. They were $140 in Kansas and $136-$140 in the Texas Panhandle. Dressed prices were $230.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.06 higher through Tuesday afternoon at $267.56/cwt. Select was 31¢ higher at $246.70.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 20-21, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices ended up $3-$4 higher in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt., $2-$4 higher in the Northern Plains at $145 and mostly steady to $4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $140-$146. Dressed prices were $4-$5 higher at $230.
The five-area direct fed steer price through Thursday was $3.21 higher at $143.73. The average steer price in the beef was $3.71 higher at $229.73.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 667,000 head was 7,000 fewer than the previous week but 3,000 head more than the same week last year. Year-to-date total estimated cattle slaughter of 15.58 million head was 156,000 more (+1.0%) than the same period last year. Total estimated year-to-date beef production of 12.92 billion lbs. was 130.5 million lbs. more (+0.8%).
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 90¢ lower through Friday afternoon at $266.26/cwt. Select was $1.15 higher at $246.53.
Cattle futures continued to gain Friday with the week’s higher cash prices, aggressive fed cattle slaughter and weaker Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.32 higher (40¢ higher at the back to $1.65 higher in spot Aug).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 38¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 7¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 5¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 17, 2022
Grain and soybean futures rallied Thursday with extreme heat and dry conditions forecast for the Corn Belt.
Corn futures closed 11¢ to 14¢ higher through Jly ‘23, and then mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 14¢ to 19¢ higher.
Stouter corn prices helped pressure Feeder Cattle futures an average of $1.66 lower.
Live Cattle futures mostly held their ground, supported by stronger cash prices, closing an average of 30¢ lower, except for unchanged to an average of 13¢ higher in three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live sales were $3 higher than last week in Kansas at $140 and $2-$4 higher than Tuesday in the Texas Panhandle at $140.
Elsewhere, for the week, live prices are $2-$4 higher in the Northern Plains at $145 and $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $144-$146. Dressed prices are $4-$5 higher at $230.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.06 lower through Thursday afternoon at $267.16/cwt. Select was 30¢ lower at $267.16.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 16, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to slow with moderate demand through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady to $2 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $136-$138/cwt., $4 higher in Colorado at $145, $2-$4 higher in Nebraska at $145 and $2-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $144-$145. Dressed prices are $4-$5 higher at $230. Live prices in Kansas last week were $137-$138.
Cash price strength helped boost Cattle futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.22 higher (55¢ to $1.97 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.22 higher (20¢ higher toward the back to $2.72 higher toward the front).
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.22 lower through Wednesday afternoon at $268.22/cwt. Select was $1.14 lower at $245.68.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally mixed, except for 5¢ higher in the spot month.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower through Sep ‘23 and then mostly fractionally lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 15, 2022
Packers showed their hand early and came out swinging in Nebraska Tuesday where live prices were $4-$6 higher at $145-$149/cwt. That was on slow trade and light demand. Dressed trade there last week was $225-$226.
Elsewhere, trade was limited on light demand with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. However, early prices were steady to higher.
Last week, live prices were $136-$137 in the Southern Plains, $141 in Colorado and $141-$143 in the western Corn Belt, where dressed trade was $225.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.10 lower through Tuesday afternoon at $269.44/cwt. Select was 63¢ lower at $246.82.
Cattle futures closed little changed Tuesday but firmed following the previous day’s decline.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 14¢ lower, except for an average of 8¢ higher in two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 42¢ higher (7¢ to $1.20 higher).
Corn futures closed fractionally lower to 1¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 11¢ lower through Aug ‘23 and then mostly fractionally lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 14, 2022
Cattle futures sagged Monday beneath the weight of continued sharply lower outside markets as traders try to navigate everything from slowing economic growth, to increasing COVID cases in China and Russia’s war with Ukraine.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.04 lower ($1.42 to $3.15 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.97 lower ($1.52 to $2.32 lower).
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally mixed to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 27¢ to 38¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 19¢ to 21¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $136 in the Texas Panhandle, $137 in Kansas, $141 in Colorado, and $141-$143 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $225-$226.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 78¢ lower through Monday afternoon at $270.54/cwt. Select was $1.44 lower at $247.45.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 13, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices were $2 higher in Kansas through Friday afternoon at $137/cwt. That was on slow to moderate trade and moderate demand, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were also a few trades in the Texas Panhandle at $137, but too few to trend; established trade for the week was $1 higher at $136.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill. For the week, live prices were $3 higher in Nebraska at $142-$143 and $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $142-$143. Dressed prices were $3-$4 higher at $225-$226.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 22¢ higher Friday afternoon at $271.32/cwt. Select was 72¢ lower at $248.89.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 674,000 head was 71,000 more than the previous holiday-shortened week and 4,000 head more than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 14.9 million head is 149,000 head more than last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 12.4 billion lbs. is 129 million lbs. more than last year.
Cattle futures softened Friday, pressured by sharply lower outside markets and likely week-end profit taking.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.07 lower (75¢ to $1.55 lower).
The CME Feeder Cattle Index closed $7.58 higher week to week on Thursday at $161.87/cwt.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 64¢ lower, from 50¢ lower at the back to $1.00 lower toward the front.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 6¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 14¢ to 20¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 10, 2022
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed Thursday, retaining most of the previous strong gains, supported by stronger cash fed cattle prices and aggressive slaughter.
Feeder Cattle futures closed 12¢ and 38¢ higher in the front two contracts and then an average of 45¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from 33¢ lower 28¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on very light demand through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $136/cwt., $3 higher in Nebraska at $142-$143 and $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $142-$143. Dressed prices are $3-$4 higher at $225-$226.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 64¢ lower through Thursday afternoon at $271.10/cwt. Select was 20¢ higher at $249.61
Corn futures closed narrowly mixed, mostly 1¢ lower to up 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 29¢ higher through Jan ‘23. And then mainly 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 9, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices continued to gain Wednesday with live prices $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $136/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $142-$143 and steady in Colorado at $141. Dressed prices in Nebraska are mostly $3-$4 higher at $225-$226, but a few up to $228. That was on moderate trade and demand, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Trade was limited on moderate demand in the western Corn Belt. So far this week, live prices are steady to $2 higher at $141-$142. Dressed prices in the region last week were $222.
Stronger cash prices helped Cattle futures step higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.10 higher, while Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.29 higher.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 32¢ higher through Wednesday afternoon at $271.74/cwt. Select was 15¢ lower at $249.41.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 7¢ higher through new-crop contracts and then 1¢ to 6¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 9¢ to 18¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 8, 2022
Recently stronger wholesale beef prices helped Cattle futures firm Tuesday, despite another day of higher Corn futures.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 71¢ higher (3¢ higher at the back to $1.22 higher toward the front).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 17¢ higher except for unchanged in Jan.
Corn futures closed mostly 12¢ to 14¢ higher through new-crop contracts and then 16¢ to 20¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 9¢ to 29¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in the western Corn Belt through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. A few live sales traded at $141/cwt. Trading was at a standstill in the Southern Plains and Nebraska.
Last week, live prices were $135 in the Southern Plains, $139-$140 in Nebraska and $140-$141 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $222.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.84 higher Tuesday afternoon at $271.42/cwt. Select was $1.53 lower at $249.56
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 7, 2022
Corn futures surged 11¢ to 15¢ higher through Jly ‘23 on Monday, tied to increased uncertainty stemming from Russia’s weekend destruction of a major grain export terminal in the southern part of Ukraine.
That helped pressure Feeder Cattle futures an average of $1.32 lower (85¢ lower at the back to $1.90 lower in spot Aug).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 57¢ lower, except for 22¢ higher in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Last week, live prices were $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $135/cwt. and steady to $1 lower at $139-$140 in Nebraska and $140-$141 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $1-$2 lower in Nebraska at $222 and steady to $5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $222.
The five-area weighted average direct fed steer price last week was $1 lower on a live basis at $138.07/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was $2.10 lower at $221.89.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.32 higher through Monday afternoon at $269.58/cwt. Select was $1.07 higher at $251.09.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 6, 2022
Overall, Cattle futures extended gains Friday as nearby Corn futures continued to soften.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 58¢ higher. They were an average of $6.23 higher week to week on Friday as Corn futures declined an average of 40.3¢ through the front six contracts during the same period.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed on Friday, down 3¢ to 28¢ in the front two contracts, then up an average of 21¢. Week to week, however, they were an average of $1.96 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend accord to the agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $135/cwt., $1 lower in Nebraska at $139 and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $140. Dressed prices were $1-$2 lower in Nebraska at $222 and steady to $5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $222.
Wholesale beef prices continued to gain last week. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.84 higher week to week on Friday at $267.26/cwt. Select was $3.52 higher at $250.02.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 3, 2022
Cattle futures extended the previous day’s rally, apparently helped along by technical support and perhaps emboldened by corn planting progress and recent rains across the country.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.70 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.74 higher, from 83¢ in spot June to $2.15 in Dec.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 77¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $266.65/cwt. Select was 72¢ higher at $249.63.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend accord to the agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices are $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $135/cwt., $1 lower in Nebraska at $139 and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $140. Dressed prices are $1-$2 lower in Nebraska at $222 and steady to $5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $222.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 21¢ to 39¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 10¢ to 18¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 2, 2022
A second consecutive day of sharply lower new-crop Corn futures prices helped Feeder Cattle futures roar an average of $3.87 higher.
Corn futures closed 17¢ to 22¢ lower through Jly ‘23, and then mostly 11¢ to 13¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 7¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 4¢ to 6¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.41 higher, from 25¢ higher at the back to $2.52 higher toward the front. That was despite the softer start to negotiated cash fed cattle prices this week of $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $135/cwt.
Live prices last week were $140 in Nebraska and $140-$142 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $223-$224 in Nebraska and $222-$227 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 12¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $267.42/cwt. Select was 26¢ higher at $248.91.
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Cattle Current Podcast—June 1, 2022
Cattle futures took a step lower Tuesday to start the trading week, caught in the broader commodity market downdraft and amid month-end positioning.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.20 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.31 lower, from 20¢ lower at the back to $2.02 lower toward the front.
Corn futures closed 15¢ to 23¢ lower through old-crop contracts, and then mostly 7¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 30¢ to 49¢ lower through Sep ‘23 and then 23¢ to 24¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $137/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $140 in Nebraska and $140-$142 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $223-$224 in Nebraska and $222-$227 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.12 higher Tuesday afternoon at $267.54/cwt. Select was $2.15 higher at $248.65.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 30-31, 2022
Wholesale beef prices gained on Friday heading into the unofficial start of grilling season. Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.45 higher Friday afternoon at $265.42/cwt. Select was $2.07 higher at $246.50.
Firmer beef prices helped Live Cattle futures close an average of 22¢ higher, except for an average of 18¢ lower in the front three contracts and unchanged in Apr. They were an average of 48¢ higher week to week on Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 67¢ lower, from 35¢ lower in new spot Aug to $1.02 lower, amid continued light trade and under pressure from higher Corn futures once gain. However, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.53 higher week to week on Friday, despite the previous week’s bearish Cattle on Feed report.
Corn futures closed 10¢ to 12¢ higher through Jly ‘23, and then mostly 4¢ higher, presumably helped along by dry weather in South America. Soybean futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $137/cwt., steady to $2 lower at $140 in Nebraska and $140-$142 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $3 lower in Nebraska at $223. The previous week dressed prices were $223-$227 in the western Corn belt, and live prices in Colorado were $142.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 644,000 head was 36,000 head fewer than the previous week, but 14,000 head more than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 13.63 million head was 92,000 head more (+0.7%) than the same period last year. Estimated year-to-date total beef production of 11.36 billion lbs. was 101.5 million lbs. more (+0.9%) than the same time last year.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 27, 2022
Cattle futures softened with the week’s weaker cash prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 80¢ lower, from 2¢ lower in waning spot May to $1.32 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 33¢ lower, except for an average of 8¢ higher in the front two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow trade on light demand to mostly inactive on very light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing service.
Although too few to trend, there were a few live trades in Kansas at $136/cwt. and a few dressed trades in Nebraska at $224.
Established live cattle prices so far this week are $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $137, steady to $2 lower in Nebraska at $140 and $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $140. Dressed prices are $3 lower in Nebraska at $223.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.04 higher Thursday afternoon at $263.97/cwt. Select was 37¢ higher at $244.43.
Corn futures closed mixed, 3¢ to 5¢ lower in new-crop contracts and then mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 30¢ to 45¢ higher through Jan ’23 and then mostly 13¢ to 24¢ higher, helped along by oil prices.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 26, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow to moderate on moderate demand in Nebraska through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live prices were $2 lower at $140/cwt. and dressed prices were generally $3 lower at $222-$225.
Elsewhere, trade was limited on light demand with too few transactions to trend.
Earlier in the week, live prices were $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $137.
Last week, live prices were $142 in Colorado and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices in the Western Corn Belt were $223-$227.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 72¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $262.93/cwt. Select was $1.29 lower at $244.06.
Feeder Cattle futures eased an average of 33¢ higher, except for an average of 11¢ lower in two contracts, helped along by weaker Corn futures.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 29¢ lower, except for an average of 34¢ higher in the back three contracts, struggling with lower cash prices and the likelihood seasonal beef prices are near the peak.
Grain futures were under pressure Wednesday, due to planting progress, China’s announcement that it will begin importing corn from Brazil and Russia’s announcement that it would allow grain exports from Ukraine in exchange for the easing of some current sanctions.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 7¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 12¢ lower in old-crop contracts, 1¢ 4¢ lower through May ’23 and then mostly 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 25, 2022
Lower Corn futures helped Feeder Cattle extend gains Tuesday. They closed an average of $2.56 higher ($1.05 higher in spot May to $3.17 higher at the back).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 23¢ higher, except for an average of 14¢ lower in the front two contracts and unchanged at the back.
Corn futures closed 12¢ to 14¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 2¢ lower, pressured by resurgent planting progress.
Soybean futures closed mostly unchanged to 3¢ lower, except for fractionally higher to 6¢ higher in the front three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade in the Southern Plains was $1 lower through Tuesday afternoon at $137/cwt., according to the Agricultural marketing Service. That was on moderate trade and demand in the Texas Panhandle and slow trade on moderate demand in Kansas.
Elsewhere, trade was limited on light demand with too few transactions to trend.
Last week, live prices were $140-$142 in the Northern Plains and $142 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $226 in Nebraska and $223-$227 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 63¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $263.65/cwt. Select was $1.12 higher at $245.35.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 24, 2022
Apparently, Cattle futures were too cheap and/or traders had already factored in what turned out be a bearish Cattle on Feed report Friday.
Feeder Cattle closed an average of 98¢ higher (5¢ higher in spot May to $1.70 higher).
And that was with Corn futures futures closed 5¢ to 7¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
Higher wholesale beef prices helped Live Cattle close an average of 69¢ higher, except for 2¢ lower in away Aug.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.11 higher through Monday afternoon at $264.28/cwt. Select was $1.21 higher at $244.23.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $138/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $140-$142 in the Northern Plains and $142 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $226 in Nebraska and $223-$227 in the western Corn Belt.
The five-area weighted average fed steer price last week was $2.19 lower at $140.25/cwt. The average price in the beef was $3.02 lower at $225.80.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 23, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $138/cwt., $4 lower in Nebraska at $140 and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn belt at $142. Dressed prices were $4 lower in Nebraska at $226. Dressed prices in the western Corn Belt the previous week were $227-$230.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week was 23,000 head more than the previous week and 8,000 head more than the previous year at 680,000. Total estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 13.0 million head was 84,000 head more. Total estimated year-to-date beef production of 10.8 billion lbs. was 98.9 million lbs. more than last year.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 47¢ higher through Friday afternoon at $262.17/cwt. Select was $3.04 lower at $243.02.
Cattle futures closed lower again Friday with continued pressure from volatile outside markets, and perhaps with some prescient positioning ahead of the Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 70¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 53¢ lower, except for 7¢ higher in spot Jun.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 4¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 8¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 20, 2022
Live Cattle firmed, closing narrowly mixed, from an average of 38¢ lower to an average of 14¢ higher. However, contra-seasonally lackluster wholesale beef prices and the dwindling premium in deferred contracts continued to cast a gloomy pall.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 76¢ lower (52¢ to $1.72 lower) amid extremely light trade.
Corn futures closed mixed, mostly 4¢ lower to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 12¢ to 15¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $138, $2-$4 lower in Nebraska at $140-$142 and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $142. Dressed prices are $4 lower in Nebraska at $226.
Last week, live prices were $140-$144 in Colorado. Dressed prices were $227-$230 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.23 higher Thursday afternoon at $261.70/cwt. Select was 4¢ lower at $246.06.
Net U.S. beef export sales of 23,300 metric tons for the week ending May 12 were 18% less than the previous week but 35% more than the previous four-week average, according to the U.S. Export Sales report. Increases were primarily for Japan, South Korea, China, Taiwan, and Canada.
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Cattle Current Podcast-May 19, 2022
Cattle futures trended lower pressured by bearish outside markets. Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 69¢ lower. Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.46 lower.
Grain futures were also pressured by pessimistic outside markets. Corn futures closed mostly 10¢ to 20¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 14¢ to 26¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in Nebraska at $140/cwt., which was $2 less than earlier in the week. Elsewhere, trade was limited on light demand through Wednesday afternoon with too few transactions to trend.
So far this week, live prices are $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $138, $2-$4 lower in Nebraska at $140-$142 and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $142. Dressed prices are $4 lower in Nebraska at $226.
Last week, live prices were $140-$144 in Colorado. Dressed prices were $227-$230 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value (p.m.): 1¢ lower at $260.47/cwt. Select was $2.17 lower at $246.02.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 18, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade and demand were light to moderate in the Southern Plains through Tuesday afternoon with live prices $2 lower at $138/cwt.
In Nebraska, there were a few dressed sales at $226-$227 on slow trade and light demand, but too few to trend. Last week live prices were $144 and dressed prices were $230.
Elsewhere, trade was mostly inactive on light demand, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live prices in the western Corn Belt Monday were $2-$3 lower at $142. Dressed prices last week were $227-$230. Live prices in Colorado last week were $140-$144.
Softer cash prices pressured Feeder Cattle an average of 75¢ lower despite the tiny respite in Corn futures.
Grain and Soybean futures closed mostly higher, though with KC Wheat up another 15¢ to 20¢.
Corn futures closed mixed, mainly 4¢ lower to 2¢ higher, starting with new-crop contracts.
Soybean futures closed mostly 17¢ to 20¢ higher.
Recently higher wholesale beef prices helped cap losses in Live Cattle futures, which closed an average of 44¢ lower, except for 27¢ higher in away Aug.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 17¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $260.48/cwt. Select was $2.52 higher at $248.19.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 17, 2022
India’s weekend announcement that it would ban wheat exports shoved nearby KC Wheat limit up 70¢ Monday, leading other grains higher.
Corn futures closed 16¢ to 28¢ higher through new-crop contracts and then mostly 7¢ to 9¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 13¢ higher through Aug ‘23 and then mostly 1¢ to 4¢ higher.
Surging feed costs pressured Feeder Cattle futures an average of 66¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 69¢ higher, buoyed by oversold conditions, the cash premium and recently higher wholesale beef prices.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.36 higher Monday afternoon at $260.31/cwt. Select was $1.77 higher at $245.67.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the western Corn Belt through Monday afternoon with prices steady to $3 lower than last week at $142/cwt. Dressed prices there last week were $227-$230.
Elsewhere, trade was at a standstill, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Last week, live prices were $140 in the Southern Plains, $140-$144 in Colorado and $144 in Nebraska where dressed prices were $227-$230.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 16, 2022
Grain futures were mixed Friday, continuing to adjust to the previous day’s bullish World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 10¢ lower. Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 32¢ higher through Sep ‘23 and then fractionally higher to 1¢ higher, except for 63¢ higher in spot May.
Softer Corn prices helped Feeder Cattle futures regain a little lost ground Friday, closing an average of 84¢ higher (20¢ to $1.50 higher), except for 40¢ lower in the back contract.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 39¢ lower, except for 42¢ higher in spot Jun, challenged by sluggish wholesale beef prices.
However, Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.75 higher Friday afternoon at $258.95/cwt. Select was 46¢ lower at $243.90. Week to week, Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.51 higher but Select was $1.16 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive with very light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $140/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $144 in Nebraska and $144-$145 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $227-$230.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week was the same as the prior week at 657,000 head. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 12.3 million head was 71,000 head more than the previous year. Total estimated year-to-date beef production of 10.28 billion lbs. was 91.1 million lbs. more than the same time last year.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 13, 2022
Grain futures marched higher Thursday, buoyed by the latest monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates, led by Kansas City Wheat, which closed 63¢ to 69¢ higher in the front five contracts.
Corn futures closed mostly 8¢ to 16¢ higher, while Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 10¢ higher through Aug ‘23 and then mostly unchanged to 4¢ lower.
Cattle futures stepped lower beneath the weight of the outlook for continued higher feed prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.88 lower ($1.27 to $3.50 lower). Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.30 lower (50¢ lower at the back to $2.07 lower toward the front).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt., $2 lower in Nebraska at $144 and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $144-$145. Dressed prices are $2 lower in Nebraska at $232 and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $227-$230. Live prices in Colorado last week were at $142-$148.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.12 higher Thursday afternoon at $257.20/cwt. Select was $2.18 higher at $244.36.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 12, 2022
Cattle futures were mixed Wednesday, with Feeder Cattle pressured by a surge in Corn futures prices, while Live Cattle was supported by the discount to cash.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.19 lower (35¢ lower at the back to $1.85 lower toward the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 47¢ higher (10¢ to $1.17 higher), except for an average of 6¢ lower in three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on moderate demand in the Texas Panhandle, Nebraska and the western Corn Belt through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt. and $2 lower in Nebraska at $144. Dressed prices in Nebraska are $2 lower at $230.
Live prices last week were $142-$148 in Colorado and $144-$147 in the western Corn Belt, where dressed prices were $230-$232.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 16¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $255.08/cwt. Select was 17¢ lower at $242.18.
Corn and Soybean futures rose on South American wonderments and likely positioning ahead of Thursday’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly 15¢ to 17¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 20¢ higher through Aug ‘23 and then mostly 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 11, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was light to moderate on moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Prices were steady to $1 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $139-$140/cwt. And steady in Kansas at $140.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill. Live prices last week were $146 in Nebraska, $142-$148 in Colorado and $144-$147 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $230-$232.
Cattle futures lost more ground Tuesday, as cash fed cattle prices ran out of steam in the South and Corn futures rose.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.83 lower (87¢ lower to $2.37 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 93¢ lower (25¢ to $1.27 lower), except for 7¢ higher in the back contract.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $3.05 lower Tuesday afternoon at $255.24/cwt. Select was 78¢ lower at $242.35.
Corn and Soybean futures were supported by the sluggish planting pace.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 8¢ higher. Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 10¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then fractionally higher to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 10, 2022
Cattle futures weakened Monday, pressured by recently waning wholesale beef values and sharply lower outside markets, but supported by lower Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 44¢ lower, except for 25¢ higher in spot May.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 37¢ lower, except for 80¢ and 2¢ higher in the front two contracts.
Corn futures closed mostly 9¢ to 13¢ lower, while Soybean futures closed mostly 20¢ to 34¢ lower, pressured my optimism the forecast will enable rapid planting progress.
As of May 8, 22% of corn was planted, which was 42% less than last year and 28% less than average, according to the latest USDA Crop progress report. Twelve percent of soybeans were in the ground, which was 27% less than last year and 12% less than the average.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural marketing Service.
Live prices last week were steady at $140/cwt. in the Southern Plains and at $146 in Nebraska. Prices were $2 lower to $3 higher in Colorado at $142-$148; steady to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $144-$147. Dressed prices were steady in Nebraska at $232, but steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $230-$232.
The weighted average five-area direct fed steer price last week was 8¢ higher at $143.42. The average steer price in the beef was $1.62 lower at $230.69.
Although lower week to week, Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $4.57 higher through Monday afternoon at $259.01/cwt. Select was 81¢ lower at $244.25.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 9, 2022
Corn futures closed mostly 11¢ to 18¢ lower on Friday, which helped lift Feeder Cattle futures an average of 77¢ higher (32¢ higher toward the front to $1.37 higher at the back), except for 77¢ lower in spot May. Soybean futures closed 20¢ to 25¢ lower.
On the other hand, Live Cattle futures closed an average of 50¢ lower (25¢ lower toward the back to $1.02 lower in spot Jun), except for 35¢ higher in the back contract. They sagged with lower wholesale beef prices and waning cash momentum.
Week to week on Friday, Choice boxed beef cutout value was $6.34 lower at $254.44/cwt. Select was $2.91 lower at $245.06. That’s $13.47 lower for Choice over the last two weeks and $9.71 lower for Select.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 657,000 head was 8,000 head more than the previous week and 18,000 more than the same week last year. Estimated total year-to-date cattle slaughter of 11.66 million head was 61,000 head more (+0.5%) than the same time last year. Estimated total year-to-date beef production of 9.74 billion lbs. was 81.6 million lbs. more (+0.8%) year over year.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service, with too few transactions to trend.
Last week, live prices were steady at $140/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle and at $146 in Nebraska. Prices were steady to $2 lower in Kansas at $138-$140, $2 lower to $1 higher in Colorado at $142-$146 and $1 higher to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $146. Dressed prices were steady in Nebraska at $232 and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $230-$232.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 6, 2022
Cattle futures sagged Thursday with higher Corn futures and lower wholesale beef values helping stall recent momentum. Sharply lower outside markets also clouded optimism.
Feeder Cattle an average of $1.14 lower, from 47¢ lower at the back to $1.92 lower in spot May.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 73¢ lower, from 12¢ lower to $1.12 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, like prices are steady at $140/cwt. in the Southern Plains and at $146 in Nebraska. Prices are $2 lower to $1 higher in Colorado at $142-$146 and $1 higher to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $146. Dressed prices are steady in Nebraska at $232 and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $230-$232.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $4.56 lower Thursday afternoon at $255.18/cwt. Select was $1.87 lower at $245.81.
Net U.S. beef export sales for the week ending April 28 were 14,600 metric tons, according to the weekly U.S. export sales report. That was 28% more than the previous week and 1% more than the prior four-week average. Increases were primarily for Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, China and Canada.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher. Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 5, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade and demand were moderate in the Texas Panhandle through Wednesday afternoon with prices steady at $140/cwt. Trade in Nebraska was moderate on moderate to good demand, also at steady prices of $146 on a live basis and $232 in the beef.
Elsewhere, trade was slow on light to moderate demand, with too few transactions to trend. However, there were some early live sales at $140 in Kansas and at $145-$146 in the North.
Last week, live prices were $140 in Kansas, $146-$147 in Colorado and $145-$147 in the western Corn Belt, where dressed prices were $232.
The weighted average five-area direct fed steer price in April was $141.66/cwt., which was $20.78 higher than a year earlier (+17%). The average steer price in the beef was $36.55 higher (+16%) at $228.86.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 19¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $259.74/cwt. Select was 34¢ higher at $247.68.
Cattle futures held their ground in the face of firmer Corn futures.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 26¢ lower to an average of 13¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 42¢ higher except for an average of 28¢ lower in three contracts, amid light trade.
Corn futures closed mainly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher. Soybean futures closed 6¢ 10¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 4, 2022
Follow-through support lifted Cattle futures for a second consecutive day, helped along by another down day for Corn.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.13 higher, (5¢ higher toward the back to $2.20 higher toward the front), except for unchanged in the back two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 61¢ higher, from 12¢ higher at the front to $1.00 higher at the back.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to at a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt, $2 higher ion Colorado at $145-$147, steady to $2 higher in Nebraska at $146 and steady to $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $145-$147. Dressed prices were $2 higher at $232.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $3.00 lower Tuesday afternoon at $259.55/cwt. Select was 89¢ lower at $247.34.
As mentioned, Corn and Soybean futures continued to soften Tuesday despite slow planting progress.
Corn futures closed mostly 6¢ to 7¢ lower, while Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 15¢ lower through Mar ‘23 and then mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 3, 2022
Cattle futures rallied Monday, helped along by lower Corn futures, oversold conditions, expanding open interest and opening the books on a new month.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $5.04 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.67 higher (97¢ higher toward the back to $2.55 higher in new spot Jun).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt, $2 higher in Colorado at $145-$147, steady to $2 higher in Nebraska at $146 and steady to $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $145-$147. Dressed prices were $2 higher at $232.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.77 higher Monday afternoon at $262.55/cwt. Select was 26¢ higher at $248.23.
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Cattle Current Podcast—May 2, 2022
Cattle futures bounced around last week, but never outran the shadow of the unexpectedly large March feedlot placements suggested by the latest Cattle on Feed report that came out the previous Friday.
Sagging wholesale beef values and worries that elevated retail beef prices are beginning to chip at demand added pressure to Live Cattle futures, which closed an average of $2.90 lower week to week on Friday. They closed an average of 84¢ lower on Friday, except for $3.40 higher in expiring Apr.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $7.13 lower week to week on Friday at $260.78/cwt. Select was $6.80 lower at $247.97.
However, negotiated cash fed cattle prices were steady to higher amid snugger supplies before the anticipated summer bulge.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to limited with light demand, with too few transactions too trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were steady in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt.; steady to $1 higher in the Northern Plains at $144-$146 and in the Western Corn Belt at $145-$147. Dressed prices were $2 higher at $232.
Through Thursday, the weighted average direct fed steer price was 31¢ higher on a live basis at $143.31/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was 42¢ higher at $232.32.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 656,000 head was 9,000 head fewer than the previous week but 3,000 head more than the same week last year. Year-to-date total estimated cattle slaughter of 11.01 million head is 51,000 head more than the same time last year. Total estimated year-to-date beef production through last week was 9.20 billion lbs., which was 706,000 lbs. more (+0.77 %) than a year earlier.
Feeder cattle futures closed an average of $1.87 lower on Friday and an average of $7.73 lower week to week, as Corn futures gained an average of 25.6¢ in the front six contracts during the same time.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 29, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures firmed Thursday, closing an average of 87¢ higher, except for 27¢ lower in expiring Apr. They were helped along by the mainly narrowly mixed close in Corn futures.
The overall continued decline in wholesale beef prices and weaker weekly exports helped pressure Live Cattle Live futures an average of 47¢ lower, except for unchanged in almost-spent spot Apr.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 69¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $262.60/cwt. Select was $1.26 lower at $251.06.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive, with too few transactions too trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt.; steady to $1 higher in the Northern Plains at $144-$146 and in the Western Corn Belt at $145-$147. Dressed prices are $2 higher at $232.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 28, 2022
Another day of higher Corn futures weighed heavily on Feeder Cattle futures, Wednesday, which closed an average of $3.35 lower ($2.57 to $4.20 lower), except for unchanged in expiring Apr
After 12¢ and 10¢ higher in the front two contracts, Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 6¢ higher, pushed along by Soybean futures, which closed 20¢ to 22¢ higher through Jan ‘23.
Technical pressure and looming large supplies pressured Live Cattle futures an average of $1.03 lower, replacing early-week bullishness tied to stronger weekly cash prices.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade on Wednesday ranged from a standstill to light on slow to moderate demand, with too few transactions too trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt.; steady to $1 higher in the Northern Plains at $144-$146 and in the Western Corn Belt at $145-$147. Dressed prices are $2 higher at $232.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.26 lower Wednesday afternoon at $261.91/cwt. Select was $3.91 lower at $252.32.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 27, 2022
Steady to stronger negotiated cash fed cattle prices helped Live Cattle futures closed an average of 65¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate through Tuesday afternoon in Nebraska and the Southern Plains, according to the Agricultural marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt. and steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $145-$146. Dressed prices are unevenly steady at $232 in Nebraska.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.18 lower, pressured by Corn futures, which were up mostly 3¢ to 9¢, supported by slow planting progress. Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 11¢ higher.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.43 lower Tuesday afternoon at $264.17/cwt. Select was 29¢ lower at $256.23.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 26, 2022
Friday’s bearish Cattle on Feed report took Cattle futures down a peg on Monday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.78 lower ($1.25 to $2.57 lower), and Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.83 lower (72¢ lower toward the back to $3.35 lower in spot Apr).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade opened the week at steady money of $140/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle on moderate trade and light demand. Elsewhere, trade was mostly inactive on light demand with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt., $4 higher in Nebraska at $144-$146, $3-$4. higher in Colorado at $144-$145 and $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $145-$146. Dressed prices were $4 higher at $230.
The weighted average five-area direct steer price last week was $2.00 higher on a live basis at $143.02/cwt. The average dressed steer price was $6.40 higher at $232.29.
Corn futures closed mostly 7¢ to 14¢ higher, but Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 12¢ lower through Jan ‘23 and then mostly 3¢ to 9¢ lower.
Wholesale beef prices were mixed with Choice Boxed beef cutout value $1.31 lower Monday afternoon at $266.60/cwt. , while Select was $1.75 higher at $256.52.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 25, 2022
Heading into the new week, the primary focus is likely reaction to Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report for feedlots with 1,000 head or more capacity.
On the surface, it confirms the severity and duration of the current drought, with March placements about 8% more than expected, following surging placements the previous month. Beneath the surface, though, there likely will be some head scratching about how they square with USDA numbers at the beginning of the year suggesting the feeder supply outside of feedlots was 676,000 head fewer (-2.6%) than last year.
March placements of 1.99 million head were 8,000 less year over year — fractionally less — which was about 8% more than expectations ahead of the report.
In terms of placement weights, 35% went on feed weighing 699 lbs. or less, 53% weighing 700-899 lbs. and 12% weighing 900 lbs. or more.
Marketings in March of 2.0 million head were 41,000 head fewer (-2.0%) than the previous year, about even with pre-report expectations.
Cattle on feed April 1 of 12.11 million head were 208,000 head more (+1.7%) than the previous year. That’s the most for the date since the data series began in 1996 and slightly more than expectations ahead of the report.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 22, 2022
A hard break in Corn futures and likely positioning ahead of Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report gave Feeder Cattle futures more room to run, up an average of $2.32.
Corn futures closed mostly 9¢ to 16¢ lower on leaner weekly export sales and ethanol production, as well as likely profit taking.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 5¢ higher, helped along by vegetable oil prices.
Feeder Cattle support also came from stronger cash fed cattle prices this week that helped Live Cattle futures close an average of $1.05 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to limited on light demand through Thursday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, negotiated cash fed cattle prices are $1 higher on a live basis in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt., $4 higher in Nebraska at $144-$146 and $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $145-$146. Dressed prices are $4 higher at $230.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.35 higher Thursday afternoon at $270.17/cwt. Select was 85¢ lower at $255.68.
Carcass weights continue higher year over year. For the week ending April 9, the average dressed steer weight was 12 lbs. heavier at 912 lbs., according to USDA’s Actual Slaughter Under Federal Inspection report. The average dressed heifer weight was 11 lbs. heavier at 840 lbs. The same week, 78,681 beef cows were slaughtered, which was 20.8% more year over year.
Net U.S. beef export sales of 15,000 metric tons (mt) were 13% less than the previous week and 27% less than the prior four-week average, according to the U.S. Weekly Export Sales for the week ending April 14. Increases were primarily for Japan, South Korea, China, Canada, and Taiwan.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 21, 2022
Another day of stronger cash trade added lift to Cattle futures an average of $1.60 higher.
So far this week, negotiated cash fed cattle prices are $1 higher on a live basis in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt., $4 higher in Nebraska at $144-$146 and $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $145-$146. Dressed prices are $4 higher at $230.
Through Wednesday afternoon, trade was slow on light demand in Nebraska at $146 and in the western Corn Belt at $145, but too few to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.11 lower Wednesday afternoon at $268.82/cwt. Select was $2.68 lower at $256.53.
Mainly firm Corn futures continued to add support to Feeder Cattle, which closed an average of $1.47 higher.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher, except for 11¢ and 10¢ higher in the front two contracts.
Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 30¢ higher in the front four contracts and then mostly 7¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 20, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade jumped out to an early and positive start Tuesday with prices $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt. on moderate trade and demand, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive on very light demand with too few transactions to trend.
Last week, live prices were at $140-$142 in the Northern Plains and at $142-$143 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $225-$227 in Nebraska and $226 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.15 lower Tuesday afternoon at $269.93/cwt. Select was 25¢ lower at $259.21.
Stronger cash fed cattle prices helped Live Cattle futures close an average of 49¢ higher, except for 15¢ lower in the back two contracts.
Softer front-month Corn futures helped give Feeder Cattle a reprieve, closing an average of 69¢ higher, except for 2¢ land 5¢ lower in two contracts.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 9¢ lower through new-crop contracts and then 1¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mixed; fractionally lower to 1¢ higher through Nov ’22 and then mostly 7¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 19, 2022
Cattle futures closed lower Monday as Corn futures continued to rally 12¢ to 23¢ higher through old-crop and new-crop contracts, perhaps also buoyed by the slow planting pace.
According to the latest USDA Crop progress report, 4% of the corn is in the ground compared to 7% last year and the five-year average of 6%.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.36 lower, while Live Cattle futures closed an average of 69¢ lower, except for 2¢ higher in the back contract.
For much of last week, Cattle futures got a boost from stronger negotiated cash fed cattle prices that were $1-$4 higher on a live basis, depending on the region at $139-$143/cwt. Dressed prices were $3-$5 higher at $225-$227.
On Monday, negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on light demand to a standstill, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
The five-area direct weighted average steer price last week was $141.02/cwt., which was $2.20 more than the previous week. The average steer price in the beef was $3.46 higher at $225.89.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.54 lower Monday afternoon at $271.08/cwt. Select was 56¢ higher at $259.46.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 18, 2022
Futures and equity markets were closed Friday, in observance of Good Friday. Through Thursday, from the previous Friday, Cattle futures were able to claw back some losses, supported by stronger cash sales and the continued seasonal increase in Choice wholesale beef value.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $139/cwt., $2 higher in Nebraska at $140-$142, $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $143 and $2-$4 higher in Colorado at $140-$142. Dressed prices were $4 higher at $226.
“It is not surprising that finished cattle prices increased this week as the April market tends to be strong and the highlight of the spring,” says Andrew P. Griffith, agricultural economist at the University of Tennessee (UT). “However, pessimism has started to set in due to the failure of the market to break out of its narrow trading range. As was said last week, it will still be difficult for finished cattle prices to exceed the high price experienced in February, but there is more of a chance now than last week. The hope is that prices push higher and even challenge the $145 price mark, which would be $2 higher than the $143 price in February.”
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 634,000 head was 37,000 head fewer than the previous week and 7,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 9.69 million head was 50,000 more than last year. Year-to-date estimated beef production of 8.1 billion lbs. was 61.8 million lbs. more than in 2021.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.15 higher week to week on Friday at $272.62/cwt. Select was $1.43 lower at $258.90.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.97 higher from the previous Friday through Thursday ($1.42 higher at the back to $2.85 higher at the front).
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 15, 2022
Cattle futures edged lower Thursday, amid light trade and likely positioning ahead of the holiday weekend — the CME is closed Friday in observance of Good Friday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 18¢ lower, except for 5¢ higher in the spot month and unchanged in Dec.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 26¢ lower.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 6¢ higher in the front three contracts and then fractionally lower to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mixed, mostly 4¢ lower to 1¢ higher, except for 6¢ higher and fractionally higher in the front two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $139/cwt., $2 higher in Nebraska at $140-$142, $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $143 (a few up too $145) and $2-$4 higher in Colorado at $140-$142.
Dressed prices are $4 higher at $226; a few up to $231.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 50¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $271.86/cwt. Select was 34¢ lower at $259.71.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 14, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices continued to gain ground Wednesday on slow trade and moderate demand, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $139/cwt., $2 higher in Nebraska at $140-$142, $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $143 (a few up to $145) and $2-$4 higher in Colorado at $140-$142.
Dressed prices are $4 higher at $226; a few up to $231.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.11 lower Wednesday afternoon at $272.36/cwt. Select was $1.34 lower at $259.37.
Cash market strength helped Cattle futures once again.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 53¢ higher (35¢ to $1.00 higher).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 57¢ higher (30¢ to $1.02 higher).
That was despite Corn futures closing mostly 4¢ to 7¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 5¢ higher in the front three contracts and then 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 13, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices gained $1 in Kansas at $139/cwt. on active trade and good demand through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend there were also some early trades $2 higher in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt at $142.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.36 higher Tuesday afternoon at $273.47/cwt. Select was 42¢ higher at $260.71.
Stronger cash trade helped boost Cattle futures.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 75¢ higher (62¢ to $1.50 higher), also supported by increasing open interest the past couple of days.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 55¢ higher (22¢ to $1.10 higher) except for 15¢ lower and unchanged in the back two contracts.
That was despite another day of higher Corn futures.
As if they needed more help, Corn futures climbed 11¢ to 14¢ higher through Jly ‘23, boosted by President Biden’s announcement that the higher-blend 15% ethanol gas (E15) could be sold through the summer in an effort to curb rising fuel costs. Previously, E15 sales were prohibited during the summer months.
Soybean futures closed 14¢ to 22¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 12, 2022
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 66¢ higher Monday, receiving support from the major, performance-depressing winter storm moving toward the Northern Plains, and thoughts by some that cash cattle can crawl higher this week.
In the meantime, negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were at $138/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Colorado, at $138-$140/cwt. in Nebraska and at $140 in the western Corn Belt at $140. Dressed prices were $222.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.64 higher Monday afternoon at $272.11/cwt. Select was 4¢ lower at $260.29.
Strength in the Live pit helps drag Feeder Cattle futures an average of 34¢ higher, except for 25¢ lower in Aug.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher Monday, except for 4¢ and 2¢ lower in the front two contracts.
Incidentally, 32% of the winter wheat crop was rated as Good (29%) or Excellent (3%) in USDA’s Crop Progress report for the week ending April 10. That was 21% less than the same time last year. 36% was rated Poor (18%) or Very Poor (18%) compared to 17% the previous year.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 11, 2022
Corn and soybean futures climbed again Friday with confirmation of ending stock expectations in the World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below).
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 11¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 35¢ to 43¢ higher in the front three contracts and then 18¢ to 29¢ higher.
Cattle futures traded in a narrow range, capped by grain market strength and signs of weakening beef prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed Friday, from an average of 34¢ lower to an average of 9¢ higher. Week to week on Friday, they closed an average of $2.97 lower ($1.25 to $6.75 lower), with most of the pressure in nearby contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 16¢ lower to an average of 24¢ higher. Week to week on Friday, they closed an average of 83¢ lower, except for an average of 50 higher in three contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on light demand to a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were steady to $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $137-$138/cwt., steady in Nebraska at $138-$140 and generally $1-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $140. Dressed prices were steady at $222.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 676,000 head was 37,000 head more than the previous week and 3,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 9.1 million head is 61,000 more than the same time last year. Estimated total year-to-date beef production of 7.6 billion lbs. is 72.9 million lbs. more than the same time last year.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 93¢ lower Friday afternoon at $270.47/cwt. Select was 89¢ lower at $260.33.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 8, 2022
Oversold conditions helped Cattle futures claw back a little more of recent losses.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.57 higher, except for an average of 59¢ lower in the front two contracts.
That was with Corn futures gaining on likely positioning ahead of tomorrow’s month World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 9¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 22¢ to 26¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 62¢ higher, except for 12¢ lower in nearby Jun.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady to $1 lower in the Southern Plains at $137-$138/cwt., steady in Nebraska at $138-$140. Prices are $140 in the western Corn Belt, compared to the previous week’s $139-$143. There were also some live sales reported in Colorado for the first time in a long while at $138. Dressed prices so far this week are steady at $222.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 36¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $271.40/cwt. Select was 17¢ higher at $261.22.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 7, 2022
Slightly lower nearby Corn futures prices helped Feeder Cattle futures recover some lost ground Wednesday, closing an average of 86¢ higher, except for 55¢ lower in the back contract.
Corn futures closed unchanged to 3¢ lower through July ’23 and then fractionally higher to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ to 12¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 57¢ higher (17¢ to $1.05 higher), supported by recently blooming wholesale beef prices.
However, Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 49¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $271.04/cwt. Select was $1.85 lower at $261.05.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on light demand to limited on light demand with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, prices are generally steady on a live basis at $138/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Colorado, $138-$140 in Nebraska and $140 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices are steady at $222.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 6, 2022
Soybean and corn futures gained Tuesday with stronger demand and bearish weather conditions in South America. Corn futures closed 3¢ to 9¢ higher. Soybean futures were up 7¢ to 28¢.
That weighed on Cattle futures once again, with Feeder Cattle an average of $2.26 lower and Live Cattle down an average of $1.21. So far today, they’re gaining some of that back.
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices continued mainly steady Tuesday with live prices at $138-$140/cwt. in Nebraska and dressed prices at $222, on moderate trade and demand, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady in the Southern Plains at $138 and $140 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $3.49 higher Tuesday afternoon at $271.53/cwt. Select was $1.20 higher at $262.90.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 5, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures were pressured sharply lower by rising feed costs once again Monday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.29 lower ($1.50 lower toward the back to $3.65 lower toward the front).
Corn futures closed mostly 7¢ to 15¢ higher
Soybean futures closed mostly 22¢ to 31¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures, closed an average of 55¢ lower, except for 17¢ higher in away Apr.
Negotiated cash fed cattle ranged from limited on light demand to slow on light demand through Monday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices were at $138/cwt. In the Southern Plains, $138-$140 in Nebraska and $139-$143 in the western Corn Belt at $139-$143. Dressed prices were $222.
The five-area direct average steer price was 37¢ higher at $139.32/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was 15¢ higher at $222.61.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 90¢ higher Monday afternoon at $268.04/cwt. Select was 82¢ lower at $261.70.
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 4, 2022
Grain markets Friday continued to adjust to the previous day’s Prospective Plantings report.
Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 35¢ lower across the board on more planted acres than expected.
New-crop Corn futures mostly gained again Friday, mostly 4¢ to 7¢ higher on fewer anticipated acres.
Rising feed costs once again helped pressure Feeder Cattle futures an average of $1.61 lower, except for 18¢ higher in spot April.
Cash calves and feeder cattle sold mixed last week, based on weekly auctions monitored by Cattle Current — mainly higher early, driven by demand for grass-suited cattle and then with more pressure later in the week with another bounce higher in Corn and full-to-the-brim feedlots.
“Feedlots will have plenty of cattle to market for another few months, but tighter placements are ahead and feedlot production will decline in the second half of the year, says Derrell Peel, Extension livestock marketing specialist at Oklahoma State University, in his weekly market comments. “If drought conditions persist, feedlots may perhaps continue to borrow against the future with early-weaned calves available through the spring and summer before facing the full reality of tighter feeder cattle supplies. On the other hand, if drought conditions abate, higher cattle prices might result in increased heifer retention by the end of the year, thereby squeezing feeder supplies even more and more quickly.”
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Cattle Current Podcast—April 1, 2022
Corn futures closed sharply higher and Soybean futures closed sharply lower Thursday, all fueled by the Prospective Plantings and quarterly Grain Stock reports from USDA.
Corn futures closed 20¢ to 27¢ higher in new-crop contracts.
Soybean futures closed 36¢ to 49¢ lower through Sep ‘23 and then 23¢ to 27¢ lower.
The sharp bounce higher in Corn futures helped push Feeder Cattle futures an average of $2.25 lower, except for 7¢ lower in expiring Mar.
Sharply lower outside markets helped pressure Live Cattle an average of 49¢ lower, except for unchanged in away Apr.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow to moderate on good demand in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices were steady to $2 higher than last week in Nebraska at $138-$140/cwt. Dressed prices were $1 higher at $222.
In the western Corn Belt, live prices were $1-$2 higher at $140-$143. Dressed prices there last week were $221-$225.
So far this week, live prices are steady in the Southern Plains at $138.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.35 higher Thursday afternoon at $268.39/cwt. Select was $4.88 higher at $262.34.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 30, 2022
Continuing optimism about a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine helped drag grain futures sharply lower again Tuesday.
Corn futures closed 7¢ to 22¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then 2¢ to 7¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 23¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 6¢ to 10¢ lower.
The continued break in grains helped boost Cattle futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.62 higher (60¢ to $4.32 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 86¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive with very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were at $138/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska and at $138-$142 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $221 in Nebraska and $221-$225 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 63¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $264.50/cwt. Select was $1.48 lower at $254.84.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 29, 2022
All things considered, Monday’s action in Cattle futures might be considered a victory of sorts, given the bearish placements in the latest Cattle on Feed report, although it tightens cattle supplies further down the line.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 29¢ lower amid light trade.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 44¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were at $138/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska and at $138-$142 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $221 in Nebraska and $221-$225 in the western Corn Belt.
The five-area direct average steer price was 15¢ lower at $138.95/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was 22¢ lower at $221.46.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.23 higher Monday afternoon at $263.87/cwt. Select was $4.18 higher at $256.32.
Grain futures softened Monday, led by wheat and soybeans, apparently with more optimism regarding a resolution to Russia’s war on Ukraine.
Soybean futures closed 16¢ to 46¢ lower.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 5¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then 3¢ lower to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 28, 2022
Total cattle slaughter for this year surpassed the previous year’s year-to-date total last week.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 659,000 head was 15,000 more than the previous week and 10,000 head more than the same time last year. Estimated total year-to-date cattle slaughter of 7.76 million head was 2,000 head more year over year.
Estimated year-to-date beef production of 6.51 billion lbs. was 20.9 million lbs. more (+0.3%) than the same time last year.
Those numbers speak to apparently mostly recovered packing capacity and the massive numbers of cattle on feed. Judging by the latest Cattle on Feed report (see below), increased production will continue in the near term.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were steady in the Southern Plains and Nebraska at $138/cwt. and steady to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $139-$142. Dressed prices were steady in Nebraska at $221 and steady to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $221.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 88¢ lower Friday (35¢ to $1.17 lower), pressured by grain futures and perhaps some prescient trepidation about the Cattle on Feed report (see below).
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher, while Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 7¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 45¢ higher in the front four contracts and then an average of 12¢ lower, except for 12¢ higher in away Apr.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 23¢ higher Friday afternoon at $262.64/cwt. Select was 45¢ lower at $252.14. Week to week, Choice was $4.48 higher and Select was $1.49 higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 25, 2022
Cattle futures gained a little ground Thursday with softer Corn futures. Positioning ahead of Friday’s Cattle on Feed report could have also played a role.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 57¢ higher except for unchanged in the back contract.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 32¢ higher.
Grain futures backed up a pace, pressured in part by bearish weekly U.S. export sales and perhaps some skittishness over next week’s Planting Intentions report.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 9¢ lower through Jly ’23 and then mostly 1¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 13¢ to 18¢ lower through Jan ’23 and then unchanged to 10¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady in the Southern Plains and Nebraska at $138/cwt. and steady to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $139-$142. Dressed prices are steady in Nebraska at $221 and steady to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $221.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 81¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $262.41/cwt. Select was 65¢ lower at $252.59.
Net U.S. beef export sales of 27,500 MT (2022) for the week ending March 17 were a marketing-year high, according to the U.S. Export Sales report. Sales were 40% more than the previous week and 29% more than the prior four-week average.
Increases were primarily for South Korea, China, Japan, Hong Kong and Taiwan.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 24, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices were steady Wednesday at $138/cwt. on a live basis in the Southern Plains (slow trade and light demand) and Nebraska (moderate trade and good demand), according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Dressed prices were also steady in Nebraska at $221.
Trade was limited on light demand in the western Corn Belt with a few dressed sales at $221, but too few to trend. Last week, prices were $140-$142 on a live basis and $222 in the beef.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.63 higher Wednesday afternoon at $261.60/cwt. Select was $1.35 higher at $253.24.
Cattle futures mainly batted on either side of steady, pressured by rising feed costs, steady cash and lower outside markets, but supported by strengthening wholesale beef prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 40¢ higher (2¢ to $1.20 higher) except for unchanged to 22¢ lower in three contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 25¢ higher except for unchanged in spot Apr and 7¢ lower toward the back.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 227¢ higher through Nov ’22 and then mostly 5¢ to 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 23, 2022
Grain and Soybean futures extended the previous session’s gains Tuesday with Corn futures closing mostly 2¢ to 6¢ higher and Soybean futures closing 5¢ to 7¢ higher.
Stronger Grain futures continued to cap Cattle futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 40¢ lower, except for 22¢ higher in spot Mar.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 39¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were at $138/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska and at $140 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were at $221 in Nebraska at $222 and in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.47 higher Tuesday afternoon at $259.97/cwt. Select was 61¢ lower at $251.89.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 22, 2022
Grain and Soybean futures pressed higher Monday with support from higher crude oil prices and the lingering Russian war on Ukraine.
Corn futures closed 12¢ to 18¢ higher through Sep ‘23 and then mostly 6¢ to 8¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 20¢ to 24¢ higher.
Loftier grain futures helped pressure Feeder Cattle futures an average of $1.12 lower, while the upturn on wholesale beef prices helped Live Cattle to a mixed close, from 36¢ lower across the front half to an average of 28¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were at $138/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska and at $140 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were at $221 in Nebraska at $222 and in the western Corn Belt.
The five-area direct average steer price last week was 80¢ higher at $139.10/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was $1.57 higher at $221.68.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 34¢ higher Monday afternoon at $258.50/cwt. Select was $1.85 higher at $252.50.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 21, 2022
Softer feed futures prices, late-week firmness in cash trade and higher outside markets helped support Cattle futures Friday.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 12¢ lower in old-crop contracts and then mostly 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed fractionally lower to 3¢ lower through Jan ’23 and then mostly 11¢ to 13¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.25 higher (45¢ higher in spot Mar to $1.57 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 66¢ higher, from 35¢ to $1.15 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand with too few transactions to trend in any region, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were steady in the Southern Plains and Nebraska at $138/cwt. They were steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $140. Dressed prices were $1 higher in Nebraska at $221 and steady to $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $222.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 644,000 head was the same as a week earlier but 15,000 head more than the same week last year. Total estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 7.1 million head is just 2,000 head fewer than the same time last year. Total estimated year-to-date beef production is 13.3 million lbs. more at 5.96 billion lbs.
The seasonal turn in wholesale beef prices was also supportive.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.11 higher Friday afternoon at $258.16/cwt. Select was 3¢ lower at $250.65.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 18, 2022
Grain futures rebounded from the previous session’s hard break. Kansas City Wheat set the pace — up mainly 24¢ to 32¢ — as traders apparently grew less confident in the Russia ceasefire chatter. Soybeans also received support from stronger oil prices.
Corn futures closed 20¢ to 24¢ higher in old-crop contracts and then mostly 11¢ to 14¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 14¢ to 21¢ higher in old-crop contracts and then mostly 8¢ to 12¢ higher.
Higher grain futures weighed on Feeder Cattle futures, which closed an average of $1.13 lower.
Live Cattle futures edged an average of 13¢ higher, except for 7¢ lower in Feb.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade waddled from the blocks at steady money of $138/cwt. on a live basis in the Southern Plains and Nebraska through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. That was on moderate demand and light trade in the Southern Plains; slow trade and light demand in Nebraska.
Elsewhere, trade was limited on light demand with too few transactions to trend.
Live prices in the western Corn Belt last week were at $138-$140. Dressed prices there were $219-$222; $220 in Nebraska.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.03 lower Thursday afternoon at $257.05/cwt. Select was 41¢higher at $250.68.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 17, 2022
Kansas City Wheat futures plummeted Wednesday (limit-down 85¢ in the front two contracts) on apparently more positive ceasefire talks between Ukraine and Russia. Corn and Soybean futures went along for the ride.
Corn futures closed mostly 14¢ to 28¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ to 9¢ lower.
That helped Feeder Cattle futures close an average of 37¢ higher (2¢ to 90¢ higher) except for 2¢ lower in May and 20¢ lower in the back contract.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 69¢ lower (10¢ lower toward the back to $1.50 lower in spot Apr), except for unchanged in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). Country chatter suggested some early bids at steady money.
Live prices last week were at $138/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska and at $138-$140 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $220 in Nebraska and $219-$222 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 18¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $258.08/cwt. Select was $1.43 higher at $250.27.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 16, 2022
Kansas City Wheat futures charged higher 47¢ to 53¢ in old-crop contracts. Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower, though, and Soybean futures closed 9¢ to 14¢ lower through Sep ‘23.
That helped Cattle futures hold on to most of the previous session’s strong gains.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed from an average of 33¢ lower to an average of 25¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed unchanged to an average of 47¢ higher, from (2¢ to $1.10 higher).
Wholesale beef prices continued to show signs of the seasonal bloom. Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.39 higher Tuesday afternoon at $257.90/cwt. Select was $1.10 lower at $248.84.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade remained stuck at the gate.
Live prices last week were at $138/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska and at $138-$140 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $220 in Nebraska and $219-$222 in the western Corn Belt.
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Cattle Current Podcasts—March 15, 2022
Cattle futures rallied higher Monday, helped along by sharply lower nearby Corn futures prices, as well as the nascent seasonal increase in wholesale beef prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.08 higher from $2.07 higher at the back to $4.42 toward the front.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.65 higher, from $1.17 higher in the back contract to $3.02 higher in spot Apr.
Weakness in grain futures was apparently tied to a risk-off mentality across many commodities, including Crude Oil, as well as reports China is releasing some of its state-owned soybean stocks to combat domestic inflation.
Expiring spot Corn futures closed 36¢ lower, but mostly other contracts were mainly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 8¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were at $138/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska and at $138-$140 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $220 in Nebraska and $219-$222 in the western Corn Belt.
The five-area direct average fed steer price was $2.30 less last week at $138.30/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was $4.50 less at $220.01.
Early chatter anticipated cash fed cattle prices trading steady to a touch higher this week.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 80¢ higher Monday afternoon at $255.51/cwt. Select was 83¢ higher at $249.94.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 14, 2022
Cattle futures stepped higher Friday, helped along by higher wholesale beef prices, stronger Lean Hog futures and moderating feed futures.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 50¢ higher, from 10¢ higher in the back contract to $1.40 higher in spot Apr. Week to week, they closed an average of $1.17 higher (42¢ to $1.80 higher), recovering about half of the previous week’s losses.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $2 lower in the Southern Plains and Nebraska at $138/cwt. and $2-$4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $138-$140. Dressed prices were $4-$5 lower in Nebraska at $220; $3-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt at $219-$222.
“Cattle feeders should be experiencing strong profit margins with cattle coming off feed in today’s market, but the budget for placing cattle on feed is changing,” explains Andrew P. Griffith, agricultural economist at the University of Tennessee, in his weekly market comments. “A month ago, cattle feeders were faced with strengthening feeder cattle prices and what now seems like relatively low feed prices. However, the sudden increase in feed grain prices has resulted in higher feed cost expectations, which has resulted in bidding lower prices for cattle to be placed in the near term.”
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 11, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures tumbled lower Thursday, pressured once again by surging Corn futures, tied to strong weekly U.S. export sales.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.17 lower.
Corn futures closed 15¢ to 22¢ higher through Jly ‘23, and then mostly 6¢ to 9¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 15¢ to 22¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $2 lower in the Southern Plains and Nebraska at $138/cwt. and $2-$4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $138-$140. Dressed prices are $4-$5 lower in Nebraska at $224-$225; $3-$5 lower in the western Corn Belt at the same money.
Lower cash prices pressured Live Cattle futures an average of 70¢ lower, from 2¢ lower in the back contract to $1.67 lower in spot Apr.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.24 higher Thursday afternoon at $253.94/cwt. Select was $2.58 higher at $247.37.
On another positive note, net U.S. beef export sales for the week ending March 3 of 27,500 metric tons were a marketing year high, up 16% from the previous week and 36% higher than the prior four-week average, according to USDA data. Increases were primarily for China, Japan, South Korea, Canada and Taiwan.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 10, 2022
Cattle futures ran out of steam Wednesday, although the latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates continue to paint a positive fundamental picture (see below).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 43¢ lower, except for 2¢ higher in spot Mar.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 90¢ lower, except for 5¢ higher in the back contract.
Cattle futures were helped by lower Grain and Soybean futures as traders apparently were satisfied with the level of risk premium.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade and demand were moderate in Nebraska through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live trade was steady with the previous day and $2 lower than last week at $138/cwt. Dressed trade was $4-$5 lower at $220.
Trade was limited on light demand in Kansas with live prices at $138; steady with the previous day and $2 lower than last week.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive with very light demand and too few transactions to trend. Live prices in the Texas Panhandle so far this week are $2 lower at $138. Trade was unestablished in the western Corn Belt where live prices last week were $142 and dressed prices were $224-$225.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 9, 2022
Volatility continued Tuesday, but Cattle futures managed to extend gains amid two-sided trading, supported by an initial drop in Corn futures and eventually higher outside markets.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average $1.07 higher (65¢ to $1.40 higher), except for 57¢ lower in spot Mar.
Live Cattle futures closed average 79¢ higher (17¢ higher at the back to $1.57 higher toward the front), except for unchanged in away Jun.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the Southern Plains through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live prices were $2 lower in a light test at $138/cwt.
Trade was limited on light demand in Nebraska. Live price so far this week are $2 lower at $138. Dressed prices last week were $224-$225.
In the western Corn Belt, trade was mostly inactive on light demand. Live prices last week were $142 and dressed prices were $224-$225.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.27 lower Tuesday afternoon at $252.44/cwt. Select was $5.28 lower at $244.94.
Wheat futures tapped the brakes Tuesday, helping Corn to a narrowly mixed close.
Corn futures closed mixed, mostly 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 14¢ to 30¢ higher through Jan ‘23 and then mostly 1¢ lower to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 8, 2022
Cattle futures reversed direction to the upside Monday, despite sharply lower outside markets and grain market strength tied to Russia’s attack on Ukraine. Positioning and bottom-picking likely explain much of the move, while underscoring the unaltered, positive supply fundamentals.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average $1.86 higher ($1.12 to $2.55 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed average $1.44 higher (50¢ to $2.15 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive on very light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were at $140/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska; $142 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were at $224-$225.
Wholesale beef prices added support with Choice Boxed beef cutout value 38¢ higher Monday afternoon at $254.71/cwt. and Select $1.81 higher at $250.22.
Wheat futures continued to lead Corn futures mostly higher Monday. Kansas City Wheat futures were mostly 39¢ to 85¢ higher Monday, as rationing continues due to the war in Eastern Europe
Corn futures closed 9¢ to 18¢ higher, except for 3¢ and 7¢ lower in the front two contracts.
Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 14¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 7, 2022
Concerns about less corn and wheat exports from Ukraine and Russia, due to the war, continued to underpin futures prices Friday. As time wears on, there is also concern about fertilizer exports from the region.
Corn futures closed 5¢ to 8¢ higher, except for 10¢ to 29¢ higher from near Jly to next Mar.
Soybean futures closed mostly 7¢ to 8¢ lower.
Cattle futures sagged beneath the weight of escalating feed prices Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.47 lower (90¢ at the back to $3.27 lower toward the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.53 lower (80¢ to $2.62 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt., $2-$4 lower in Nebraska at $140 and $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $143. Dressed prices were $2-$3 lower at $224-$225.
The average five-area direct fed steer price was $2.64 lower week to week on Thursday at $140.76/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was $2.40 lower at $224.62.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 2¢ lower Friday afternoon at $254.33/cwt. Select was 62¢ higher at $248.41.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 658,000 was 11,000 head more than the previous week but 8,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 5.83 million head is just 17,000 head fewer than the same time last year.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 4, 2022
After a day’s reprieve, wheat soared higher, boosting front-month Corn and Soybean futures. K.C. Wheat was 75¢ higher in the front four contracts.
Corn futures closed 9¢ to 22¢ higher in the front three contracts and then mostly 4¢ to 11¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 2¢ to 4¢ higher in the front two contracts and then mostly 8¢ to 11¢ lower.
Stouter feed prices took Cattle futures down another peg.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.68 lower, erasing much of the headway made in the previous session.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 72¢ lower (12¢ to $1.75 lower), except for 15¢ higher in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand with too few transactions to trend in any region, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt., $2-$4 lower in Nebraska at $140 and $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $142. Dressed prices are $2-$3 lower at $224-$225.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.37 lower Thursday afternoon at $254.35/cwt. Select was $3.55 lower at $247.79.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 3, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures rebounded from some of the steep, recent losses Wednesday, helped along by static to lower Corn futures prices and sharply higher outside markets. Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.44 higher ($2.02 to $3.20 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 71¢ higher, except for an average of 45¢ lower in the front three contracts.
Corn futures closed mostly 8¢ to 16¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 20¢ to 30¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade started the week $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt. Trade was slow on light to moderate demand, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Trade was limited on light demand in Nebraska with a few live trades at $140, but too few to trend. Live prices last week were $142-$144 and dressed prices were $227.
Trade was also limited on light demand in the western Corn Belt. Prices last week were $144 on a live basis and $227 in the beef.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 96¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $255.72/cwt. Select was 18¢ lower at $251.34.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 2, 2022
Grain and soybean futures continued to dominate market narrative Tuesday, blasting another leg higher, fueled by the Russian attack on Ukraine and the fallout from everything from export disruptions to financial turmoil.
Corn futures closed 30¢ to 42¢ higher in the front three contracts and the mostly 13¢ to 15¢ higher. Spot Mar was 80¢ higher over the last two sessions, closing Tuesday at a staggering $7.39’6
Soybean futures closed 41¢ to 61¢ higher in the front six contracts and then mostly 38¢ to 39¢ higher. The front two contracts are up more than $1.00 over the past two sessions.
Kansas City HRW futures closed 50¢ to 57¢ higher in the front five contracts; more than $1 higher in the front contracts over the last two sessions.
Those runaway feed futures prices hammered Cattle futures, especially Feeder Cattle once again. Feeder Cattle closed an average of $1.63 lower (65¢ to $2.55 lower) for an average of $4.14 lower over the last two sessions.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 54¢ lower in the front three contracts to an average of 19¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive on very light demand through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $142/cwt. on a live basis in the Southern Plains, $142-$144 in Nebraska and $144 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $227 in Nebraska and $226-$227 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 83¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $256.68/cwt. Select was $1.89 lower at $251.52.
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Cattle Current Podcast—March 1, 2022
Grain and soybean futures ricocheted sharply higher Monday, driven once again by uncertainty stemming from the military assault in Eastern Europe.
Corn futures closed 24¢ to 38¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 16¢ to 19¢ higher.
Soybean futures 29¢ to 54¢ higher through Sep ‘22 and the mostly 19¢ to 20¢ higher.
The spike weighed on Cattle futures, especially Feeder Cattle.
Feeder Cattle futures closed average of $2.51 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average 32¢ lower, except for $1.22 higher in spot Feb.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive on very light demand through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week live prices were generally steady in the Southern Plains at mostly $142/cwt., steady to $2 higher in Nebraska at $142-$144, and steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $144. Dressed prices were $1 higher in Nebraska at $227 and steady to $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $226-$227.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 76¢ lower week to week on Monday afternoon at $257.51/cwt. Select was $2.00 lower at $253.41.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 28, 2022
The volatile market whipsaw unleashed by Russia’s attack on Ukraine continued in futures and equities Friday.
Grain and soybean futures closed sharply lower, shoved around by massive open interest, a more positive South American weather outlook and USDA projecting more corn and wheat acres to be planted than expected. In its Grains and Oil Seeds Outlook presented at the annual Agricultural Outlook Forum, USDA forecast 92.0 million acres of corn and 88.0 million acres of soybeans.
Soybean futures closed 34¢ to 71¢ lower through Jan ‘23 and the mostly 19¢ to 29¢ lower.
Corn futures closed 24¢ to 35¢ lower through Jly ‘23 and then mostly 20¢ lower.
Softer Corn futures benefitted Feeder Cattle futures, which closed an average of 96¢ higher (65¢ to $1.15 higher) Friday. However, they closed an average of $3.74 lower week to week on Friday ($2.22 to $6.10 lower).
Based on weekly auctions monitored by Cattle Current, calves and feeders sold widely mixed last week but with distinctly lower undertones related to pressure from grain prices as well as weather disruptions in some areas.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 25, 2022
Cattle futures fell hard Thursday as outside markets initially plummeted in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, although they did close off of session lows.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.91 lower, from $1.90 to $4.47 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.05 lower, from $1.12 to $2.52 lower.
So far this week, though, negotiated cash fed cattle prices are firm to higher with live prices steady in the Southern Plains at $142/cwt., $2 higher in Nebraska at $144 and steady to $3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $144-$145. Dressed prices are $1 higher in Nebraska at $227 and steady to $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $226-$227.
Trade was slow on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 76¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $260.88/cwt. Select was $4.68 lower at $258.96.
Grain and soybean futures were widely volatile as traders came to grips with the war in eastern Europe, as well as U.S. baseline projections released as part of the annual Agricultural Outlook Forum (see below).
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 9¢ higher in the front three contracts and then 6¢ to 15¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 23¢ to 36¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 24, 2022
It was deja vu all over again Wednesday as Wheat and Soybean futures blasted higher, carrying Corn along for the ride and weighing on Cattle futures.
Chicago wheat was 27¢ to 32¢ higher through May ’23. Soybean futures closed 19¢ to 40¢ higher in the front five contracts and then mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher. Corn futures closed 5¢ to 9¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed average 85¢ lower (20¢ lower at the back to $1.45 lower in spot Mar).
Live Cattle futures closed an average 61¢ lower (25¢ to $1.27 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to limited on light demand through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. However, some private reports from the North suggested higher prices for the day.
Prices last week were $142/cwt. on a live basis in Nebraska and the Southern Plains and $142-$144 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were at $226.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 76¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $260.88/cwt. Select was $4.68 lower at $258.96.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 23, 2022
Grain futures surged Tuesday, led by Wheat futures, fueled by the tensions in Eastern Europe, with Chicago wheat was 40¢ to 48¢ higher through the front six contracts.
Corn futures closed 12¢ to 20¢ higher in the front four contracts and then mostly 7¢ to 8¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 24¢ to 33¢ higher in the front four contracts and then mostly 12¢ to 14¢ higher.
Higher Corn prices weighing on Feeder Cattle futures, which closed average of 94¢ lower (37¢ lower at the back to $1.72 lower toward the front).
Recently stronger cash prices helped Live Cattle fade the heat. They closed an average 26¢ higher Tuesday.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive on very light demand through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Prices last week were $142/cwt. on a live basis in Nebraska and the Southern Plains and $142-$144 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $2 higher at $226.
Tuesday was one of those rare occasions where the Choice-Select spread was negative, with Choice Boxed beef cutout value $2.45 lower in the afternoon at $261.64/cwt., while Select was $1.80 higher at $263.64.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 22, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive on very light demand through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Prices last week were $142/cwt. on a live basis in Nebraska and the Southern Plains and $142-$144 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were at $226.
The five-area average weighted direct fed steer price last week was $1.88 higher at $142.36/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was $2.00 higher at $226.04.
Equity and futures markets were closed Monday in observance of President’s Day.
As mentioned in the previous day’s Cattle Current, Live Cattle futures were an average of 75¢ higher (37¢ to $1.37 higher) week to week on Friday, except for 30¢ lower in near Apr.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.24 higher (15¢ to $1.80 higher) week to week on Friday except for 80¢ lower in spot Mar.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.76 lower Monday afternoon at $264.09/cwt. Select was 79¢ lower at $261.84.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 21, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in the western Corn Belt through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there were a few live sales at $144/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was mostly inactive on light demand.
For the week, live prices were $2 higher in Nebraska and the Southern Plains at $142 and $1-$2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $142-$143. Dressed prices were $2 higher at $226.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week was 663,000 head, which was 4,000 head more than the previous week and 114,000 head more than the same week last year. Total estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 4.49 million head is just 110,000 head fewer.
Feeder Cattle futures closing mixed, from an average of 42¢ lower in three contracts to an average of 44¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 35¢ lower except for unchanged to 35¢ higher in the back three contracts.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $3.74 lower Friday afternoon at $265.85/cwt. Select was $2.22 lower at $262.63.
Net U.S. beef export sales of 23,000 metric tons (2022) were 18% more than the previous week and 38% more than the prior four-week average, according to USDA’s U.S. Export Sales report for the week ending Feb. 10.
Increases were primarily for South Korea, Japan, Canada, Mexico, and China.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 18, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures lost ground Thursday, closing an average of 81¢ lower amid lighter trade and firming Corn futures.
Live Cattle futures paddled in place awaiting more direction. Other than 27¢ higher in spot Feb, they closed an average of 21¢ lower.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 5¢ higher through Mar ’23 and then mostly 1¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in Nebraska through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few live sales at $142.00-$142.50/cwt., but too few to trend.
Elsewhere, trade was limited in light demand. Although too few to trend, there were a few live trades in the Texas Panhandle at $142.
In established trade so far this week, live prices are $2 higher in Nebraska and the Southern Plains at $142 and $1-$2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $142-$143. Dressed prices are $2 higher at $226.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 3¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $269.59/cwt. Select was $1.23 lower at $264.85.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 17, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate to active on good demand in the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live prices were $2 higher at $142/cwt.
Although too few transactions to trend, live prices in Nebraska were $2-$3 higher at $142-$143 on slow trade and light to moderate demand. Dressed sales were $2 higher at $226.
Also too few to trend, there were a few live sales in the western Corn Belt steady to $3 higher at $141-$143. Dressed prices last week were $224.
Even so, Cattle futures mainly paddled in place.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 18¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average 43¢ lower (10¢ to $1.27 lower) except for unchanged and 27¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 75¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $269.62/cwt. Select was $1.74 lower at $266.08.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 9¢ higher through May ’23 and then mostly 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 23¢ to 36¢ higher through Jan ’23 and then mostly 10¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 16, 2022
Higher outside markets and lower Corn futures, both due in part to less geopolitical tension in Eastern Europe, helped fuel gains in Cattle futures Tuesday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 52¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average $1.47 higher.
Corn futures closed 10¢ to 17¢ lower through the front four contracts and then mostly 5¢ to 8¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 9¢ to 18¢ lower through Jan ’23 and then 3¢ lower to 3¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $140/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska; $140-$142 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was at $224.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $3.59 lower Tuesday afternoon at $270.37/cwt. Select was 93¢ lower at $267.82.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 15, 2022
Last week’s stouter packing pace and higher cash prices helped Cattle futures edge higher Monday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average 57¢ higher except for unchanged in the back contract.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 28¢ higher except for unchanged in Dec.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $140/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska; $140-$142 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was at $224.
The five-area direct weighted average steer price last week was 72¢ higher than the previous week at $140.48/cwt. on a live basis. The average steer price in the beef was $2.25 higher at $224.04.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 56¢ lower Monday afternoon at $273.96/cwt. Select was 92¢ higher at $268.75.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 13¢ lower through near Nov and then mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 14, 2022
Cattle futures continued to soften Friday, perhaps with some follow-through profit taking and with surging Corn futures and sharply lower outside markets.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average 60¢ lower.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed from an average of 49¢ lower to an average of 35¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were steady to $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt., steady to $2 higher in Nebraska at $140 and $1-$2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $141-$142. Dressed trade was $2-$4 higher at $224.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 37¢ lower Friday afternoon at $274.52/cwt. Select was $1.12 lower at $267.83.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 659,000 head was 20,000 head more than the previous week and 53,000 head more than the previous year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 3.83 million head is 120,000 head fewer (-3.0%) than the same period last year.
Corn futures closed 9¢ to 10¢ higher through Jly ‘23 and then most 4¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 9¢ to 11¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 11, 2022
Cattle futures started the session with optimism but eroded as the day wore on with likely pressure from profit taking and lower outside markets.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 77¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.23 lower (82¢ to $1.87 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was light to moderate on moderate demand in Nebraska through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Dressed trade was $2 higher at $224/cwt. Live prices a day earlier were steady to $2 higher at $140.
Trade in the western Corn Belt was limited on light demand. There were a few live sales at $141-$142, but too few to trend. Prices last week were $140 on a live basis and $220-$222 in the beef.
In the Southern Plains, trade was limited on light demand. Live prices a day earlier were at $140.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 97¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $274.82/cwt. Select was $3.10 lower at $268.95.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 20¢ lower in the front five contracts and then 5¢ to 15¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 10, 2022
Cattle futures extended gains Wednesday, supported by firmer cash prices and the beef supply and price outlook provided by the World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.04 higher (30¢ higher at the back to $1.65 higher toward the front).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 71¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live prices were steady in the Texas Panhandle at $140/cwt. and steady to $1 higher in Kansas at $140.
Elsewhere, trade was limited on light demand with too few transactions to trend. Last week, live prices were $140 on a live basis in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $222 in Nebraska and $220-$222 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.67 lower Wednesday afternoon at $275.79/cwt. Select was $1.79 lower at $272.05.
Corn futures closed 10¢ to 14¢ higher in old-crop contracts and then mostly 6¢ to 9¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 20¢ to 25¢ higher in the front eight contracts and then mostly 14¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 9, 2022
Cattle futures closed higher Tuesday, helped along by lower Corn and Soybean futures, as well as some betting that negotiated cash fed cattle prices will edge higher again this week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.51 higher in the front three contracts, then an average of 40¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from 23¢ lower to 40¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS).
Last week, live sales were at $140/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $139-$140 in Kansas $138-$140 in Nebraska and $140 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was at $222 in Nebraska and at $220-$222 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.50 lower Tuesday afternoon at $277.46/cwt. Select was $1.20 lower at $273.84.
Corn futures closed 3¢ lower in the front three contracts and then mostly fractionally to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 2¢ to 12¢ lower through Jan ’23, then fractionally to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 8, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS).
Last week, live sales were at $140 in the Texas Panhandle, $139-$140 in Kansas $138-$140 in Nebraska and $140 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was at $222 in Nebraska and at $220-$222 in the western Corn Belt.
The five-area direct average steer price last week was $2.81 higher at $139.66/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was $3.79 higher at $221.79.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 27¢ lower, except for unchanged to 7¢ higher in the back three contracts.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 85¢ lower at $278.96/cwt. Select was $1.01 lower at $275.04
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 63¢ lower, under pressure from Corn futures, which closed 14¢ to 15¢ higher in the front three contracts and then mostly 5¢ to 7¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 14¢ to 28¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 7, 2022
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed Friday, closing out a dynamically positive week, fueled by the bullish Cattle inventory report.
Week to week on Friday, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $5.17 higher ($4.57 higher toward the back to $6.47 higher in spot Mar). The CME Feeder Cattle Index closed $1.51 higher week to week on Thursday at $160.17/cwt.
During the same period, Live Cattle futures closed an average of $3.28 higher and open interest grew by about 15,000 contracts.
On Friday, however, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 28¢ lower, except for an average of 32¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 27¢ higher, except for 15¢ lower in near Jun and unchanged in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on very light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS).
For the week, Live sales were $3 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $140, $3-$4 higher in Kansas at $139-$140, $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $138-$140 and $2-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $140. Dressed trade was $4 higher at $222.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 639,000 head was 4,000 head fewer than the previous week and 13,000 head fewer than the same week last year. So far this year, estimated total cattle slaughter of 3.16 million head is 185,000 head fewer (-5.5%) than the same time last year.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ higher through Jly ’23 and then 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 9¢ to 11¢ higher in the front four contracts and then 3¢ to 6¢ higher through Aug. ’23, followed by mostly 1¢ lower.
Week to week on Friday, Corn futures closed an average of 11.6¢ lower in old-crop contracts and Soybean futures closed an average of 68.8¢ higher through the front six contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 4, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was moderate on moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS).
Live sales in the Texas Panhandle were $3 higher at $140 and $3-$4 higher in Kansas at $139-$140. Earlier in the week, live trade was $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $138-$140 and in the western Corn Belt at $140. Dressed trade was $4 higher at $222.
Cattle futures closed mixed to a touch lower Thursday on likely profit taking from the recent run-up.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 21¢ lower (5¢ to 55¢).
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 16¢ lower to an average of 33¢ higher.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.69 lower Thursday afternoon at $281.46/cwt. Select was $3.10 lower at $276.47.
Soybean futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 3¢ higher.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 5¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 3, 2022
Stronger cash prices, the early-week, bullish Cattle report, the performance-depressing widespread winter storm and improved packer production helped Cattle futures take another step higher Wednesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.17 higher ($1.55 to $3.175 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.14 higher (83¢ to $1.65 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade in Nebraska and the Western Corn Belt was moderate through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. In Nebraska, live sales traded $3-$4 higher at $140/cwt. and dressed sales traded $4 higher at $222. In the Western Corn Belt, live sales traded $3 higher at $140-$141 and dressed prices were $4 higher at $222.
Trade in the Southern Plains was mostly inactive on light demand. Last week, live sales were $137 in the Texas Panhandle and $136 in Kansas.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.29 lower Wednesday afternoon at $283.15/cwt. Select was 65¢ lower at $279.57
Corn futures closed mostly down 2¢ to 12¢.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 16¢ higher through March ’23, then down 2¢ to 9¢.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb, 2, 2022
Cattle futures extended gains Tuesday after a struggle for follow-through support from the bullish Cattle report and thoughts that packer interest will improve this week.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 72¢ higher (28¢ to 90¢).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 70¢ higher (55¢ to 93¢ higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $137/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, at $136 in Kansas $137 in Nebraska and at $137-$139 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was steady at $218.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value Tuesday afternoon was $4.96 lower at $285.44/cwt. Select was $3.05 lower at $280.22.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 9¢ higher in the front six contracts.
Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 38¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Feb. 1, 2022
Cattle futures closed higher with likely positioning ahead of what turned out to be a bullish Cattle report.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.18 higher (88¢ to $1.42).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.64 higher ($1.75 to $3.40 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $137/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, at $136 in Kansas $137 in Nebraska and at $137-$139 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was steady at $218.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 2¢ lower Monday afternoon at $290.40/cwt. Select was 14¢ lower at $283.27.
Corn futures closed mixed, from 10¢ lower to 4¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 13¢ to 20¢ higher through Aug ’23 and then 2 higher to 3¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 31, 2022
Judging by estimated weekly cattle slaughter, the beef packing pace continues to improve but remains hindered.
Total cattle slaughter last week of 643,000 head was 7,000 head more than the previous week but 13,000 head less than the same week last year.
Oversold conditions and higher wholesale beef prices helped Cattle futures regain some ground Friday.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.31 higher Friday afternoon at $290.42/cwt. Select was $4.31 higher at $283.41.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 89¢ higher, except for unchanged in the back contract.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 71¢ higher (12¢ to $1.37 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were steady in the Texas Panhandle at $137/cwt., $1 lower in Kansas at $136, steady to $1 lower in Nebraska at $137 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $137-$139. Dressed trade was steady at $218.
Keep in mind, USDA will release Jan. 1 cattle inventory numbers Monday afternoon.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 28, 2022
Cattle futures mostly eased lower in light trade Thursday as traders awaited more concrete direction from the packing pace.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 82¢ lower except for 20¢ higher in expiring Jan.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 43¢ lower, except for 20¢ higher in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far for the week, live prices are steady in the Texas Panhandle at $137/cwt., $1 lower in Kansas at $136, steady to $1 lower in Nebraska at $137 and steady in the western Corn Belt at $137-$139. Dressed trade is steady at $218.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 35¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $289.11/cwt. Select was 62¢ lower at $279.10.
The average dressed steer weight the week ending Jan. 15 was 922 lbs., according to the latest weekly Actual Slaughter Under Federal Inspection report. That was 6 lbs. lighter than the previous week and 3 lbs. lighter than the previous year. The average dressed heifer weight of 851 lbs. was the same as a week earlier and 1 lb. heavier than the same time last year.
Net U.S. beef export sales for 2022 totaled 14,300 metric tons the week ending Jan. 20, according to the weekly U.S. Export Sales report. Sales were primarily for South Korea, Japan, Mexico, China, and Indonesia.
Grain exports helped underpin prices.
Net U.S. corn export sales (2021-22) were 29% more than the previous week and 84% more than the prior four-week average.
Net U.S. soybean export sales were up 53% from the previous week and 77% from the prior four-week average.
Net U.S. wheat export sales were 78% higher than the previous week and up noticeably from the prior four-week average.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 6¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 2¢ to 8¢ higher through Jan ‘23 and then mostly 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 27, 2022
Cattle futures closed higher Wednesday on apparent technical support and the notion that packer production is gaining.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.11 higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 95¢ higher (17¢ higher in waning spot Jan to $1.30 higher toward the back).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the Texas Panhandle through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live sales were steady at $137/cwt.
Trade was slow on moderate demand in Kansas at $136-$137, mostly $1 lower at $136.
In Nebraska and the western Corn Belt, trade was limited on light demand. So far this week, in both regions, live sales are steady to $2 lower at $137 and dressed trade is steady at $218.
Wholesale beef prices continued to falter, suggesting the seasonal top may have been breeched. Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.92 lower Wednesday afternoon at $289.46/cwt. Select was $3.60 lower at $279.72.
Soybean futures surged on South American weather and dragged Corn futures along.
Soybean futures closed 21¢ to 32¢ higher through the front five contracts and then mostly 5¢ to 15¢ higher.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 7¢ higher through the front six contracts and then mostly 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 26, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few transactions to trend in any region, there were some live sales in the Southern plains and Nebraska at $137/cwt. Early dressed trades were $218.
Last week, live prices were at $137/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $137-$138 in Nebraska and at $137-$139 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $218.
Cattle futures continued to lose ground Tuesday, unable to escape the uncertain packing pace and volatile outside markets.
Lower wholesale beef prices on the day, perhaps signaling a near seasonal top, added to Live Cattle angst. Live Cattle futures closed an average of 22¢ lower, except for an average of 29¢ higher in three contracts at either end of the board.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.12 lower Tuesday afternoon at $292.38/cwt. Select was $1.47 lower at $283.32.
Nearby Corn futures prices beyond the $6.00 mark added pressure to Feeder Cattle futures, which closed an average of $1.14 lower, except for 7¢ higher in spot Jan.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 8¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 11¢ to 13¢ higher after 4¢ to 9¢ higher in the front four contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 25. 2022
As expected, significantly higher feedlot placements revealed in Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report cast a pall over Cattle futures Monday, darkened by wildly volatile outside markets. However, they recovered some lost ground by the end of the session.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.46 lower (92¢ to $2.05 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.03 lower (25¢ to $2.02 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive with very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $137/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $137-$138 in Nebraska and at $137-$139 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $218.
The five-area direct average steer price last week was 89¢ higher on a live basis at $137.50/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was 7¢ lower at $217.92.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.09 higher Monday afternoon at $293.50/cwt. Select was $2.46 higher at $284.79.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ higher, riding the coattails of Wheat futures, which remain bolstered by the geopolitical tension in eastern Europe.
Soybean futures closed mostly 7¢ to 13¢ lower on rains in South America.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 24, 2022
Despite sharply lower outside markets, a bounce higher in grain prices and the ongoing slower beef packing pace, cash cattle and futures prices held their own last week.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices were steady to $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $137, $1-$2 higher in Kansas at $137. Prices were steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $137-$138 and $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $137. Dressed prices were steady at $218.
Cattle futures leaked lower Friday amid stagnant cash prices and bearish outside markets.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 63¢ lower (25¢ to $1.07 lower), except for unchanged and 5¢ higher in the back two contracts. Week to week, they closed mixed, from an average of 19¢ lower in the front four contracts to an average of 52¢ higher.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was 57¢ lower Friday afternoon at $292.41/cwt. Select was 15¢ higher at $282.33. Week to week, though, Choice was $8.10 higher and Select was $8.36 higher.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week was 636,000 head, which was 18,000 head more than the previous week, but 26,000 head fewer than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 1.87 million head is 161,000 head fewer (-7.9%) than last year. Estimated year-to-date beef production is 147.5 million lbs. less (-8.6%) at 1.57 billion lbs.
Net U.S. beef export sales were 12,800 metric tons for the week ending Jan. 13, according to the weekly U.S. Export Sales report. Sales were primarily for China, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, and Taiwan.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 21, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady to $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $137and $1-$2 higher in Kansas at $137. Prices are steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $137-$138. Although too few to trend, there were a few live trades in the western Corn Belt at $137, which was $1 lower. Dressed prices are steady at $218.
Cattle futures softened Thursday after follow-through support early in the session.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 17¢ lower in the front five contracts; unchanged to an average of 14¢ higher the rest of the way.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 37¢ lower, except for unchanged to 75¢ higher in the back three contracts.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.38 higher Thursday afternoon at $292.98/cwt. Select was $1.75 higher at $282.18.
The average dressed steer weight the week ending Jan. 8 was 928 lbs., according to USDA’s Actual Slaughter Under Federal Inspection Report. That was the same as a week earlier but 5 lbs. heavier than the previous year. The average dressed heifer weight was 851 lbs., which was 4 lbs. lighter than the previous week and the same as a year earlier.
Weather in South America and tension between Russia and Ukraine continued to dominate grain market commentary Thursday.
Soybean futures closed 27¢ to 34¢ higher through the front four contracts and then mostly 9¢ to 15¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 20, 2022
Improving packer production — 117,000 head Tuesday — helped boost Live Cattle futures an average of $1.11 higher on Wednesday.
The uptick in Live Cattle, helped boost Feeder Cattle futures an average of 73¢ higher, except for 50¢ lower in spot Jan, despite surging Corn futures prices.
Grain futures surged on Wednesday, led by soybeans on weather concerns in South American and wheat based on mounting tension between Russia and Ukraine.
Soybean futures closed mostly 18¢ to 30¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 7¢ to 11¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light to moderate demand in the Southern Plains and Nebraska through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady to $1 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $137, $1-$2 higher in Kansas at $137. Prices are steady in Nebraska at $137 and in the western Corn Belt at $138. Dressed prices are steady at $218.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.11 higher Wednesday afternoon at $291.60/cwt. Select was $2.04 higher at $280.43.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 19, 2022
Uncertainty about the pace of packer production continued to weigh on Live Cattle futures Tuesday, as wholesale beef prices continue to climb for the same reason. Sharply lower outside markets added to bearish sentiment.
Live Cattle futures closed an average 37¢ lower.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.63 higher Tuesday afternoon at $289.49/cwt. Select was $1.34 higher at $278.39.
Feeder Cattle futures drifted lower with the lack of support from the Live side. They closed an average 62¢ lower (20¢ lower at the back to $1.25 lower at the front).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light to moderate demand in Nebraska through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few transactions to trend, early trade was steady at $137/cwt. on a live basis and $128 in the beef.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill.
Last week, live prices were at $136-$137 in the Texas Panhandle, $135-$136 in Kansas and $138 in the western Corn Belt, where dressed trade was at $218.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 18, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were too few transactions to trend.
Last week, live prices were at $136-$137/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $135-$136 in Kansas, $137 in Nebraska and $138 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was at $218.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $3.55 higher Monday afternoon at $287.86/cwt. Select was $3.08 higher at $277.05.
Futures and equity markets were closed Monday in observance of Martin Luther King Day.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 17, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from very limited on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were too few transactions to trend.
For the week, live prices were $1-$2 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $136-$137/cwt. and $135-$136 in Kansas. They were $1-$3 lower in Nebraska at $137 and steady to $3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $137-$138. Dressed trade was $2 lower at $218.
Week to week through Thursday, the five-area direct average steer price was $2.00 lower on a live basis at $136.58/cwt. The average price in the beef was $2.00 lower at $217.99.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week was 621,000 head, just 1,000 head more than the previous week and 31,000 head fewer than the same week last year.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 59¢ higher, except for unchanged and 37¢ lower in the back two contracts, supported by climbing wholesale beef prices.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.84 higher Friday afternoon at $284.31/cwt. Select was $1.21 higher at $273.97.
Feeder Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 23¢ lower to an average of 5¢ higher with pressure from front-month Corn futures.
Corn futures closed fractionally higher to 8¢ higher in the front six contracts, and then mostly 5¢ to 6¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 13¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 14, 2022
Feeder Cattle futures gained Thursday, closing an average $1.33 higher, helped by declining front-month Corn futures.
Live Cattle futures edged higher, supported by climbing wholesale beef prices, despite the sluggish packing pace. They closed an average 40¢ higher, except for unchanged in the back contract.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.93 higher Thursday afternoon at $282.86/cwt. Select was $1.78 higher at $272.76.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were too few transactions to trend.
So far this week, live prices are $1-$2 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $136-$137/cwt. and $135-$136 in Kansas. They’re $1-$3 lower in Nebraska at $137 and steady to $3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $137-$138. Dressed trade is $2 lower at $218.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 11¢ lower through the front four contracts, and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 26¢ lower through the front six contracts, and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 13, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in Kansas through Wednesday afternoon, with live trade $1 lower than the previous day and $3 lower than the previous week at $135/cwt.
Although too few transactions to trend, dressed trade in Nebraska was $2 lower at $218. Live prices there last week were $138-$140.
Trade was limited on light demand in the Texas Panhandle, where live prices last week were $138 and in the western Corn Belt where prices were $138-$140. Dressed trade in the western Corn Belt last week was at $220.
Softer cash prices in the North, after weakness in the South, helped pressure Cattle futures Wednesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 62¢ lower (10¢ to $1.35 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 55¢ lower (17¢ to $1.10 lower), except for unchanged to 37¢ higher in the back three contracts.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $1.71 higher Wednesday afternoon at $279.93/cwt. Select was $2.35 higher at $270.98
Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 13¢ higher, likely supported by the World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE-see below).
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 6¢ higher, except for 1¢ to 2¢ lower in the front three contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan, 12, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was very limited on light demand in the Southern Plains through Tuesday afternoon. Early live sales were mostly $1 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $137/cwt. and mostly $1-$3 lower in Kansas at $135-$137.
Trade was mostly inactive on light demand in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Prices in those regions last week were $138-$140 on a live basis and $220 in the beef.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $2.18 higher Tuesday afternoon at $278.22/cwt. Select was $2.13 higher at $268.63.
Cattle futures found some traction Tuesday with support from higher outside markets and healthier looking packer processing, for a day at least.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 57¢ higher (10¢ to $1.15 higher), except for 67¢ lower in the back contract.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 52¢ higher (12¢ to $1.42 higher), except for 5¢ lower toward the back.
Corn and Soybean futures paddled in place ahead of Wednesday’s World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Soybean futures closed mostly unchanged to fractionally mixed after 1¢ to 2¢ higher in the front four contracts.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally mixed.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 11, 2022
Inflation jitters weighed on most commodities and outside markets Monday. Cattle futures were also pressured by recently slower packer processing and fears of back-logging cattle.
Live Cattle futures closed an average 86¢ lower (17¢ lower at the back to $1.47 lower toward the front), amid heavy trade .
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average 81¢ lower (5¢ lower at the back to $1.42 lower).
Negotiated cash fed cattle ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were steady in the Texas Panhandle at $138/cwt., but steady to $2 lower at $136-$138 in Kansas and at $138-$140 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was also steady to $2 lower at $220.
The five-area direct average steer price was $1.18 lower on a live basis last week at $138.41/cwt. The average price in the beef was 91¢ lower at $219.98.
Choice Boxed beef cutout value was $4.22 higher Monday afternoon at $276.04/cwt. Select was $5.40 higher at $266.50/cwt.
As for grains, Soybean futures softened to start the week with rains forecast for South America.
Soybean futures closed 21¢ to 26¢ lower through Nov ‘22 then 14¢ to 19¢ lower through Sep ’23 and mostly 4¢ lower across the rest of the board.
Corn futures closed fractionally mixed to 7¢ lower through May ’23 and then mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 10, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in all feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service, with too few transactions to trend.
For the week, live prices were steady in the Southern Plains at $138/cwt., but steady to $2 lower at $138-$140 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was also steady to $2 lower at $220.
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed Friday, with support from higher wholesale beef prices, but with continued concern about slower cattle harvest.
Estimated cattle slaughter last week of 620,000 head was 32,000 head fewer than the same week last year.
Feeder Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 36¢ lower to an average of 36¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average 20¢ higher, except for an average of 29¢ lower in three contracts.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.26 higher Friday afternoon at $271.82/cwt. Select was 46¢ higher at $26.10.
Grain futures gained Friday with ongoing bearish weather in South America and expectations to see corn and soybean estimates in that region trimmed when the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates come out Wednesday.
Soybean futures closed 19¢ to 24¢ higher through the front six contracts and then mostly 11¢ to 14¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ higher through Sep ’23 and then mostly 7¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 7, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in all feeding regions through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service, with too few transactions to trend.
For the week, live prices are steady in the Southern Plains at $138/cwt., but steady to $2 lower at $138-$140 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade is also steady to $2 lower at $220.
Cattle futures inched higher Thursday, although skittishness remains concerning recently slower cattle harvest amid anecdotal reports of increasing health challenges among workers.
Live Cattle futures closed an average 34¢ higher, except for an average of 12¢ lower in two contracts.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average 69¢ higher, except for 32¢ lower in Sep.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.63 higher Thursday afternoon at $268.56/cwt. Select was $1.03 higher at $260.64/cwt.
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 7¢ lower through Aug ‘22 and then mostly 7¢ to 14¢ higher.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 4¢ higher at either end of the board and fractionally mixed to 8¢ higher in the middle.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 6, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow to moderate on moderate demand in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Dressed trade in Nebraska was $2 lower at $220/cwt. Although too few to trend, there were some early live sales at $138, compared to $140 last week.
There were some early live sales in the western Corn Belt steady at $140 and a few in the beef steady to $2 lower at $220, but too few of either to trend.
Trade in the Southern Plains was limited on light demand. A light test sold steady on a live basis at $138.
Cattle futures closed mixed Wednesday, supported by moderating grain futures price gains but pressured by the weaker cash outlook.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 41¢ lower, except for an average of 32¢ higher in two contracts.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average 32¢ higher, except for unchanged to an average of 36¢ lower in the front three contracts.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 11¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $266.93/cwt. Select was 38¢ higher at $259.61/cwt.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 6¢ higher through Aug ‘23 and then 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 7¢ lower through the front four contracts and then mostly 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 5, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $138/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $140 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was at $220-$222.
Surging corn futures took Cattle futures down a peg Tuesday, especially Feeder Cattle.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.99 lower (70¢ lower toward the back to $3.57 lower in spot Jan).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 77¢ lower (5¢ to $1.52 lower).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 79¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $266.82/cwt. Select was 33¢ higher at $259.23/cwt.
Bearish South American weather lit a fuse beneath soybeans, leading other grain futures along for the ride.
Soybean futures closed 27¢ to 34¢ higher through Aug ‘22 and then 12¢ to 18¢ higher in the next four contracts; mostly 2¢ higher the rest of the way.
Corn futures closed 10¢ to 20¢ higher through the front four contracts and then mostly 4¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 4, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive with very light demand through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week live prices were at $138/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $140 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was at $220-$222.
The five-area direct average steer price last week of $139.59/cwt. on a live basis was $3.95 higher than the previous week. The average steer price in the beef was $3.58 higher at $220.89.
Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter through Dec. 27 was 32.66 million head, according to USDA. That was 958,000 head more (+3.0%) than a year earlier. Total estimated beef production of 27.05 billion lbs. was 694.4 million lbs. more (+2.6%).
Cattle futures eased lower Monday awaiting cash direction.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 38¢ lower, not counting newly minted away-Jun.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 45¢ lower.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 77¢ higher Monday afternoon at $266.03/cwt. Select was 67¢ higher at $258.90/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher, except for fractionally lower to 4¢ lower in the front four contracts.
Soybean futures closed 12¢ to 16¢ higher through Sep ‘23 and then 7¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Jan. 3, 2022
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices gained last week amid holiday-lightened trade. For the week, based on USDA reports available through Thursday, live prices were $2 higher in Nebraska at $140/cwt., $3 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $138 and $5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $140. Dressed prices of $220-$222 were $3-$4 higher in Nebraska and $3-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt.
Live Cattle futures traded sideways amid light trade on Friday. They closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 16¢ lower in the front three contracts to an average of 33¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures were traded lightly, too, but had the benefit of further erosion in front-month Corn futures. They closed an average of 81¢ higher (5¢ higher at the back to 95¢ higher toward the front), except for 35¢ lower in Sep.
Stronger cash prices and stabilizing wholesale beef prices enabled Cattle futures to gain from Monday through Friday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.06 higher (42¢ to $1.60 higher). Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $4.15 higher during the same period ($2.37 higher at the back to $6.67 higher toward the front). The CME Feeder Cattle Index closed $5.99 higher week to week on Thursday at $165.21/cwt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 78¢ higher on Thursday at $265.26, compared to Monday. Select was $3.05 higher at $258.23.
Grain futures lost ground throughout the week, due in part to rains in South America.
Corn futures closed an average of 17¢ lower on Friday through the front six contracts, compared to Monday, except for fractionally lower in spot Mar. During the same period, Soybean futures closed an average of 28¢ lower through the front six contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 31, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in the Texas Panhandle through Thursday afternoon, but early live sales were $3 higher than last week at $138/cwt.
Elsewhere, trade was mostly at a standstill.
Earlier in the week, live prices in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt were at $140/cwt., which was $5 higher in Nebraska and $2 higher in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices of $220-$222 were $3-$4 higher in Nebraska and $3-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt.
Cattle futures were narrowly mixed Thursday, as some traders checked out for the year. The weekly U.S. Export Sales report for the week could have added some pressure to Live Cattle. Net U.S. beef export sales for the week ending Dec. 23 were 48% less than the prior week and 55% less than the previous four-week average.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 36¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 46¢ higher (5¢ higher at the back to 95¢ higher toward the front), except for 35¢ lower in Sep.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 45¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $265.26/cwt. Select was $1.14 higher at $258.23/cwt.
Grain futures closed lower Thursday with rains in South America and position squaring.
Corn futures closed 9¢ to 10¢ lower in the front four contracts and then mostly 5¢ to 6¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 20¢ to 30¢ lower in the front six contracts and then mostly 5¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 30, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt through Wednesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. So far this week live prices in those regions are at $140/cwt., which is $5 higher in Nebraska and $2 higher in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices of $220-$222 are $3-$4 higher in Nebraska and $3-$5 higher in the western Corn Belt.
Trade in the Southern Plains was at a standstill. Live prices there last were $135.
Cattle futures, especially Feeder Cattle, climbed higher Wednesday, buoyed by cash market gains and higher wholesale beef prices.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.79 higher (97¢ to $2.82 higher with most strength in the front months).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.01 higher (65¢ higher to $1.37 higher).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.05 higher Wednesday afternoon at $265.71/cwt. Select was $1.00 higher at $257.09/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher after fractionally mixed in the front three contracts.
Soybean futures closed mostly 2¢ to 8¢ higher through Jan ‘23 and then 6¢ to 13¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 29, 2021
Although it was slow trade and light demand, negotiated cash fed cattle prices began the week $2 higher on a live basis at $140/cwt. in the western Corn Belt through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Dressed prices there last week were at mainly $217.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from a standstill to limited on light demand with too few transactions to trend. Last week, live prices were at $135/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska. Dressed trade was at $217-$218.
The stronger cash outlook and recently higher boxed beef prices helped Live Cattle futures firm. They closed an average of 24¢ higher (from 5¢ higher to $1.17 higher in almost-spent Dec).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 18¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $264.66/cwt. Select was 91¢ higher at $256.09/cwt.
Lower Corn futures prices helped Feeder Cattle close an average of $1.19 higher.
Corn futures closed lower on likely profit taking. Prices were 8¢ to 10¢ lower through May ‘23 and then mostly 4¢ to 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures paused from steep gains in the previous session, closing mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 28, 2021
Cattle futures closed mixed amid light trade to start the week with front-month Feeder Cattle under the most pressure from increasing Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 57¢ lower across the front half of the board to an average of 17¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed (from an average of 19¢ lower to an average of 19¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $135/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Nebraska, and at $138 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was at $217-$218.
The five-area direct weighted average steer price last week was $1.55 lower at $135.64. It was $1.12 lower in the beef at $217.30.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.54 higher Monday afternoon at $264.48/cwt. Select was $2.23 higher at $255.18/cwt.
Nearby Corn and Soybean futures climbed on Monday, presumably in response to the continued hot and dry weather forecast in South America.
Corn futures closed 9¢ through the front three contracts and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 26¢ to 30¢ higher through the front five contracts and then mostly 7¢ to 10¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 24 to 27, 2021
Markets head into what will be a long holiday weekend for many on a positive note.
Cattle futures gained again Thursday with traders apparently content to position on the plus side heading into the long weekend. Although trade was holiday-light, open interest in Live Cattle expanded the last two days. Higher outside markets added support.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.25 higher (72¢ higher at the back to $1.82 higher toward the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.22 higher (70¢ higher toward the back to $2.25 higher toward the front).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, live prices are $1 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $135/cwt. and $1-$3 lower in Kansas and Nebraska at $135. Dressed trade in Nebraska is steady to $1 lower at $217-$218. Last week, live prices were at $138 in the western Corn Belt and dressed trade was at $217-$218.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.08 higher Thursday afternoon at $262.94/cwt. Select was $2.12 higher at $252.95/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 7¢ higher through Sep ‘22 and then mostly 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 23, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to slow on moderate demand through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few transactions to trend, various reports suggested prices were a touch higher than earlier in the week, supported by the bounce in futures.
So far this week, live prices are $1 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $135/cwt. and $1-$3 lower in Kansas and Nebraska at $135. Dressed trade in Nebraska is steady to $1 lower at $217-$218. Last week, live prices were at $138 in the western Corn Belt and dressed trade was at $217-$218.
Cattle futures extended recent gains Wednesday amid lighter pre-holiday trade.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 58¢ higher (10¢ to 95¢ higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 66¢ higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 47¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $261.86/cwt. Select was 91¢ higher at $250.83/cwt.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 4¢ higher through Sep ‘22, and then mostly 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 15¢ to 22¢ higher through Sep ‘22 and then mostly 7¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 22, 2021
Cattle futures bounced back Tuesday from recently oversold conditions, with more optimistic outside markets, despite softer cash prices and the shorter harvest schedule through the remainder of the year.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.75 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 99¢ higher (85¢ to $1.17 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although there were too few transactions for a trend, some live sales traded at $135/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle and Nebraska.
Last week, live prices were $2-$4 lower in Kansas and Nebraska at $136-$138/cwt. They were $4 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $136 and steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $138. Dressed prices were $2 lower in Nebraska at $218 and steady to $3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $217-$218.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 99¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $261.39/cwt. Select was 75¢ lower at $249.92/cwt.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 8¢ higher through Jly ‘23, and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 19¢ higher through Sep ‘22 and then fractionally lower to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 21, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in Nebraska through Monday afternoon. Although too few transactions to trend, there were some live trades in the region at $135/cwt. Elsewhere, trade was at a standstill, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $2-$4 lower in Kansas and Nebraska at $136-$138/cwt. They were $4 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $136 ad steady to $2 lower in the western Corn Belt at $138. Dressed prices were $2 lower in Nebraska at $218 and steady to $3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $217-$218.
Cattle futures trended lower Monday with softer cash prices, holiday-limited harvest schedules on the books and no support from outside markets.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 34¢ lower, except for 10¢ higher in away Feb.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 75¢ lower (2¢ lower at the back to $1.20 lower toward the front), except for 5¢ higher in Oct.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 63¢ lower Monday afternoon at $262.38/cwt. Select was $2.39 higher at $250.67.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 2¢ to 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 20, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $2 lower in Kansas at $138/cwt. and $4 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $136. Dressed prices were $2 lower in Nebraska at $218.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week was 657,000 head, which was 11,000 head fewer than the prior week. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 32.17 million head was 886,000 head more (+2.8%) than the same period last year. Estimated year-to-date before production of 26.64 billion lbs. is 628 million lbs. more (+2.4%) than last year.
Cattle futures limped lower Friday, pressured by softer cash prices and pre-holiday positioning. Increasing carcass weights amid declining wholesale beef prices added weight.
The average dressed steer weight the week ending Dec. 4 was 928 lbs., according to USDA’s Actual Slaughter Under Federal Inspection report. That was 2 lbs. heavier than the previous week, 6 lbs. heavier than two weeks earlier and the same week a year earlier. The average dressed heifer weight was 4 lbs. heavier than the previous week at 851 lbs. and 1 lb. heavier than the same week last year.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.78 lower (95¢ lower at the back to $2.62 lower toward the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 61¢ lower.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 4¢ higher Friday afternoon at $263.01/cwt. Select was 14¢ higher at $248.28.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 2¢ higher in the front three contracts and then mostly fractionally lower.
Soybean futures closed 6¢ to 10¢ higher in the front five contracts and then mostly unchanged to fractionally lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 17, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are $2 lower in Kansas at $138/cwt. and $4 lower in the Texas Panhandle at $136. Dressed prices are $2 lower in Nebraska at $218.
Last week, live prices were at $140 in Colorado and $138-$140 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices in the western Corn Belt were $218-$220.
Cattle futures were narrowly mixed Thursday with lackluster trade.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 28¢ higher, except for 5¢ lower in Jun.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 35¢ lower in five contracts to and average of 31¢ higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.71 higher Thursday afternoon at $262.97/cwt. Select was 69¢ higher at $248.14.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 6¢ higher, boosted by positive weekly U.S. export sales.
Soybean futures closed 10¢ to 14¢ higher through the front four contracts and then mostly 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 16, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices lost some ground Wednesday. Live prices in the Texas Panhandle were $4 lower at $136/cwt., on slow trade and light demand, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few to trend, there some early dressed sales in Nebraska $2 lower at $218.
Cattle futures sagged lower, pressured by softer cash prices and reports of reduced production at some plants due to weather.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.05 lower (60¢ to $1.78 lower).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.41 lower (83¢ to $1.93 lower).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 46¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $260.26/cwt. Select was $1.35 lower at $247.45.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 5¢ lower through Jly ’22, then down 1¢ to 2¢.
Soybean futures closed fractionally higher to 3¢ higher through Jly ’22, and then mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 15, 2021
As the week wears on, cash fed cattle price prospects appear steady to softer, given reduced packer production the next two holiday weeks, along with declining wholesale beef prices.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few live trades in Kansas at $138/cwt., but too few to trend.
Live prices last week were at $138-$140/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Colorado; $138-$140 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $220 in Nebraska and $218-$220 in the western Corn Belt.
At the same time, wholesale beef prices continue to decline with Choice boxed beef cutout value $2.50 lower Tuesday afternoon at $260.72/cwt. Select was $4.84 lower at $248.80.
All of that was enough for Live Cattle futures to drift an average of 32¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 41¢ lower Tuesday, also pressured by Corn futures closing 2¢ to 5¢ higher, while Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 13¢ higher through Sep ’23 and then mostly 9¢ higher — both rebounding from the previous day’s losses.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 14, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week live prices were at $138-$140/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Colorado; $138-$140 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $220 in Nebraska and $218-$220 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.32 lower Monday afternoon at $263.22/cwt., but Select was $1.40 higher at $253.64
Long-term optimism helped boost Live Cattle futures an average of 46¢ higher on Monday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 84¢ higher (20¢ higher at the back to $1.37 higher). They received a boost from softer Corn futures, which were down on a drop in Soybean futures based on bullish South American production weather.
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 8¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 18¢ to 23¢ lower through Nov ’22 and then mostly 12¢ to 15¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 13, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $2 lower in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt. and steady to $2 lower at $138-$140 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were steady at $220.
Cattle futures drifted a touch higher Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed and average of 62¢ higher (22¢ to $1.05 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 28¢ higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 1¢ lower Friday afternoon at $264.54/cwt. Select was 56¢ higher at $252.24
Cattle futures drifted a touch higher Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed and average of 62¢ higher (22¢ to $1.05 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 28¢ higher.
Corn futures closed fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ higher through Nov ‘22 and then fractionally higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 10, 2021
So far this week, fed cattle prices are steady to $2 lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in the Southern Plains and the western Corn Belt through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Prices in the Southern Plains were at $140/cwt., which was steady with the prior day but $2 lower than last week.
Although too few to trend, there were a few live sales in the western Corn Belt at $138-$140 and a few in the beef at $220. Prices there last week were $140 and $220, respectively.
Trade in Nebraska was slow on moderate demand. Dressed prices were steady with last week at $220. Although too few to trend, there were some live trades at $138-$140, compared to $140 last week.
Trade in Colorado was mostly inactive on very light demand. Live prices last week were $142.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 44¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $264.55/cwt. Select was $1.41 lower at $251.68.
Cattle futures softened amid the subdued cash trade.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 62¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 55¢ lower, except for 67¢ higher in spot Jan.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 4¢ higher through near Jly and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 9, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $142/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Colorado; $140 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $220.
The lack of cash direction and lower wholesale beef prices helped pressure Live Cattle futures. They closed an average of 45¢ lower.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.92 lower Wednesday afternoon at $264.11/cwt. Select was $2.59 lower at $253.09.
Feeder Cattle futures stepped lower amid lackluster trade and the absence of cash direction. They closed an average of $1.45 lower.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally mixed as traders readied for Thursday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Soybean futures closed 9¢ to 12¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 8, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive on very light demand through Tuesday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $142/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Colorado; $140 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $220.
Cattle futures drifted amid lackluster trading interest Tuesday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 19¢ lower, except for 5¢ higher in spot Dec.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 56¢ lower (22¢ lower in spot Jan to $1.17 lower in the back contract).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.50 lower Tuesday afternoon at $268.03/cwt. Select was $2.17 lower at $255.68.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 11¢ lower through the front five contracts and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 7, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive on very light demand through Monday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $142/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Colorado; $140 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $220.
Cattle futures closed mostly higher Monday, buoyed by higher outside markets, recently stronger cash prices and prospects of higher money this week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 91¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 40¢ higher, except for an average of 13¢ lower in two contracts toward the back.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.83 lower Monday afternoon at $272.53/cwt. Select was 79¢ lower at $257.85.
Corn futures closed mainly fractionally lower to mostly fractionally higher.
Soybean futures closed 2¢ to 5¢ lower through the front six contracts and then mostly unchanged to fractionally mixed.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 6, 2021
Widely volatile outside markets, stemming from worries about the potential impact of the new COVID variant (omicron), pressured Cattle futures last week, despite another solid gain in cash prices. Yet, buoyant cash prices and fundamental strength continued to provide optimism.
For the week, negotiated cash fed cattle prices were $2 higher on a live basis at $142/cwt. in the Southern Plains and Colorado. They were steady to $4 higher in Nebraska at $140 and steady to $5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $140. Dressed prices were $3 higher in Nebraska at $220; $3-$7 higher in the western Corn Belt at $220.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 676,000 head was 110,000 head more than the previous holiday-shortened week and 7,000 more than the same week last year. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 30.8 million head was 872,000 head more (+2.9%) than the same period last year. Estimated total year-to-date beef production of 25.52 billion lbs. was 610.9 million lbs. more (+2.5%) than a year earlier.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 3, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices took another step higher Thursday.
Live prices were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $142/cwt., steady to $4 higher in Nebraska at $140 and steady to $5 higher in the western Corn Belt at $140. Dressed trade in Nebraska was $3 higher at $220.
Last week, live prices in Colorado were $140 and dressed prices in the western Corn Belt were $213-$217.
Cattle futures, especially font-month Live Cattle, gained Thursday with the stronger cash prices. They closed an average of 71¢ higher, from $1.65 higher in spot Dec to 7¢ higher in the back contract.
The weekly U.S. Export Sales report added support. For the week ending Nov. 25, net U.S. beef export sales (2021) of 21,600 metric tons were 12% more than the previous week and 5% more than the prior four-week average. Increases were primarily for South Korea, China, Japan, Mexico, and Chile.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.80 higher Thursday afternoon at $272.02/cwt. Select was 28¢ higher at $258.25.
Feeder Cattle gains were capped by stronger Corn futures prices. They closed an average of 36¢ higher, except for 5¢ lower in spot Jan.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 6¢ higher in the front five contracts and then fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 16¢ higher in the front five contracts and then mostly 3¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 2, 2021
The early-day rebound in equity markets, as well as positive supply fundamentals helped Cattle futures regain some recently lost ground Wednesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.39 higher (97¢ higher at the front to $1.77 higher at the back of the board).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 74¢ higher, from 12¢ higher in spot Dec to $1.12 higher.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 5¢ higher in the front three contracts and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 11¢ higher through Jan ’23 and then mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $140/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $136-$140 in Nebraska, $140 in Colorado and $135-$140 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was at $217 in Nebraska and at $213-$217 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.46 lower Wednesday afternoon at $270.22/cwt. Select was $2.32 lower at $257.97/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Dec. 1, 2021
Cattle futures, especially Live Cattle lost some steam Tuesday. While technical correction and month-end position squaring were likely behind some of the pressure, most commodities followed the sharp drop in equity markets, which were tied to uncertainty about the Covid variant, Omicron, and its potential economic impact.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 60¢ higher (17¢ to $1.00 higher), except for an average of 46¢ lower in the front two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 80¢ lower, from 12¢ lower toward the back to $1.45 lower toward the front of the board.
Corn futures closed 12¢ to 15¢ lower through the front five contracts and then mostly 8¢ to 9¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 20¢ to 27¢ lower through the front seven contracts and then mostly 10¢ to 18¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited to mostly inactive on light demand through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $7 higher in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt., $3-$6 higher in Nebraska at $136-$140, $5-$8 higher in Colorado at $140 and $3-$6 higher in the western Corn Belt at $135-$140. Dressed trade was $7 higher in Nebraska at $217 and $3-$7 higher in the western Corn Belt at $213-$217.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $5.90 lower Tuesday afternoon at $271.68/cwt. Select was $1.73 lower at $260.29/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 30, 2021
Cattle futures softened Monday amid likely profit taking and month-end positioning. Although some would say they started the week in oversold territory in need of technical correction, the fundamental pathway continues clear.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 91¢ lower, from $1.42 lower at the front to 22¢ lower at the back.
The CME Feeder Cattle Index was $3.34 higher at $161.29/cwt.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.25 lower, from 55¢ lower toward the back to $1.90 lower near the front of the board.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on very light demand through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $7 higher in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt., $3-$6 higher in Nebraska at $136-$140, $5-$8 higher in Colorado at $140 and $3-$6 higher in the western Corn Belt at $135-$140. Dressed trade was $7 higher in Nebraska at $217 and $3-$7 higher in the western Corn Belt at $213-$217.
Recent trade volume and delivery patterns suggest cash prices this week have the potential to gain more.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.43 lower Monday afternoon at $277.58/cwt. Select was 26¢ lower at $262.02/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 9¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 9¢ to 11¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 29, 2021
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed Friday amid holiday-shortened trade.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 15¢ lower, except for an average of 26¢ higher in the front two contracts.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 10¢ higher, except for unchanged to an average of 5¢ lower in three contracts.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 14¢ lower through the front six contracts and then mostly 4¢ to 7¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were $7 higher in the Southern Plains at $140/cwt., $5-$6 higher in Nebraska at $138-$140, $5-$8 higher in Colorado at $140 and $6 higher in the western Corn Belt at $138-$140. Dressed trade was $7 higher in Nebraska at $217.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 566,000 head was 111,000 head fewer than the previous week. Total year-to-date estimated cattle slaughter of 30.16 million head was 863,000 head more (+2.9%) than a year earlier. Total year-to-date estimated beef production of 24.95 billion lbs. was 601.5 million lbs. more (+2.5%) than a year earlier.
The average dressed steer weight the week ending Nov. 13 was 924 lbs., according to USDA’s Actual Slaughter Under Federal Inspection report. That was 5 lbs. heavier than the previous week but 6 lbs. lighter than a year earlier. The average dressed heifer weight of 844 lbs. was 2 lbs. heavier than the previous week but 2 lbs. lighter than the previous year.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 90¢ higher Friday afternoon at $280.01/cwt. Select was $1.19 lower at $262.28/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 25 and 26, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices are soaring. So far this week, live prices in the Southern Plains are $7 higher at $140/cwt., $4-$6 higher in Nebraska at $138-$139 and $4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $136-$138. Trade through Wednesday afternoon was moderate with good demand in the Southern Plains and Nebraska, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices in Colorado last week were at $132-$135. Dressed prices last week were at $210.
Cash bullishness added fuel to the rally in Cattle futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.60 higher ($1.07 higher at the back to $2.55 higher in spot Jan).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.09 higher, (37¢ higher toward the back to $2.50 higher in spot Dec).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 47¢ higher Wednesday afternoon at $279.11/cwt. Select was 80¢ higher at $263.47/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 6¢ to 7¢ lower through the front five contracts and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 24, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from slow on light demand in the Southern Plains to limited on light demand in other regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although there were too few transactions to trend, early live sales were $3 higher in the Southern Plains at $136/cwt.
Prices last week were at $133 in the Southern Plains, $133-$134 in Nebraska, $132-$135 in Colorado and $132-$134 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was at $210.
Cattle futures continued to gain ground Tuesday with recent cash strength and the likelihood of another step forward this week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.46 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 68¢ higher, from 37¢ to $1.22 higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 61¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $278.64/cwt. Select was $1.06 lower at $262.67/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 23, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $133/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $133-$134, steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $132-$134 and steady to $3 higher in Colorado at $132-$135. Dressed trade was $3 higher at $210.
Cattle futures gained some traction Monday with support from last week’s stronger cash prices and the neutral Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 62¢ higher, except for unchanged in the back contract, amid light trade.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 68¢ higher, from 32¢ higher at the back to $1.27 higher toward the front.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 84¢ higher Monday afternoon at $279.25/cwt. Select was 10¢ lower at $263.73/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 7¢ higher, riding wheat’s coattails.
Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 11¢ higher through the front six contracts, and then mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 22, 2021
Refreshing might be the most apt way to describe last week’s negotiated cash fed cattle trade. For the first time in what seems like forever, packers chased cattle to fill their pipelines. Cattle feeders passed early-week bids and carved mainly another $1-$3 from the market.
Live prices last week were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $132/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $133-$134 and $1-$4 higher in the western Corn Belt at $133-$134. Dressed trade was $3 higher at $210. Live prices in Colorado the previous week were at $132. There were a few sales reported at $135 in Nebraska through Friday afternoon, but too few to trend.
The five-area direct average fed steer price through Thursday was $1.66 higher than the previous week at $133.01/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was $2.99 higher at $209.59.
Estimated total cattle slaughter the week ending Nov. 20 of 677,000 head was 22,000 head more than the previous week. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 29.59 million head is 857,000 head more (+2.98%) than a year earlier. Estimated year-to-date beef production of 24.47 billion lbs. is 605.8 million lbs. (+2.54%) than a year earlier.
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed Friday, but rode the coattails of stronger cash prices to weekly gains.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 21¢ lower, except for unchanged to 12¢ higher in three contracts. They were an average of $2.83 higher week to week.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 27¢ higher, except for 5¢ lower in Jun and unchanged at the back of the board. Week to week, they were an average of $1.15 higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.25 higher Friday afternoon at $278.41/cwt. Select was 67¢ higher at $263.85/cwt. Week to week, though, Choice was $5.89 lower and. Select was $5.70 lower.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower, except for 1¢ higher in four contracts mid-board.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 4¢ higher, except for fractionally lower to 2¢ lower in the front five contracts.
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CattleCurrent Podcast—Nov. 19, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices perked up another $1-$3 on Thursday with light to moderate trade and demand, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $132/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $133-$134 and $1-$3 higher in the western Corn Belt at $133. Dressed trade was $3 higher at $210. Live prices in Colorado last week were at $132.
Stronger cash prices helped push Cattle futures higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.90 higher, except for 15¢ lower in nearly spent Nov.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 70¢ higher.
Lower grain futures prices added support.
Corn futures closed narrowly mixed, from 2¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 11¢ to 15¢ lower.
Wholesale beef prices continued to drift lower. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.66 lower Thursday afternoon at $278.47/cwt. Select was $2.53 lower at $264.06/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales of 25,500 metric tons (2021) for the week ending Nov. 11 were 23% more than the previous week and 58% more than the prior four-week average, according to the U.S. Export Sales report. Increases were primarily for China, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, and Mexico.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 18, 2021
Apparent resolve by cattle feeders to ignore early, steady-money negotiated cash fed cattle bids helped underpin the slightly higher close in Cattle futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 32¢ higher, except for 35¢ lower in Jan.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 39¢ higher, except for unchanged in the back contract.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Wednesday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Prices last week were at $132/cwt. on a live basis in the Northern Plains, the Southern Plains and Colorado. They were $131-$132 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were at $207.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.66 lower Wednesday afternoon at $278.47/cwt. Select was $2.53 lower at $264.06/cwt.
Grain futures strengthened on news ranging from reduced ethanol tariffs in South America to speculation about China buying interest in 2022.
Corn futures closed 5¢ higher through the front four contracts and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 19¢ to 25¢ higher through the front six contracts, 11¢ to 17¢ higher through the middle of the board and then 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 17, 2021
A break in Corn futures prices and improving supply fundamentals helped Feeder Cattle futures close an average of 79¢ higher Tuesday (37¢ to $1.10 higher), except for 27¢ lower in the waning spot month.
Corn futures closed 5¢ to 6¢ lower through near Jly and then mostly 1¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ lower through Sep ‘23 and then 2¢ to 7¢ lower.
Incidentally, with most of the winter wheat in the ground as of Nov. 14, there was 46% rated as Good (39%) or Excellent (7%), according to the latest USDA Crop Progress report. That was on par with the same time last year.
Despite recently stronger cash prices, Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed again — from an average of 15¢ lower in five contracts to an average of 17¢ higher — with pressure from the lack of cash direction and what appear to have been peak wholesale beef prices for the season.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon. There were too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Prices last week were at $132/cwt. on a live basis in the Northern Plains, the Southern Plains and Colorado. They were $131-$132 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were at $207.
Early indications suggest prices no worse than steady this week.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.07 lower Tuesday afternoon at $282.13/cwt. Select was 69¢ lower at $266.59/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 16, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade through Monday afternoon ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Prices last week were at $132/cwt. on a live basis in the Northern Plains and the Southern Plains. They were $131-$132 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were at $207.
The average dressed steer weight the week ending Oct. 30 was 920 lbs., according to USDA’s Actual Slaughter Under Federal Inspection report. That was 2 lbs. heavier than the previous week but 6 lbs. lighter than the previous year. The actual dressed heifer weight of 842 lbs. was the same as a week earlier but 6 lbs. lighter than the previous year.
Cattle futures traded sideways to slightly higher Monday, amid lackadaisical trade.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 17¢ lower in five contracts to an average of 21¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 57¢ higher, except for 32¢ lower in the waning spot month.
Corn futures closed fractionally lower to 1¢ lower through near Mar and then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 12¢ higher through Sep ’23 and then mostly 7¢ higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.10 lower Monday afternoon at $283.20/cwt. Select was $2.25 lower at $267.28/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales for the week ending Nov. 4 of 20,600 metric tons for 2021 were 23% more than the previous week and 39% more than the prior four-week average, according to USDA’s weekly U.S. Export Sales report. Increases were primarily for China, Taiwan, Japan, Mexico and South Korea.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 15, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices finished last week $2 higher in Nebraska on a live basis at $132/cwt. and $2-$4 higher at $132 in the Southern Plains and the western Corn Belt. Fed cattle in Colorado also sold for $132, but there’s been no trend reported in that region for some time. Dressed prices were $3-$5 higher at $207.
Through Thursday, the five-area direct average steer price was $131.35/cwt. on a live basis, which was $3.23 more than the previous week. The five-area average steer price in the beef was $4.55 higher at $206.60.
“This week’s five-area weighted average price is the highest price since June 2017 and the first week the price has exceeded $130 since that same time period,” explained Andrew P. Griffith, agricultural economist at the University of Tennessee, in his weekly market comments. “The spring price peak in 2017 was just over $144/cwt., but the spring price spike was short lived. The difference in today’s market is that the market is in a position to sustain prices in excess of $130 for several months. Fed cattle prices are not likely to spike, but methodically increase.”
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week was 655,000 head, which was 5,000 head more than the previous week. Year-to-date total estimated cattle slaughter of 28.9 million head was 844,000 head more (+3.0%) than the same period a year earlier. Total estimated year-to-date beef production through last week of 23.9 billion lbs. was 601.8 million lbs. more (+2.6%) than a year earlier.
Rallying Corn futures pressured Cattle futures Friday, especially Feeder Cattle.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 25¢ lower, except for 25¢ higher in spot Dec. They closed an average of 33¢ lower week to week on Friday, except for an average of 27¢ higher in two contracts.
Corn futures faded early-week pressure from the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates. On Friday, they closed 5¢ to 7¢ higher through Jly ’22 and then mostly 2¢ higher. Week to week on Friday, they were an average of 18¢ higher through the front six contracts.
Soybean futures rallied higher, helped along by decreased projected yield in the WASDE. They closed 21¢ to 23¢ higher through Aug ’22 and then mostly 10¢ to 17¢ higher. Week to week on Friday, they were an average of 38.4¢ higher through the front six contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 12, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were too few transactions to trend.
So far this week, live prices are $2-$3 higher in the Southern Plains at $131-$132/cwt., $2 higher at $132 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices are $3-$5 higher at $207.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 38¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $285.14/cwt. Select was 67¢ higher at $267.29.
Live Cattle futures wavered in place Thursday, while a break in the Corn rally helped Feeder Cattle breathe higher.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed from unchanged to an average of 17¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 68¢ higher (42¢ to $1.02 higher).
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 2¢ to 8¢ higher through Sep ’22 and then mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 11, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow with light to moderate demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices were $2-$3 higher in the Southern Plains at $131-$132/cwt., $2 higher in Nebraska at $132 and $1-$2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $131-$132. There were too few dressed trades for a trend: $202-$204 last week.
Live Cattle futures were unable to capitalize on the stronger cash price, however. They closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 11¢ lower in five contracts to an average of 11¢ higher. Part of the pressure was likely due to lower wholesale beef prices.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.28 lower Wednesday afternoon at $285.52/cwt. Select was $4.00 lower at $266.62.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.26 lower with weight from resurgent grain futures.
Corn futures closed 13¢ to 14¢ higher in the front four contracts and then mostly 6¢ to 8¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mainly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 10, 2021
Cattle futures drifted lower Tuesday with traders apparently waiting for further cash direction.
Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 27¢ lower in four contracts to an average of 14¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 60¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, prices were at $128-$130/cwt. in the Southern Plains and the western Corn Belt; $130 in Nebraska. Dressed prices were $202-$204.
Early on, bets seem to favor steady to higher prices this week.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 85¢ lower Monday afternoon at $287.80/cwt. Select was $2.02 higher at $270.62/cwt.
Grain futures, especially Soybeans firmed Tuesday with friendlier projections than expected in the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (see below).
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 9, 2021
Cattle futures edged higher Monday as traders adjusted to last week’s strong rally.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 23¢ higher (5¢ to 40¢) except for unchanged in Feb ’22.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 62¢ higher, except for 30¢ and 38¢ lower at either end of the board.
Grain futures, especially Soybeans added support, under pressure from apparent positioning ahead of Tuesday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $128-$130/cwt. in the Southern Plains and the western Corn Belt; $130 in Nebraska. Dressed prices were $202-$204.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 89¢ lower Monday afternoon at $288.65/cwt. Select was $1.08 higher at $267.52/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 8, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices ended last week $3-$4 higher on a live basis at $130/cwt. in all major cattle feeding regions. Dressed trade was $4 higher at $204.
Trade was slow to moderate on moderate to good demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 68¢ lower Friday afternoon at $289.54/cwt. Select was 70¢ lower at $267.52/cwt.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week of 650,000 head was 18,000 fewer than the previous week, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Year-to-date estimated cattle slaughter of 28.25 million head is 847,000 head more (+3.1%) than the same time last year. Total year-to-date estimated beef production of 23.37 billion lbs. is 610,000 lbs. more (+2.7%) than a year earlier.
Cattle futures closed higher Friday with support from cash prices breaking higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 95¢ higher (50¢ higher at the back to $1.27 higher toward the front).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.16 higher (77¢ to $1.45 higher toward the front).
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 5, 2021
Cattle futures on Thursday paused from the week’s rally, but stronger cash prices and indicators of feedlot marketing currentness suggest there’s room to roam higher.
For instance, the dressed steer weight the week ending Oct. 23 was 918 lbs., according to USDA’s Actual Slaughter Under Federal Inspection report. That was 4 lbs. lighter than the previous week and 13 lbs. lighter year over year. The average dressed heifer weight of 842 lbs. was 2 lbs. heavier week to week but 5 lbs. lighter year over year.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 43¢ lower (12¢ lower toward the back to $1.02 lower in spot Dec).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 87¢ lower (47¢ lower at the back to $1.15 lower in spot Nov).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Thursday afternoon. So far this week, the only established sales are $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $128/cwt., according to the Agricultural Marketing Service
Last week, live prices were at $124-$126/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, at $126 in Kansas, $127 in Nebraska and at $126-$127 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was at $200.
Choice boxed beef cutout values were $1.73 higher Thursday afternoon at $290.22/cwt. Select was 50¢ higher at $268.22/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 4, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ended up fully $2 higher in the Southern Plains on Tuesday at $128/cwt. on a live basis. That and rallying Cattle futures seem to have bolstered cattle feeder resolve to hold packers’ feet to the fire this week.
Through Wednesday afternoon, trade was limited on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were at $124-$126/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, at $126 in Kansas, $127 in Nebraska and at $126-$127 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was at $200.
The stronger cash outlook and follow-through fundamental support helped Cattle futures take another step higher Wednesday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.01 higher (17¢ higher toward the back to $1.70 higher in spot Dec), amid heavy trade and expanding open interest.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.35 higher (37¢ higher toward the back to $2.20 higher toward the front). They were helped along by Corn futures closing 8¢ to 9¢ lower through Jly ‘22. Corn futures were down on likely profit taking, harvest pressure and chatter about yields coming in at the top of range expectations.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.11 higher Wednesday afternoon at $288.49/cwt. Select was $1.59 higher at $267.72/cwt.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 3, 2021
Feeder Cattle futures blasted higher Tuesday, more than gaining back the previous session’s steep declines. Corn futures were down for the day, but more than anything, Feeder Cattle were likely falling back into fundamental line after what appeared to be a technical-based, algo-fueled late-session selloff the previous day.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $3.80 higher ($3.17 to $4.40 higher).
Live Cattle rallied on the stronger cash outlook and higher wholesale beef values after being anchored by Feeder Cattle the previous day.
Live Cattle closed an average of $1.56 higher (95¢ to $1.97 higher).
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were at $124-$126 in the Texas Panhandle, $126 in Kansas, $127 in Nebraska and $126-$127 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was at $200. Early indications point to steady, but likely higher prices this week.
Corn futures closed lower mostly 3¢ to 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 2, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive with very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were steady to $2 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $124-$126/cwt., $2 higher in Kansas at $126, $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $127 and $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $126-$127. Dressed trade was $4 higher at $200.
The five-area average direct fed steer price last week was $1.90 higher than the previous week at $126.29/cwt. on a live basis. The average steer price in the beef was $4.06 higher at $199.89.
Choice boxed beef cutout values were $1.86 higher Monday afternoon at $287.58/cwt. Select was $1.02 higher at $264.39.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.22 lower, battered by rising Corn and Wheat futures.
Corn futures were 10¢ higher through the front four contracts and then mostly 5¢ to 7¢ higher.
K.C. Wheat futures were mostly 18¢ to 21¢ higher.
Weakness in Feeder Cattle helped pressure Live Cattle futures an average of 38¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Nov. 1, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $126/cwt., $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $126-$127 and $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $127. Dressed trade was $4 higher at $200.
Total estimated cattle slaughter last week was 668,000 head, which was 7,000 more than the previous week and 28,000 more than the same week last year. Total estimated year-to-date cattle slaughter of 27.60 million head was 847,000 head more (+3.17%) than the same time last year. Total estimated beef production of 22.83 billion lbs. was 616.2 million lbs. more (+2.77%) than a year earlier.
Cattle futures closed lower Friday, likely mostly due to week-end and month-end position squaring, given improving fundamentals.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 94¢ lower, except for $2.87 higher in expiring Oct and 12¢ higher at the back.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 96¢ lower (35¢ to $1.45 lower).
Corn futures closed 4¢ to 5¢ higher through near Jly and then mostly 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 2¢ to 3¢ higher through Jan ‘23 and then mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 29. 2021
Cattle futures softened Thursday with a sense of retrenching as market fundamentals improve.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.30 lower (80¢ lower to $2.72 lower in spot Oct).
Rising Corn futures prices continued to pressure Feeder Cattle futures, which closed an average of $1.50 lower (82¢ to $2.02 lower), except for 17¢ higher in expiring Oct.
Corn futures closed 5¢ higher through near Jul and then mostly 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mixed, 2¢ to 5¢ lower through Sep ’22 and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS).
So far this week, live prices are $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $126/cwt., $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $126-$127 and $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $127. Dressed trade is $4 higher at $200.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.26 higher Thursday afternoon at $284.89/cwt. Select was 95¢ higher at $262.64.
The average dressed steer weight of 922 lbs. (week ending Oct. 16) was 1 lb. heavier than the previous week but 7 lbs. lighter than the same week last year, according to USDA’s Actual Slaughter Under Federal Inspection report. The average dressed heifer weight of 840 lbs. was 1 lb. heavier week to week but 10 lbs. lighter year over year.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 28, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices finally moved beyond steady money Wednesday.
Live prices were $2 higher in the Southern Plains at $126/cwt., $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $126-$127 and $2-$3 higher in Nebraska at $127. Dressed trade was $4 higher at $200.
Trade was slow on light demand in the Southern Plains and western Corn Belt, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. It was slow to moderate on good demand in Nebraska.
Despite stronger cash prices, Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 28¢ higher through the front five contracts to an average of 18¢ lower.
Although turning the seasonal corner higher, wholesale beef prices were lower Wednesday afternoon. Choice was down $1.13 to $283.63/cwt. Select was 85¢ lower at $261.69.
Feeder Cattle futures softened, though, in the wake of a strong surge in Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle closed and average of $1.34 lower, except for 52¢ higher in nearly spent Oct.
Corn futures closed mostly 10¢ to 13¢ higher with support from ethanol production and lower corn production in Brazil.
Soybean futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 27, 2021
Cattle futures stepped higher Tuesday, helped along by follow-through support from the friendly Cattle on Feed report, as well as early indications of cash prices pushing past steady this week and wholesale beef prices turn seasonally higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.33 higher (35¢ to $2.05 higher).
Those gains came despite Corn futures closing mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 2¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.48 higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in the Texas Panhandle through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Prices were mainly steady with last week at $124/cwt., but a few traded $1 higher at $125.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill with too few transactions to trend.
Last week, live prices were $124 in Kansas and $124-$125 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $196.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.72 higher at $284.76/cwt. Select was 65¢ lower at $262.54.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 26, 2021
Cattle futures found traction Monday from the friendly Cattle on Feed report.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.25 higher, except for 20¢ higher in waning spot Oct.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 92¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly marginally higher.
Soybean futures closed 9¢ to 16¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, trade was at $124.00/cwt. on a live basis in the Southern Plains and mainly $124-$125 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was at $196.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.22 higher Monday afternoon at $283.04/cwt. Select was 8¢ higher at $263.19.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 25. 2021
Cash cattle price were generally mixed to steady last week as more calves make their way to town and as fed cattle keep slugging for extra traction.
“Seasonal weakness in the calf market is evident as producers have been setting wheels under calves the past several weeks at a rapid pace,” says Andrew P. Griffith, agricultural economist at the University of Tennessee, in his weekly market comments. “…As more calves make their way to the market, stocker producers become more selective in the cattle they will pay a premium for. Freshly-weaned calves tend to have an increased incidence of sickness this time of year as weaning stress is compounded by large temperature swings. From the stocker perspective, there is an opportunity to profit on calves being purchased and sold in truckload lots. The value of gain for an October purchase of a 525-pound steer and the sale of an 825-pound steer in March is $1.42 per pound with a 5% death loss. That is favorable math.”
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.99 lower on Friday (83¢ to $2.68 lower). Week to week, they were an average of $2.54 lower, amid profit taking from recent gains, slack interest, stagnant cash prices and skittishness about the monthly Cattle on Feed report. They received added pressure from resurgent Corn futures, which closed an average of 11¢ higher through the front six contracts week to week on Friday, with strong export demand.
However, Feeder Cattle perked up on Monday in response to the Cattle on Feed report. More on those numbers momentarily.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct.22, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive on light demand to mostly inactive on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady in the Southern Plains at $124/cwt., steady to $2.50 higher in Nebraska at $124.00-$126.50 and steady to $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $124-$125. Dressed prices are steady at $196.
Cattle futures closed mixed Thursday.
Live cattle were down an average of 63¢ lower on likely profit taking, pressure from Lean Hogs and positioning ahead of Friday’s Cattle on Feed report. Feeder Cattle managed to close narrowly mixed.
Feeder Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 36¢ lower to an average of 19¢ higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 63¢ higher at $280.66/cwt. Select was 8¢ lower at $262.72/cwt.
As for grains, Corn and soybean futures closed lower Thursday beneath the weight of profit taking and lower crude oil prices.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 7¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 18¢ to 21¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 21, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow with moderate demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Trade in the Southern Plains was mostly steady at $124/cwt.
Although too few to trend, there were some early live sales in Nebraska at $124.00-$126.50, and some in the western Corn Belt at $124-$125, compared to $124 in both regions last week. Early dressed sales were steady at $196.00.
Cattle futures closed higher Wednesday, bolstered by higher outside markets, leveling wholesale beef values, slightly higher cash prices and positioning ahead of Friday’s Cattle on Feed report. Trade volume remained on the low side.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 74¢ higher (50¢ to 95¢ higher).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 85¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $280.03/cwt. Select was $1.27 higher at $262.80/cwt.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.05 higher (50¢ to $1.32 higher).
Higher outside markets and energy prices helped boost Corn Futures Wednesday, while exports and more non-commercial interest boosted the entire grain complex.
Corn futures closed 7¢ to 9¢ higher — mostly 8¢ higher — across most of the board.
Soybean futures closed mostly 18¢ to 20¢ higher through Jan ‘23.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 20, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from limited on light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were too few transactions to trend.
Live prices last week were steady in the Southern Plains on a live basis at $124/cwt. and steady to $2 higher at $124 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were at $196, which was steady in Nebraska but steady to $3 higher in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 79¢ higher Tuesday afternoon at $280.88/cwt. Select was $1.72 higher at $261.53/cwt.
Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed Tuesday amid light trade with Feeder Cattle futures showing signs of firming.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 25¢ lower to an average of 13¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 34¢ lower through the front five contracts to an average of 64¢ higher the rest of the way.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ to 8¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 19, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive with very light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were too few transactions to trend.
Live prices last week were steady in the Southern Plains on a live basis at $124/cwt. and steady to $2 higher at $124 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were at $196, which was steady in Nebraska but steady to $3 higher in the western Corn Belt.
The five-area direct average steer price last week was 88¢ higher at $123.84/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was 33¢ higher at $195.70.
Cattle futures started the week softer amid technical considerations and traders apparently seeking more price direction. Another day of stronger Corn futures added pressure to Feeder Cattle. Some might also be considering positions ahead of the monthly Cattle on Feed report due out Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.52 lower, (50¢ lower at the back to $2.07 lower toward the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 43¢ lower, except for an average of 8¢ higher in the back two contracts.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 15¢ lower Monday afternoon at $280.09/cwt. Select was 81¢ lower at $259.81/cwt.
Corn futures got a follow-through boost from export sales, which were 85% more than the prior four-week average, according to the latest U.S. Export Sales report for the week ending Oct. 7. They closed mostly 4¢ to 5¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 18, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were too few transactions to trend.
Live prices last week were steady in the Southern Plains on a live basis at $124/cwt. and steady to $2 higher at $124 in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were at $196, which was steady in Nebraska but steady to $3 higher in the western Corn Belt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 646,000 head was 11,000 head fewer than the previous week. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 26.3 million head is 806,000 head more than last year (3.2%). Year-to-date estimated total beef production of 21.72 billion lbs. is 588.9 million lbs. more than a year earlier (+2.8%).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 50¢ higher with follow-through support from the previous session tied to firmer cash prices and higher outside markets.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 71¢ lower, pressured by a surge in Corn futures and week-end positioning.
Corn futures closed mostly 7¢ to 9¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 9¢ to 11¢ higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 8¢ lower Friday afternoon at $280.24/cwt. Select was 6¢ lower at $260.62.
The average dressed steer weight for the week ending Oct. 2 was 916 lbs., according to USDA’s Actual Slaughter Under Federal Inspection report. That was 2 lbs. heavier than the previous week but 8 lbs. lighter than a year earlier. The average dressed heifer weight of 836 lbs. was 3 lbs. heavier than the previous week but 7 lbs. lighter than the same week last year.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 15, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on moderate demand in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live sales were steady to $2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $124/cwt., while dressed prices were steady at $196. There were too few to trend in Nebraska, where prices the previous day were steady to $2 higher at $124; steady in the beef at $196.
Trade in the Southern Plains was mostly inactive on light demand with too few transactions to trend. On Wednesday, live prices were steady at $124.
Higher outside markets and the slight increase in some regional cash prices helped draw more buying interest to Cattle futures Thursday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 78¢ higher (35¢ higher toward the back to $1.30 higher toward the front).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 84¢ higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 30¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $280.32/cwt. Select was $1.98 higher at $260.68.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 11¢ higher through Sep ’22 and then mainly 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 14, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was steady with the previous week in the Southern Plains at $124/cwt. through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Trade was limited on light demand in the Texas Panhandle; slow on moderate demand in Kansas.
Trade in other regions was slow on light demand.
Live sales in Nebraska were steady to $2 higher at $124; steady in the beef at $196. Although too few to trend, there were some early live sales in the western Corn Belt at $123-$124, and a few in the beef at $196. Price there last were $122 and $193-$196, respectively.
Cattle futures closed lower Wednesday. Along with lower outside markets early in the day, most pressure seemed tied to WASDE increasing expected beef production for this year, as wholesale beef prices decline and cash fed cattle prices remain tough to budge.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 85¢ lower (22¢ to $1.32 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 71¢ lower (25¢ lower at the front to $1.15 lower.)
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.05 lower Wednesday afternoon at $280.02/cwt. Select was $2.65 lower at $258.70.
Corn futures closed mostly 6¢ to 10¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 13, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on very light demand to a standstill through Tuesday afternoon. There were too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were at $124/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $122-$124 in Nebraska and $122 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $196 in Nebraska and $193-$196 in the western Corn Belt.
Cattle futures were a mixed bag Tuesday with Live Cattle, especially the front months, pressured by increased beef production estimates in the latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 42¢ lower (5¢ lower at the back to 92¢ lower toward the front).
On the other hand, Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 45¢ higher except for 75¢ lower in spot Oct. Support included higher corn production and corn price stability suggested by the latest WASDE.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 5¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $281.07/cwt. Select was $2.29 lower at $261.35.
Wheat futures gained Tuesday but Corn and especially Soybean futures softened in the wake of the latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Corn futures closed mostly 5¢ to 10¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 20¢ to 30¢ lower through Jan ’23 and then 12¢ to 17¢ lower.
K.C. Wheat futures were mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 12, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were at $124/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $122-$124 in Nebraska and $122 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $196 in Nebraska and $193-$196 in the western Corn Belt. Between last week’s increased slaughter level and recent futures prices hopes are growing to budge cash prices higher this week.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 657,000 head was 20,000 head more than the previous week and year. Estimated total year-to-date cattle slaughter of 25.63 million head was 815,000 head more (+3.3%) than the same time last year. Estimated year-to-date total beef production of 21.8 billion lbs. was 604.7 million lbs. more (+2.9%) than a year earlier.
Cattle futures found a little more traction Monday as traders appeared more confident in recent gains.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 73¢ higher, except for 15¢ lower in spot Oct.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 37¢ higher, except for 7¢ and 10¢ lower toward either end of the board.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.15 lower Monday afternoon at $281.12/cwt. Select was 90¢ higher, though, at $263.64.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 9¢ to 14¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 11, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive with light demand in all major feeding regions through Friday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were steady in the Southern Plains at $122-$124/cwt. in Kansas and $124 in the Texas Panhandle. Prices were steady in the western Corn Belt at $122 but mostly steady to $2 higher in Nebraska at $122-$124. Dressed prices were $196, which was steady in Nebraska and toward the top of last week’s price range in the western Corn Belt.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 39¢ lower as traders positioned for the weekend following the surge higher. Week to week on Friday, they closed an average of $5.17 higher.
Similarly, Live Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed from an average of 37¢ lower to an average of 17¢ higher. They closed an average of $3.92 week to week on Friday.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.03 lower Friday afternoon at $283.27/cwt. Select was $1.74 lower at $262.74/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 8, 2021
Feeder Cattle futures took center stage Thursday, closing sharply higher and leading Live Cattle along. Support seemed to stem mainly from increased trader confidence based on notions the seasonal low is in the books.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.34 higher ($1.50 higher at the back to $3.55 higher in spot Oct).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.29 higher (47¢ higher at the back to $1.87 higher toward the front.)
Corn futures closed mixed, mostly 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 5¢ to 9¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive with light demand in all major feeding regions through Thursday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live prices are steady in the Southern Plains at $122-$124/cwt. in Kansas and $124 in the Texas Panhandle. Prices are steady in the western Corn Belt at $122 but mostly steady to $2 higher in Nebraska at $122-$124. Dressed prices are $196, which is steady in Nebraska and toward the top of last week’s price range in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.32 lower Thursday afternoon at $285.30/cwt. Select was $1.52 higher at $264.44.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 7, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on moderate demand in the Southern Plains and Nebraska through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices in the Texas Panhandle were steady at $124/cwt., steady to $2 higher in Kansas at $124 and steady to $2 higher in Nebraska at $122-$124. Dressed trade in Nebraska was steady at $196.
Trade was limited on light demand in the western Corn Belt. There were a few dressed sales at $196, but there were too few to trend. Prices last week were mostly $122 on a live basis and $192-$197 in the beef.
Live Cattle futures closed and average of 56¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed and average of $1.15 higher, except for 32¢ lower in the back contract.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.09 lower Wednesday afternoon at $286.62/cwt. Select was $4.87 lower at $262.91.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 9¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 6, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive with light demand in all trading regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were not enough sales for a market trend.
Live prices last week were at $124/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, at $122-$124 in Kansas, at $122 in Nebraska and at $122-$123 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $196 in Nebraska and $192-$196 in the western Corn Belt.
Cattle futures received follow-through support Tuesday amid continued oversold conditions and outside support.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.37 higher (60¢ higher in Aug ’22 up to $1.85 in nearby Nov.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 66¢ higher (20¢ at the front of the board to 95¢ at the back) except for nearby Dec, down 20¢.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.47 lower Tuesday afternoon at $287.71/cwt. Select was $2.62 higher at $267.78/cwt.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 15¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 5, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive on light demand to a standstill through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were at $124/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle at $122-$124 in Kansas, at $122 in Nebraska and at mostly $122 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed prices were $196 in Nebraska and $192-$197 in the western Corn Belt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 637,000 head was 4,000 head fewer than the previous week and 27,000 head fewer than the same time last year.
Cattle futures plowed higher Monday, buoyed in part by extremely oversold conditions.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.64 higher (75¢ higher at the back to $2.85 higher toward the front).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.30 higher Monday (32¢ higher toward the back to $2.25 higher in spot Oct) except for $2.00 lower in Sep.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.18 lower Monday afternoon at $289.18/cwt. Select was 32¢ higher at $265.16.
Corn futures closed fractionally lower to 2¢ higher across most of the board.
Soybean futures closed 6¢ to 10¢ lower through Jly ’22 and then mostly fractionally lower to 3¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Oct. 4, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in Nebraska and the Western Corn Belt through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were a few live sales at $122/cwt., however not enough in either region for a full market trend. Trading was at a standstill in the Southern Plains.
Live prices last week were steady in the Texas Panhandle at $124/cwt., steady to $1 lower in Kansas at $123-$124, $2 lower in Nebraska at $122 and steady to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $122-$123. Dressed prices were $2 lower in Nebraska at $196 and steady to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $192-$196.
Cattle futures ended the week mixed as traders continued to position for the new month. Conditions remain as oversold as buyer interest is limited.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed from an average of 66¢ lower in four contracts (7¢ to $1.95 lower) to an average of 57¢ higher (20¢ to $1.95 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, an average of 38¢ lower through the front four contracts to an average of 21¢ higher in the back four contracts.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.62 lower at $292.36/cwt. Select was $4.48 lower at $264.84/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 6¢ to 9¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 6¢ to 9¢ lower in the front four contracts, 3¢ to 5¢ lower through Jan ’23 and then mostly 1¢ lower to fractionally higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—10-01-21
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in all major feeding regions through Thursday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, Live prices are steady in the Texas Panhandle at $124/cwt., steady to $1 lower in Kansas at $123-$124, $2 lower in Nebraska at $122 and steady to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $122-$123. Dressed prices are $2 lower in Nebraska at $196 and steady to $1 lower in the western Corn Belt at $192-$196.
Position squaring for the end of the week, month and quarter, along with softer cash prices and sharply lower outside markets helped push Cattle futures lower Thursday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.35 lower, except for 35¢ lower in expiring Sep.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.60 lower.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.35 lower Thursday afternoon at $294.98/cwt. Select was $2.46 lower at $269.32/cwt.
Corn futures closed lower and Soybean futures closed sharply lower Thursday. Pressure included higher projected stocks than anticipated (see below) and the recently stronger dollar weighing on exports. As with cattle, week-end and month-end and positioning likely also contributed.
Corn futures closed mostly 2’2¢ to 2’6¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 21¢ to 28¢ lower through Aug ’22 and then 15¢ lower to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 30, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was light on light to moderate demand in all major feeding regions through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live sales traded steady in the Texas Panhandle at $124/cwt. and steady to $2 lower in Nebraska at $122-$124/cwt. Dressed trade in Nebraska was $2 lower at $196.
Although too few to trend, there were some live sales in Kansas at $123-$124 and some in the western Corn Belt at $121.00-$123.50.
Those softer prices and declining wholesale beef values pressured Live Cattle futures Wednesday, which closed an average of 26¢ lower, except for 10¢ higher in away Oct and unchanged in away Dec.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.23 lower Wednesday afternoon at $297.33/cwt. Select was $2.57 lower at $271.78/cwt.
Weakness on the live side and a day of stronger Corn futures added pressure to Feeder Cattle, which closed an average of $1.08 lower.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher through Aug ‘22 and then mainly 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 29, 2021
Short covering and lower Corn futures helped Feeder Cattle futures mostly rebound from the previous day’s pressure.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.00 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 17¢ lower in four contracts to an average of 39¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on very light demand in all major feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Fed cattle prices last week were generally steady on a live basis at $123-$124/cwt. Dressed trade was $2 lower at $198 in Nebraska and $194-$198 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.14 lower Tuesday afternoon at $301.56/cwt. Select was 3¢ lower at $274.35.
Corn futures closed 5¢ to 7¢ lower through new-crop contracts and then 2¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 9¢ to 10¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 28, 2021
Cattle futures closed lower Monday, pressured by Friday’s Cattle on Feed report with unexpectedly higher placements.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 40¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.68 lower (38¢ to $3.00 lower). They received extra pressure from Corn futures, which closed an average of 12¢ higher in the front six contracts, apparently based on early yields.
Soybean futures closed up across the board, mostly 2¢ to 6¢ higher.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live price last week were generally steady at $123-$124/cwt. Dressed trade was $2 lower at $198 in Nebraska and $194-$198 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 62¢ lower Monday afternoon at $302.70/cwt. Select was 15¢ lower at $274.38.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 27, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were too few transactions to trend in any region.
Live price last week were generally steady at $123-$124/cwt. Dressed trade was $2 lower at $198 in Nebraska and $194-$198 in the western Corn Belt.
Cattle futures closed mixed on Friday, amid fairly light action as traders positioned ahead of the monthly Cattle on Feed report and the end of the week.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 50¢ higher, except for 27¢ lower in spot Sep.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 34¢ lower.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week was 641,000 head, according to USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). That was 16,000 head fewer than the previous week. Year-to-date estimate total cattle slaughter of 20.11 million head was 627,000 head more (+3.2%) than the same period last year. Estimated year to date beef production of 20.1 billion lbs. was 627 million lbs. more (+3.2%) than the same time last year.
The average dressed steer weight the week ending Sept 11 was 909 lbs., according to USDA’s Actual Slaughter Under Federal Inspection report. That was 3 lbs. heavier than the previous week but 11 lbs. lighter than the same week last year. The average dressed heifer weight of 831 lbs. was 9 lbs. heavier than the previous week but 5 lbs. lighter than the previous year.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.28 lower Friday afternoon at $303.32/cwt. Select was 46¢ lower at $274.53.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 24, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to limited trade on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. There were too few transactions to trend in any region.
So far this week, live price are generally steady with last week at $123-$124/cwt. Dressed trade is $2 lower at $198 in Nebraska and $194-$198 in the western Corn Belt.
Resurgent equity markets helped Cattle futures mainly increase Thursday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 47¢ higher, except for 5¢ lower in spot Oct.
Recently higher Corn futures capped Feeder Cattle, which closed from an average of 33¢ lower in three contracts to an average of 37¢ higher.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.23 lower Thursday afternoon at $305.60/cwt. Select was 51¢ lower at $274.99.
Net U.S. beef export sales (2021) for the week ending Sept. 16 totaled 15,800 metric tons, according to the weekly U.S. Export Sales report. That was 3% more than the previous week and 17% more than the prior four-week average. Increases were primarily for Japan, South Korea, China, Taiwan, and Canada.
Consensus favors Friday’s monthly Cattle on Feed report coming in about even with the previous year; slightly few placements and total cattle on feed.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 23, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow with moderate demand in Kansas and Nebraska through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices were steady in Kansas at $123-$124/cwt., but $1 lower in Nebraska at $124. Dressed trade in Nebraska was $2 lower at $198.
Trade was limited on light demand in other regions. A light test brought steady money of $124 in the Texas Panhandle. Live sales in the western Corn Belt last week were $123-$124; dressed sales were $196-$200.
Higher outside markets and potential positioning ahead of Friday’s Cattle on Feed report helped lift Cattle futures Wednesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.09 higher (87¢ to $1.27 higher) except for 5¢ lower in spot Sep.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.02 higher (65¢ to $1.30 higher).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.54 lower Wednesday afternoon at $307.83/cwt. Select was $2.51 lower at $275.50.
Corn futures closed 7¢ to 8¢ higher through new-crop contracts and then mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 6¢ to 9¢ higher through the front six contracts and then mostly 1¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 22, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in the Southern Plains and Western Corn Belt through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. In Nebraska, trading was mostly inactive with very light demand and not enough purchases to trend.
Last week in the Texas Panhandle, live sales traded at $124/cwt. In Kansas, live sales traded from $123-$124. In Nebraska, live sales traded at $124 and dressed mostly at 200. In the Western Corn Belt, live sales traded from $123-$124 and dressed at $196-$200.
Cattle futures mostly firmed Tuesday, despite continued pressure in Lean Hogs, tied to queasiness over China’s economic growth. After the bell, USDA announced confirmation of African Swine Fever in Haiti, which shares an island with the Dominican Republic, where it was recently confirmed.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 48¢ higher, except for an average of 7¢ lower in the front two contracts.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 38¢ higher, except for an average of 22¢ lower in the front three contracts.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.29 lower Tuesday afternoon at $311.37/cwt. Select was $2.74 lower at $278.01.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 9¢ to 11¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 21, 2021
Plenty of Monday’s market attention was focused beyond cattle to equities and other commodities as Wall Street investors sold heavily, apparently mostly due to concerns tied to China’s property market. Fears are a potential global domino effect in financial markets on top of ongoing worries about the pandemic and economic growth. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 614 points, the S&P 500 closed 75 points lower and the NASDAQ was down 330 points.
Despite the heavy outside pressure, Cattle futures held their own.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 29¢ higher, except for unchanged in Mar and 5¢ lower in May.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 16¢ lower except for 55¢ higher in near Dec.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 5¢ lower through new-crop contracts and then mostly 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 15¢ to 21¢ lower.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, prices were steady to unevenly steady in the Southern Plains and Nebraska with live prices at $124/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $123-$124 in Kansas and $124 in Nebraska. Live prices in the western Corn Belt were $1-$3 lower at $123-$124. Dressed traded was unevenly steady at $200 in Nebraska but unevenly steady to $4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $196-$200.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.19 higher Monday afternoon at $315.66/cwt. Select was $1 higher at $280.75.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 20, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, prices are steady to unevenly steady in the Southern Plains and Nebraska with live prices at $124/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $123-$124 in Kansas and $125 in Nebraska. Live prices in the western Corn Belt were $1-$3 lower at $123-$124. Dressed traded was unevenly steady at $200.
Through Thursday, the five-area direct fed steer price was 83¢ lower on a live basis at $123.90/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was $2.14 lower at $200.81.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week was 83,000 head more than the previous week at 660,000. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 23.7 million head was 843,000 head more (+3.7%) than the same time last year. Total year-to-date beef production of 19.57 billion lbs. was 643.3 million lbs. more (+3.4%) than the same period last year.
Cattle futures sagged lower Friday amid outside market weakness and week-end positioning.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 89¢ lower (57¢ lower at the back to $1.20 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 78¢ lower.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.53 lower at $314.47/cwt. Select was 52¢ lower at $279.75.
Corn futures closed 1¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 12¢ lower through Aug ‘22 and then mostly 4¢ to 6¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 17, 2021
Cattle futures managed to close marginally lower to narrowly mixed Thursday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed narrowly mixed, from an average of 34¢ lower in four contracts to an average of 56¢ higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 38¢ lower, except for an average of 6¢ higher in two contracts.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in the Southern Plains and mostly inactive on light demand in the North through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
For the week, prices are steady to unevenly steady in the Southern Plains and Nebraska with live prices at $124/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $123-$124 in Kansas and $125 in Nebraska. Live prices in the western Corn Belt are $1-$3 lower at $123-$124. Dressed traded is unevenly steady at $200.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.82 lower Thursday afternoon at $318.00/cwt. Select was $3.62 lower at $280.27.
Net U.S. beef export sales for the week ending Sept. 9 were 15,300 metric tons, according to USDA’s weekly U.S. Export Sales report. That was 23% more than the previous week and 24% more than the prior four-week average. Increases were primarily for Japan, South Korea, China, Mexico, and Canada.
Corn futures closed mostly 3¢ to 4¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed fractionally higher to 1¢ higher through May ‘22 and then mostly 1¢ to 4¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 16, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light to moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Live prices were generally steady at $124/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle and $123-$124 in Kansas.
Prices were unevenly steady in Nebraska at $125 on a live basis and $200 in the beef.
There were too few transactions to trend in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.07 lower Wednesday afternoon at $319.82/cwt. Select was $6.73 lower at $283.89.
Cattle futures retreated Wednesday but held on to most of the previous session’s gains. Resurgent Corn futures added pressure to Feeder Cattle.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.20 lower (2¢ at the back to to $2.15 lower toward the front).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 59¢ lower (10¢ lower at the front to $1.10 lower at the back), except for 5¢ higher in spot Oct.
Corn futures closed 11¢ to 13¢ higher through new-crop contracts and then mostly 3¢ to 6¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 8¢ to 12¢ higher through Nov ‘22 and then mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 15, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend according to the Agricultural marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $123-$124/cwt. in the Southern Plains and $124-$127 in the North. Dressed trade was at $198-$203.
Cattle futures were finally oversold and cheap enough to generate buying interest Tuesday. Support included the fact that the JBS plant in Grand Island — offline Monday due to a fire on the rendering side — was reportedly back up and running.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.96 higher ($2.57 to $3.45 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $2.16 higher ($1.65 to $2.82 higher).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.04 lower Tuesday afternoon at $322.89/cwt. Select was $1.54 lower at $290.62.
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 7¢ higher across the front half of the board and then fractionally higher to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 2¢ lower, except for 4¢ higher in spot Sep.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 14, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major cattle feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $123-$124/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $124-$126 in Nebraska and $124-$127 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was at $198-$203.
Last week’s five-area direct average steer price was $124.79/cwt. on a live basis, which was 64¢ less than the previous week. The average steer price in the beef was 97¢ lower at $200.82.
Widespread reports of an overnight for at the JBS packing facility in Grand Island, Neb. — apparently halting production, at least for Monday — shoved already faltering Cattle futures lower. Overall weakness in commodity markets also contributed pressure.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.09 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.06 lower
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 57¢ lower Monday afternoon at $247.59/cwt. Select was 82¢ lower at $218.01/cwt.
Corn futures closed mostly 4¢ lower through Jly ’22 and then 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 1¢ lower through Aug ’22 and then fractionally higher to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 13, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in all major cattle feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were steady to $1 lower at $123-$124/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $124-$125 in Nebraska and $124-$127 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was $2-$5 lower in Nebraska at $198 and steady to $3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $203.
Cattle futures continued lower Friday, pressured by growing concerns about rising Delta variant infections hampering economic recovery and demand.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.47 lower (50¢ lower in the back contract to $2.10 lower in Nov ’21).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 76¢ lower, (33¢ lower in the front contract to $1.13 lower at the back).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $5.36 lower Friday at $327.22/cwt. Select was $3.08 lower at $298.37.
The average dressed steer weight the week ending Aug. 28 was 901 lbs., which was 2 lbs. lighter than the previous week and 15 lbs. lighter than the same week last year, according to USDA’s Actual Slaughter Under Federal Inspection report. The average dressed heifer weight of 821 lbs. was 1 lb. heavier than the previous week but 13 lbs. lighter than the previous year.
Estimated total cattle slaughter the holiday shortened week was 577,000 head, according to USDA, which was 47,000 head fewer than the previous week. Year-to-date estimated total cattle slaughter of 23.04 million head is 834,000 more (+3.76%) than the same period last year.
Estimated year-to-date total beef production of 19.03 billion lbs. was 648.1 million lbs. more (+3.53%) than the same time the previous year.
Corn futures closed higher Friday, despite bearish World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates that increased ending stocks with more projected planted acres and higher estimated yield.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 9¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 15¢ to 19¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 10, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in Nebraska through Thursday afternoon. Although there were too few transactions to trend, there was some live trade at $124-$125/cwt. and some in the beef at $198. The previous day, established trend was as $126 and $203, respectively.
Trade was limited on light demand in Kansas with a few live sales steady with the previous day at $123.
Trade was limited on light demand in the western Corn Belt. Live prices the previous day were at $124-$125; $203 dressed.
Trade was at a standstill in the Texas Panhandle. Live prices the previous day were at $123-$124.
Cattle futures offered hope again early in yesterday’s session but closed lower yet again, except for front-month Live Cattle.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 69¢ lower (2¢ lower toward the front to $1.28 lower at the back).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 51¢ lower, except for 2¢ to 65¢ higher in the front three contracts.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.28 lower Thursday afternoon at $332.58/cwt. Select was $1.72 lower at $296.45.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 7¢ to 12¢ lower with most of the pressure in new-crop contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 9, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Although too few transactions to trend, there were a few live sales in Nebraska at $126/cwt. There were also some early dressed sales in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt at $203. Last week, live prices were $125-$126 in Nebraska and $125-$128 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade in the regions was at $200-$203.
Trade in the Southern Plains was limited on light demand. There were a few live sales at $124, steady with the previous day. Last week, live sales in Kansas were at $125-$126 and at $123-$124 in the Texas Panhandle.
Cattle futures tried to gain traction early in Wednesday’s session but ran out of steam amid continued concerns about declining beef values and demand uncertainty.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.18 lower (22¢ lower at the front to $1.77 lower toward the back).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 76¢ lower amid heavy trade.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 33¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $334.86/cwt. Select was $3.73 lower at $298.17.
Corn futures closed mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower, except for 2¢ higher in spot Sep.
Soybean futures closed fractionally higher to 2¢ higher through Sep ’22 and then fractionally lower.
For the record, 59% of the nation’s corn crop was in Good or Excellent condition (week ending Sept. 5), according to the latest USDA Crop Progress report. That was 1% less than the previous week and 2% less than the five-year average.
57% of the soybean crop was in good or excellent condition versus 56% the previous year and 65% for average.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 8, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all feeding regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Last week, live sales were at $124/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle $123-$124 in Kansas, $125-$126 in Nebraska and $125 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed trade was at $200-$203.
Although seemingly plumb oversold, Cattle futures continued to melt down Tuesday. Many other commodity and equity markets suffered, too, as growing cases of the cover delta variant sap risk appetite. For Cattle, that’s on top of everything from cash market leverage woes to post-Labor Day demand uncertainty to the weekend announcement about atypical BSE confirmed in Brazil (see below).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.20 lower.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.29 lower, amid active trade.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.23 lower Tuesday afternoon at $335.19/cwt. Select was $2.23 lower at $301.90.
Corn futures closed 10¢ to 13¢ lower through new-crop contracts and then mostly 2¢ to 6¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 10¢ to 14¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 6-7, 2021
Cattle futures took it on the chin Friday as traders seemed to grow more concerned about post-Labor Day beef demand and the continued apparent inability of cattle feeders to gain currentness, given the anemic packing pace.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.04 lower Friday ($1.00 to $2.57 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.02 lower (45¢ to $1.27 lower) amid expanding open interest.
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade has was mostly inactive on very light demand in all major feeding regions through Friday afternoon, with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS).
For the week, AMS reported live prices $2 lower in Nebraska at $126/cwt. and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $125-$126. Dressed trade was $2-$5 lower in Nebraska at $200-$203.
The Texas Cattle Feeders Association reported its members trading steers at an average of $123.94/cwt., which was $1.57 more than the previous week. They traded heifers for $1.67 more at $123.80.
Corn futures closed 8¢ lower in spot Sep, then fractionally lower to 2¢ lower through Dec ’22, and then fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 8¢ to 10¢ higher through new-crop contracts and then mostly 2¢ to 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 3, 2021
There were too few negotiated cash fed cattle transactions to trend in any major cattle feeding region through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. So far this week, amid anemic trade, live prices are $2 lower in Nebraska at $126/cwt. and $2-$3 lower in the western Corn Belt at $125-$126. Dressed trade in Nebraska is $2-$5 lower at $200-$203.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 53¢ lower Thursday afternoon at $337.92/cwt. Select was $2.60 lower at $304.97.
Cattle futures continued to sag lower Thursday amid sluggish interest ahead of the long holiday weekend, declining wholesale beef values and the lackluster packing pace. Feeder Cattle led the charge lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $2.42 lower ($1.65 to $3.00).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.38 lower ($1.05 to $1.60).
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ higher through new-crop contracts, then mostly 1¢ to 2¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 1¢ to 5¢ higher through new-crop contracts, then mostly unchanged to fractionally higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 2, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light demand in all major regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. A few dressed sales in Nebraska traded at $203/cwt.
Last week, live prices were at $122-$123/cwt. in the Southern Plains at $123/cwt. Live and dressed sales were at $128 and $202-$208, respectively, in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt.
The Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.66 lower Wednesday afternoon at $338.45/cwt. Select was $4.46 lower at $307.57.
Likely short covering helped Cattle futures regain some recently lost ground Wednesday. Further erosion in grain futures, tied to Hurricane Ida impacts, also helped Feeder Cattle futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.11 higher (30¢ to $1.53), except for 7¢ lower in spot Sep.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 43¢ higher, except for an average of 43¢ lower in the back two contracts.
Grain futures continued to fall Wednesday beneath the weight of export shipping disruptions wrought by Hurricane Ida.
Corn futures closed 10¢ to 18¢ lower through new-crop contracts and then mostly 2¢ to 4¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 9¢ to 21¢ lower through new-crop contracts and then mostly 6¢ to 9¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Sept. 1, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major regions through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $122-$123/cwt. in the Southern Plains at $123/cwt. Live and dressed sales were at $128 and $202-$208, respectively, in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt.
Cattle futures declined Tuesday with follow-through pressure tied to concerns about recently slower packer production, post Labor Day demand and declining wholesale beef prices. Month-end position squaring was also a factor.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 72¢ lower (7¢ to $1.20), except for 7¢ higher in May.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 76¢ lower (10¢ to $1.43 lower).
Through midday today, though, Cattle futures were rebounding some, helped along by further declines in Grain futures.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 67¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $342.11/cwt. Select was 52¢ lower at $312.03/cwt.
Corn and Soybean futures closed lower with continued pressure from uncertainty surrounding the impact of Hurricane Ida.
Corn futures closed down mostly 5¢ to 8¢.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 10¢ lower through new-crop contracts, and then mostly 2¢ to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 31, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in all major regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live prices were at $122-$123/cwt. in the Southern Plains at $123/cwt. Live and dressed sales were at $128 and $202-$208, respectively, in Nebraska and the western Corn Belt.
Lower Corn futures helped boost Feeder Cattle futures Monday. They closed an average of 62¢ higher (10¢ to $1.75), except for spot Sep, down 60¢.
Recent sluggishness in the pace of packer buying continued to pressure Live Cattle futures again Monday. They closed an average of 57¢ lower (18¢ to $1.75).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.56 lower Monday afternoon at $342.78/cwt. Select was $2.97 lower at $312.55/cwt.
Front-month Corn and Soybean futures fell hard with barge delivery uncertainty stemming from Hurricane Ida.
Corn futures closed 6¢ to 17¢ lower through new-crop contracts and then mostly 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 54¢ lower in the front seven contracts and then mostly 4¢ to 7¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 30, 2021
Despite the lack of sustained follow-through support from the most recent Cattle on Feed report, volatile outside markets and an apparent top in wholesale beef values, cash cattle and futures mainly gained last week.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of $1.02 higher (7¢ to $1.45 higher) week to week on Friday, except for $2.27 lower in almost-spent spot Aug.
On the cash side of the fence, negotiated fed cattle prices last week, were $1-$2 higher on a live basis in the Southern Plains at $123/cwt. However, the anemic pace of trade meant there was no established trend in the North. Live prices the previous week were at $125-$127 in Nebraska and at $127 in the westerner Corn Belt. Dressed trade the previous week was at $200 in Nebraska and at $200-$205 in the western Corn Belt.
Sluggish trade pressured Live Cattle futures on Friday. Part of that stemmed from reports of mechanical problems at various plants last week.
Through Thursday, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) reported 33,363 head traded direct in the five-area regions, compared to 60,342 at the same time the previous week and 65,386 head a year earlier.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 52¢ lower through the front four contracts (5¢ lower to $1.27 lower in spot Aug) and then an average of 28¢ higher.
Overall, though, recently expanding open interest provided support, as does the reality of improving supply-side fundamentals.
As Derrell Peel, Extension livestock marketing specialist at Oklahoma State University pointed out in his weekly market comments,
“August represents the sixth consecutive monthly decline in feedlot inventories from the February peak, a decrease of 1.032 million head or 8.5% over the six months. In the previous five years, he says the average feedlot inventory decline from the spring high to summer low has been 6.2%.”
Moreover, Peel notes lighter year-over-year carcass weights also provide more indication that feedlots are getting more current. He adds lower carcass weights also reflect the impact and incentives stemming from sharply higher feedlot cost of gain, which should help hold carcass weights in check.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 27, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive on light demand in Kansas through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Elsewhere, it was slow on light demand.
Live sales in the Texas Panhandle were $1-$2 higher at $123/cwt. Although too few to trend, early live sales were $1-$3 higher in Nebraska at $128 and $1 higher in the western Corn Belt at $127. Early dressed sales were $1-$2 higher at $202 in Nebraska and $202.00-$206.50 in the western Corn Belt.
Weaker outside markets and the lack of follow-through support pressured Cattle futures Thursday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 95¢ lower, except for 15¢ higher spot Aug.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 55¢ lower, except for 15¢ higher in the back contract.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 38¢ higher Thursday afternoon at $347.27/cwt. Select was $3.90 higher at $319.59.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 6¢ lower, except for 1¢ higher in spot Sept.
Soybean futures closed mostly 6¢ to 10¢ lower, except for 21¢ higher in spot Sept.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 26, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from inactive to limited through Wednesday afternoon with too few transactions to trend, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week, live sales were at $121-$122/cwt. in the Texas Panhandle, $122 in Kansas, $125-$127 in Nebraska and $127 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed sales were at $200 in Nebraska and at $200-$205 in the western Corn Belt.
There was just a light run for Wednesday’s fat cattle auction in Tama, IA (313 head), but Choice steers and heifers traded $1.50 to $1.75/cwt. higher. There were 127 Choice 2-4 steers weighing an average of 1,377 lbs., bringing an average of $131.43.
Slaughter steers sold $2-$4 lower at Sioux Falls Regional in South Dakota. Fat heifers traded steady to $1 lower. There were 313 Choice 3-4 steers weighing an average of 1,532 lbs., bringing an average of $126.52/cwt.
Lack of cash direction, positioning from strong gains to start the week and softer wholesale beef values weighed on Live Cattle futures Wednesday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 76¢ lower (5¢ to $1.40 lower), except for unchanged to an average of 7¢ higher in three contracts toward the middle of the board.
Higher Corn futures added pressure to Feeder Cattle.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 58¢ lower, except for 72¢ higher in almost spent Aug and 17¢ higher in the back contract.
Wholesale beef prices trended lower for the second consecutive day.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 69¢ lower Wednesday afternoon at $346.89/cwt. Select was $1.21 lower at 315.69.
Total federally inspected cattle slaughter in July of 2.8 million head was 65,800 fewer (-2.3%) than the previous year. Total cattle slaughter for January through July of 19.25 million head was 880,700 more (+4.8%) year over year.
Commercial beef production in July of 2.3 billion lbs. was 104 million lbs. less (-4.3%) year over year. For January through July, beef production of 16.2 billion lbs. was 758.1 million lbs. more (+4.9%) than the same time last year. The average live weight was down 14 lbs. from the previous year, at 1,349 lbs.
Total commercial red meat production in July of 4.4 billion lbs. was 429.5 million lbs. less (-8.9%) than the previous year. Total commercial red meat production for January through July was 32.3 billion lbs., which was 645.6 million lbs. more (+2.0%).
Corn futures closed mostly 6¢ to 12¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 8¢ to 12¢ higher, except for mainly 1¢ higher in new-crop contracts.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 25, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive on light demand through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week’s five-area direct average steer price was $2.19 higher on a live basis at $125.47/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was 5¢ higher at $200.68.
Cattle futures closed mixed Tuesday. Follow-through support prevailed through most of the session.
Live Cattle closed mainly higher, boosted by the cash outlook and the 13,688-contract increase in open interest the previous day.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 47¢ higher, except for an average of 45¢ lower in the front two contracts.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was 45¢ lower Tuesday afternoon at $347.58/cwt. Select was $2.50 lower at $316.90.
Rising Corn futures prices, as well as likely position squaring and profit taking pressured Feeder Cattle.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 81¢ lower, except for 37¢ higher in spot Aug.
Corn and Soybean futures closed higher Tuesday, supported by crop conditions in the weekly Crop Progress report.
Corn futures closed mostly 6¢ to 9¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 30¢ to 43¢ higher through Aug ’22 and then mostly 23¢ to 28¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 24, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive on very light demand through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Cash fed cattle prices last week were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $122/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $125-$127 and $1-$2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $127. Dressed trade was mostly $2 higher in Nebraska at $200; from $1 to $2 higher to $4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $200.
Last week’s five-area direct average steer price was $2.19 higher on a live basis at $125.47/cwt. The average steer price in the beef was 5¢ higher at $200.68.
Lower year-over-year July feedlot placements and fewer cattle on feed year over year — based on the latest Cattle on Feed report — helped boost Cattle futures Monday, amid heavy and active trade.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.97 higher Monday afternoon at $348.03/cwt. Select was 87¢ higher at $319.40.
Corn futures closed mainly narrowly mixed from 1¢ lower to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 2¢ to 9¢ higher through Sep ’22 and then mostly 11¢ to 14¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 23, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mostly inactive with light demand in all feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Live prices last week were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $122/cwt., $1-$2 higher in Nebraska at $125-$127 and $1-$2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $127. Dressed trade was mostly $2 higher in Nebraska at $200; $2 higher to $4 lower in the western Corn Belt at $200.
The down day in grain futures Friday sparked Feeder Cattle futures, as did likely positioning ahead of what turned out to be a positive Cattle on Feed report (see below).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.47 higher (75¢ to $2.60 higher). Week to week on Friday, they were an average of $1.17 higher.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 53¢ higher, except for unchanged and 5¢ lower toward the back. Strength in wholesale beef values and slightly higher cash fed cattle prices provided support.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.43 higher Friday afternoon at $345.06/cwt. Select was $2.12 higher at $318.53.
Corn futures closed down an average of 13¢ lower through the front six contracts, then mostly 5¢ to 9¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed an average of 27¢ lower through the front six contracts, then mostly 9¢ to 18¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 20, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was mainly slow on light demand through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. So far this week, live prices in the North are generally $1-$2 higher at $125-$127/cwt. Price are steady to $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $121-$122.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $1.55 higher Thursday afternoon at $341.63/cwt. Select was $6.61 higher at $316.41/cwt.
Net U.S. beef export sales for the week ending Aug. 12 were 11,100 metric tons for 2021, according to USDA’s weekly U.S. Export Sales report. That was 18% less than the previous week and 42% less than the prior four-week average. Increases were primarily for Japan, South Korea, China, Taiwan, and Mexico.
Cattle futures softened Thursday. More than anything, pressure seemed mostly tied to weakness in outside markets and in commodities overall as fund managers assess the impact of surging COVID cases on economic growth.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 53¢ lower (20¢ to 90¢)
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 38¢ lower (23¢ to 58¢ lower)
Corn futures closed an average of 13¢ lower through the front six contracts, then fractionally to 7¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed an average of 30¢ lower through the front six contracts, then mostly 8¢ to 25¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 19, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on moderate demand in the North Tuesday at steady to higher money.
Live sales in Nebraska were $2 higher at $125 to $128/cwt. Dressed sales were generally $2 higher at $200, but some up to $205.
In the western Corn Belt, live sales were $1-$2 higher at $127. Although too few to trend, there were some dressed sales at $200, compared to $198-$204 last week.
Trade in the Texas Panhandle was slow on light demand. There were some live trades at $121 to $122 — steady to $1 higher than last week — but too few to trend.
In Kansas, trade was mostly inactive.
Cattle futures retraced recent softness, led by Feeder Cattle Wednesday. Support included the outlook for steady to higher cash fed cattle prices, as well as optimism about the monthly Cattle on Feed report due out Friday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.74 higher ($1.35 to $2.42 higher).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 52¢ higher (2¢ to 92¢ higher), except for 17¢ lower in the back contract.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.02 higher Wednesday afternoon at $340.08/cwt. Select was $3.03 higher at $309.80.
Corn futures closed mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 4¢ to 10¢ lower through Jly ’22 and then mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 18, 2021
Although too few to trend, there were some early live sales in the western Corn belt at $127/cwt. and a few in the beef at $204, the top end of last week’s price range in the region.
Elsewhere, trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive with very light demand.
Weaker outside markets and the lack of cash direction weighed on Cattle futures Tuesday.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 75¢ lower (32¢ to $1.30 lower).
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 56¢ lower (22¢ to $1.00 lower) except for 5¢ higher in the back contract.
That was despite another day of strong gains for wholesale beef prices. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $8.26 higher Tuesday afternoon at $338.06/cwt. Select was $3.22 higher at $306.77/cwt.
Corn futures close mostly 4¢ to 5¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed 3¢ to 7¢ lower through Jly ’22 and then mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 17, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from a standstill to mostly inactive with very light demand through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Prices last week were generally steady. Live sales were at $121/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $123-$126 in Nebraska and $125-$126 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed sales were at $198 in Nebraska and at $198-$203 in the western Corn Belt.
Live Cattle futures rode surging wholesale beef values higher through nearby contracts.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.97 higher Monday afternoon at $329.80/cwt. Select was $5.53 higher at $303.55/cwt.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 81¢ higher through the front three contracts on Monday and then an average of 45¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures softened on likely profit taking and wariness about sustained strength. They closed an average of 71¢ lower, except for 17¢ higher toward the back of the board.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 4¢ lower through new-crop contracts, and then mostly fractionally lower to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 3¢ to 5¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 16, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade ranged from mostly inactive to limited on light demand through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. Prices for the week were generally steady. Live sales were at $121/cwt. in the Southern Plains, $123-$126 in Nebraska and $125-$126 in the western Corn Belt. Dressed sales were at $198 in Nebraska and at $198-$203 in the western Corn Belt.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $6.90 higher Friday afternoon at $324.83/cwt. Select was $7.71 higher at $298.02/cwt.
Cattle futures softened in front-month contracts Friday, but strengthened in away months, supported by improving supply fundamentals.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 28¢ higher, except for an average of 30¢ lower in the front three contracts.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 67¢ higher (15¢ to $1.40 higher), except for an average of 56¢ lower in the front two contracts.
Corn futures wavered on the positive weather outlook.
Corn futures closed mixed, fractionally lower to 1¢ higher through new-crop contracts and then mostly 3¢ lower to 2¢ higher.
Soybean futures gained on confirmed strong weekly exports.
Soybean futures closed 11¢ to 26¢ higher through Aug ’22 and then 5¢ to 9¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug.13, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade continued at a listless pace Thursday. Although too few transactions to trend, there were some live trades in Nebraska at $123-$126/cwt. and at $198 in the beef, compared to $125 and $198, respectively, last week. Elsewhere, trade was inactive to limited.
Feeder Cattle futures started Thursday’s session strong, retreated in the face of higher Corn futures — in the wake of the monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) — and then mostly firmed by the end of the session.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, from an average of 14¢ lower to an average of 38¢ higher.
Surging wholesale beef prices helped lift Live Cattle futures, but sluggish cash trade limited the potential. Choice boxed beef cutout value was $7.13 higher Thursday afternoon at $317.93/cwt. Select was $2.32 higher at $290.31/cwt.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 64¢ higher.
The average dressed steer weight the week ending July 31 was 3 lbs. lighter than the previous week at 891 lbs., according to USDA’s Actual Slaughter Under Federal Inspection report. The average dressed heifer weight was 2 lbs. lighter at 814 lbs.
Corn futures gained on the WASDE report, amid volatile intra-day trading. They closed 9¢ to 14¢ higher through new-crop contracts and then mostly 1¢ to 3¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mixed, mostly 3¢ lower to 2¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 12, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was slow on light to moderate demand in the Southern Plains through Wednesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. A few early live sales traded steady with last week at $121.
In Nebraska and the Western Corn Belt, trading was limited with light demand.
Last week in Kansas, live sales traded at $121. In Nebraska live sales traded at $125 and dressed at $198. In the Western Corn Belt, live sales were at $125-$126 and dressed at $198.
Stronger Corn futures and sluggish cash prices helped pressure Cattle futures Wednesday. There might have also been some defensiveness ahead of Thursday’s monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.
Live Cattle futures closed mixed from an average of 34¢ lower to an average of 15¢ higher
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 64¢ lower (22¢ lower toward the front of the board to $1.12 lower in the back contract).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $5.48 higher Wednesday afternoon at $310.80/cwt. Select was $3.38 higher at $287.99/cwt.
Corn futures closed 2¢ to 7¢ higher through the front six contracts, then fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly fractionally higher to 2¢ higher, except for 42¢ lower in waning Spot Aug.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 1, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was again at a standstill in the Southern Plains and Nebraska through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. In the Western Corn Belt, trading was still mostly inactive on light demand.
Last week in the Texas Panhandle, live sales traded from $121 to $122. In Kansas, live sales traded at $121. In Nebraska live sales traded at $125 and dressed at $198. In the Western Corn Belt, live sales were at $125-$126 and dressed at $198.
Cattle futures firmed after early pressure to close higher Tuesday, helped along by the extraordinary run in wholesale beef prices.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 40¢ higher (3¢ to 65¢).
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 34¢ higher, except for 15¢ lower in Sept.
Corn futures closed fractionally lower to 4¢ lower through the front six contracts.
Soybean futures closed 6¢ to 7¢ higher in the front six contracts, except for 14¢ higher in Spot Aug.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 10, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was at a standstill in the Southern Plains and Nebraska through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. It was mostly inactive on light trade in the Western Corn Belt.
Last week in the Texas Panhandle, live sales traded from $121 to $122. In Kansas, live sales traded at $121. In Nebraska live sales traded at $125 and dressed at $198. In the Western Corn Belt, live sales were at $125-$126 and dressed at $198.
Steep declines in Lean Hog futures pressured Cattle futures Monday despite last week’s stronger cash trade and surging wholesale beef prices. By the end of the session, though, they were back to about even.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 27¢ lower (15¢ to 45¢), except for unchanged in spot Aug.
Feeder Cattle futures closed mixed, down an average of 19¢, except for 28¢ higher in Apr.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.54 higher Monday afternoon at $299.80/cwt. Select was $3.72 higher at $280.81/cwt.
Crop progress and an improved weather outlook pressured Corn futures Monday.
Corn futures closed mostly 2¢ to 3¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 7¢ lower, except for 11¢ higher in Spot Aug.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 9, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited with light demand in all feeding regions through Friday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Last week were generally $1-$2 higher on a live basis in the Texas Panhandle at $121-$122/cwt.; $1 higher in Kansas at $121; $3 higher in Nebraska at $125; $1-$2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $125-$126. Dressed trade was $2 higher in Nebraska at $198; $3 higher to $3 lower at $198 in the western Corn Belt.
Surging wholesale beef values, position squaring and stronger cash fed cattle prices, albeit with anemic trade, helped buoy Cattle futures Friday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 78¢ higher (30¢ to $1.225)
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.62 higher (80¢ to $2.20)
Corn futures closed 3¢ to 6¢ higher through the front six contracts, except for up fractionally in spot Sept, and then mostly 8¢ to 9¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed 6¢ to 8¢ higher, except for 20¢ higher in Spot Aug.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 6, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited with light demand in all feeding regions through Thursday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
So far this week, live sales are: $1-$2 higher in the Texas Panhandle at $121-$122/cwt.; $1 higher in Kansas at $121; $3 higher in Nebraska at $125; $1-$2 higher in the western Corn Belt at $125-$126. Dressed trade is $2 higher in Nebraska at $198; $3 higher to $3 lower at $198 in the western Corn Belt.
Heavy pressure in Lean Hog futures weighed on Live Cattle Thursday, despite higher cash and wholesale prices.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 96¢ lower with more pressure at the front (52¢ to $1.47 lower).
Higher Corn futures pressured Feeder Cattle futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of $1.59 lower.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.24 higher Thursday afternoon at $292.58/cwt. Select was $2.62 higher at $273.77/cwt.
Corn futures closed 5¢ to 10¢ higher through the front six contracts and then mostly fractionally higher to 1¢ higher.
Soybean futures mixed, from 4¢ lower to 3¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 5, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices leaned higher Wednesday: $1 higher in Kansas at $121/cwt. on a live basis; steady to $1 higher in Nebraska at $125 (compared to Tuesday); steady with the previous day at $125 in the Western Corn Belt. Although too few to trend, live prices in the Texas Panhandle were $2 higher at $122. Dressed trade was $2 higher in Nebraska at $198. All of that was on slow trade with light to moderate demand.
Stronger cash prices and surging wholesale beef values provided support for Cattle futures Wednesday.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 55¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 42¢ higher.
Through mid session today, limit-down moves in Lean Hogs are weighing on Live Cattle, while a bounce in Corn futures is pressuring Feeder Cattle.
Corn futures closed mixed mixed Wednesday, down 4¢ to 5¢ through new-crop contracts and then mostly fractionally higher.
Soybean futures closed 5¢ to 11¢ higher through Jul ’22 and then 4¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 4, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on light demand in Nebraska and the Western Corn Belt through Tuesday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service. In the Western Corn Belt, a few live sales traded at $125/cwt.
Trade was mostly inactive on light demand in the Southern Plains.
Surging wholesale beef prices helped lift Live Cattle.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $4.84 higher Tuesday afternoon at $285.84/cwt. Select was $4.11 higher at $267.49/cwt.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 50¢ higher, (25¢ higher at the back to $1.12 at the front), except for 10¢ lower in the back contract.
Feeder Cattle futures were buoyed by lower Corn futures.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 59¢ higher, except for an average of 17¢ lower in the back two contracts.
Grain futures trended lower with the weekly Crop Progress report (see below), profit taking and the lack of follow-through for Wheat.
Corn futures closed 6¢ to 8¢ lower through new-crop six contracts, then mostly unchanged to fractionally lower.
Soybean futures closed 22¢ to 33¢ lower through Aug ’22 and then mostly 15¢ to 16¢ lower.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 3, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle trade was limited on very light demand in Nebraska and at a standstill in all other major feeding regions through Monday afternoon, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service.
Cattle futures edged higher Monday with stronger wholesale beef prices and optimism for pushing cash prices higher this week.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 31¢ higher.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 53¢ higher, from 7¢ higher in spot Aug to $1.05 higher at the back.
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $2.54 higher Money afternoon at $281.00/cwt. Select was $4.19 higher at $263.38/cwt.
CME Feeder Cattle Index $1.54 higher at $155.58
Rallying wheat futures led grains higher Monday.
Corn futures closed mostly 10¢ to 14¢ higher.
Soybean futures closed mostly 4¢ to 6¢ higher through Aug ‘22, and then mostly 11¢ to 17¢ higher.
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Cattle Current Podcast—Aug. 2, 2021
Negotiated cash fed cattle prices last week were $1 higher in the Southern Plains at $122/cwt. and unevenly steady in Nebraska at $122. Dressed trade in Nebraska was $1 higher at $196. Dressed prices in the western Corn Belt were $196, compared to $195-$202 the previous week; no established trend for live trade.
Through Thursday, the average five-area direct fed steer price was $121.05/cwt., 40¢ more than the previous week. The average steer price in the beef was $197.49, which was 70¢ more.
Cattle futures softened further Friday amid week-end and month-end position squaring.
Live Cattle futures closed an average of 60¢ lower.
Feeder Cattle futures closed an average of 32¢ lower (5¢ to $1.02 lower).
Choice boxed beef cutout value was $3.24 higher Friday afternoon at $278.46/cwt. Select was $2.37 higher at $259.19/cwt.
Estimated total cattle slaughter last week of 649,000 head was 1,000 more than the previous week and 13,000 more than the same week last year. Estimated year-to-date total cattle slaughter of 19.24 million head is 826,000 more (+4.5%) than the same period last year.
Corn futures closed 10¢ 11¢ lower through new-crop contracts and then mostly 5¢ to 7¢ lower.
Soybean futures closed mostly 14¢ to 29¢ lower.
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