This week could be very unpredictable in the cattle trade. The North-to-South spread may continue to narrow as calves are still not ready and packers seem to be chasing more mature cattle in the South.
Cattle will continue to come in lighter than expected and lose grade due to high ration costs. This could help keep forcing the packer to harvest more cattle than expected to keep their orders filled.
Cattle feeders in the South sold cattle throughout the week at steady money while feeders in the North pushed their market a little higher by week’s end.
Prices on the South Plains remain locked in a price rut as packers appear to have plenty of inventory. Corn Belt prices remain premium to other regions.
