Chicago Mercantile Exchange live cattle and feeder cattle futures jumped on Thursday as traders adjusted positions ahead of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's monthly cattle on feed report and saw strong U.S. export demand, according to analysts.
Chicago Mercantile Exchange lean hog futures ticked up on Wednesday as pork cutout values remained strong and a weaker dollar made U.S. exports more competitive, traders said.
Beef cattle prices have trended above the five-year average, but low numbers of replacement heifers and beef cows suggests producers aren't ready to grow cattle herds.
For the week ending September 14, Western Canadian feeder cattle prices were relatively unchanged compared to seven days earlier. However, yearling quality has become quite variable resulting in a diverse price structure.
Traders booked profits ahead of the weekend, after the markets previously found support from gains in equities and improved processor margins that should boost demand for slaughter-ready cattle. Beef processors were earning $54.30 for each head of cattle they slaughtered, after losing money on each animal just a month ago, HedgersEdge.com data shows.
Chicago Mercantile Exchange live cattle futures closed lower on Tuesday, consolidating after Monday's bounce, while feeder cattle futures firmed as corn prices declined, signaling cheaper feed costs.
For the week ending September 7, Western Canadian yearling markets traded steady to $5/cwt higher in Alberta but steady to $6/cwt lower in Saskatchewan and Manitoba compared to seven days earlier. Major feedlots in Alberta appear to be focusing on local cattle. The calf market is in price discovery mode with prices quoted $10/cwt higher to $10/cwt lower.
Chicago Mercantile Exchange live cattle and feeder cattle futures rallied on short covering on Monday, analysts said, as the markets recovered from a slide last week.