The western Canadian feeder cattle market continues to trade in a volatile fashion. Similar-quality cattle varied by as much as $10 per hundredweight (cwt) in some cases, especially on calves under 600 pounds. There are three key factors enhancing the volatility in the feeder market at this time. First, wholesale beef prices are under pressure […] Read more
Klassen: Feeder cattle market remains variable
Klassen: Feeder cattle supported on positive outlook
Western Canadian feeder cattle sold steady with week-ago levels based on the positive outlook for fed cattle market during the winter period. Buying enthusiasm among feedlot operators remains very strong, due to the positive margins experienced over the past year. Despite the higher price structure for replacements, financial constraints are non-existent, with many cattle buyers […] Read more
Klassen: West’s feeder cattle hold value
Western Canadian feeder cattle prices were relatively stable with week-ago levels despite the softer tone in the U.S. market. Limited volumes at most auction markets were met with firm buying interest as feedlot margins remain in positive territory. The fed cattle market in Alberta remains near historical highs, with packers buying steers in the range […] Read more
Beef demand looking forward
Rising disposable income of U.S. consumers to grow Canada's beef and live cattle market
It is that time of year where I receive many inquiries in regards to fed and feeder cattle prices for the fall and winter period. We all know that beef supplies will experience a year-over-year decline during the third and fourth quarters of 2014 and therefore the true focus will be on the demand equation. […] Read more
Klassen: Softer fed cattle prices temper feeder market
In comparison to seven days earlier, Alberta rail grade prices ended the week down $2 to $5, setting the brakes in the feeder cattle complex. Feedlot managers appeared to be walking on hot coals in auction barns late in the week, with live cattle futures down the limit two days in a row. [Related story] […] Read more
Klassen: Softer barley prices support feeder market
Western Canadian feeder cattle prices traded steady to as much as $10 per hundredweight (cwt) higher on calves. Weakness in the feed grain complex offset softer fed cattle prices, which caused the stronger price structure. Alberta packers were buying cattle at $164/cwt, down $2/cwt from seven days earlier while the bulk of trade occurred at […] Read more
Klassen: Feeder cattle reaching lofty levels
Western Canadian feeder cattle prices were relatively undefined last due to lower volumes; however, U.S. feeder cattle were $3-$5 per hundredweight (cwt) higher, setting the positive tone. Alberta packers were buying fed cattle steady to slightly higher at $158/cwt and fed contracts for the fall an winter period continue to climb. The beef market appears […] Read more
Klassen: Feeder market firm but undefined during adverse rains
Western Canadian feeder cattle prices were undefined this past week due to the holiday schedule and an extremely light run at major auction markets. However, the market appears to be well supported in the wake of stronger fed cattle prices, which reached fresh record highs in Canada and the U.S. Alberta packers were buying fed […] Read more
Feeder Cattle Market Looking Forward
Calving season is coming to an end for many cow-calf producers and it is that time of year when I receive inquiries regarding the marketing strategy for this recent calf crop. At the same time, cow-calf pair prices have started to reflect the present value of future earnings and producers are asking if current values […] Read more
Klassen: Strength in fed cattle leads feeder market higher
Fed cattle values jumped in Canada and the U.S. this past week, which led the feeder market higher on both sides of the border. Alberta packers were buying fed cattle at $153.50 per hundredweight (cwt), up from $150/cwt earlier in June. Cattle trade in the U.S. Southern Plains occurred in the range of $154-$155/cwt, up […] Read more
Canadian Cattlemen Presents: Depth of Field
