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.
Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) lean hog prices ended up slightly on Friday as analysts said a seasonal drop in pork prices toward the end of summer looked less drastic than expected.
Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) live and feeder cattle futures fell on Thursday on a decline in boxed beef prices, which have slumped leading up to the U.S. Labor Day holiday, analysts said.
Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) live cattle futures fell on Wednesday as boxed beef cutout values turned lower ahead of the U.S. Labor Day holiday on September 2, when many Americans light up their grills, traders said.
For the week ending August 24, Western Canadian yearling prices were down $6-$12/cwt from seven days earlier. Calf markets traded $10-$12/cwt below week-ago levels. Larger numbers are coming on stream resulting in the softer tone.