Fed Cattle Market Trades $2 To $3 Lower
Cash fed cattle prices were called $2 to $3 per cwt. lower for the week, with Nebraska and Western Cornbelt negotiated trade ranging from $109 to $112 live, and $175 to $179 dressed. Trade in the south remained at a standstill.
Compared to last week, calves and yearlings sold fully steady to $5 higher. AMS reporters said “last week’s higher fed cattle market and continued good demand for calves and yearlings with active bidding have helped to keep the uptrend intact.”
AMS also noted dry pastures are sending cattle to auction earlier than normal. “The market continues to be very active on loads of yearlings especially in desirable flesh conditions that every cattle feeder loves to buy.”
Choice boxed beef closed Friday at $206.61 up .55 cents, with Select closing .32 cents lower at $197.77, compared to last Friday’s close. Market cows were mostly $1 to $3 lower.