(Photo courtesy Canada Beef Inc.)

Klassen: Feeder market rations demand

Risk discount built in with adverse weather

Compared to last week, western Canadian yearling prices were relatively unchanged while calf prices were steady to $6 lower. Demand from Ontario buyers caused markets in Manitoba and eastern Saskatchewan to hold value. Alberta prices were under pressure as the market appears to be rationing demand. Calf prices are 25-30 per cent higher than year-ago […] Read more

(Photo courtesy Canada Beef Inc.)

Klassen: Higher feed grain prices continue to pressure feeders

Compared to mid-December, western Canadian yearlings traded $3-$5 lower; mid-weight calves are down $4-$6 while calves under 550 lbs. remained firm. Buyers exhibited a defensive tone on heavier yearlings and discounts were more severe on fleshier cattle last week. There is absolutely no risk appetite for 850-plus-lb. cattle at this time of year. Demand for […] Read more


File photo of a cow and calves on a farm in Nova Scotia.

Stockyard offers regional market opportunities for Atlantic producers

The new owners of Atlantic Stockyards, one of the few remaining auction marts in the region, are determined to grow their business by attracting more buyers and putting more cattle through the ring

For more than 60 years, the auction market at Murray Siding, N.S., near Truro, has been a mainstay of the livestock business in Atlantic Canada. Atlantic Stockyards Ltd. changed ownership in 2019 and although operating through the COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t been without its challenges, new owners Scott and Natalie Dixon have plans to grow the […] Read more




(Photo courtesy Canada Beef Inc.)

Klassen: Feeder market starts year with cautious tone

Western Canadian feeder cattle prices were relatively unchanged to slightly softer compared to mid-December. The market was lightly tested, with direct off farm to feedlot trade, but auction market activity was rather quiet. Winter conditions in southern Alberta caused buyers to be on the defensive, with lighter calves reflecting small discounts; however, vaccinated feeders on […] Read more